If the summer weather equates to you bringing out the barbecue grill, chances are your pet also gets excited! Mouth-watering aromas from grilled meat will soon fill the air and your pet may patiently wait for a piece of ribs or a juicy chicken leg.
However, these are potentially hazardous treats for your pet, so try these safe alternatives to typical barbecue goodies:
- Fresh vegetables — Plain, raw veggies are an excellent snack for pets, and many cats and dogs will give such healthy food options a shot. While dogs are less discerning in their vegetable choice, cats—as true carnivores—are a bit trickier to entice into eating fresh veggies. You can toss some vegetables, such as summer squash or sweet potatoes, on the grill, to give them a delicious smoky flavor, but ensure you avoid seasonings, and oil or butter. Remember that garlic and onion are toxic to pets, so keep these foods away from your furry pal, but most other veggies are safe.
- Plain grilled chicken breast — During your cookout, your pet is likely eyeing the meat, rather than veggies or side dishes. However, many meats cooked on the grill contain bones, or are slathered in barbecue sauce or other seasoning. If you’d like to spoil your pet, cook a small piece of boneless, skinless meat devoid of any seasonings or sauces. Tiny bites of a plain grilled chicken breast will make your pet feel like they’re getting a special treat.
- Frozen treats — If you’re grilling out, it’s likely hot outside, so help your furry friend cool off with a special frozen treat. A rubber Kong stuffed with a tasty concoction of canned food, kibble, fresh veggies, yogurt, peanut butter, or your pet’s other favorites, and tossed in the freezer for a few hours, is an easy-to-make cool treat.
By feeding your pet these pet-safe alternatives, you can ensure that they enjoy your cookout as much as you do! However, we’re here for your pet if they do run off with the pack of hot dogs. Don’t hesitate to contact us!
