06/20/2024
**Keep Your Dogs Safe During BBQ Season! ๐๐ญ๐ถ**
Happy First Day of Summer everyone! As BBQ season heats up, it's important to remember our furry friends and keep them safe. Here are some essential tips to ensure your dog enjoys the festivities without any risks:
1. **Keep Food Out of Reach**: ๐ง
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Foods like onions, garlic, chocolate, and anything spicy or fatty can be harmful to dogs. Also, avoid raisins, grapes, and products with artificial sweeteners as those are poisonous to our pet(s).
Securely store food to prevent curious noses from getting into trouble, especially corn cobs๐ฝ as those can become lodged resulting in emergency surgery!
2. **No Bones About It**: ๐๐๐ฆด
Cooked bones can splinter and cause serious internal injuries. Stick to dog-friendly treats instead.
3. **Avoid Alcohol**: ๐ป๐ท๐พ
Even small amounts of alcohol can be toxic to dogs. Ensure drinks are placed out of reach and guests are aware not to share.
4. **Safe Grilling Area**: ๐ญ๐
Keep your dog away from the grill. Hot surfaces and charcoal can cause burns or be ingested, leading to choking or internal damage.
5. **Trash Control**:
Dispose of leftovers and trash in a secure bin. Dogs are notorious for dumpster diving, and ingesting something harmful (like a corn cob) can lead to an emergency vet visit.
6. **Watch the Decorations**: ๐
Strings, balloons, and other festive items can be choking hazards or cause intestinal blockages if swallowed.
7. **Hydration is Essential**: ๐ง๐ง๐ง
Ensure your dog has access to fresh water at all times, especially on hot days. (see our previous post on heatstroke)
8. **Provide a Safe Space**: ๐
With all the excitement, some dogs might get overwhelmed. Create a quiet, safe space where they can retreat if they need a break from the crowd.
9. **Supervision is Key**: ๐
Always keep an eye on your dog during the BBQ to ensure they stay out of harm's way and don't sn**ch any forbidden snacks.
Wishing a fun and safe BBQ season for everyone, including your four-legged family members! ๐พ