July BBQ Hazards: Foods That Send Pets to Urgent Care

There are so many ways to enjoy summer with your beloved pets. As you’re enjoying the best parts of the season together, be sure to be aware of some potential hazards that could harm pets. Summer barbecues (and the kitchens that prepare them) might be hosting some toxic foods for pets. This guide will help you steer clear of barbecue hazards so you and your pets can have a great summer together.

Toxic BBQ Foods for Pets

Generally speaking, most BBQ menu items should be off-limits to pets. Foods like hamburgers and hotdogs, obvious Fourth of July staples, are considered dangerous for pets due to their high fat content. That doesn’t stop pets, especially dogs, from wanting to sink their teeth into any fallen or forgotten morsels. Increase barbecue safety by:

• Reducing temptations by clearing plates, keeping trash bins closed or covered, and regularly taking out the trash.
• Storing BBQ foods far from the edges of tables and countertops.
• Making sure that your pet cannot access coolers of uncooked meat.

There are certain signs of toxicity to watch for after a pet eats something fatty, including:

• Vomiting and/or diarrhea
• Abdominal distension and pain
• Appetite loss
• Lethargy
• Fever

Other Dangerous Foods

Fruit salads that contain grapes should never be left out or offered to pets, and foods containing raisins can lead to kidney problems.

Corn on the cob is a quintessential summer side dish, but can present choking hazards or gastrointestinal obstruction in pets. Vomiting, dehydration, lethargy and appetite loss can let you know that something’s wrong. Don’t be afraid to call your veterinarian if you aren’t sure whether or not your pet ate something he shouldn’t have.

Bones and Scraps

Picnic tables and buffets abound with food and leftovers is a sight every pet longs for. Be sure that your pet doesn’t have unsupervised access near the table or food. Food scraps might not seem harmful, but a combination of crumbs or fallen foods can seriously disrupt a pet’s digestive system.

Bones, like corn cobs, present a significant risk to pet safety. In addition to choking hazards and GI obstruction, bones can splinter and cut the soft tissue in the mouth and throat. Similarly, be aware of toothpicks and bamboo skewers.

Safe Options

Because you don’t want your pet to feel excluded, be prepared with frozen watermelon cubes, Kongs filled with fat-free, plain yogurt or peanut butter, and grilled, plain sweet potatoes.

While summer BBQs create loads of great memories, they can be the source of issues leading to a pet emergency. As your emergency vet in Charlotte, please call us at (704) 334-4684 if you have further questions about your pet’s health and safety this summer.