When summer is in season, there is no better way to celebrate the hot summer days than to host a weekend barbeque with friends! Summer barbeques can be fun for you and your guests, but they can also be very dangerous for your four-legged friends. To make sure both your guests and dog have a fun and safe barbeque, we have put together a list of tips on how to dog-proof your summer bash!
Provide your guests access to dog-friendly treats.
Apples (without the seeds), watermelon (without seeds and rind), and berries are just some of the fruits you can allow your dog to have. Giving your guests access to foods that are safe will keep them away from slipping food that could potentially be hazardous.
Keep hazardous food in a container with a lid
With delicious smells roaming through the air, your dog will want to get their nose in whatever they can!
Create signs for all doors and gates.
Your four-legged friend is one of your best friends, so we don’t want your pup to get away! It’s easy for non-dog owners to leave gates and doors open, not thinking about the consequences that could come from it. Leaving a little friendly reminder to close the door behind them will decrease the chance of your dog escaping.
Keep your dog away from harmful chemicals.
Sunscreens, citronella candles, and insect repellents all seem like a good idea during your backyard barbeque. It is important to remember that there are many toxic chemicals inside these products that you don’t want your dog to be exposed too! Be careful not to use human insect repellent on your dog and don’t let them lick if you’ve sprayed yourself.
Say no to fire.
Do not let your dog around an open flame. That means when using a grill always keep the lid shut. Another trick is to keep the grill in a closed off area. If you don’t have access to a space like this, try using baby or dog gates around your grill, so your dog can’t get in.
Now that you know how to dog-proof your barbeque, you are all set to go! Now just grab your décor, cool drinks, delicious spread and start having fun in the sun!