BBQ Safety For Pets: Foods & Hazards To Avoid
There’s nothing quite like a summer BBQ – the smoky aroma, the sound of sizzling food, and the warm company of family and friends. But while we're enjoying these sunny gatherings, it’s easy to forget that our four-legged companions might be exposed to hidden dangers.
At Broadway Vets, we love to see pets enjoying the summer alongside their families. However, we also see a rise in BBQ-related incidents during this season. Here's our guide to keeping your furry friends safe while still having a fantastic time around the grill.
Foods To Keep Out Of Paw’s Reach
While it might be tempting to treat your pet to some BBQ food, many items commonly served at garden parties are not suitable for animals. Here are the top foods to avoid:
- Cooked Bones: Chicken wings, ribs and other cooked bones can easily splinter and cause choking, internal injuries, or blockages in your pet’s digestive tract.
- Onions and Garlic: Found in marinades, sauces and burger toppings, these ingredients are toxic to dogs and cats and can damage red blood cells, leading to anaemia.
- Corn on the Cob: While corn itself isn’t toxic, the cob poses a serious risk of intestinal blockage if swallowed.
- Fatty Meats and Skin: Foods high in fat, like sausages or burgers, can cause digestive upset or even lead to pancreatitis – a serious and painful condition.
- Chocolate and Sweets: Common in desserts or left unattended on tables, chocolate is toxic to pets, especially dogs. Be cautious of artificial sweeteners like xylitol too, which can be deadly even in small amounts.
Other Hazards Around The BBQ
It’s not just the food that can pose a problem – the BBQ set-up itself may harbour other dangers for curious pets. Take note of the following:
- Hot Surfaces: BBQs, grills, and coals remain hot long after cooking ends. A quick sniff or paw can lead to nasty burns.
- Skewers and Foil: Wooden or metal skewers can cause internal damage if chewed or swallowed. Foil and grease-soaked packaging may also attract pets and cause digestive blockages.
- Alcohol and Leftovers: Unattended drinks and plates may contain substances harmful to pets. Alcohol can be particularly dangerous and should always be kept out of reach.
- Lighter Fluid and Matches: These are poisonous if ingested and can cause severe gastrointestinal distress.
Tips To Keep Pets Safe And Included
Just because BBQs can pose risks doesn’t mean your pet has to miss out entirely. A few precautions can help ensure they stay safe while still enjoying the festivities:
- Designate a Pet-Safe Zone: Create a shaded, secure space with fresh water, toys, and a comfy bed away from the grill and busy areas.
- Supervise Closely: Always keep an eye on your pet, especially if there are unfamiliar guests or children who may not know what’s safe to share.
- Provide Pet-Friendly Treats: Offer BBQ-safe options like cooked plain chicken (boneless and skinless), carrots, or specially made pet treats.
- Keep Bins Secure: BBQ leftovers can be irresistible to pets, so make sure all waste is disposed of in a pet-proof bin with a secure lid.
What To Do In An Emergency
If your pet manages to sneak something they shouldn’t, don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Contact your vet immediately for advice – the sooner we can help, the better the outcome.
Signs of potential toxicity or obstruction include vomiting, diarrhoea, restlessness, bloating, excessive drooling, or changes in behaviour. If you notice any of these, seek veterinary care straight away.
Final Thoughts
With a little forward planning and awareness, your pet can stay happy and healthy during your summer celebrations. BBQs are for everyone to enjoy – with the right precautions, that includes your pets too!
If you ever have any concerns or need advice, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team at Broadway. We're here to help all year round.
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