Barbecue and Picnic Food Dangers
Overview
As the warm weather rolls in, so do the outdoor festivities: barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings under the sun. While these events are a source of joy and indulgence for us, they can be surprisingly hazardous for our canine companions. Many pet owners, eager to include their dogs in the fun, may unknowingly expose them to serious health risks by offering foods that are not only inappropriate but potentially life-threatening.
Here’s a breakdown of common barbecue and picnic foods you should never feed your dog — and why.
Corn on the Cob
Corn itself isn’t necessarily harmful to dogs, but the cob is a major danger. Many people mistakenly believe their dog will nibble the kernels and leave the cob behind like a cartoon character. In reality, most dogs chew and swallow large chunks or even the entire cob.
Once ingested, corn cobs frequently cause gastrointestinal (GI) obstructions. Unlike food matter, corn cobs do not dissolve in the digestive tract. They often appear on radiographs with a distinctive pattern and typically require surgical removal. Avoid letting your dog anywhere near leftover corn cobs.
Grapes & Raisins
Grapes and raisins can cause acute kidney injury in both dogs and cats. What makes them particularly tricky is that the toxic reaction is idiosyncratic—meaning it affects individual pets differently. One dog might eat grapes its entire life with no issue, while another could suffer severe toxicity from ingesting just one.
There’s no way to predict which pets will be affected, so veterinary professionals recommend treating all grape and raisin ingestion as potentially toxic. If your dog consumes even a small amount, immediate veterinary attention is essential.
Stone Fruits
While the flesh of peaches and plums may seem safe in moderation, the pits are not. Dogs often try to eat the entire fruit, pit and all. These pits are a choking hazard and can cause dangerous GI obstructions. Like corn cobs, they may require surgical removal if ingested.
Skewers
Shish kebabs may be a barbecue favorite, but wooden or metal skewers pose a hidden risk. It’s not uncommon for dogs to sneak food off picnic tables or out of the trash—and accidentally swallow a skewer in the process.
Swallowed skewers are particularly dangerous because they can perforate the esophagus or other parts of the digestive tract. Even worse, they can migrate to different body cavities over time, causing delayed and severe complications. The consequences can manifest days or even weeks later.
Conclusion
It’s natural to want your dog to share in the summer festivities, but keeping them safe requires awareness and a little restraint. Stick to dog-friendly treats and always keep an eye on what your pup might be trying to sneak off your plate—or someone else’s. When in doubt, it’s better to be cautious than to end up in the emergency vet.
By understanding these risks, you can enjoy the season while ensuring your pet stays healthy and happy.
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