Planning to fire up the grill in honor of Independence Day? You and your human friends may not be the only ones who are looking forward to a tasty morsel. Whether you own a dog (like most of us on the McClain Insurance Team) or know a dog, please remember to keep your canine friends safe and healthy, especially during the summer months when outdoor cooking and eating abound.
1. Beware of corn on the cob and meat with bones
The corn cob and bones can get lodged in a dog’s throat or intestines causing serious problems. Be sure to keep leftovers away from dogs, and keep the garbage can with its enticing smells in a safe place so that your hungry canine doesn’t help himself to a juicy treat.
2. A tasty treat for a human may be poison for a dog
There is a list of foods and beverages that can be dangerous or even deadly when ingested by a dog. Chocolate, grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, avocado, onion and garlic may not seem to be toxic, but they can cause significant gastric upset to your pet — as do “grown-up” beverages like coffee or alcoholic drinks. Educate children that sharing their treat with their furry friend may reflect their generous heart, but can make the doggie very, very sick.
3. Keep a close eye on poisonous substances
Sweet-smelling liquids such as antifreeze are highly toxic and can result in a slow and painful death if lapped up by a curious pet. If you suspect that your pet may have ingested a toxic substance, contact the Animal Poison Control Center at 888.426.4435 or visit www.aspca.org.
4. Ban certain blooms
Hundreds of plants can cause mild to severe illness when munched by a pet. If your puppy is a little too interested in eating his greens, make sure your home and yard are safe. For a list of dangerous plants, please view the ASPCA’s list of toxic and non-toxic plants.
5. Watch the grill
Curious noses and happy tails are quick to sniff hot grease or knock over a barbecue. Keep pets away from fire and cooking stations and keep them from snacking off the ground to avoid a belly full of rocks and dirt.