Heartworm is one of the most devastating diseases we have identified in dogs. Now it has also been shown to exist in cats. Ask your veterinarian if you are living in a Heartworm-endemic area, and follow their advice regarding preventive medication. This is truly a disease you want to prevent rather than treat.
Heartworm Products
Medical Information on Heartworms

Tip:

Be sure that your pet is checked for intestinal parasites at least once a year. Not only is this important for your pet’s health, but also for you and your children. Because these parasites have what is called "zoonotic potential", meaning they can be transmitted to you from your pets.
What is Zoonosis?

Tip:

Ticks carry lots of diseases. We all know about Lyme disease, but have you heard of Ehrlichia, or Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever? And these are all diseases that can also effect people. So prevent ticks. Talk to your veterinarian about what will work best for your dog or cat. Tick prevention is one of the biggest goals of the summertime.
Flea and Tick Products
Medical Information on Ticks

Dr. Larry