There's some bad news for cats and dogs, this hot and dry summer is actually perfect weather for fleas.

News 5 checked with veterinarian Kate Zimmerman with Tri-County Veterinary Hospital and learned the mild winter is to blame for not killing millions of fleas.

Doctor Zimmerman says this flea season is actually one of the worst she's ever seen throughout her entire career. Which is dangerous since fleas carry several diseases.

But fleas are not the only problem this summer. "This very hot weather has been very favorable to other parasites as well. Such as your intestinal parasites, your blood borne parasites, parasites your pets catch from eating rodents. This is going to be like the year of the parasite," added Doctor Zimmerman.

She says the best advice to keep your pet healthy is to make sure your cat or dog is on a monthly prevention program with your veterinarian since bargain brands usually do not work.