In South Florida, where heat and humidity are a year-round occurrence, the pesky little critters thrive in backyards.
They live in overgrown lawns, shrubbery and bushes just waiting to attack dogs -- and sometimes cats.
But fear not; there are ways to protect your animals from disease-carrying ticks.
''It's up to the pet-owning public to be constantly vigilant of the presence of external parasites, such as ticks and fleas,'' said Dr. James Dee, a veterinarian at Hollywood Animal Hospital.
The American Veterinary Medical Association suggests that at-risk pets be treated with preventive products.
Among the most well-known treatments are Advantix, Revolution and Frontline.
