The summer months are prime time for fleas, which thrive in the heat. And if untreated, they can lead to tapeworms and other diseases.

Symptoms of an infestation can include: 1. Severe itching that causes a skin rash, legions and possibly ulcers, 2. dermatitis, and 3. scratching and biting at the inflamed area on the skin. Flea attacks are most common on your dog's, head, neck and tail.

The symptoms of fleas appear suddenly and range from very mild to severe. Be on the lookout for fleas crawling through your dog's fur, particularly in your dog's skin folds. Adult fleas are flat with 3 pairs of legs, brownish in color and 2 - 8mm long. Also look for "flea dirt" (excrement) in your dogs bedding and skin.