Summer is just around the corner! Many of us are looking forward to seasonal activities, like swimming, hiking, and, of course, barbeques. Our canine patients are also fond of grillouts. Just be careful. There’s a lot of ways Fido can get into mischief around the grill! Here, a Dallas, GA vet offers some tips on barbequing with Fido.
Food
Food is the first concern here. Many of our favorite foods are toxic to dogs! Don’t let your pooch have anything that contains garlic, onions, scallions, or chives; grapes, currants, or raisins; chocolate; xylitol, which is found in many processed foods; caffeine; alcohol; pitted fruits; raw meat, dough, or yeast; or meat on the bone. Avocado is also a no-no, even in guacamole.
Heat
Summers can be rough on Fido. After all, he is wearing a fur coat! Make sure your four-legged buddy always has shade and fresh water. If you see signs that your pooch is getting too hot, give him cool water and get him out of the sun.
Fire
Fire and dogs are definitely not a safe mix! Keep your canine companion well away from the flames.
Parasites
You may very well have a few uninvited guests showing up. Protect your dog from fleas, ticks, heartworms, and other nasty parasites by keeping up with his preventative care. You’ll also want to make sure your four-legged buddy is current on his vaccinations.
Chemicals
Sunscreen, lighter fluid, bug spray, torch oil, and other chemicals are also a concern. Keep these things well out of paws’ reach!
Trash
Fido is a bit of an opportunist when it comes to food, and he isn’t above going through the trash in search of leftovers. The garbage could contain things that aren’t safe for your pet, such as toothpicks, tin foil, bones, fat trimmings, can lids, and bottlecaps, to name a few. Use a trashcan with a secure lid, and clear the table as soon as everyone is finished eating.
Guests
Your visitors should never pose a threat to your pet directly. The concern here is more about things like someone leaving a gate open or accidentally stepping on him. You also don’t want someone feeding Fido something that isn’t safe for him. Keep a close eye on your furry pal, and don’t let him get underfoot.
Please contact us, your Dallas, GA vet clinic, anytime. We’re here to help!
