Summer is here, and with it comes some of our favorite summertime eats. There’s nothing better in the summer than a cold drink on a warm day, corn on the cobb paired with picnic foods and a tasty, ice cream dessert. But did you know some of your favorite summertime foods are actually toxic to your pets?
4 Summertime Treats to Avoid Giving Your Pooch
1. Corn on the Cobb
Corn in itself isn’t toxic to dogs, but too much of it may cause intestinal distress. However corn on the cobb should be avoided completely. In addition to being a potential choking hazard if a dog is trying to swallow it, corn on the cobb can also cause intestinal blockages which are life threatening and may result in a need for emergency surgery.
2. Fatty “Picnic” Foods (Hot Dogs and Burgers)
Fatty foods like burgers and hot dogs might be picnic staples in the summer, but you should avoid sharing your dinner with your dog. Excessive fat build-up can upset the stomach, cause diarrhea and potentially inflame the pancreas causing pancreatitis. Salty foods, like hot dogs, in large amounts can lead to electrolyte imbalances. One of the functions of electrolytes is to help regulate the body’s fluid balance, and excessive sodium intake can generate extreme thirst, urination and at times even sodium ion poisoning.
3. Beer
I don’t know about you, but I’ve definitely been at a cook-out during the summer where I’ve seen someone slip a pooch a taste of their brew. Did you know the carbonation alone can cause gastric torsion, also known as bloat? In addition certain types of hops used to make beer are extremely toxic and can cause a condition called malignant hypothermia where the dog’s body temperature rises quickly. Keep that water dish full of water and nothing else!
4. Dairy
I will tell you, my husband and I are guilty of this one. In the past we’ve definitely picked up a vanilla, baby-sized cone for our three in the summer as a special treat. We also do at times give a dollup of plain, greek yogurt during dinner. Being lactose intolerant is common in dogs, and excess dairy may cause digestive issues. These Nature’s Variety Sweet Potato and Molasses treats are 98% lactose free and may be easier on the tummy than your standard vanilla cone.
While I’m sure you will be extra vigilant this summer and think twice about sharing your summertime treats with man’s best friend, don’t forget to remind friends and relatives as well to avoid slipping your pooch anything other than dog-safe and approved foods.
Is your favorite summertime treat healthy for your pooch?
