Natural Deer Tick Repellent

Deer ticks usually feed on mice and deer, but they also will bite humans and pets, like dogs and cats. You can make a natural repellent to help protect your family from them and the Lyme disease they carry.

For Humans

• Create a natural deer tick repellent for you and your family by adding a few drops of rose geranium, peppermint and lemon oils to a spray bottle full of water. Spray the clothes you plan on wearing outside with the solution, paying special attention to the bottom of your pant legs and sleeves, according to "Green Guide," a guide to eco-friendly options.

For Animals

• Make a natural deer tick collar to protect your pets. Buy a fabric pet collar and place a few drops of rose geranium or opopanax oil on it. Put new drops on the collar every few days to keep the scent strong enough to deter ticks. While your dog is getting used to the new scent, it could have trouble locating objects by smell, so do not use this on a dog just before taking it hunting, according to "The Encyclopedia of Natural Pet Care."

Considerations

• In addition to wearing the natural repellent, you can block deer ticks from reaching your skin by wearing long pants and sleeves. Tuck your pants into your socks to create a solid barrier against ticks reaching your skin, according to "Camping & Wilderness Survival." Spray your dog with the same mixture you used on your clothing, but do not use it on cats because lemon oil can make cats ill.