A veterinarian has shared important advice for pet owners planning a summer barbecue, highlighting hidden dangers that many may not realise.
Taking to social media, a vet named Ben urged caution, particularly about wooden kebab sticks. He recounted a case where a cocker spaniel swallowed an entire kebab stick, which penetrated the stomach wall and caused an inflammatory reaction near the diaphragm. The dog survived after surgery.
Dangers of barbecue food and equipment
Ben warned: "If you have a dog like a spaniel or a Labrador, a dog that would eat anything, basically, then be careful." He advised keeping wooden kebab sticks away from such dogs.
According to Vets Now, pet owners should avoid giving dogs unsafe foods like cooked bones, alcohol, or barbecue sauce containing onion powder, garlic, sugar, or xylitol, which are toxic.
Creating a safe environment
Pets should be kept away from the barbecue and hot equipment, even after cooking, as barbecues retain heat. A barrier or lead can help. Owners should also provide a quiet, cool space indoors for pets to relax, avoiding conservatories or greenhouses that can overheat.
