Many combinations of botanicals can be used for mosquito repellent.
There are a number of natural solutions that prevent mosquitoes from pestering your dog. These treatments can be bought at many pet supply retailers or mixed from essential oils and herbs right in your home. Most of the ingredients you will need for these formulas can be purchased from health food or natural food stores. These treatments work just as well, if not better, than expensive chemical products, without dangerous side effects.
Eucalyptus Oil
Since ancient times, the oil of the eucalyptus tree has been used as an effective mosquito and insect repellent. Use a ratio of 1 part eucalyptus oil to 3 parts water, combine in a spray bottle and shake well. Apply sparingly to your pet, being careful not to get the spray into the dog's eyes or mouth. This natural repellent can be applied every few hours to ward off mosquitoes and other pesky insects.
Neem Tree Oil
There are several essential oils that can be used as a repellent for mosquitoes. Neem tree oil has been used for centuries in Asia for controlling insects. You can use witch hazel or olive oil as a base for the repellent. Mix 1 part neem oil with 10 parts of the olive oil or witch hazel. Pour the solution into a small spray bottle, and spritz on your pet. Be careful to avoid the dog's eyes, nose and mouth.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is one of a limited number of essential oils that does not need to be diluted before using it as a mosquito repellent. Tea tree oil can be purchased at health or natural food stores as well as many large retail chains. Mix 2 oz. of tea tree oil with 2 oz. of water into a small spray bottle. The water in this spray only helps to stretch your dollar and make more product. Mist onto the dog keeping the spray away from his face and gently work the solution into the fur. Your pet will not only have protection from mosquitoes, but will also smell fantastic.
Cedar Wood Oil
The oil from cedar trees has been used since ancient times for keeping insects at bay. In addition to mosquitoes, the oil repels fleas and ticks. As an added bonus, cedar oil is great for your dog's fur and skin. Mix 1 oz. of cedar wood oil into a base of 10 oz. witch hazel or rubbing alcohol. The ratio of oil to base is 1:10 in case you wish to double the recipe. It is best to make small batches more frequently so the cedar oil remains potent. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and mist gently on you dog's coat. Make sure to keep the spray away from the dog's face. Use a paper towel or wash cloth with the spray dabbed on it to apply to your dog's ears and forehead if you wish.
Marigolds and Pyre-thrum
It may sound like a dangerous chemical, but pyre-thrum is actually a naturally occurring extract of the marigold plant that has bug repelling qualities. Instead of spraying your pet, spray your lawn. The extract is safe for animals and people but is rather hard to find. Planting plenty of marigolds in your yard will also ward off many types of insects including mosquitoes. Make sure to plant them in places where your dog will not be able to sample them as a treat. While the pyre-thrum extract and smell of the marigold are not harmful to your pet, the marigold plant itself can make your dog sick if ingested.
Herbal Remedies
Herbs are another natural way to keep mosquitoes at bay when your dog is outdoors. Try warming 3 cups of a natural oil such as soybean, olive or canola oil in a small sauce pan on the stove. To the oil add 1 oz. of these herbs: basil, bay leaf, catnip, clove, lemongrass, thyme and rosemary. Let the oil and herb mixture cook on low heat for an hour before removing from the heat. Cover the mixture and let sit overnight. Strain the herbs from the oil with a colander or kitchen strainer and place in an airtight container or spray bottle. Before letting your dog outside, you can simply rub a small amount on your pet. The smell is what repels the insects so a very light coating is all that should be needed.
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