Welcome To The Dog Science Group
We are an informal bunch of like-minded enthusiasts keen to learn more about the dogs we love. The aim of this website is to put dog people together with professional scientists conducting studies to improve our understanding of the health and behaviour of modern, 21st Century dogs.
If you would like to join in, and become one of a growing community of Citizen Dog Scientists, take a look at the list of current projects to see if there are any you would like to help with. You can to receive further information about the studies going on, right now, and to be the first to hear about new projects as they are launched. Dont worry if you dont live with a dog at the moment as some studies are open to all dog lovers and not just those who are current owners.
Together, we can help all dogs, and the people they hang out with, to enjoy happier, healthier lives. It would be great to have you on board.
Do Cats Hate The Smell Of Tea Tree Oil
Different cats will react differently to the smell of tea tree oil. Some may be indifferent, while others may find the scent unpleasant. However, it is generally advisable to avoid using any essential oils around cats, as they are much more sensitive to them than humans. Ingestion of even small amounts of certain oils can be toxic to cats, so it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid using them altogether.
How To Prevent Fleas On My Dog
Fleas on dogs can be prevented by applying antiparasitic substances on the back of the neck or by oral administration of chewable tablets. The most commonly used antiparasitic products are spot-on pipettes.
Most topical antiparasitic products are easy to apply and take effect in a maximum of 48 hours.
The antiparasitic products can be used at home without the help of a veterinarian.
Topical products are applied to the back of the head of the pet onto the skin.
If you donât want to intoxicate your dog, use the right concentration for its weight.
Antiparasitics poisoning can be fatal to your dog if not treated in time.
The products you can use to prevent fleas are:
- Spot-on pipettes
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How Does Tea Tree Oil Work Against Fleas
Pests, like fleas, have existed in some form or another for centuries. A fossilized flea discovered in Australia was estimated to be roughly 200 million years old.
The many pesticides and repellents we have on the market are relatively recent inventions, historically speaking. Plants were and still are used as traditional, natural insecticides and repellents.
In recent years, there has been an increase in insecticide resistance in flea populations. The species of Ctenocephalides felis can be particularly resistant to supposedly lethal insecticides.
In some cases, the so-called resistance is due to pet owners not following treatments guidelines correctly. However, in other cases, certain flea populations have mutated to withstand commonly used insecticides.
Continuously attacking a pest population with synthetic insecticides can increase the risk of resistance developing. There have also been concerns over the impact chemically manufactured insecticides have on the environment.
Plant extracts like tea tree oil are claimed as being biodegradable and less toxic. Tea tree oil has been shown to have useful properties against pesky insects. One study showed that it successfully repelled and killed flies on cows.
Another trial revealed the oil had potent effects on head lice, blood-sucking pests which can be notoriously hard to kill on humans. One percent concentration of tea tree oil killed off 100 percent of adult head lice within 30 minutes.
Symptoms Of Tea Tree Oil Poisoning In Dogs
Depending on how much tea tree oil is ingested, it can have detrimental effects on a dog. Symptoms of tea tree oil poisoning are:
- Muscle weakness
Types
Tea tree oil can come in different mixtures and forms, and can also be an ingredient in various veterinary formulations used for a variety of ailments. It is considered an antimicrobial substance and is used as shampoos or topical ointments. Tea tree oil can be also referred as these common ingredients or product brands:
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What Kills Fleas On Dogs Instantly
There is no surefire answer to this question as it largely depends on the flea and the dogs individual health and behavior. However, some possible methods of killing fleas on dogs quickly include: applying a topical application of a flea-fighting drug, using a vacuum cleaner to suck out the fleas, or using a flea-killing shampoo.
Can Tea Tree Oil Be Used For Fleas On Dogs
Fleas are pesky little parasites moving through your dogs coat, causing irritation and sometimes hair loss. When used safely, tea tree oil has the ability to repel fleas, however, home remedies including the essential oil are not advisable.
Richardson advises against the use of tea tree oil for fleas on dogs. There is no evidence to suggest that this is an effective treatment for the control of fleas, as it does not kill either the adult fleas or the eggs.
You are likely to find flea collars, topical treatments, and chewables more successful in treating fleas. Additionally, commercial flea treatments contain chemicals that can stop the development of eggs.
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Will Tea Tree Oil Work On Dogs To Kill Fleas
Tea tree oil is effective in treating fleas because the insects do not like the smell of the oil, and will do their best to remove themselves from the smell if applied to the dogs coat.
Tea tree oil contains antibacterial and antiseptic properties, so if your dog has an allergic skin reaction to fleas, tea tree oil can provide soothing relief for your pet pooch.
How Do You Tell If Fleas Are Dying
When a flea is exposed to the active ingredient in FRONTLINE , it causes the fleas nervous system to become hyperactive. This eventually leads to the death of the flea. After treatment, you may notice some fleas rising to the top of your pets haircoat. This is a normal response and an indication that the product is working.
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Other Ways To Control Fleas In The Home
Fleas can be pests but are rarely harmful nowadays. In the past, they have harboured the plague and other types of bacteria. They can be as common as other insects, and hard to get rid of. Follow these steps so that you can have a relatively flea-free home. The trick is to keep up with regular house cleaning and exterior maintenance, otherwise they can come back.
Will Tea Tree Oil Hurt My Dog
No, tea tree oil will not hurt your dog if used properly. Tea tree oil is a natural oil that has many benefits for both humans and animals. When used correctly, it can help to treat skin conditions, relieve pain, and boost the immune system. However, tea tree oil is also highly concentrated and can be toxic if ingested or if it comes into contact with the eyes or mucous membranes. If you are using tea tree oil on your dog, be sure to dilute it properly and keep it out of reach of your pet.
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Is Tea Tree Safe For Dogs Skin
Tea tree oil when used properly in dogs can heal dry, damaged skin, kill yeast, kill fleas and scabies, and soothe the itchy skin caused by airborne allergens. We also recommend that you never use tea tree oil on your dog unless it has been mixed by a professional and only in a product that is made for use on a dog.
How To Use Tea Tree Oil Around The Home To Repel Fleas
There are other ways you can use tea tree oil around your home in order to repel fleas. Be sure to use the same spray bottle mixture that you use on your pets. This is to avoid having your pets pick up the oil on their paws. Some pets are also known to lick substances, even if theyre harmful.
- Pour some tea tree oil in a small plastic container with a pet-tamper-proof lid with holes. Place this dish in a strategic spot near the door, but not where your pet will try to get into it.
- Spray a mixture on pathways and outer doorways of your home. This will discourage fleas and encourage them to get off your property.
- Spray outdoors in the regions where your pets likely to hang out or sleep.
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Does Vicks Vapor Rub Repel Fleas
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the individuals personal environment and habits. Generally speaking, people who live in areas with high levels of pet dust, pollen, and other allergens may find it difficult to control the amount of these things that they breathe, which could lead to the spread of fleas. Conversely, people who do not have pets may find it easier to control their environment and may not experience as much of an effect from the products. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to experiment with different products and see what works best for them.
How To Dilute Tea Tree Oil Safely
Always dilute Tea Tree oil with a carrier oil like jojoba oil, aloe vera gel, olive oil, etc. Start with a low dilution of 3 drops of tea tree oil in 30 ml of carrier oil and do a patch test to see if there is any skin irritation.
I NEVER spray the oil around my dogs face. I spray it on her harness and then put it on and spray around her neck. Dogs lick everything especially after somethings been applied to their skin, so as long as the oil is diluted AND its not sprayed in very lickable areas or mucus membranes, then your dog will be good.
You should still observe your dog carefully to see if s/he shows any allergic or adverse reaction. If so, use a cool wet cloth and some mild soap to wipe the area, then rinse it with clean water.
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However Tea Tree Oil Can Be Toxic If Not Used Correctly In Your Home Environment
While tea tree oil is a natural and effective flea treatment, it can be toxic if not used correctly in your home environment. To safely use tea tree oil to kill fleas on your pet, first speak with your vet and see if they have any suggestions or warnings regarding the use of this product. If they do not, then follow these steps:
- Spray the pets fur with the product until thoroughly soaked
- Allow it to dry completely before letting them go outside or letting them come into contact with other pets
Tea Tree Oil For Dogs: Precautions To Take
Products containing tea tree oil can be used as long as the concentration of the oil is minimal, and they are from reputable brands. Pet parents should always ensure that the concentration of tea tree oil in the product is less than 1-2 percent, says Herman. If the concentration is greater than 2 percent or if the concentration is not listed, do not purchase or use the product.
Richardson suggests pet parents avoid tea tree oil products due to the variability in concentration, formulation, and quality of these products. More importantly, the concentrations needed to treat skin problems are far greater than what is considered non-toxic for pets.
There is also a real risk of miscalculating and using more than is deemed safe when concocting home remedies. Although creams and shampoos containing tea tree oil may seem like a good alternative to synthetic treatments, the risks may outweigh any potential benefits.
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Using Tea Tree Oil For Dogs Safely
In order to be used safely, tea tree oil must be diluted. This is difficult to do at home due to the extremely small amounts needed.
Plus oil naturally separates from water. So getting the oil evenly spread throughout the formula can be difficult.
Because of this, many commercial oils are already diluted. But unlike prescription treatments, tea tree oil is not regulated.
You really have no idea what youre getting when you buy it. Some products will be more diluted than others.
What Are Fleas And How Did They Get In My Home
Fleas are incredibly tiny insects with no eyes and no wings. They are brown or dark-red, and they feed by sucking blood from their host with piercing mouthparts. When they feed, they inject saliva into the wound to prevent coagulation. Bites are itchy and usually cause swelling and irritation. Fleas normally get in by hitching a ride on pets. They can jump great distances and are able to cling to your pet as they come inside. Even if you dont have pets, they can still get in through a screen or by jumping onto visiting pets that come inside. They can also come in on rodents or wildlife that get into the home. And even though fleas usually feed on animals, they arent afraid to feed on humans too.
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Safer Alternatives For Repelling Fleas
Tea tree oil has toxic potential for dogs, which is why it is recommended to use other products to repel fleas on your dog and in your home. Alternatives include giving your dog a good bath and the use of antiparasitic products for dogs.
There are safer methods for you and your dog than using tea tree oil. Here are the most common.
Does Tea Tree Oil Stop Mosquito Bites
Tea tree oil has been shown to be particularly efficient at driving away a wide range of insects, including ants. Simply dab a little coating of tea tree oil over any ant trails you come across to get rid of them. Not only may tea tree oil assist you in getting rid of ants in your yard, but it can also assist you in getting rid of ants that are undesirable within your house.
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Brief History Of Tea Tree Oil Usage
Tracing the history of tea tree oils use as a medicinal substance can be a significant anthropological challenge. Thats because Western culture and medicine were ignorant of its existence until the eighteenth century.
When Captain Cook landed in Australia , he discovered the benefits of tea tree oil by creating a tea from the paperbarks leaves. Emboldened by his discovery, he made haste to share his experience with Western society.
By 1770, tea tree plants were in high-demand as primary ingredients in medicinal tonics and supplements. The antimicrobial and antibacterial effects were not lost on Western physicians and pharmacists, who made short work of turning tea tree oil into a profitable business venture.
Tea tree oil and tea tree derivatives would remain one of the most sought-after sanitizers and antimicrobials until the 1920s. With the discovery and rise of penicillin, tea tree oil usage and consumption began to decline.
However, the sudden overreliance on penicillin for antibiotic treatments contributed to a sharp increase in antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Consequently, modern tea tree oils could help keep equally modern bacterial strains at bay in ways that penicillin-based solutions cannot.
Does Tea Tree Oil Kill Fleas And Can It Keep Them Away
The answer is yes! With insecticide resistance developing in fleas and ongoing mutation of these critters to become even more hardy, tea tree oil can become a powerful weapon in our war against them. In addition to killing them on contact, the pungent odor of tea tree oil will repel fleas as they simply hate the smell, which is excellent news for us!
So these little insects will try and stay away from the overpowering smell, but how does it actually kill them? Well, tea tree oil interferes with a fleas nervous system, and the oil can block their tracheas . Either way, this will result in their swift demise, which makes this essential oil a great choice for flea control.
A Little History: Despite its name, tea tree is very rarely used in a tea and is actually a rather large bush. Before it was extracted as an essential oil in the 1920s , research shows that it was used for centuries by Aborigines in traditional medicines. Unknown to them, a compound called Terpinen-4-ol was responsible for its strong antibacterial properties.
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Tea Tree Oil Diffuser For Dogs
A tea tree oil diffuser will take concentrated tea tree oil and diffuse it around your room. They are popularly used in aromatherapy and spas.
But, is it safe for dogs?
As these diffusers use concentrated tea tree oil, they can be very dangerous for our pups.
So, if you have a dog, you should not use a tea tree oil diffuser.
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Can I Use Tea Tree Oil On Myself Around My Dog
No, undiluted tea tree oil is not safe for dogs or cats. You shouldnt use tea tree oil on or around your pets unless its been professionally formulated, diluted, and thus proven safe. Even then you must monitor your pet closely, and we recommend avoiding the use of the ingredient altogether.
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