Summer is almost here! For many of you, that means it’s time to fire up the grill. Our canine companions love being part of these gatherings, but they do sometimes tend to get underfoot. You’ll need to keep a close eye on Fido, and keep him out of trouble. A local Rancho Santa Fe, CA vet lists some hazards for you to be aware of below.
Food
Fido can certainly enjoy a plain brat, burger, or hot dog. However, don’t give him meat on the bone. Bones get very brittle when they are cooked, and can break into very sharp shards. These can be very dangerous, and can cause serious–and even fatal–injuries if swallowed. Other unsafe foods include grapes, currants, and raisins; pitted fruits; avocado (even as guacamole); chocolate; alcohol; raw dough or yeast; caffeine; and anything that contains xylitol. Anything that contains garlic, onions, scallions, or chives is also unsuitable.
Chemicals
Keep things like bug spray, gasoline, lighter fluid, torch oil, and sunscreen away from Fido. Your four-legged friend can ingest these toxins just by walking through a spill and licking his paws.
Heat
It’s starting to get pretty hot, so you’ll need to keep Fido cool. The most important thing here is to make sure that your pup always has fresh water and access to shady areas. You can also get your furry bff a cooling vest or pad, or offer him a kiddie pool or sprinkler to play in. Your pooch would likely also enjoy some doggy ice cream.
Garbage
Our canine friends are definitely not above going through the trash in search of yummy leftovers. This can be dangerous for Fido, as the garbage could contain things like toothpicks, skewers, bones, fat trimming, tinfoil, can lids, and wrappers … none of which are safe for him. Clean up garbage and leftovers right away, using cans that close securely.
Accidents
Are you hosting the gathering? Take extra care when people are coming and going. Your furry pal could easily slip out an open door! Fido should be microchipped and wearing ID tags, just in case. Also, keep a close eye on your pooch in general. You don’t want him getting stepped on, or having something spilled on him.
As a provider of veterinary services in Rancho Santa Fe, CA, we are committed to providing high-quality care for your pets. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for all of your pet’s veterinary needs.
