And here the question often arises: can a pet that looks at us with pleading eyes eat grilled dishes? And what treats can you give your dog from a picnic bag?
Gintarė Kitovė, the communication manager of the “Iki” shopping network, notices that Lithuanians pay a lot of attention to the well-being of their pets, and are also looking for variety to expand their food ration.
“Demand for animal products is growing consistently. Buyers take care of their pets, so they buy not only food, litter, hygiene products, but also various treats and toys,” says G. Kitovė.
The most important thing when traveling or to a competition, or just to a picnic or a barbecue party with your dog, is to not forget to take care of water. Your pet must have access to fresh water at all times, so a water bottle and dog bowl should always be on the list of things to take. And what treats to (not) indulge in then, the shopping network recommends.
What food to keep away from the dog
One of the most important rules when picnicking with your pets is to not give your dog grilled meat with bones, such as ribs or chicken thighs. Fried or grilled bones break easily and can damage the animal’s digestive tract.
The following products can also be poisonous to the dog: chocolate, citrus fruits, grapes, raisins, nuts, rhubarb, onions, garlic, leeks, fruit pits (peaches, apricots, cherries, plums, etc.). It is better not to give him avocados either, says the press release.
But that’s not all. Also, let’s not forget that other picnic products, such as hams, sausages, sandwiches, contain spicy spices and very often preservatives that can seriously harm the pet.
In addition, they also contain a lot of salt, which in larger quantities is dangerous for the dog, and in overdose – simply poisonous. This is especially worth remembering when you want to give your dog chips, crackers or cheese sticks at a picnic or barbecue.
Cupcakes, cookies, muffins, sweets – there is nothing better than a sweet snack in the afternoon. However, the high amount of sugar that usually accompanies our favorite sweets is also not good for dogs.
It would be helpful to store these products in sealed containers that the dog cannot open. And when you eat them yourself, watch your dog so he doesn’t grab something he shouldn’t.
What can be allowed to taste
The question is, what do you give your dog when you’re out on a picnic or at a barbecue? First of all, remember that skipping one feeding will do less harm to your pet than giving it something new and potentially dangerous.
It is best to always take a treat with you that the dog is familiar with and likes. Outdoor activities are also a good opportunity to let him taste things that, for example, you avoid giving your dog at home because of their strong smell. A variety of dried meat or fish chews will work well.
Dogs will also like treats made specifically for them more than food from people’s tables: chews, snacks, treats, which are rich in high-quality proteins and other useful substances. They are usually also conveniently packaged in ziplock bags. You can take several species, but it is important not to overdose with them.
A variety of fresh vegetables, such as carrots, green beans, beets, broccoli, cucumbers, are also suitable for dogs. They can also enjoy fresh fruits and berries such as watermelon, strawberries, blueberries, apples.
True, before offering an apple to your pet, be sure to remove the core and seeds, as they contain traces of toxic cyanide. Watermelons should also be seedless and skinless. Fresh apples and watermelons cut into slices or pieces will then be a refreshing snack that replenishes fluid reserves in the body, especially useful on a warm spring day.
Finally, it is worth remembering – the dog will enjoy playing together, searching for treats for them, running around or learning new commands and tricks more than fried sausages. Make barbecue parties and picnics a tradition and your dog a part of them, but don’t necessarily share your food with your pet.
