Keep Your Pets Safe From Common Summer Food Hazards
What Every Pet Parent Should Know Before Sharing Snacks This Season
Summer Is Here But Not Every Treat Is Pet-Friendly
As the weather warms and families gather for BBQs, picnics, and long weekends, it’s easy to want to share our joy (and snacks!) with our furry companions. But many common human foods can lead to serious health issues for dogs and cats.
At Sage Compassion for Animals, we know how quickly a fun summer day can turn into an emergency vet visit. That’s why we’re sharing this personal story and list of summer food hazards so you can keep your pets safe and out of the ER.
Minnie’s Story: From Ice Cream Heaven to Emergency Care
Meet Minnie, a sweet pup with an unstoppable appetite and a nose for trouble.
One summer afternoon, Minnie hit the jackpot. After someone in the house didn’t fully close the freezer, a box of strawberry ice cream bars fell to the floor… straight into Minnie’s waiting paws. She dove in before anyone could stop her.
When her family arrived home, they were greeted by a dog covered in pink, smelling like strawberry shortcake. While it’s a funny memory now, it ended in a trip to the emergency veterinary clinic.
Thankfully, Minnie was okay but her story is a reminder of how fast food mishaps can happen.
At Sage Compassion for Animals, we believe prevention is powerful. Keeping pets with their families often means avoiding emergencies like this one.
Foods That Are Dangerous (or Deadly) to Pets
If you have a food-loving pet like Minnie, here are some common items to keep well out of reach:
1. Ice Cream
Why it’s unsafe:
Many ice creams contain xylitol, chocolate, or dairy all of which can cause digestive upset or toxicity in pets.
Try this instead: Frozen watermelon cubes or a DIY pet-safe “ice cream” made with blended watermelon and plain yogurt.
2. Corn Cobs
Why it’s unsafe:
While corn itself isn’t toxic, the cob can cause a dangerous intestinal blockage, often requiring surgery.
Pet-safe tip: If offering corn, remove it from the cob and serve small, plain kernels only.
3. Bones (Cooked or Raw)
Why it’s unsafe:
Bones can splinter, causing mouth injuries, choking, or life-threatening GI obstructions.
Keep bones away from pets, especially after BBQs or family meals where they’re often discarded.
4. Raw Meat
Why it’s unsafe:
Raw meat can harbor salmonella or E. coli, which pose health risks to both pets and humans.
Cooked meat is safer just be sure it’s unseasoned and free of bones.
5. Grapes & Raisins
Why it’s unsafe:
Even in tiny amounts, grapes and raisins can cause acute kidney failure in dogs.
Keep fruit salads and trail mix away from curious pets.
6. Chocolate
Why it’s unsafe:
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which pets can’t metabolize, leading to vomiting, seizures, or worse.
Summer reminder: Watch for s’mores ingredients during campfires and cookouts.
7. Alcohol (and Boozy Desserts)
Why it’s unsafe:
Pets are extremely sensitive to alcohol, which can cause disorientation, vomiting, or coma even in small doses.
Don’t forget: desserts like tiramisu or rum cake may contain hidden alcohol.
Tips to Keep Your Pet Safe This Summer
Educate guests and kids about what pets can and can’t eat
Secure food and trash before leaving pets unsupervised
Post a “No Feeding the Dog” sign at family gatherings
Consider creating a pet-safe treat station for events
Want more pet safety tips? Visit our Education page to explore seasonal guides and vet-backed advice.
Final Thought: Love Means Saying “No” to Unsafe Snacks
We know those eyes are hard to resist. But saying “no” to that dropped bite of burger bun or dessert is one of the kindest things you can do for your pet.
If you haven’t already, take steps to pet-proof your kitchen and backyard this summer.
At Sage Compassion for Animals, we’re here to help you keep your pets safe, healthy, and right where they belong with you.
