The Lone Star State is definitely a mecca for barbeque lovers. Many backyard chefs are already firing up their grills and dusting off their favorite cookbooks, or perhaps delving into saved recipe tutorial videos. Your canine companion will of course be delighted to keep you company as you’re barbecuing. However, you’ll need to take some precautions to keep your pooch safe. A local Pasadena vet offers some advice on this below.
Food
There’s nothing wrong with giving your pup a special plate, but you will want to be careful to only give him things that are safe. Usually plain, cooked meat, fish, or chicken is fine, as long as you’ve removed the skin, bones, and fat. Just limit fatty meats, like bacon and sausage.
It’s also important to know what isn’t safe for your canine pal. Some dangerous foods include garlic and onions and their cousins, scallions and chives. These are often used as seasoning for foods that are otherwise safe, so pay attention to things like sauces and marinades. Also on the dangerous foods list are chocolate, meat on the bone, avocado, pitted fruit, raw dough, grapes and raisins, alcohol, and anything including xylitol, caffeine, or a lot of salt, sugar, and fat.
Preventative Care
Fido should be microchipped, wearing ID tags, and current on his vaccines and parasite control. Follow your vet’s recommendations.
Trash
Man’s Best Friend is a very opportunistic eater, and isn’t shy about going through garbage or even grabbing from plates on tables. This is quite concerning, as the garbage could contain things like skewers, toothpicks, bones, tin foil, can lids, or fat trimmings, which are all dangerous for Fido to eat. Keep trash and leftovers in secure containers.
Heat
Make sure your canine buddy always has clean water and access to cool, shady areas. Fido may also enjoy a cold snack, like frozen cubes of sodium-free broth.
Doggy Antics
If you’re having a crowd over, take time to walk and play with your pooch before everyone arrives. Your furry pal will be tired after a good workout, which will naturally leave him calmer and better behaved. Finally, keep a close eye on Fido, and make sure he doesn’t slip out an open door or get his tail stuck beneath someone’s chair.
Make An Appointment At Our Pasadena, TX Pet Clinic
Barbequing with your dog can be a fun and safe experience with the right precautions. Our Pasadena pet clinic can offer guidance on safe foods, hydration, and outdoor safety so Fido can join in the fun worry-free. Book a consultation today to learn more. As your animal clinic, we’re here to help! Please contact us for all your pet’s veterinary care needs.
