BBQs & Dogs: How To Keep Your Grilling Session Safe

 

Estimated Read Time: 3 ½ minutes 

Summary: “Can dogs eat bbq?” Well, pet parent, in this blog we learn just that. We also discover what else should you consider when it comes to BBQs and dogs. Below you'll find how to keep your cookout canine-safe... 

 

When the sun is out, there’s nothing better than inviting loved ones over for a grilling sesh in the garden. However, how can you make sure the experience is just as fun and safe for your furry friend too...? 

Can Dogs Have BBQ? 

Be Scrap Conscious 

You should not share corn cobs, cooked bones or greasy/marinated meat with your pup. All of these are not safe for a dog to consume. Cooked bones can shatter and harm their insides, corn cobs cannot be digested by a dog, and the flavourings present in the coating of marinated meat (spices or garlic) can be toxic to dogs. Provide them with dog-safe snacks or treats instead of giving them potentially harmful scraps from your plate and make sure you’re putting leftovers and trash (particularly sharp items like kebab skewers) in a secure trash can consistently while you cook. You could decide to feed your pup their usual meal separately while you eat your BBQ to avoid temptation! 

PetLab Co. Pro Tip: If you want to share some cooked, plain meat with your dog – this should be fine in small bitesize pieces, but make sure it’s cooled down. It will be far too hot for them to handle straight from the grill!  

Can Dogs Have BBQ Sauce? 

No. Most BBQ sauce contains high levels of sugar and salt, and are flavored with onion and garlic which are all ingredients that are harmful for dogs.  

Keep Them Away From The Grill 

The grill is hot when it’s alight. Hot coals, food and ash can all cause serious burns to both your four-legged friend and humans. Smoke can also be irritating to your doggo’s airways, so be sure they’re not directly downwind of the grill’s fumes either as well as an appropriate distance away.  

PetLab Co. Pro Tip: Using lighter fluid or firelighters? These should be kept well out of reach of your pet as they are poisonous to dogs! 

Protect Them From The Sun 

We tend to bring out the BBQ on the warmest days, but dogs are very susceptible to heatstroke so be sure to provide them with shade and have clean, fresh water readily available to them at all times. Allow them inside when it feels too hot, and it’s also advisable to wait until later in the day when it’s cooler to start your barbecue.  

PetLab Co. Pro Tip: And hey, don’t forget doggy sunscreen, particularly if they have thin or white fur or exposed skin. You can purchase dog-specific sunscreen (never use human sunscreen on a dog!) which will help keep their skin protected.  

Keep Them Secure & Comfortable 

Make sure your garden is secure and safe, so your pup doesn't wander off. If you’re having lots of people over for your grill session, this might become overwhelming for your pet and they might attempt to get away. If they are seeming to be a touch stressed out, or hot and bothered, set up a cool, quiet place in your house for them to rest and encourage your guests to give them a break from any attention too.  

A BBQ can be an enjoyable and safe event for everyone present, including your pawsome pal. Just follow these tips and communicate them to all of your guests to ensure a safe and fun grilling session for everybody. 

Sources

“BBQ Safety: Top Tips For Pet Owners” PDSA https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/all-pets/bbq-safety