Flea and Tick Collars

Flea and tick collars are among the oldest methods used to repel pests on dogs and cats. There are many types of collars, but the way they work is basically the same.

How the Collar Works

For the collar to work it must be turned on. This is done by pulling the collar. This action produces chemicals that will kill the fleas. The major ingredients are propoxur and tetrachlorvinphos (TCVP). The collar should be activated only when it is going to be used.

How the Collar is Used

Once it is activated, the collar is placed on the neck of the animal. The collar should be snug, but not tight. This allows the chemicals in the collar to penetrate the animal’s skin. This will kill the fleas and ticks.

The chemicals will actually go into the hairs of the animal, acting as some sort of protection. The effectiveness of the collar varies, but many are good for several months. After that, new collars must be applied.

How the Collars Kill the Pests

When the tick gets onto your pet, it will attempt to go into the hair and bite the skin. The chemicals on the collar will kill the pests. Generally, the chemicals works like an insecticide.

Are Collars Effective?

These collars do a good job in handling ticks and fleas. However, many of these pests are able to escape because the chemicals don’t go through the entire fur. The efficiency is lost when the collar gets soaked.

There are also some safety concerns regarding these collars. Some vets believe the chemicals may be harmful for animals and even people. Some studies have shown that prolonged use of the collars could damage the animal’s nerves.

The risk for kids comes when they touch the animal. If the chemicals get in their hands, health complications may arise if they put their hands in their mouths.

How to Make a Natural Flea and Tick Collar for Dogs

Required Materials

Bandana
Cotton scarf
Lavender or rose geranium essential oils

Step 1

Cut the bandana. If necessary, cut it to make it fit around your pet’s neck. Make sure it isn’t too tight.

Step 2

Set the fabric down and put 10 drops of the essential oil in it. Space the drops evenly on the cloth.

Step 3

Place the fabric around your pet’s neck. Make sure it isn’t tight or loose. If it is loose, the animal may chew it off.

Tips and Warnings

If you can no longer smell the oils, remove the collar and add some more oil. Put the collar on as you did before. Collars won’t be effective if the place is crawling with fleas and ticks. You can avoid this by vacuuming your home. This will get rid of fleas and ticks. Make sure to clean the yard too especially if your pet goes there.

There is still controversy as to whether flea and tick collars are effective. For many people, it is better to use topical medications as they are proven safe for both animals and people.

Fleas in House