Happy Labor Day! Tips for a Dog-Safe BBQ

Labor Day weekend is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to fire up the grill, enjoy some delicious food, and spend quality time with family and friends. For many of us, our dogs are a huge part of the family, and they love being in the middle of all the action. While the holiday is a blast, it’s also a time to be extra mindful of your dog’s safety.

Here are some key dog safety tips to ensure your four-legged friend has a safe and happy Labor Day celebration.

1. Mind the Munchies

A backyard BBQ is a feast for the senses, but many of the foods we enjoy can be harmful to dogs. While it’s tempting to share a little piece of grilled goodness, it’s best to stick to your dog’s regular food.

• Avoid Cooked Bones and Fatty Foods: Cooked bones can splinter and cause serious internal damage, while fatty foods like steak trimmings can lead to pancreatitis.
• Keep a Lookout for Toxic Foods: Onions, garlic, grapes, and raisins are all common BBQ ingredients that are highly toxic to dogs.
• The Hidden Danger of Xylitol: Be especially careful with desserts and sugar-free treats. A common sugar substitute called xylitol (also known as birch sugar) is extremely toxic to dogs and can be found in many baked goods, candies, and even some peanut butters. For more information on this hidden danger, check out our post on why birch sugar (xylitol) can be deadly for dogs.

2. Alcohol Is a Strict No-Go

It might seem obvious, but it’s crucial to keep all alcoholic beverages completely out of your dog’s reach. Even small amounts of alcohol can cause serious health problems, including vomiting, diarrhea, central nervous system depression, and difficulty breathing. Make sure all drinks are placed well out of paw’s reach.

3. Supervise and Manage Your Dog’s Energy

The excitement of a party can be overwhelming for some dogs, and it can also ramp up their energy, leading to “spark” or rough-housing behaviors. If you notice your dog getting overly stimulated, it’s a great time for a brief time-out. Put them in a quiet, safe space like their crate or a separate room for a few minutes to help them settle down. This proactive step prevents them from getting too boisterous and potentially overwhelming guests or getting into trouble.

4. Secure Your Escape Routes

With guests coming and going, open doors and gates are a common risk. A quick-moving dog can easily slip through an open gate or a propped-open door, putting them at risk of running into traffic or getting lost. Be vigilant about keeping gates and doors closed, and consider putting a sign on the gate as a friendly reminder for guests.

By keeping these simple dog safety tips in mind, you can make sure your Labor Day celebration is a fun and safe event for everyone—including the furry members of your family! Enjoy the weekend!