Summertime is a wonderful time for family and friends to get together and enjoy themselves, often with a beloved pet by their side.

However, it is important to consider the hidden (and sometimes, not-so-hidden) dangers that can harm our favorite furry companions.

1. Just Say No! Backyard barbecues are what summertime is about, right? Especially living in Southern California.

But please remember that the food and drink you serve your guests may actually be poisonous to pets.

Keep alcoholic beverages away from pets, as even the smallest amount can cause intoxication, depression, coma, or even death.

Similarly, remember that the snacks you serve your friends should not be a treat for your pet; any change in diet, even for one meal, may give your dog or cat severe digestive ailments.

Make sure your guests understand that they are not to feed any food or beverage to your pets.

2. Pets have it made in the shade! Pets can get dehydrated and overheated easily, so give your pets plenty of water, and make sure your pet has a shady place to rest when outdoors.

However, when it is extremely hot, it is best to keep them inside, and of course NEVER leave your pet alone in a parked vehicle.

Cars can become a furnace in seconds during the summertime – even with the windows cracked or fully open – and can quickly cause heatstroke or death.

3. Keep your pets pest-free. Commonly-used flea and tick products, rodenticides (mouse and rat bait), and lawn and garden insecticides can be harmful to pets, so make sure to keep these products out of reach.

4. Water safety is pet-friendly. Do not leave pets unsupervised around a pool as not all dogs are good swimmers.

Introduce your pets gradually and make sure pets wear flotation devices while on boats.

Do not allow your dog to drink pool water, as it contains chlorine and other chemicals that could cause stomach upset.

Similarly, salt water ingestion can lead to severe electrolyte imbalances and toxicity.

5. ID Me! When travelling with your pet, make sure it has clear identification in the form of a name tag or collar.

Even the most obedient dogs can sometimes conveniently "forget" their names when in a new and exciting environment, preoccupied with all the sites and smells.

Microchips are also a great way to help identify your pet. Check with your veterinarian for details.