Backyard cookouts are one of summer’s best traditions, and many dogs love being part of the action. They also bring a long list of hazards: hot grills, gates left open, plates set down at nose level and guests who cannot resist sharing. A little planning lets everyone, including your pets, have a good time.
Before guests arrive
Decide where your pets will spend the party. Some social dogs do well outdoors with supervision. Anxious dogs and most cats are happier in a quiet room indoors with water, a comfortable bed, a favorite toy and perhaps some background music or a fan for white noise.
- Walk the fence line and check gates and latches.
- Post a friendly note on gates asking guests to close them behind them.
- Check that tags are on and readable, and that microchip details are current.
- Set out a covered trash can with a lid that latches or sits out of reach.
Grill and fire safety
Dogs are drawn to the smell of a grill, and a curious nose can get burned. Hot drippings, grease traps and charcoal can also cause problems if licked or swallowed. Keep pets well away from the grill while it is in use and while it cools down. Store lighter fluid, matches and charcoal out of reach, and dispose of used coals safely once they are fully cold.
Tiki torches, citronella candles and fire pits deserve the same caution. Wagging tails and curious cats do not mix well with open flames.
The food table
Many classic cookout foods are risky for pets, either because they are toxic or because they can cause blockages or stomach upset. Common concerns include:
- Corn cobs, which can lodge in the intestines.
- Cooked bones, skewers and toothpicks.
- Grapes, raisins and fruit salads that contain them.
- Onion, garlic and chives in burgers, dips and salads.
- Fatty trimmings and greasy foods, which can upset the stomach and have been linked to pancreatitis.
- Desserts or gum sweetened with xylitol.
- Alcoholic drinks left on low tables.
Managing guests
Guests often mean well when they slip a dog a bite of hot dog. Let people know, kindly and early, that your pets are on a no-sharing plan. If you want guests to be able to treat your dog, keep a small bowl of your dog’s regular treats nearby for that purpose.
Children can be wonderful with pets, but excited kids and a busy party can overwhelm a dog. Assign an adult to keep an eye on pets and kids together.
After the party
Walk the yard before letting your dog roam freely. Pick up dropped food, napkins, skewers, bottle caps and trash. Check under tables and chairs.
If you think your pet ate something harmful, call your veterinarian or an animal poison control service right away, even if your pet seems fine. Quick action often makes treatment simpler.
