Do you enjoy grilling out in summer? Foods just taste better on the grill somehow. It’s probably safe to say that your canine buddy will be paying close attention to those delicious smells. Just keep Fido’s safety in mind. Here, a Kerrville TX vet offers some advice on keeping your cute pet safe as you grill.

Menu

Food is one of the biggest concerns here. Many of our favorite foods aren’t safe for dogs. That list includes avocados, meat on the bone, grapes and raisins, alcohol, chocolate, caffeine, and anything that contains xylitol and/or a lot of salt, sugar, or fat. What can you offer your pup? Plain, unseasoned meat, fish, or chicken, without the skin, bones, or fat.

Begging

Does your furry friend become adorably theatrical when he spots something yummy? Ask guests not to feed Fido anything without checking. You may also want to keep him in another area as people are eating.

Parasite Control

Fleas, ticks, and other parasites are out in droves at this time of year. Make sure Fido is up to date on his preventative care products!

Energy

Walk and play with Fido before the gathering. He’ll be much calmer and better behaved once he’s burned off those zoomies!

Heat

Keeping your canine buddy properly hydrated is the most important thing you can do for him when it’s hot out. Make sure Fido always has plenty of clean water. You can also offer him a doggy ice lick or frozen broth cubes.

Trash

Fido is a very opportunistic eater, and he isn’t above snatching something from an unattended platter or even going through the trash. The garbage at a grillout can be quite dangerous, as it may contain things like skewers, toothpicks, bones, fat trimmings, can lids, tin foil … all sorts of things that aren’t safe. Use tall cans with secure lids, and don’t leave food sitting out.

Socialization

Barbeques can be a great chance for Fido to hang out with his four-legged pals. Just choose his playmates carefully. These should be friendly, well-behaved dogs that are current on their vaccines and parasite control.

Chemicals

Chemicals can also pose a risk. That includes things like lighter fluid, bug spray, and torch oil. Keep these things out of paws’ reach.

Do you have questions about your dog’s health or care? Contact us, your Kerrville TX animal clinic, today!