Many herbal flea spays like this one from "Natur Vet" use a combination of essential oils like cedar and insect repelling herbs such as rosemary. The manufacturer recommends spraying lightly over the entire body not saturating the coat and keeping the product away from your pet's eyes. It can also be used with topical treatments like Advantage, from Bayer animal health, and does not interfere with its effectiveness.

There are also products that can do double duty by protecting your pet and your home. K-9 Granola Factory has created a topical flea and tick concentrate that you mix with water and apply to your pet but can also be sprayed on bedding to help keep the bugs at bay.

A company called pet guard offers herbal flea collars for cats and dogs. Remember to read the instructions and the warnings, although safe for most pets check with your vet if you have young pets or a pet with skin allergies.

Remember fleas and ticks carry disease and parasites. Lyme disease from deer ticks, tapeworm from fleas and heart worm from mosquitoes are some of the most common issues that can be prevented by protecting your pet.

Whether you choose a holistic treatment or traditional methods like Frontline or Advantage, be consistent and mark your calendar so you don't miss an application leaving your pet unprotected.