Quick Answer
To treat a hide with ticks or parasites, carefully remove any visible parasites, then treat the hide with a commercial tick and flea repellent or a solution of 1 part white vinegar to 3 parts water, and finally apply a thin layer of Neatsfoot oil or mink oil.
Removing Visible Parasites
When dealing with a tick-infested hide, wear gloves to prevent the ticks from attaching to your skin. Use tweezers to carefully grasp the parasite as close to the skin as possible and pull upwards with a steady, gentle motion. It’s essential to remove the parasite intact to prevent the risk of tick-borne diseases. Repeat this process for all visible parasites.
Pre-Treatment Preparation
After removing the parasites, inspect the hide for any remaining debris or dirt. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently sweep away any loose material. If the hide is heavily soiled, mix 1 part white vinegar with 3 parts water and apply the solution using a clean cloth. Allow the solution to sit on the hide for 5-10 minutes before rinsing it off with cold water. This step will help neutralize any bacterial or fungal growth.
Final Treatment and Conditioning
Once the hide is clean and free of parasites, apply a thin layer of commercial tick and flea repellent according to the product’s instructions. Alternatively, you can use a solution of equal parts water and Neatsfoot oil or mink oil, allowing the hide to absorb the treatment for 30 minutes to an hour. This final step will not only repel future parasites but also help condition and soften the hide, making it more receptive to tanning processes.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.