Some vets say a mild winter here in New England could lead to a bigger flea and tick season this year. That's because warmer temperatures make it easier for the pests to reproduce. 7's Dylan Dreyer has more on how to keep your best friend bug-free in this week's "Protecting your Pet."

They bite, they carry disease, and they just plain old bug your pet.

"You'll see that they're itchy, and they're scratching," said Dr. Kathy Tator, a dermatologist at Angell Animal Medical Center.

Flea and tick season is back in New England, and the dangers are great, especially for Lyme Disease.

"The same ticks that can bite your dog can also bite people, and they can also transmit some of the same diseases to people," Dr. Tator said. "It can cause a scab or temporary swelling at the site of the bite."

In addition, fleas can lead to allergic reactions and a lot of discomfort.

"The moment they get bitten, they are going to try to chase that flea off themselves by licking or chewing behavior," Dr. Tator said.

Vets say a year-round flea and tick control product is the best protection. But be sure to always check your pet regularly for any crawling critters.

"Especially focusing on areas like the top of the head and around the neck," Dr. Tator said.

If you do find a tick on your pet, some vets suggest the best way to remove it is to use tweezers to slowly pull it out. After removing a tick, you should watch the area closely for the next two weeks and check with your vet if any irritation occurs.

If you find fleas on your four-legged friend, vets suggest a flea comb or bath. And with fleas, it's not just your pet that needs to be treated.

"It's also important to treat the home environment for fleas, because the majority of the flea population is going to be in the carpeting in the furniture and all the areas that your pets are sleeping," Dr. Tator said.

But vets say the best defense is a good offense. Keep a close eye on your pet, not just during flea and tick season, but all year-round.