by KYW's Nan Tallena

Fleas and ticks can cause many problems for your pet, from severe flea allergy dermatitis to Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.  Prevention is the best cure.
 
Talk to your veterinarian.  Topical applications applied monthly seem to work most effectively, for both dogs and cats, much more effectively than flea shampoos and collars.  The topical applications are easy to apply, safe to use and guard against both fleas and ticks for an entire flea-life cycle for thirty days. 

Always make sure to vacuum fully all possible flea infested areas.  Do not walk your dog in tall grassy or wooded areas to avoid contact with ticks. Fleas and ticks can survive throughout the entire year with spring and fall being the peak seasons. 

Protect your pet now so as to avoid problems later.