BBQ safety tips for people with pets

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After blowing things up and getting sunburned while consuming copious amounts of light beer, BBQs rank a close third as favorite Fourth of July activities. And as much as our pets loathe the whole "rocket's-red-glare, bombs-bursting-in-air" routine, they love, LOVE the smell of meat sizzling on the grill. My own Lorna Doone will whip herself into a canine frenzy at the first whiff of a cookout nearby.

Keep an eye on opportunistic pets during parties and BBQs.

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Keep an eye on opportunistic pets during parties and BBQs.

If you're planning to get your grill on this weekend, remember to keep your four-legged family members in mind when you're firing things up. You can make these events pet-friendly by taking a few simple precautions to keep your furry friends safe:

Secure the party perimeter: If your dog or cat is going to be mingling freely with your guests, make sure the area is securely fenced in so he or she can't fly the coop. Consider having a family member or friend stand near the gate when guests come and go (or simply put up a sign) to ensure that your pet doesn't accidentally get out.

Be smart about scraps: While your pet will happily gobble up pretty much anything that comes off the grill, remind your guests not to feed the animals. You'll also want to keep a watchful eye over the food tables to make sure your determined pooch or feline don't help themselves to the goodies. Barbecued food can be greasy and may upset your pet's stomach and cooked bones can be a choking hazard if swallowed. Also, foods like onions, avocados, grapes and raisins can be toxic to pets.

Make the grill off limits: Flames and hot coals can be dangerous to pets running around underfoot. Train your animals to stay a safe distance from the grill until after it has sufficiently cooled down.

Slather on the sunscreen: Dogs can get sunburned too, especially if they have light-colored or very short fur. Choose an effective sunscreen made with natural ingredients and pay special attention to your pup's sensitive nose and ears.

Happy Independence Day!

Posted By: Amelia Glynn (Email, Facebook) | July 02 2010 at 12:15 PM

Listed Under: Health and Safety