Did you know that this is one of the most dangerous times of year for dogs? Summer brings lots of fun for the people around us, and usually that means that dogs can enjoy the festivities as well. But what most people don't realize is that their homes are full of potentially hazardous situations when it comes to their pets.
Take barbecues and cook-outs, for example. Everyone loves a barbeque, right? All those delicious veggies and cuts of meat on the grill are pretty irresistible. That goes for pets, too, and it's not unusual for dogs to sneak a snack from someone's plate or even the grill. But what's for dinner can land them in the emergency room later; chicken and rib bones can fracture and cut your dog's mouth or internal organs, while vegetables (particularly onions) can be toxic if ingested. Even if the food isn't toxic your dog might still be in for a case of stomach upset from “people food.” Many barbecue items contain lots of fats and sugars which can give your dog indigestion and diarrhea.
July is well known for its displays of fireworks. Most people know to put skittish or anxious dogs inside, but some will overestimate their dog's tolerance for loud noises (especially if they are tired or have been playing all day long). If possible, give your dog a break and let them rest indoors rather than taking them to loud and crowded fireworks displays. While celebrating, it is important to keep your dog out of the way of the potentially deadly firecrackers and sparklers. Many pets are burned or killed when they have gotten too close to or ingested material left over from spent fireworks. Keep your pet indoors during the times that you use them to help reduce the chance that they will be exposed, and be sure to thoroughly clean your surrounding areas to make sure you have removed all of the debris.
For more information on how to handle hazards, and who to call if you think your pet has ingested something it should not have, please read this great article. It is filled with loads of information to help you throw a successful and SAFE summer celebration! Go to: http://www.petplace.com/dogs/
Take barbecues and cook-outs, for example. Everyone loves a barbeque, right? All those delicious veggies and cuts of meat on the grill are pretty irresistible. That goes for pets, too, and it's not unusual for dogs to sneak a snack from someone's plate or even the grill. But what's for dinner can land them in the emergency room later; chicken and rib bones can fracture and cut your dog's mouth or internal organs, while vegetables (particularly onions) can be toxic if ingested. Even if the food isn't toxic your dog might still be in for a case of stomach upset from “people food.” Many barbecue items contain lots of fats and sugars which can give your dog indigestion and diarrhea.
July is well known for its displays of fireworks. Most people know to put skittish or anxious dogs inside, but some will overestimate their dog's tolerance for loud noises (especially if they are tired or have been playing all day long). If possible, give your dog a break and let them rest indoors rather than taking them to loud and crowded fireworks displays. While celebrating, it is important to keep your dog out of the way of the potentially deadly firecrackers and sparklers. Many pets are burned or killed when they have gotten too close to or ingested material left over from spent fireworks. Keep your pet indoors during the times that you use them to help reduce the chance that they will be exposed, and be sure to thoroughly clean your surrounding areas to make sure you have removed all of the debris.
For more information on how to handle hazards, and who to call if you think your pet has ingested something it should not have, please read this great article. It is filled with loads of information to help you throw a successful and SAFE summer celebration! Go to: http://www.petplace.com/dogs/
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