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Cooking Out With Fido

July 1, 2021

Summer is in full swing now, and the Fourth is just around the corner. Barbeques are on the agenda for lots of folks over the next few days. Your canine buddy will be more than happy to help, both by supervising and providing moral support. Just put your cute pet’s safety first! A local Leesburg, VA vet offers some advice on this below.


Food

There’s no reason you can’t give Fido a special treat. Some plain, cooked meat, fish, or poultry is fine. Just don’t give your canine pal anything that has bones, or was seasoned with garlic or onions. Other unsafe foods include grapes, currants, and raisins; chocolate; caffeine; avocados; fruits with pips or seeds; alcohol; and anything that contains xylitol or a lot of salt, sugar, or fat.


Heat

Overheating is always a concern at this time of year. Limit your pup’s outdoor time when it’s really hot out, and make sure he always has access to shady areas. You’ll also want to keep an eye out for signs that your pet is getting too hot. Some of these include panting, restlessness, sunken eyes, a dry nose, discolored gums, dark or reduced urine, trembling, elevated pulse, and a warm back. If you notice any of these, immediately give Fido some water, take him to a cool spot, and call your vet.


Water

Make sure that your furry friend has fresh water at all times. For extra tail wags, drop an ice cube into his water bowl.


Parasites

Chances are, fleas, ticks, mosquitos, and/or other uninvited guests will crash your party. Keep up with Fido’s parasite control! After the grill out is over, give your pooch a full nose-to-tail check.


Chemicals

Gasoline, lighter fluid, bug spray, citronella oil, and tanning lotion are all toxic to dogs. Keep these away from your furry pal! 


Noise

Fireworks are also a concern. As the Fourth approaches, bring Fido indoors before the commotion starts. Turn a radio on to mask the noise.


Pools

If you have a pool, or are going to be around water, you’ll need to take extra care with your canine companion. Even dogs that are great swimmers can get into trouble very quickly in deep water! Never leave Fido unattended near water, even for a minute.


Is your pet due for an exam or parasite control? Contact us, your Leesburg, VA veterinary clinic, today!