Fleas and ticks are more than just a nuisance. They can present serious health conditions and ticks are the number one carrier of Lyme disease – an illness that can cause joint swelling, fever, heart or nervous system complications, kidney failure, even death.  Ehrlichiosis is the general name used to describe several bacterial diseases that affect animals and humans, and Lyme Disease is one common form of Ehrlichiosis.

Lyme Disease isn’t reserved for pets who frequent wooded areas,” comments Jeanette Holliday, the US Marketing Manager at The Company of Animals. “Any dog or cat spending time outdoors, even in the city, needs to be protected against ticks.”

This year is going to be a particularly difficult for flea and tick season. Experts predict that the unusual weather we’ve experienced so far will create an extended season rife with parasitic problems.

If you’re wondering when fleas are most active in your area of the country, the Weather Channel has created a neat little program that will help you plan. Just type in your zip code to find the times your area will be most active.

For those of us in areas of year-round activity, it’s important to take some precautions to prepare your pet and your home. We have taken a look at some natural and manufactured alternatives that will help you have a safe, happy, non-itchy pet this season...