Pet Safety at the Summer Barbecue

What’s Summer without Bar-be-que’s?

Enjoy outdoor Summer cooking and parties with a few safety tips to protect your pets.

Pets get excited to have company, too.  Be sure to secure doors, gates and fencing as guests enter and exit to prevent pets from running away or into the street.

Provide plenty of fresh water and shady areas, if possible.   Give your pet a break from the heat and sun by putting him inside the house to cool off.  He may periodically want to rejoin the party.  If so, watch him carefully, and give him breaks as needed.  (See “It’s Hot Out There“ for information about Heat Stroke).

Don’t feed the animals.  Most pets do not tolerate abrupt changes in diet.   BBQ and party foods are likely to cause stomach upset, vomiting or diarrhea.  Do not leave food unattended.

Dispose of bones and corn cobs safely in a garbage can with a lid.  Bones and corn cobs frequently become stuck in a pet’s digestive tract, causing a blockage.

Protect your pet from burns.  Keep your pets away from the hot grill, drippings and propane tank.

In the event of an emergency, contact your veterinarian or local emergency/critical care center immediately.

Enjoy a safe and happy Summer!

 

Mia Frezzo, DVM

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