Mosquito Repellent For Dogs
Mosquitoes are one of the most dangerous and irritating pests around. Unfortunately, they’re also one of the most difficult to control. Dogs are especially susceptible to mosquito bites, which can lead to a variety of health problems, including skin irritation, infection, and even serious illnesses such as heartworm. Thankfully, there are a variety of mosquito repellent products designed specifically for dogs that can help keep them protected from these pesky pests. Mosquito repellents for dogs can be either natural or chemical based, and come in a variety of forms including sprays, shampoos, and collars. Natural repellents often rely on the strong smell of essential oils or other plant-based extracts to repel mosquitoes, while chemical repellents contain a mild insecticide that is safe for pets when used as directed. It’s important to note that, while these products have been proven to be effective in deterring mosquitoes, they won’t provide absolute protection, so regular check-ups with a vet for heartworm testing and other preventive measures are still recommended.
Mosquito Repellent For Dogs
Mosquito repellent for dogs is a form of topical insecticide used to control mosquitoes from biting your pet. Mosquito repellents for dogs come in many different forms including sprays, lotions, collars, and oral medications. They are commonly used to repel and kill mosquitoes that may carry a variety of diseases, including Lyme disease and heartworm. While there is no 100% foolproof way to get rid of all of the mosquitoes in your area, using a mosquito repellent for dogs can go a long way towards ensuring your pet’s safety.
Can You Spray Your Dog with Mosquito Repellent?
No, it is not safe to spray your dog with any type of insect repellent. These products are designed to be applied to clothing or exposed skin and should not be directly applied to animals. Speak to your veterinarian about what type of flea and tick or mosquito control products are approved for use on dogs.
Do Mosquitoes Bite Dogs?
Yes, mosquitoes can bite dogs. Dogs, like humans, can experience redness, itching, and swelling at the bite site. Additionally, some dogs may be more attractive to mosquitoes than others.
Diseases Spread by Mosquitoes For Dogs
- Heartworm disease
- Eastern equine encephalitis
- Western equine encephalitis
- St. Louis encephalitis
- West Nile virus
- Canine adenoviruses 1 & 2
- Dirofilariasis
- Aphid transmitted viruses
- Plasmodium species
- Leishmaniasis
How To Keep Mosquitoes Away From Dog Kennel
- Plant citronella or marigolds around the kennel as these plants act as natural insect repellents.
- Place nets on the kennel to keep the mosquitoes out.
- Use a fan to keep the air moving and deter mosquitoes from entering the kennel.
- Install insect screens on windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes from getting in.
- Spray a natural, pet-safe mosquito repellent around the kennel.
- Fill several shallow dishes with beer and place them around the kennel’s perimeter; adult mosquitoes are attracted to fermenting sugars in beer and drown in the liquid.
- Use an outdoor mosquito trap to capture the mosquitoes that are attracted to the kennel’s area.
- Empty water dishes or other sources of standing water to prevent mosquitoes from breeding or laying eggs nearby.
Best Mosquito Repellents For Dogs: 6 Options To Consider
- Mosquito Coats or Suits – Mosquito coats and suits are a great way to protect your dog from mosquitos, as they offer complete coverage from head to tail. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, so you’re sure to find one that fits your pup perfectly, without inhibiting their ability to run and play.
- DEET-Based Mosquito Repellents – DEET-based repellents are some of the strongest mosquito repellents available and are an effective way to keep your dog safe from bug bites. For best results, apply the repellent using a sponge, and avoid using it directly on your pup.
- Citronella Pet Collars – Citronella pet collars can be a great, easy-to-use way to keep mosquitos away from your dog. They are easy to use and are a great option if you don’t want to have to relearn how to use a product every time you bring the dog out.
- Essential Oil Repellents – Essential oil repellents are a great, natural way to keep mosquitos away from your pup. The sour smell of citronella oil may be enough to ward off pesky insects and is sure to be gentler on your dog’s skin than other repellents.
- Dog-Specific Repellents – Dog-specific repellents are a great way to protect your pup from bug bites, as they come in formulations that work specifically on dogs. They come in shampoo, flea and tick applications, and more, so you can choose the best option for your pet.
- Insecticide Spot-On Treatments – Insecticide spot-on treatments are a great way to protect your dog from mosquito bites. These products need to be used with care, and in some cases should only be applied by a licensed veterinarian. If your dog is known to have reactions to insecticides, this probably isn’t the best option.
Natural Mosquito Repellent For Dogs
- Apple Cider Vinegar- Add equal parts apple cider vinegar and water to a spray bottle and apply it to your pet for a natural mosquito repellent that will also prevent fleas and other pests.
- Neem Oil- Mix a few drops of neem oil with one tablespoon of mild pet-safe shampoo and water. Shake the solution and spray it onto your pet’s fur and skin to keep fleas and mosquitoes away.
- Citronella Oil- Add a few drops of citronella oil to one cup of water for a flea and mosquito repellent spray. This remedy may also help to repel other biting insects.
- Fresh Herbs- Place a handful of fresh herbs (such as rosemary, lemon balm, lavender, or lemongrass) into a muslin bag and tie it to your pet’s collar. The fresh herbs will act as a natural deterrent against pesky mosquitoes.
- Eucalyptus Essential Oil- Mix a few drops of eucalyptus oil with one tablespoon of mild pet-safe shampoo and water in a spray bottle. Spray onto your pet’s fur and skin to keep biting insects away.
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Essential Oil Mosquito Repellent Recipe For Dogs
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon of jojoba oil
- 15-20 drops of lemongrass essential oil
- 10-15 drops of citronella essential oil
- 5 drops of lavender essential oil
Instructions:
- Combine jojoba oil, lemongrass essential oil, citronella essential oil, and lavender essential oil in a small bottle.
- Shake to combine ingredients.
- Apply directly to your dog’s skin, avoiding the face and eyes.
- Reapply as needed throughout the day.
- Store in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight.
Pet-Safe Mosquito Repellent Plants
There are a variety of plants that may help repel mosquitoes away from pets and people, although there is no guarantee. Some of these plants include lavender, rosemary, citronella, marigold, catnip, and elderberry. It may help to have them growing in close proximity to areas you and your pets frequent, such as porches, patios, and decks. Please note that some of these plants may be toxic to pets, so please research each plant before planting and contact your veterinarian if you have any questions.
Vet’s Best Mosquito Repellent For Dogs And Cats
Vet’s Best Mosquito Repellent for Dogs and Cats is a safe, easy-to-use, insect-repelling spray specifically formulated for your four-legged friends. The active ingredient, pyrethrins, is derived from the chrysanthemum flower and is naturally occurring, meaning it is not a synthetic chemical. This natural, yet effective, repellent formula is for use on cats and dogs of any age and breed and is designed to be used on their fur and skin. The formula is veterinarian-recommended and includes natural lemon eucalyptus oil to help repel mosquitoes, ticks, gnats, and other pesky insects for up to 8 hours. It is also micro-encapsulated, meaning it will slow-release over time for lasting protection.
SEE ALSO: How To Stop Dogs From Fighting
If Your Dog Is Bit By Mosquitoes, What Should You Do?
The first thing you should do if your dog is bitten by mosquitoes is to wash the area with mild soap and water to eliminate potential bacteria from the area. If your dog appears to be in pain, itching excessively, or develops a rash at the bite site, it is best to contact a veterinarian as they will be able to assess and treat any potential reaction from the bite.
FAQ
Q. Does garlic repel mosquitoes on dogs?
A. Garlic is thought to repel mosquitoes on dogs due to its pungent odor. Some pet owners add garlic to a dog’s diet in order to naturally repel insects. Furthermore, dog owners can purchase garlic-based sprays that can be applied to a dog’s fur to ward off mosquitoes.
Q. Should I put mosquito repellent on my dog?
A. No, you should not put mosquito repellent on your dog. If ingested, active ingredients like DEET can be toxic for your pet. If you are looking for a way to protect your dog from mosquitoes, try using a natural mosquito repellent made for animals.
Q. Is off mosquito repellent safe for dogs?
A. Off-mosquito repellent is generally safe for dogs when applied as directed. It is important to always consult a veterinarian prior to using any over-the-counter insecticide on a pet. Additionally, organic and natural models of Off mosquito repellent are available, allowing pet owners to consider more environmentally-friendly options.
Conclusion
In general, mosquito repellent for dogs is an effective way to protect them from bites and the diseases they can carry. Not all repellents are created equal, however, and pet owners should take time to research what is best for their dog before using a product. In most cases, it is best to select natural or organic repellents as these are typically safer for use on pets. When used correctly, these repellents can provide protection from mosquitos and peace of mind to pet owners that their dogs are safe from the common threats of bothersome mosquito bites.
