How to Transition Your Pet’s Routine from Summer to Autumn
As summer fades into autumn in East Renfrewshire, the team at Rouken Glen Vets say it’s a good idea to adjust your pet’s routine to align with the changing season. Below are some tips from our vets and nurses to help you transition your pet’s routine smoothly.
Transitioning from Summer to Autumn
Adjusting feeding times
- Monitor Daylight Hours: With shorter days, your pet’s feeding schedule may need a tweak. As it gets darker earlier in East Renfrewshire, you might need to adjust meal times to align better with your and your pet’s daily routine. Feeding cats earlier can signal to them that’s it’s time to come indoors earlier, thus avoiding them being out in the dark for longer.
- Check Weight and Activity Levels: Autumn often brings cooler weather and less outdoor activity. Keep an eye on your pet’s weight and adjust their food intake if needed – they might need slightly fewer calories if they’re less active. Our veterinary nurses in Giffnock can help you work out how much food to feed your pet – contact us to book a nurse appointment now.
- Switch to Seasonal Foods: Consider incorporating seasonal ingredients into your pet’s diet. Foods like pumpkin (in small doses) can be great for digestion and are often available in pet food formulas during autumn.
Modifying exercise routines
- Adapt to Cooler Weather: Autumn weather is often cooler and can be more pleasant for outdoor activities. This is a great time to increase exercise if your pet was less active during the hotter summer months in East Renfrewshire.
- Adjust for Daylight: With shorter daylight hours, plan your walks and playtime during daylight to ensure safety and maximise your pet’s enjoyment. Not-too-early mornings, lunchtime slots and/or late afternoons might be ideal times for both of you.
- Watch for Seasonal Hazards: Our veterinary nurses recommend being mindful of autumn-specific hazards like fallen leaves, which can sometimes hide sharp objects or mould. Keep an eye on your pet to avoid ingestion of potentially harmful substances.
Keeping pets warm and comfortable
- Create a Cosy Space: As temperatures drop, ensure your pet has a warm and comfortable place to sleep. Consider a cosy pet bed or blanket to help them stay warm. If you can, our nurses in Giffnock recommend bringing outdoor pets, such as rabbits and guinea pigs, indoors to help them stay warm and comfortable during these cooler months.
- Adjust Grooming Routines: Some pets might require more grooming in autumn due to shedding or changes in their coat. Regular brushing can help keep their coat in good condition and reduce the amount of fur they might ingest. For autumn pet grooming advice, book a nurse consult with our friendly team.
- Provide Warm Clothing: For pets with short coats or those particularly sensitive to the cold, consider getting them a pet jumper or jacket. Make sure it’s comfortable and fits properly. However, you should avoid leaving them unsupervised wearing clothing in case they get too hot or tangled up; extra blankets are best for alone time.
Additional tips
- Check for Allergies: Autumn can bring about new allergens like mould from fallen leaves and mould in the home from damp. Monitor your pet for signs of allergies such as itching or sneezing and book a vet appointment at Rouken Glen Vets if you notice any issues.
- Hydration is Key: Although it’s cooler, your pet still needs access to fresh water at all times. Ensure they stay hydrated, especially if they’re more active. Try adding a small amount of water to your pet’s food for added hydration.
By adjusting your pet’s routine to fit the changing season, you can help ensure they stay happy, healthy, and comfortable as the weather transitions from summer to autumn in East Renfrewshire.
Giffnock Vet Nurses on the Benefits of a Catio
Many cat owners in and around Giffnock will know how much their cats love being outdoors and lounging in sunbeams. However, not all outdoor jollies are safe for our feline friends. Busy roads, wandering at night, getting into fights, out all day while you’re at work… it can certainly be a worry. Keep reading as the veterinary nurses at Rouken Glen Vets have the purrrfect solution…
Maybe your cat would love a catio!
What is a catio?
Not just a fancy word, a catio is a creative addition to your home that could elevate your cat’s quality of life! Rouken Glen Vets’ veterinary nurses explain how: short for ‘cat patio’, a catio is essentially a safe, enclosed outdoor space designed for cats. It provides a secure environment where your cat can enjoy being outdoors without the risks associated with roaming freely in and around Giffnock. Think of it as your cat’s personal garden – a place where they can bask in the sunshine, watch the birds, and enjoy a bit of fresh air.
Got a catio already, or just popped one in your shopping cart? Share your Catio Brags on Social!
Benefits of a catio
- Safe Outdoor Access: Cats can enjoy exploring the outdoors safely whilst avoiding traffic, other animals, and getting lost, giving them a mini adventure in your garden and you, peace of mind.
- Enrichment and Exercise: A catio provides a space for climbing, scratching, and playing, keeping cats physically active and mentally stimulated.
- Reduce Indoor Boredom: A catio offers a new environment with exciting sights and smells, breaking the monotony for indoor cats.
- Fresh Air and Sunlight: Cats enjoy fresh air and sunshine, boosting their mood and overall wellbeing in a catio.
Our vet nurses also think catios are ideal during autumn and winter when the nights get darker earlier and roaming freely in and around Giffnock can be more dangerous.
Choosing the right catio
Size and Space: Rouken Glen Vets’ nurses say it’s important to consider the space you have available and your cat’s needs. Catios vary from small window boxes to large, free-standing structures. Ensure it’s spacious enough for your cat to move around comfortably, including enrichment activities like cat trees and scratching posts, and have comfortable bedding for them to relax on. Make it fun and inviting!
Safety Features: Ensure the catio is secure, durable, well-ventilated, easy to clean, and protected from the elements (with shade) to keep your cat comfortable and safe.
Accessibility: Consider how your cat will access the catio. Some attach to windows or have their own entryways. Ensure easy access for older cats with sore joints.
Suitability: Not all cats will enjoy limited roaming. A catio doesn’t have to be their only option, but it can serve as a safe choice for outdoor time when you want them close by.
Check out these catios on Amazon!
Think your cat would love a catio? Go on, add a bit of adventure and luxury to your cat’s life with a catio, and provide a safe and stimulating outdoor experience that will help to keep them active, entertained, and happy! And remember to share your Catio Brags on social!
At Rouken Glen Vets, we love helping cats have the most amazing lives.
Discover Your Perfect Match – Take the Dog Compatibility Quiz!
Calling all dog owners and wannabe pup parents in East Renfrewshire! Ever wondered if you and your furry friend are a perfect match made in doggy heaven? Or which dog breed you’d be most compatible with? Well, wonder no more! This fun quiz from Rouken Glen Vets will help you answer these questions.
See how you and your pup compare with other dog owners in East Renfrewshire by sharing your results on our Facebook page.
Share Your Results on Facebook
Rouken Glen Vets’ Dog Compatibility Quiz
Grab a pen and paper and get ready to answer these questions:
1. What’s your ideal weekend activity?
- Lounging in the park with a good book.
- Exploring a new hiking trail with breathtaking views.
- Spending the day at a dog-friendly cafe with friends.
- Relaxing at home with a movie marathon (and plenty of doggy cuddles).
2. How would you describe your daily routine?
- Fairly relaxed, with some errands and leisurely walks.
- Active and busy, with a packed schedule.
- Social and unpredictable, with outings and various activities.
- Home-based, with plenty of time for relaxation and snuggles.
3. How do you feel about training your dog?
- I prefer a well-mannered pup, so consistent training is important.
- I enjoy the challenge of teaching tricks and commands.
- I’m happy with basic obedience, but socialisation is key.
- Positive reinforcement and gentle cues work best for me.
4. What’s your cleaning tolerance level?
- I like things clean and tidy, with minimal shedding tolerated.
- A little mud and fur are a small price to pay for adventure.
- I can handle some mess, but excessive shedding might be a challenge.
- Cuddles are important, so a bit of fur is a furry friend badge of honour!
5. How do you feel about alone time?
- I value my personal space and quiet time.
- I’m okay with short periods alone but prefer company.
- I enjoy social interaction and worry about leaving my dog alone for too long.
- My dog is my constant companion, and I rarely leave them for extended periods.
The Results
Did you enjoy taking Rouken Glen Vets’ Dog Compatibility Test? Are you ready for the results? Tot up how many of each answer you got (a – d) and let’s see how compatible you are:
Mostly A’s: The Independent Soul – You’re a relaxed individual who enjoys peace and quiet. A dog like a Greyhound, Shiba Inu, or Basset Hound might be your perfect match. These breeds are known for being independent and low-maintenance, content with a calm environment and leisurely walks (although a greyhound should have some opportunities for sprinting in safety).
Mostly B’s: The Adventure Buddy – You crave excitement and love exploring the great outdoors. An energetic breed like a Border Collie, Jack Russell Terrier, or Australian Shepherd could be your ideal companion. These pups are full of beans and love accompanying you on hikes, runs, and outdoor adventures.
Mostly C’s: The Social Butterfly – You’re a social butterfly who thrives on company. A friendly and outgoing breed like a Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, or Beagle might suit you best. These dogs love meeting new people and furry friends, making them perfect for days out at the park or dog-friendly cafes.
Mostly D’s: The Cuddle Companion – You value relaxation and cherishing moments with your furry friend. A laid-back breed like a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Shih Tzu, Bullmastiff, or Bichon Frise could be your ideal match. These cuddly pups are happy to lounge by your side, offering companionship and warmth.
Remember, this is just a bit of fun from our dog-loving team at Rouken Glen Vets. Every dog is an individual, and with love, training, and patience, any dog can become a perfect companion!
Share and compare results with other dog owners and wannabe pup parents in East Renfrewshire on our Facebook page – we look forward to joining in the discussion!
Cat Given Up on Grooming? Read Richard’s Advice
We all know cats are pretty fastidious creatures. They spend a good chunk of their day diligently licking and cleaning their fur, keeping themselves looking and feeling tip-top. So, if you’ve noticed your feline friend neglecting their usual grooming routine, it’s understandable to be a bit concerned. In this article, Vet Richard Black at Rouken Glen Vets shares five common reasons why cats slow down or give up on grooming, along with what you should do.
If you have any concerns about your cat’s health and wellbeing, book an appointment at our vet practice in Giffnock.
According to Vet Richard Black, there are several reasons why a cat might stop grooming themselves, and some are more concerning than others. Let’s delve into the most common culprits:
- Ouch! It Hurts: Just like us, cats can find grooming uncomfortable if they’re in pain. Arthritis, sore muscles, or dental problems can make reaching certain areas difficult.
- Carrying Excess Weight: As cats gain weight, especially around their middle, it can become physically harder for them to properly groom everywhere.
- Feeling Under the Weather: If your cat isn’t feeling well, they simply might not have the energy to focus on grooming. Richard advises that this could be due to an illness, like a urinary tract infection, or even stress.
- Senior Slump: As cats get older, they may lose some flexibility and eyesight, making thorough grooming a challenge.
- Skin and Coat Issues: Dry, itchy skin or problems with their fur, like matting, can discourage cats from grooming.
What to do if your cat stops grooming
If you notice your cat neglecting their grooming, Richard advises following these steps:
- Step 1 – Take a closer look. Are there any obvious signs of pain, like difficulty moving or wincing? Does their fur look dull, matted, or have patches missing?
- Step 2 – Book a cat check-up with us at Rouken Glen Vets so we can rule out any underlying medical conditions. Early detection and treatment can make a big difference to your cat’s health and wellbeing.
- Step 3 – Richard explains that in the meantime, you can help your cat by gently brushing them to remove loose fur and prevent matting. If they seem particularly uncomfortable, a soft washcloth dampened with warm water can help clean areas they might be struggling with.
Remember, a clean cat is often a happy cat! By keeping an eye on your feline friend’s grooming habits and scheduling regular check-ups at Rouken Glen Vets, you can help ensure they stay healthy and happy.
Book your cat a check-up today with Richard or any of our other cat-loving vets! You can call us on 0141 620 2580 or visit our booking page now.
Teach Your Pet These Pawsome Party Tricks
Enrich your pet’s playtime and impress your friends by teaching your furry friend some fun tricks! But before you break out the clicker and treats, it’s important to consider your pet’s personality and natural abilities. Here at Rouken Glen Vets, we’ve put together some ideas to get you started, with tips for different furry (or fluffy) pets.
Remember to capture your pet’s best attempts (and bloopers) with your camera. We’d love to see, please do share your pet photos and videos on our Facebook page.
Pet tricks to make your bestie shine!
Tricks for Daring Doggies:
Dogs are natural learners and love to please, making them prime candidates for trick training. Get your dog to share their skills at their next visit to Rouken Glen Vets and we’ll be sure to reward them with extra treats!
- The Classics: “Sit,” “Stay,” and “Shake” are a great foundation for more complex tricks.
- High Fives: Hold a treat out flat and guide your dog’s paw to touch it. Reward with praise and the treat!
- Spin: Lure your dog with a treat in a circular motion, gradually fading the lure as they get the hang of it.
Tricks for Curious Cats:
Cats can be more independent, but according to our cat-loving veterinary nurses at Giffnock, with patience and positive reinforcement, some cats can learn impressive tricks too!
- Jumping Through Hoops: Start with a large hoop and gradually reduce the size as your cat becomes confident.
- Target Training: Touch a target stick (like a chopstick) to their nose and reward them when they touch it back. This can be used to teach them to touch other objects on command.
- Fetch: Some cats love to chase after toys! Start by throwing a lightweight ball near them and gradually increase the distance.
Tricks for Rabbits:
Rabbits are intelligent creatures who can learn simple tricks with positive reinforcement. We’d love to see your rabbit enjoying their trick training – pop over to Rouken Glen Vets’ Facebook page and share your photos and videos.
- Coming When Called: Start by saying their name while offering a treat. Gradually increase the distance and only reward them when they come to you.
- Spin: Hold a treat near their nose and slowly turn in a circle. They might naturally follow the treat, earning a reward when they complete a full spin.
- Obstacle Course: Set up a simple course with tunnels and boxes. Lure them through with treats, gradually increasing the complexity as they get the hang of it.
Remember:
- Keep it Positive: Use praise, petting, and treats to reward your pet for good attempts.
- Short Sessions: Training should be fun, not stressful. Aim for short, frequent sessions to keep your pet engaged.
- Respect Their Limits: Not all pets will enjoy learning tricks. Read your pet’s body language and stop if they seem disinterested or frustrated.
Beyond the basics:
We hope you enjoyed our trick training for dogs, cats and rabbits. The internet is FULL of inspiration for more advanced tricks. Just remember to choose tricks that are suitable for your pet’s natural abilities and always prioritise their wellbeing. With patience and positive reinforcement, you might just have the star of the show at your next gathering!
So, grab those treats and get training!
Make our day and pop into our vet practice in Giffnock to show off your pet’s skills, or share their antics on our Facebook page!
Gentle Handling Advice for Small Pets: Richard’s Guide for Parents
Introducing small pets like hamsters, guinea pigs, or rabbits to your family can be a delightful experience. These tiny companions bring joy and teach children about responsibility and empathy. However, ensuring they are handled gently and correctly is crucial for their wellbeing.
Vet Richard Black has created this guide to help parents in East Renfrewshire understand the importance of gentle handling and how to explain this concept to young children.
Why gentle handling is important
Small pets are delicate creatures. Mishandling can lead to stress, injury, or even fear, making them less sociable and harder to care for. Richard explains that gentle handling helps to build trust between the pet and the handler, creating a safe and loving environment for your pet to thrive. Read Richard’s tips on how to teach kids to hold hamsters and other small pets safely and become confident pet handlers.
Richard’s tips for handling small pets
- Use Both Hands: Always support your pet with both hands. Place one hand under their chest and the other under their hindquarters.
- Stay Calm and Quiet: Approach your pet slowly and speak softly to avoid startling them.
- Close to the Ground: When holding your pet, keep them close to the ground or over a soft surface in case they wriggle free.
- Regular Breaks: Limit handling time to a few minutes to prevent your pet from becoming stressed.
- Supervision: Always supervise young children when they are handling hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, and other small pets to ensure they follow the guidelines.
For more advice on gentle handling from our team, book a small pet appointment by calling 0141 620 2580.
Explaining gentle handling to young children
Introducing small pets to young children can be a rewarding experience if approached correctly. Here’s Richard’s guide on how to explain gentle handling to kids:
- Use Clear Language: “Small pets like our hamster are very delicate. They need us to be very gentle with them so they don’t get hurt.”
- Demonstrate First: Show your child how to hold the pet gently, using soft hands and calm movements. Let them observe a few times before they try.
- Create a Story: “Imagine if you were as small as our guinea pig. You would want people to hold you softly, right? That’s how we should treat our pets.”
- Practice with a Toy: Give your child a stuffed animal to practice gentle handling. This can help them understand the right amount of pressure to use.
- Use Positive Reinforcement: Praise your child when they handle the pet gently. Positive reinforcement will encourage them to continue the right handling technique and behaviour.
Teaching children how to hold hamsters and other small pets gently is essential for the safety and happiness of the pets and fosters a caring attitude in young minds. By using simple language and practical demonstrations, East Renfrewshire parents can ensure their children learn the importance of gentle handling.
Must-Have Pet Camera Features for East Renfrewshire Pet Parents
Are you curious about what your furry friend gets up to while you’re out? Do you long to discover which pet is chewing cushions or mysteriously moving things? With the latest pet cameras, you can keep an eye on your pet’s antics and ensure they’re safe and happy. Our team at Rouken Glen Vets have rounded up the top features to look for when choosing your perfect pet camera to make sure you and your pet stay connected, no matter where you are.
Share Your Pet Camera Tales on Facebook
7 Must-have pet camera features
To help East Renfrewshire pet owners, we did our research and have come up with an overview of the top features you might want to consider when looking for a pet camera:
- Video Quality: Look for cameras with high-definition video and night vision capabilities to monitor your pet day and night.
- Two-Way Audio: This feature allows you to hear your pet and talk to them remotely, which can provide comfort and reassurance to the both of you.
- Motion Detection: Cameras with motion detection can alert you when your pet is active, allowing you to check in on them and see what they’re up to.
- App Integration: Choose cameras that offer user-friendly mobile apps for convenient remote monitoring from your smartphone or tablet.
- Pan/Tilt/Zoom Functionality: Some cameras allow you to remotely pan, tilt, and zoom the camera to get a better view of your pet and their surroundings.
- Cloud Storage or Local Storage: Consider whether you prefer cloud storage for recorded footage or local storage options like SD cards.
- Pet-Friendly Features: Some cameras offer special features tailored to pets and owners, such as treat dispensers, laser pointers for interactive play, or bark alerts.
When researching specific pet home cameras yourself, our team at Rouken Glen Vets advise you to read reviews from other pet owners, consider your budget and specific needs, and choose a camera that best fits your requirements. Whether it’s for peace of mind, capturing adorable moments, or ensuring your pet’s safety, a good camera can make all the difference. And who knows, your furry friend might just become the star of your home videos, happy pet-watching!
Pet-cam confessions!
Share your pet camera experiences on our Facebook page!
Did a camera catch your cat napping in the laundry basket? Did it help you solve a midnight snack-stealing mystery? ️Or maybe you just want to brag about your adorable pet selfies!
We want to hear from you! Let’s help our fellow pet lovers in East Renfrewshire decide if a pet camera is right for them.
- Your pet camera experience (good, bad, or hilarious!)
- How it’s helped you stay connected to your furry friend
- Any tips for choosing the right camera
Let’s get the conversation flowing!
Microchip Miracles: Reuniting Long-Lost Cats
The team at Rouken Glen Vets team know there’s nothing quite like the bond between a cat and their owner. Unfortunately, sometimes our beloved feline friends go missing, leaving a void in our hearts. However, thanks to the power of cat microchipping, many of these long-lost cats have been joyfully reunited with their humans. We believe now is an ideal time to highlight the importance of microchipping and share some heartwarming stories of happy reunions.
Heartwarming reunions of long-lost cats
Rouken Glen Vets’ team have found some incredible reunion stories of cats presumed lost forever, showing that there is always hope if your cat has been microchipped. Read on to learn about Toby, Fred, and Oscar.
Toby, missing for 11 years, returns home
After fearing Toby was gone forever in 2012, this adventurous tabby was miraculously returned home to his astonished owners 11 years later! A quick scan of Toby’s microchip by Cats Protection revealed his owner’s contact details, leading to an emotional reunion. Read Toby’s full story here.
Fred turns up 5 years later, 2 miles away
Fred’s owner was devastated when he went missing in 2019. Turns out he had been living as a stray before being taken in by a kind elderly man, who took Fred to a local vet for a checkup. The microchip scan brought unexpected joy to his owner who had given up hope of ever seeing him again. Read Fred’s full story here.
Book a cat microchipping appointment now at our vet practice in Giffnock.
Oscar, lost in a snowstorm, gets a happy reunion
In the heavy snow of January 2022, Oscar took off and didn’t return home. After endless searching and social media posts, Oscar’s owner presumed him dead. Then one day, 3 years later, a vet called to say Oscar had been living in a garden just 6 miles away and had been identified by his microchip! Read Oscar’s full story here.
The importance of Cat Microchipping
These incredible stories are not just rare occurrences. Our team say they highlight the vital role that cat microchipping plays in reuniting lost cats with their owners.
If you haven’t yet microchipped your cat, don’t delay. Rouken Glen Vets highlights some compelling reasons why you should book your cat’s microchipping appointment now:
- Quick Identification: A microchip is a reliable and permanent solution to ensure your cat can be identified if they ever get lost, unlike collars and tags, which can come off.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your cat has a microchip gives you peace of mind. Should your pet ever wander off, there’s a higher chance of them being reunited with you.
The recent stories of long-lost cats being reunited with their owners underscores the immense value of microchipping. Let’s take proactive steps to ensure our beloved pets are protected. Don’t delay – get your cat microchipped at Rouken Glen Vets today.
The Art of Keeping Pets Cool on a Hot Summer’s Day
The sun is blazing and the heat is on in East Renfrewshire. While we humans have various ways to beat the heat, our furry friends often need a little extra help staying cool when the mercury soars. Fear not, pet parents, for we’ve got you covered with some cool tips to keep your beloved companions comfortable and safe on those scorching summer days.
If your pet is not coping well in the heat, contact our team at Rouken Glen Vets for advice.
The Art of Keeping Pets Cool
Whilst most of us look forward to a hot summer in East Renfrewshire, it can get too hot for our pets and affect their health. Here’s our advice on how to keep your pet’s cool:
- Hydration: Keep water bowls filled up, ensuring your pet stays refreshed and revitalised.
- Cool Spaces: Create cool havens indoors, avoid hotspots like porches & conservatories.
- Shady Retreats: Offer shady spots for your pet to relax in away from the sun’s glare.
- Outdoor Comfort: Design outdoor areas & enclosures with shade and consider bringing pets indoors on very hot days.
- Heat-Free Zones: Keep pets away from outdoor hot spots like greenhouses & sheds.
- Cool Runnings: Plan outdoor activities for cooler times of the day to prevent overheating.
- Car Safety: Never leave pets in hot cars, ensuring they’re always safe and cool by your side.
- Water Watch: Supervise pets around water features, ensuring they play safely.
- Vigilant Monitoring: Watch for signs of heatstroke like panting & vomiting, and act quickly.
- Emergency Care: Seek vet help immediately if your pet shows signs of overheating.
If you would like any further advice or your pet is struggling in the heat, contact our team at Rouken Glen Vets.
Now, for some more pet tips & treats!
Dogs:
Treat your dog to a splash in the paddling pool or set up a shady spot with a wet towel or cooling mat for them to lie on. Frozen treats like doggy ice lollies made from pet-safe ingredients (such as strawberries) are also a paw-some way to keep your canine companion cool and satisfied.
Got a favourite doggy ice-cream hot spot in East Renfrewshire? Let our followers know on Facebook!
Cats:
Provide plenty of fresh water for your cat to drink, add ice cubes to keep it cold. Create a cat-friendly chill zone indoors with closed curtains, a fan, cooling floor tiles or even a damp cloth straight from the freezer. When trying something new, introduce it slowly and monitor your cat’s response.
Rabbits & Small Furry Pets:
Fluffy furballs like rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters can quickly overheat and need cool retreats. Our vet nurses in Giffnock suggest frozen water bottles wrapped in towels or a ceramic tile that’s been chilled in the fridge make excellent cooling spots. For rabbits, you can lightly mist their ears with cool water, but don’t leave them too wet & cold.
Remember, pet parents – when it comes to keeping your pets cool on a hot day, a little extra TLC goes a long way. So, break out the frozen goodies, set up the shade, and let’s keep our pet pals happy!
For more heat-related pet advice, contact our experienced team at Rouken Glen Vets.
Top Tips from Richard on Summer BBQ Pet Safety
Ah, the sizzle of sausages, the aroma of burgers on the grill… there’s nothing quite like a summer barbecue with friends and family. But while we humans may be drooling over the delicious delights cooking up, let’s not forget about our furry friends who are eager to join in on the fun. To ensure a paw-some barbecue experience for everyone, here are some top tips from our Vet, Richard Black at Rouken Glen Vets, to keep your pets safe and happy around the grill.
And just in case you need it, here is the emergency number for our vets in Giffnock – 0141 620 2580.
See our contact and emergency information
How to Grill & Chill this Summer
If you know your pets will be into everything, it may be wise to keep them indoors, but if your pets can handle your ‘BBQ rules’, here’s Richard’s tips for how to Grill & Chill:
- Create a ‘Safe Zone’: First things first, Richard recommends establishing a designated ‘pet zone’ away from the grill and cooking area. Set up a shady spot with water bowls and comfy bedding where pets can stay cool while you flip the burgers. Portable pet pens are handy for this.
- Keep an Eye on Pets: Naturally, the sight & smell of food cooking on the grill will tempt pets to investigate. To prevent them from getting too close to the grill or attempting to steal barbecue food, keep a close eye on them or put someone on ‘grill guard duty’ to steer roaming pets away to safety.
- Beware of Hot Surfaces: Grills can reach scorching temperatures that pose a burn risk to curious noses and paws, long after cooking has finished. Richard suggests using a grill cover or barrier to prevent pets from accessing the grill area altogether to avoid accidental burns, and have a plan for hot ash afterwards – see our emergency information.
- Pet-safe Barbecue Foods: While it’s tempting to share your barbecue feast with your furry pals, not all barbecue foods are safe for pets. Avoid giving them toxic or harmful foods like onions, garlic, grapes, chocolate, chicken bones, corn on the cob, and foods high in salt, spices, fatty juices, or sugar. Stick to pet-safe treats like plain grilled chicken or lean meat without seasoning. Consider grilling apple, mango, or cucumber for a tasty BBQ treat, if your pet can eat them.
- Watch Out for Falling Food: Accidents happen, and tasty treats may accidentally fall onto the ground. Picking up dropped food instantly will prevent pets from eating it; some items may pose a choking hazard or cause gastrointestinal upset.
- Keep Your Pets Hydrated: Provide plenty of water during the barbecue festivities for pets to drink. If they seem unwell, call our vets in Giffnock on 0141 620 2580.
- Have a Plan for Leftovers: Clearing up thoroughly straight after a BBQ is vital when you have pets. Disposing of barbecue leftovers and scraps promptly and securely will prevent dogs and cats from scavenging through the rubbish. Leftover bones, skewers, and other barbecue remnants can pose choking or gastrointestinal hazards if ingested by pets.
With these grill-tastic tips in mind, you and your furry friends can enjoy a safe and enjoyable barbecue season together in East Renfrewshire. Plus, you’ll be helping to keep wildlife safe too! So, fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and let the summer celebrations begin!
And remember, call 0141 620 2580 in an emergency.