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TAKING your dog on a long relaxing walk is always followed by the less-than-relaxing tick check.
However, a household item may be able to protect your pet from the parasites.
In her viral video, Mary Futher (@madamesweat) revealed the household item she swears by to protect dogs from ticks.
The Instagrammer explained that experts predict 2024 to be "one of the worst years for ticks because of global warming."
She added that the warmer weather in North America means a "big feeding season for ticks."
Mary told her followers that her homemade hack for tackling ticks on her pets is approved and recommended by vets.
She revealed that she applies apple cider vinegar to her dogs "because it stinks."
"Even ticks can’t stand some smells and apple cider vinegar is one of them," Mary explained.
She recommended diluting the solution with equal parts water before pouring it on your pets.
"Saturate all of your dog’s coat and brush it through so that it’s smelly," she said.
Mary advised her audience to focus on the ears, neck, and legs as that’s where ticks usually burrow.
She suggested using the trick before your next walk in a wooded area or somewhere with long grass.
The experts at Wag! explained that this natural remedy should only be used as a preventative measure.
"If a tick does land on your four-legged friend, these remedies will not kill the tick," they said.
"They are specifically aimed at keeping the pests at bay."
Ticks are known for carrying Lyme disease and can cause other afflictions with short and long-term effects on those bitten.
If you notice a tick on your dog, you should take your pet to the vet as soon as possible.
Dr. Sara Ochoa has been practicing veterinary medicine for over five years.
She told The U.S. Sun observing a dog's behavior can provide clues that they might act out.
“A dog that looks tense all over with its fur sticking up or teeth showing is more likely to snap," she said.
“Staring real hard without blinking could mean trouble too.
"Growling is also a warning the dog is getting mad."
She said dogs may tuck their tail between their legs when they feel scared or threatened.
“Staying calm and keeping space may help things not to escalate if a dog seems on edge," she said.
Instagram users shared their thoughts on the trick in the comments section.
"That’s definitely a good thing to do before I take my dogs hiking. Thank you so much for this post," wrote one viewer.
"Thank you for sharing, I'll use this technique," said another impressed follower.
"Apple cider vinegar is amazing for the skin, diluted 50/50," commented a third person.
"Thank you so very much for your knowledge and information, I really appreciate it," said another Instagram user.
