Summertime BBQ Pet Safety Tips

Hosting a Barbeque in a 4-Legged Household: Here’s What You Need to Know 

One may say that firing up the barbeque is one of America’s favorite summer activities. There is nothing like kicking back and relaxing after a long week by throwing some meat and veggies on the grill. In households with pets, an open flame or grill could be dangerous for those running around on four legs. But, that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on this summer activity. If you take a few precautions and follow these bbq pet safety tips, and you’ll be hosting your very own barbeque in no time! 

Keep Your Pets at a Safe Distance 

Although humans know the grill is hot and dangerous, our little friends on four legs do not. It is important to keep a grill or any type of cooking flame at least three feet away from your pets. You should also place any grilling accessories, such as charcoal fluid, far away from your pets as it can be toxic to them. In addition, grease buildup is also toxic to pets. To avoid any health risks, grease buildup should be removed regularly to prevent pets from ingesting anything harmful.  

Food and Leftovers 

Though it may be tempting to give your leftover food to Fido, don’t give any bones or meat to them just yet! Bones can be very dangerous for pets to consume as they could choke or even puncture their digestive track. If you really want to include your pup at the barbeque, you may consider cutting up some cooked hotdogs for them to munch on. Even though hotdogs are a high calorie food, if enjoyed in moderation they can be a delightful treat. If you do decide to share any food with your pup at the barbeque, make sure it does not include avocado, grapes, onions, or chocolate- all of which are toxic to pets. It is also best to ask guests not to feed your dog, that way you can be certain your dog only consumes “pet safe” food.  

Bug Repellent 

The summer months are notorious for humidity and heat, so you can expect an influx of bugs to join your barbeque. If your gathering takes place on a particularly muggy day, and you want to protect yourself against bugs, make sure you do so with a natural alternative that is safe for pets. Unsure what to use? It’s best to consult with your vet to find the safest solution for your doggo! 

Finally, be mindful and supervise your pets throughout the barbeque. It your pet is known to get into trouble, consider leashing them to make sure they don’t get into any danger. Here at 4Paws we want you and your 4-legged friends to have a relaxing summer, complete with hotdogs, hamburgers, and barbeque fun. When it comes to hosting your next barbeque, remember these tips to keep Fido safe and remember to get a quick and easy free quote from 4Paws Insurance here  to keep them safe all year long! 

 

 

https://www.petmd.com/dog/slideshows/care/dangerous-bbq-and-picnic-foods-for-pets 
https://www.rover.com/blog/bbq-for-dogs-recipes-safety-in/ 
https://www.nutrenaworld.com/blog/bbq-safety-for-pets