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Life on the farm brings many joys, but it also presents unique challenges—like keeping our beloved pets free from pests. For those of us with dogs, fleas and ticks can become persistent problems, especially during the warmer months.
In my own quest to protect our dogs without compromising the safety of my children, I've discovered a natural, non-toxic flea and tick repellent that aligns with our values and lifestyle.
The Need for a Safe Solution
Living in a rural setting, ticks are a constant concern. Until now, I relied on products like Bravecto or Frontline. But when my daughter was young, I embraced a more natural approach that’s safer for everyone—including my children, who love spending time with our dogs.
Our Non-Toxic Approach
After some research, I found a way to combat these pests using natural methods. I use the natural predator of ticks, guineas, to hunt them down one the outside yard area. In addition, I keep the grass shorter in the areas where the kids and dogs hang out the most. This makes those areas less attractive to the ticks.
For the constant problem of flies on the farm, I implement the use of fly predators and free ranging chickens to attack the flies. Regularly cleaning up the animal poop and composting it helps to control the habitat hatching areas too. My chickens have been trained to dig through the windrows of poop and find the bugs, thus turning my compost pile for me.
I also found a essential oil repellent recipe that offers a safe alternative to traditional chemical treatments, ensuring my kids can safely play with the dogs without exposure to harmful substances. When buying essential oils, make sure you are purchasing oils that are truly pure. There is a lot of mislabeling in the oil industry. I have linked the oils in the recipe to my favorite oils.
The Essential Oil Recipes
Spray (4 oz Bottle):
- 4 drops Purification
- 4 drops Citronella
- 1 drop Cedarwood
- 2 drops Palo Santo
- 1 drop Thyme
Fill the rest with water and shake gently before use. Spray as needed for fly issues.
Dropper (2 oz Bottle):
- 9 drops Palo Santo
- 6 drops Peppermint
- 6 drops Citronella
Fill the rest with water and shake gently before use.
Apply the dropper along your dog's back, starting at the end of April. Begin with applications every couple of days, then transition to weekly, and finally monthly as summer progresses. For continual replant of fleas, continue monthly through the winter.
Benefits of Essential Oils
Essential oils, when used correctly, can deter pests without the need for synthetic chemicals. Here are some of the benefits:
- Safety: Non-toxic for both pets and children.
- Efficacy: Proven to repel pests effectively.
- Peace of Mind: You can rest easy knowing your family is safe from harsh chemicals.
Empowering Choices for Farm Wives
As farm wives, we juggle many responsibilities and strive to make informed decisions that benefit our family and farm. This natural pest control method is just one example of how we can use simple, accessible tools to improve our lives.
By making these small, thoughtful changes, we nurture an environment that reflects our values and supports our goals—a thriving farm and a happy, healthy family.
Join Our Journey
If you're looking for more ways to live authentically and balance the demands of farm life, I invite you to join our community. Together, we can share solutions and support each other on this incredible, challenging journey.
Remember, every small step towards positive change is a victory. Here's to a pest-free and harmonious home for you and your loved ones.
Feel free to reach out with your stories, thoughts, or questions. Let's grow and thrive together!
Wanting a community to lean into? Join the FREE Thriving Through Farm Distress: Wife’s Support Network! In our community, we embrace the challenges of farm life and provide a supportive space for wives facing the complexities of managing a family farm. Whether you're navigating financial pressures, day-to-day operations, or seeking ways to create a thriving home, we're here for you. Explore gardening tips for cultivating your own oasis, share insights on animal care, and discover practical family budgeting strategies. Together, let's grow through challenges, flourish authentically, and sow the seeds for a resilient and thriving farm life. Join us on this journey of resilience and abundance!
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