Warning issued to dog owners with a barbecue

As the warms up across the country, Brits will soon be taking to their for a favourite national pastime, barbecues. But now experts have issued a warning to anyone planning a barbecue with dogs in the house and urged them to take note.

Canine experts at have shared a list of tips to help dogs stay safe, healthy and happy while barbecues take place in the sizzling weather. Some barbecue favourites are not part of a suitable dog diet and can even cause serious health problems. Staples including burgers and sausages can be harmful, while items like leftover corn on the cob can be a choking hazard and the cause of intestinal blockages.

Years.com CEO Darren Beale said: "BBQs are a summer highlight for many of us but it's important to keep the safety of your dog in mind when you've fired up the grill. Dogs are curious creatures, and it can only take a second for them to go sniffing around and get hold of something they shouldn't have if you don't keep the area tidy.

"And keeping them well away from the BBQ and any hot equipment will help to prevent any nasty burns too. Not everyone is a dog person either, and you might have guests who don't realise the dangers that feeding BBQ food to a dog poses."

He continued: "There's no harm in giving guests a gentle reminder not to feed your dog any scraps from their plate.

"It's natural to want to include your dog in the fun, but it's important they are given food that is designed for their digestion and health."

What you shouldn't let your dog eat

Darren advised pet owners not to feed them barbecue scraps, as fatty meats can cause stomach upsets and inflammation, while meat on the bone can be a choking hazard and onions are toxic to dogs.

Canine friends should also be kept well away from barbecues at all times and never left unsupervised around hot equipment, as this can cause serious burns. Smoke from barbecuing can irritate their lungs, so its best to keep them well clear.

Pets can easily pick things up that they shouldn't, so keeping the barbecue area tidy and using covered bins instead of open refuse is essential to avoid pooches or other animals from unwanted injuries.

Leftover skewers, for example, could lead to serious injuries if not disposed of properly.

Keeping your dog cool

It's also likely to be hot when hosting a barbecue, so ensure pets avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and have access to cool spaces. Signs of heatstroke in dogs include heavy panting, drooling, vomiting and lethargy.

Instead of barbecue food, Darren recommends giving pets their own nutritious meal to enjoy while the event goes on, so they aren't left out of the fun.

Making sure guests are clued up is also important, as many won't be familiar with these risks. Make sure to remind friends gently not to feed the dog and be mindful of their rubbish too.