The Ultimate Guide to Flea & Tick Prevention: Natural Remedies vs. Vet-Prescribed Options

As warmer weather returns to much of the country, so do the risks of fleas and ticks for pets in Canada.  Whether you're exploring local trails or relaxing in your backyard, it’s important to know how to keep both you and your pet protected from these pesky parasites.

As a Canadian pet brand, we know that keeping pets healthy and safe goes beyond collars and leashes—it’s about supporting informed choices. Here’s a complete guide to flea and tick prevention, including natural remedies, veterinarian-prescribed medications, and what to watch for in product labels.

Understanding the Risk: Where Fleas and Ticks Thrive

Ticks aren’t just a problem in rural areas anymore. They're moving into urban and suburban areas thanks to climate change and animal migration patterns.

• Canadian Tick Hotspots: Southern Ontario, parts of British Columbia, and Nova Scotia are key areas. 
• Ontario Tick Hotspots: Black-legged ticks (carriers of Lyme disease) are common around Kingston, Ottawa, and the 1000 Islands region.
• U.S. Border Risk: If you're traveling or near the U.S. border, note that areas like New York and Michigan are also high-risk.

You can refer to updated tick maps from Health Canada, Public Health Ontario, and the CDC Tick Map to track local infestations.

When deciding whether to treat your dog for ticks, it’s important to consider several factors. Think about where you live — if you’re in a wooded, grassy, or rural area, tick exposure is much higher. Your dog's lifestyle also matters; dogs that hike, camp, or spend lots of time outdoors are at greater risk than those who mostly stay indoors. Health plays a role too, since puppies, seniors, or dogs with weakened immune systems are more vulnerable to tick-borne illnesses. Weighing all of these factors can help you decide if regular tick prevention is necessary for your dog's protection.

Natural Flea & Tick Remedies

For pet parents seeking all-natural flea and tick prevention, there are several plant-based and holistic approaches that can help reduce exposure:

• Essential oils like cedar wood, lavender, and lemongrass (used with caution—cats especially may be sensitive). Always dilute essential oils before applying them to your dog's skin. Avoid sensitive areas such as the eyes, nose, and genitals. Consult with a veterinarian before using essential oils, especially if your dog has existing health conditions.

• Apple cider vinegar sprays can deter fleas and ticks. You can create a DIY spray by mixing equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water. This mixture can be lightly sprayed on your dog's coat to deter fleas and ticks. Ensure to avoid the eyes and any open wounds.
  
  

• Natural flea collars and topical sprays that are made with non-toxic ingredients. Some of our favourites include: Apothecary Natural Flea & Tick Herbal Collar, Only Natural Pet EasyDefense Flea & Tick Collar, Kin + Kind Flea and Tick Outdoor Lavender Dog Spray 
  

• Diatomaceous earth (food-grade)  can be applied to your dog's fur or bedding to help reduce fleas and ticks. It's non-toxic and safe for internal and external use. Note: When using diatomaceous earth, ensure it's food-grade and handle with care to avoid inhalation.

Remember: Because they are all natural and non-toxic they are also less potent so they often need more frequent application and aren’t as long-lasting, so consistency is key. For for effective use, all natural products can also be used in combination! 

Vet-Prescribed Flea & Tick Prevention (FDA & Health Canada Approved)

When you need long-term, clinically tested protection, your veterinarian may recommend:

• Oral preventives (e.g., Simparica, NexGard, Bravecto) – These kill fleas and ticks from the inside out and last for weeks.
• Topical treatments (e.g., Revolution, Advantage) – Applied between the shoulder blades, these provide monthly protection. Note: topical applications can cause burning, redness, or even chemical burns and can transfer from dog to person with petting.

What to watch for: Only vet-prescribed products are regulated and approved by the FDA or Health Canada. Over-the-counter topical products from pet stores or online may not be FDA-approved, even if they appear similar. These can be less effective—or even harmful if misused.

Combining Prevention with Lifestyle & Accessories

Prevention works best when it's part of your pet’s everyday routine:

• Use all natural tick-repellent sprays or collars during hikes, and tick repellant shampoos throughout the season.
• Groom and check your dog for ticks daily in high-risk areas.
• Keep lawns trimmed and avoid tall grasses during tick season.

Further Resources & Expert Advice

Want to dive deeper into flea and tick prevention strategies for your pet? Here are trusted sources:

• Wholesome Canine – “Fleas, Ticks & Heartworm” Webinar with Dr. Rona Sherebrin

  This in-depth session, presented by Toronto-based integrative veterinarian Dr. Rona Sherebrin, explores the risks associated with fleas, ticks, and heartworm. It discusses both conventional pharmaceuticals and natural alternatives, providing guidance on safe usage and prevention strategies. 
  

• College of Integrative Veterinary Therapies (CIVT) – Flea and Tick Preventatives Webinar

  CIVT offers a webinar that examines various flea and tick prevention methods, including natural options. The session is designed for both veterinary professionals and pet owners interested in integrative approaches to parasite control.
  
  

• Knowewell – “Natural Options for Flea, Tick, and Heartworm for Dogs” Webinar

  This webinar discusses various prevention methods, including prescription medications, over-the-counter products, and natural approaches. It emphasizes the importance of consulting with a veterinarian to make informed decisions that balance effectiveness, safety, and cost.
  
  

• Back to the Bone – Blog on Natural Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Prevention

  This blog post explores natural solutions for controlling fleas, ticks, and heartworms in pets. It discusses the potential risks associated with conventional medications and offers alternative prevention strategies, including dietary supplements and environmental controls.

Stay Informed & Stay Protected

No matter which prevention method you choose—natural, medical, or a combination—being informed is the best shot you have at giving your furry friend a tick-free season.