A. Having picnics and barbecues make this time of year special. To have the most fun when including your best friend there are a few safety tips to keep in mind.
To begin, if you are having multiple dogs, who don’t know each other, there needs to be a meet and greet. If a dog is afraid, honor this concern by having a safe place for him to go. Give them time to get to know each other. If there is a puppy in the group, remember not to over stimulate the little guy. Over handling and constant play isn’t good for the baby. Again, have a safe, quiet place the pup can have down time. If you are having friends bringing dogs you don’t know, get to know them before the event.
Food and drink will be everywhere at these events. Know that dogs love this stuff as much as we do. Giving leftovers to your best friend may be a kind gesture but can be lethal to him. Rich, fatty foods can cause GI upsets, and pancreatitis. Fat on grilled foods change to grease. Grease can be deadly. Never give dogs cooked bones. They can splinter and cooked bones can cause GI upsets. If they eat a lot of them, a bone impaction will occur and a trip to the veterinarian is in order. Summer adult beverages are delicious. Your dog thinks so too. Keep all drinks above Fido’s reach. Now that marijuana is legal, caution your guests that edibles and other forms are toxic to your dog. Be mindful of your doggy guests. Have fresh water available and dog friendly treats and chewable snacks.
Fireworks are available everywhere. Many party goers bring them to gatherings. Firecrackers may be fun for humans but not for our dogs. A lit firecracker can easily be grabbed by Fido. If he doesn’t have a solid drop-it, it will go off in his mouth. Bigger fireworks are loud causing fear in some dogs. If you know there will be fireworks and your dog is sensitive to them, leave him at home.
A rousing game of frisbee or fetch is always fun for you and your doggy guests. Don’t overdo it. Some dogs are ball obsessed and don’t know when to stop. If you are tossing the ball in the water, again don’t overdo it. There is a condition called water toxicity. Every time your dog grabs the ball, he can take in water. If this game goes on too long, the water taken in dilutes the salt in the body resulting in seizures and death. Another concern would be bloat. Both conditions are medical emergencies.
This summer is predicted to be very hot. Our dogs can’t sweat and can easily overheat. Be aware of your doggy guests and give them cool places to go. The ball obsessed dog and those running around playing can build up internal heat to the point of heat stroke. So, plenty of breaks and cool water and shade are a must.
It is always fun to have your best friend go with you to events. Like toddlers you will need to keep an eye on them, so everyone has a safe and fun time.
Judith K. Herman, DVM, CVH
Animal Wellness Center
Augusta, Maine
www.mainehomeopahticvet.com
