With Memorial Day just around the corner, you may be making some big plans for a fun holiday weekend. A sunny afternoon at the beach or a backyard barbecue with friends are great ways to welcome the start of the summer season. If you’re heading out to get some sunshine or dip your toes in the water, you may have an enthusiastically wagging tail begging to come along. While your pet can be a great partner-in-crime this Memorial Day weekend, there are a few points to keep in mind that will keep you both safe and happy.

DO Get Outside With Your Pet

If you live somewhere where the winter has only just begun to melt away, your furry friend is probably more than ready for a romp at the park. After several weeks (or months, brrr) being cooped up indoors, they are ready to stretch their four legs and soak up some warm sunshine. My bet is, you probably are, too!

There are lots of places you can bring your pet for some fresh air: the park, beach, outdoor patios and nature trails are all good bets. Be sure to stay aware of leash laws and other restrictions (read more about these in the Charleston area) your pup doesn’t get into any trouble.

… but DON’T Overdo It

On the other side of the spectrum, those of you living in warmer parts of the country know that summertime heat is already upon us. Even this early in the season, temperatures can rise well above 90 degrees in the middle of the day. Keep this in mind when you head outdoors. Try to schedule playtime for your pets before 11AM or after 4PM, to avoid that hot-hot sun. Pet’s don’t sweat, and can’t cool themselves as effectively as we can.
If you must go out during those peak hours, make sure your pet has a way to cool down. Pop-up tents are a great way to provide some shade if you won’t be around trees or other shade-providing structures. Bring a cooling mat to lay down if it’s especially warm.

If your pup likes to swim, taking a dip in a clean body of water is a fun way to keep cool. Remember to keep an eye out for alligators or snakes, if your location warrants caution.

No matter where you go, always remember to bring fresh water for your pet! Even short outings in the sun can make your pet thirsty. Dehydration is uncomfortable and dangerous for your furry friend.

DO Let Them Socialize With You

If you have a social pet who loves company and house guests, feel free to let them join in on the fun. Extra humans around the house means more hands for petting and throwing the tennis ball. If you’re attending a party or barbecue, make sure to ask ahead of time if it is pet-friendly, and always keep an eye on your friend (especially if there are children or other pets around).

… DON’T Stress Them Out

If your pet is more on the anti-social side, don’t put them into a tizzy by overcrowding them, or bringing them around lots of people. Public places with LOTS of people and noise (think outdoor concerts) are generally a bad place for pets.

When having friends over to your own home, make sure to provide your pet with a “safe space” where she can go to relax. And don’t hesitate to ask your guests to give her some space. This is especially true for holidays that tend to come with firework displays (Memorial Day, July 4th, New Years). Most pets are frightened of the loud, sudden noises, and may hurt themselves trying to escape to a place where they will feel safe. Be sure to give her lots of personal attention and reassurance before, during and after the excitement.

DO Indulge A Treat

Backyard barbecues are hard for anyone to resist – pets included. If you are hosting one this holiday weekend, don’t forget to prepare a little something for your pet. This can be as simple as setting aside some plain grilled meat or veggies to offer your pet (away from party-goers and their plates). Stick to the meats and veggies recommended in your CrockPET recipe, and nobody will get hurt.

When it’s warm, you can make some frozen coconut oil treats for your furry friend to enjoy. This way, you can include them without running the risk of pancreatitis or other dangers that come with eating from the table (or grill). That being said…

… DON’T Let Them Eat From The Table

Tossing your pup a piece of barbecued chicken or bite of macaroni salad may seem harmless, and their
hungry eyes will try to tell you so. But resist the temptation, no matter how cute the begging becomes. Many veterinarians will tell you that in the days following a holiday, cases of pancreatitis skyrocket. This is simply because our pets are not meant to eat our food.
Be sure to keep all food out of your pet’s reach (give kitty in her own room if she can’t be kept from jumping to the table and its bounty of tasty morsels). Keep an eye out for abandoned plates and cups, too. Bones and toothpicks are hidden dangers that could cost you very dearly, and adult beverages left unattended could spell serious sickness for a curious (or just thirsty) pet.
When everyone else sits down to eat, bring your pet inside and offer their tasty portion of The CrockPET Diet – they won’t feel like they are missing a thing!

DO Enjoy the Weekend With Your Pet

Most pet owners consider their pets to be part of the family, and holiday weekends are a perfect time to spend extra time together. As long as you are following safety guidelines, there is no reason to leave your pet out of the fun this weekend. So grab a frisbee, your portable doggy bowl and some water, and head out for a good time this Memorial Day.

… and DON’T forget to order your Holistic Total Body Support before the BOGO deal disappears next week!