Summer is the perfect time to round up friends and family and host a BBQ. However, making sure your dog enjoys the party as well as your guests is vital, so we’ve pulled together some top tips on how to keep your dog safe and happy at your next family gathering.
Keep your pooch clear of the grill
Starting off with the obvious, keeping your dog away from the cooking area is the most important rule. This is the part of the BBQ which could easily hurt your pooch, with hot grills and sharp tools lying around. If your dog does unfortunately get burnt or hurt, simply clean the wound and apply a bandage so that they can’t lick or scratch the cut, making it worse.
Know which foods are safe for your dog
With your dog hovering around the BBQ waiting to be fed, it’s important to know which foods you can and can’t give your pooch. While overfeeding your dog should be avoided, treating them to a hot dog or a burger is fine. The meats you should avoid giving them are the ones containing bones such as spare ribs. This is because when bones are cooked they begin to splinter which means your pooch could be in a lot of pain if swallowed.
Keep an eye on the bin
While keeping the food out of reach of nosey pooches is a must, it’s also a good idea to keep your eye out for your pooch rifling through the bins, as this could end with an upset stomach. Always try to use a bin with a lid where possible, rather than just a bin bag which could be left open and low to the ground.
Clean up the mess quickly
At the end of successful BBQ, we know cleaning up is the last thing on your mind. However, what’s left behind is an open invitation for your dog to overeat, which could lead to further problems down the line. Make sure all food and sharp objects are cleaned up and out of reach of your four-legged friend.
Don’t forget about your pooch
It can be a top priority for many to keep your guests entertained and comfortable when they visit, however keeping an eye on your dog is just as important. With new people in your home, your dog can become agitated and work themselves up. Keep checking on your pooch to ensure they have enough fresh water, attention and make sure your guests don’t exhaust them too much.
