Tips to keep pets safe when you fire up the barbecue

PDSA is the UK’s largest vet charity, on a mission to improve pet wellbeing through prevention, education and treatment. Support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery helps us reach even more pet owners with vital advice and information.

With national BBQ week just around the corner – May 29 to June 4 – and many of us eager to fire up the coals as the weather heats up, it’s easy to forget the hazards these sizzling summer get-togethers can pose to our furry family members.

There’s some top safety tips to remember to keep your pets safe.

PDSA Vet Nurse Nina Downing explains: “There are lots of potential hazards for pet owners to think about when organising a summer barbecue. Thankfully, there are some key steps we can follow to ensure our precious pets stay safe.”

Heatstroke “Heatstroke is a serious situation that without swift treatment can progress quickly, with sometimes

fatal consequences.

“Signs of heatstroke can vary from excessive panting, confusion, bright red gums, foaming at the mouth, collapse or seizures.

"It’s important to ensure your pet can head indoors or find some shade when they need to cool down. If your pet is a sun-worshipper, you may need to shut them indoors to prevent overheating.

“If you’re planning to host a barbecue on a particularly hot day, consider scheduling an evening get-together when the temperature should be cooler.

"You can also provide a pet paddling pool so your furry friend can hop in for a refreshing dip. It’s important that they also have access to fresh, clean water at all times, so they can stay hydrated.

Tasty treats are a no-go

“Undercooked and fatty foods can upset their stomach and cause sickness or diarrhoea at least, at worst they can become ill with pancreatitis. Bones can also be a nasty choking hazard for dogs. Offer a healthy chew or a toy to play with to

keep them busy while you eat.

Create a safe space

“Having a house full of strangers can be unsettling for our pets, so make sure they can retreat to a comfortable, safe space to relax in peace.

"Set up a quiet area in a room or corner of the garden, making sure they have access to food, water and a couple of their favourite toys. Make sure that this is ‘their’ safe space, let guests know that your pet isn’t to be disturbed while they are in there.

Dispose of any dangers

“One thing to be wary of at a barbecue is pets getting hold of something they shouldn’t – eating things like kebab skewers or the core from corn-on-the-cob can cause serious and potentially life-threatening injuries. Make sure any leftovers and rubbish are thrown away in a bin. Leftover alcoholic drinks can also pose a hazard.

Beware of

burns

“Always keep pets a safe distance from a barbecue. Hot food, oils, coals, and ashes can cause burns if they come into contact with their skin, so ensure the grill is cooled down immediately once you finish cooking.