BBQ Safety • Pet-Safe Foods • Heat Protection Tips
Every July, National Lost Pet Prevention Month reminds us of something no animal lover wants to experience—the panic and heartbreak of a missing pet. But while microchips, ID tags, and secure fencing are all vital, many preventable summer hazards lead to pets bolting, becoming disoriented, or suffering health crises that put them at risk.
Whether you're grilling with friends, hosting a backyard gathering, or letting your horse out to pasture longer than usual—awareness is your best tool for prevention. Let’s explore the top summer party risks for both dogs and horses, and what you can do to keep them safe, cool, and close to home.
A typical day at Dr. G's ranch—dogs playing alongside grazing horses.
🔥 BBQs and Backyard Parties: Pet Safety Starts with the Menu
For Dogs:
Barbecues can be overwhelming for dogs—new smells, loud guests, open gates, and dropped food are a recipe for chaos. Even a well-trained pup may dash off if startled or tempted by the smell of meat on the grill.
Top BBQ Dangers for Dogs:
-
Bones and fatty scraps (especially rib bones) can splinter or cause pancreatitis
-
Onions, garlic, and chives are toxic to dogs
-
Alcohol and caffeinated drinks can be fatal, even in small doses
-
Corn cobs can cause intestinal blockages
✅ Safer Alternatives:
Offer pet-safe snacks like chilled carrot sticks, apple slices (no seeds), or a frozen Kong filled with xylitol-free peanut butter. If your dog is food-motivated, have these ready before guests arrive to prevent begging or scavenging.
Pro tip: Keep a guest reminder sign near food areas—“Please Don’t Feed the Dog!”—to avoid any mix-ups.
For Horses:
While you won’t find your horse sneaking ribs off the grill, summer gatherings near barns or fields can result in unsafe feeding or sudden noise-related spooks.
Common Summer Risks for Horses:
-
Children or guests offering sugary snacks, chips, or bread
-
Fireworks, sparklers, or sudden loud music near the barn
-
Poor gate security or fences left open after visitors leave
✅ Horse-Friendly Treats:
Cut watermelon, carrots, apples, or a small serving of peppermint are safer treats (in moderation). Remind guests not to feed horses without supervision, even with good intentions.
Dr. G treating his boys to some watermelon.![]()
☀️ Heat Protection: Keep Your Animals Cool and Calm
Heatstroke is a serious and often overlooked risk, especially during summer parties when your attention is divided.
Dogs Are Especially Vulnerable:
Dogs don’t sweat the way we do. Panting is their main cooling mechanism—and it doesn’t always cut it.
Signs of Overheating in Dogs:
-
Excessive panting or drooling
-
Bright red gums or tongue (if your dog is dehydrated watch for pale, sticky gums)
-
Lethargy or uncoordinated movements
-
Vomiting or collapse
✅ Prevention Tips:
-
Create a shaded, quiet space with access to cool water
-
Avoid walks during peak heat (10 a.m.–4 p.m.)
-
Never leave your dog in a car—even for a “quick stop”
Pro tip: Freeze bone broth & add a squirt of Dr. Garber’s Canine Calm & Happy bioformula into ice cube trays for a hydrating, calming summer treat. Many dogs respond well to homeopathic support during stimulating or stressful events.
Heat Protection for Horses:
Horses can suffer from heat exhaustion and dehydration too—especially when turnout is extended or they’re wearing tack in hot weather.
Watch for:
-
Rapid breathing or heavy sweating
-
Muscle tremors
-
Decreased appetite or water intake
-
Lethargy or stiffness
✅ Prevention Tips:
-
Provide ample shade or bring them in during peak heat
-
Add electrolytes to their water (if needed)
-
Hose or sponge them off after rides
-
Use natural calming remedies like Dr. Garber’s Equine Calm & Happy bioformula during firework season or stormy nights
🏘️ Lost Pet Prevention: Beyond the Fence
Many dogs go missing during summer because of:
-
Fireworks
-
Open gates or doors during parties
-
Guests unfamiliar with your routines
-
Sudden fear or overstimulation
Best Practices for Dogs:
-
Always double-check collars and ID tags
-
Update microchip info and register it
-
Train a reliable recall cue—especially for off-leash time
-
Keep your dog inside or leashed during loud events or fireworks
-
Consider a collar with GPS tracking
For Horses:
While less common, horses do escape—especially if gates are unsecured or if they're spooked by noise.
-
Check all latches and fencing before guests arrive
-
Post clear signage if guests are nearby pastures
-
Consider a wearable GPS tracker for especially anxious horses
Ranger & Sundown securely grazing outside Helen's studio.
🐾 Let Summer Be Sweet—Not Stressful
You don’t have to skip the backyard fun to keep your four-legged family safe. With some planning, education, and a few homeopathic helpers, your dogs and horses can stay happy, healthy, and exactly where they belong—right by your side.
Explore Dr. Garber’s safe, non-toxic bioformulas for dogs, horses, and people—formulated by a holistic doctor who’s been treating humans and animals since 1981. From Anxiety Relief to Joint Health, we offer effective support for seasonal stress, pain, and inflammation—without side effects or interactions.
👉 Learn About Dr. Garber’s Work with Animals
