By Amy Tokic,

Summer is finally here, and both you and your pooch are excited to soak up the sun and enjoy the great outdoors. While the season brings plenty of opportunities for fun activities like backyard barbecues, pool parties and outdoor gatherings, it’s important to remember that these events can present certain hazards for your dog. Here’s your guide to creating a safe and enjoyable environment for your dog during summer celebrations.

It’s all about the food

Food safety is a crucial consideration when hosting outdoor parties, especially if you have a dog. Since not all human foods are safe for canine consumption, it’s essential to take proper precautions to protect your pet. Start by storing all food in covered containers, particularly items containing bones, onions, or other ingredients known to be toxic to dogs. This simple step prevents your dog from accessing potentially harmful foods.
Managing guest interactions with your dog during parties is equally important. While well-meaning guests might want to share their food with your pupper, feeding under the table can lead to two problems: It may encourage begging behavior and guests might unknowingly offer harmful foods to your dog. Consider either implementing a strict “no feeding” policy or provide a designated bowl of dog-friendly treats that guests can use to interact with your pet safely.

Keeping your dog contained

Even the most well-behaved dog can become distracted when the aroma of grilling food fills the air. To prevent any unwanted incidents, consider securing your dog on a tether while outdoor activities are taking place. This gives them freedom to move around while keeping them at a safe distance from the cooking area.
For those with fenced yards, it’s essential to communicate with guests about gate safety. Don’t hesitate to post visible signage reminding visitors to keep gates securely closed when entering or exiting. Remember, you’re the best judge of your dog’s temperament and behaviour. If you have any doubts about their ability to resist temptation during outdoor gatherings, the safest option is to keep them indoors.

Make sure the grill is off-limits

When hosting a barbecue with your dog present, grill safety should be your top priority. The enticing aromas from the grill can attract your curious canine companion, who may not understand the inherent dangers. For well-trained dogs, utilize commands like “No” or “Off” to establish a safe boundary around the grill. Alternatively, consider creating a designated grilling area using baby gates to prevent your dog from accessing the hot surfaces. These safety measures should also be implemented around bonfires and other outdoor cooking equipment when your dog is present.

Clean up crew

Summer gatherings like pool parties and barbecues are often casual events where guests mingle and eat at their own pace. While it’s common for people to leave their plates unattended as they socialize, this can create a hazardous situation if there’s a dog present. An opportunistic pup may take advantage of the unattended food, which could lead to them consuming something harmful.
To prevent your dog from ingesting potentially dangerous foods, it’s important to practice proper food safety and cleanup procedures. Always clear the table promptly after meals and dispose of any leftovers or trash in a secure container. The best option is a trash can with a sturdy lid, as regular trash bags can be knocked over or torn open by curious pets.
Summer is a wonderful season filled with outdoor festivities and quality time spent with loved ones, including our four-legged friends. However, when including your dog in these warm-weather celebrations, it’s essential to prioritize their safety and well-being. This guide will help you understand how to create a dog-friendly environment during your outdoor gatherings, ensuring everyone — humans and canines alike — can enjoy themselves safely.

Life style writer Amy Tokic, proud parent to Zed a Japanese Chin, shares her love of things dog – from health, tips to product reviews – on Canine Culture Inc. and her blog: ThatFluffingDog.com