The closer that you live near open spaces, the more likely that your pets can become victims of an unwanted predator. According to the California Veterinary Medical Assn. (CVMA), the problems posed by large predators, such as coyotes and mountain lions, as well as minuscule ones, such as fleas, ticks and mosquitoes, may be particularly severe in spring and summer when pets spend more time outside in the yard or traveling with their owners. I’ve even heard of hawks swooping down and taking small dogs right out the their yard. This seems crazy but it does happen. If you live in an area where hawks are present. Do not leave you pet outside alone! I’ve also heard of alligators attacking small dogs. So what can you do to protect your pet? The best protection is to keep your pet indoors. Especially at night. You may consider an enclosed pet exercise pen which you may have to make yourself. Another way is an enclosed yard with a fence at least six feet high although this will not protect against the hawks.  Some other measures might be to install motion detectors along the perimeter of your home. Most pets seem to shy away from lighted areas. Always feed your pet indoors. Trim overgrown trees and bushes that provide cover for coyotes. The CVMA suggests making sure your pets are always on a  leash and are properly trained, especially when walking in areas where they might encounter predators.