!Header Logo

Harris Animal Hospital

!Give us a call button

!Call Icon

Barbeque Safety for Dogs

July 1, 2021

The Fourth is just a few days off. For many people, barbeques are on the agenda for this weekend. That’s perfectly fine with our canine patients. Fido loves nothing more than hanging out with his human pals, especially when there are snacks involved. However, you’ll need to take a few precautions to keep your cute pet safe. A Salem, VA vet offers some tips on this below.

Food

Your furry buddy will be paying close attention to the day’s menu. Fido can have some plain, cooked meat, fish, or chicken, such as burgers, brats, or hot dogs. Just don’t give him anything with bones, or anything spicy. Other unsafe foods include grapes, currants, and raisins; raw dough or yeast; chocolate; caffeine; alcohol; avocados; garlic and onions; pitted fruits; and anything that contains xylitol.

Fire

Fido has a way of getting underfoot. This can be dangerous when you’re grilling! Keep your furry bff safely away from the grill.

Heat

Overheating is always a concern with pets at this time of year. Make sure Fido always has plenty of fresh water. Your pooch should also have access to cool, shady areas. Want to score some tail wags? Your canine pal will probably appreciate some doggy ice cream, which you can find at many pet stores. Watch for signs that your pup is getting too hot, such as panting and drooling. If your four-legged friend seems uncomfortable, get him out of the heat. You can cool him off by soaking a bandana with water and hanging it around his neck. Then, contact your vet for further instructions.

Trash

Garbage is another concern. The trash may contain things like skewers, can lids, fat trimmings, bones, tin foil, and many other hazards. Use trashcans with secure lids, and pick up as soon as everyone’s done eating.

Parasites

Don’t be surprised if fleas, ticks, and mosquitos show up at your event. Keep your pup up to date with his preventative care products. You’ll also need to be careful with bug spray, as it’s toxic to pets.

Water

Are you headed to a pool or lake? Put a doggy lifejacket on Fido if he can’t swim. You’ll also need to pay very close attention to your pooch, even if he can swim. Never leave a dog unattended near water, even for a minute!

Happy Fourth! Contact us, your Salem, VA veterinary clinic, today!

!Single Blog Social Sharing Icons