Pet Friendly BBQ Tips!
How to Have a Safe BBQ with Pets: Tips for Dogs, Cats, and Small Furries
Summer barbecues are a brilliant way to enjoy delicious food, warm weather, and good company—including our much-loved pets. However, while it may be tempting to let your furry companions join in the festivities, barbecues can pose a number of risks for dogs, cats, and smaller animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters.
Here are some tips to help keep all your pets safe and content during your next garden gathering.
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BBQ Safety for Dogs
Dogs are often the stars of any outdoor gathering, but they're also the most likely to sneak a bite or get a little too close to the barbecue.
Safety Tips:
• Keep food out of reach. Many BBQ favourites—like onions, garlic, corn cobs, cooked bones, and alcohol—can be harmful or even toxic to dogs.
• Watch the barbecue. Hot grills, coals, and skewers can cause serious burns or internal injuries if touched or chewed.
• Secure the bins. Dogs are known scavengers. Use a bin with a secure lid to prevent them rummaging through food waste and packaging.
• Provide water and shade. Always ensure fresh drinking water is available and that dogs can access a cool, shaded spot.
• Avoid citronella and chemical repellents. Products like citronella candles and insect sprays can be toxic if licked or inhaled.
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BBQ Safety for Cats
Cats may seem more independent, but their curiosity can still land them in trouble during a barbecue.
Safety Tips:
• Supervise outdoor cats. If your cat is allowed outside, keep a close eye on them or consider limiting their access to the barbecue area.
• Keep food and drink off low surfaces. Cats are agile and might sneak a nibble of something unsafe, such as alcohol or grilled meat.
• Store tools and rubbish safely. Foil, string used for meat, and skewers can all pose choking or injury risks to curious kitties.
• Create a quiet space. The noise, smells, and activity of a BBQ can be stressful for cats. Make sure they have access to a calm, indoor area they can retreat to and feel safe.
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BBQ Safety for Small Pets (Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, Hamsters, etc.)
Small animals are highly sensitive to heat and need extra care during outdoor events.
Safety Tips:
• Keep them indoors. The safest option is to leave small pets inside during barbecues, away from heat, smoke, and loud noises.
• If taken outside, ensure full shade and security. Use a secure, escape-proof enclosure placed well away from the barbecue and out of direct sun.
• Limit time outdoors. If they're joining you briefly, supervise them closely and keep handling to a minimum.
• Reduce stress. Avoid loud music, shouting, or crowds around them, as these can easily overwhelm small animals.
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After the Barbecue
Once the grill has cooled and the guests have gone, a good tidy-up helps ensure your pets stay safe.
• Clear away any leftover food, scraps, and spills.
• Collect any fallen skewers, bones, or rubbish.
• Check your garden or patio for hazards such as broken glass or grease patches.
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