Super Bowl Dangers for Your Pets

Football fare is nearly irresistible for dogs — especially when sitting at eye-level — but even cats can grab a piece of the action. Unfortunately, furry fans who intercept game day grub are likely to catch more than they bargained for. Super Bowl pet safety is something that can be done with just a few preparations. We encourage would-be revelers with pets to think carefully before serving the following:

Beer:  Just like people, some animals have a taste for beer. But think twice before pouring your pet a pint: even a nip can cause fatal respiratory depression. Or, get your dog some special beer that is safe for him to enjoy!

Bones: Chicken wings have especially fine bones, which can splinter easily and puncture the GI tract. Besides, the sauces are virtually guaranteed to cause an upset stomach.

Onions: Onion rings are doubly dangerous: onions in any form are poisonous to pets and fried foods can cause diarrhea.

Toothpicks: Toothpicks make a nice presentation for cubed meats, cheeses and other appetizers, but can cause severe and potentially fatal damage to pets’ GI tracts, if swallowed.

Nuts: Many nut varieties have a devastating effect on dogs’ nervous systems. Walnuts and macadamias are especially toxic and can cause vomiting, paralysis and even death.


Start with a game plan!

Find Another Place: For some pets, the temptation may simply be too great. If that’s the case, seek alternative arrangements before hosting, or consider leaving your pet at home, if attending.

Advise Your Guests: When begging doesn’t work, dogs may resort to playing smart and aggressive. Encourage guests to minimize the risk of fumbling food by sitting at a table or using snack trays.

Keep Dog Treats Around: Go for the extra point by keeping pet-friendly snacks handy for hounds with hungry eyes. Better yet, go for two with pigskin-themed pet treats!

Keep an eye on unattended plates and cups — and make sure to clean up promptly. Even if they’re blocked at the line of scrimmage, sufficiently motivated dogs will run the end-around without a second thought.

“Super Bowl parties can be tremendous fun. But between talking, watching the game and having drinks, it can be easy to lose track of your pet,” says Petplan Chief Veterinary Medical Officer, Dr. Jules Benson. “This is one case where an ounce of prevention is truly worth a pound of cure.”

Source: Dogington Post