Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of summer in North Augusta. From backyard barbecues and time on the lake to family gatherings and neighborhood celebrations, it’s a weekend many of us look forward to all year long. But while the holiday is fun for people, it can create unexpected risks for pets.
At Riverfront Vet, we want to help local families keep their pets safe, comfortable, and healthy throughout the busy holiday weekend.
Be Careful with Holiday Foods
Cookout foods are one of the most common causes of holiday-related pet emergencies. While it may be tempting to share table scraps, many popular Memorial Day foods can upset your pet’s stomach or even become dangerous.
Items like cooked bones, fatty meats, onions, grapes, chocolate desserts, and alcohol should always be kept out of reach. Rich foods can quickly lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or pancreatitis, especially in dogs who aren’t used to them.
If you’re hosting guests, it’s also a good idea to remind everyone not to sneak treats to pets under the table — even the most convincing puppy eyes can lead to trouble later.
Protect Pets Around the Grill
Backyard grilling creates additional hazards for curious pets. Hot grills, sharp skewers, grease drippings, and lighter fluid can all cause injuries if pets get too close.
Creating a safe, pet-free zone around the grill can help prevent accidents. Dogs are naturally drawn to the smell of food cooking, so supervision is especially important during outdoor gatherings.
Watch for Heat and Humidity
By Memorial Day, temperatures in North Augusta and the surrounding CSRA are already beginning to climb. Heat and humidity can become dangerous quickly, particularly for senior pets, flat-faced breeds, and pets with underlying health conditions.
Make sure your pet always has access to shade and fresh water, and avoid long walks or outdoor play during the hottest parts of the day. And of course, pets should never be left inside parked vehicles, even for a few minutes.
Signs of heat exhaustion in pets include:
- Excessive panting
- Drooling
- Weakness
- Vomiting
- Bright red gums
- Collapse
If you notice these symptoms, seek veterinary care immediately.
Fireworks and Holiday Noise Can Cause Anxiety
While fireworks are often associated with summer celebrations, they can be frightening for many pets. Loud noises may trigger anxiety, stress, or escape attempts.
Keeping pets indoors during fireworks and creating a calm, quiet space can help them feel more secure. It’s also a great time to double-check collars, ID tags, and microchip information in case a frightened pet slips outside unexpectedly.
Don’t Forget Summer Preventative Care
Memorial Day weekend also signals the beginning of peak flea, tick, and mosquito season in South Carolina. Staying current on heartworm prevention and parasite control is one of the best ways to protect your pet throughout the summer months.
If your pet is due for a wellness exam or preventative refill, our team at Riverfront Vet is happy to help you prepare for a safe and healthy season ahead.
Helping North Augusta Pets Stay Safe This Summer
At Riverfront Vet, we believe pets are family, and we’re proud to care for the dogs and cats who make life in North Augusta so special.
If you have questions about travel safety, summer wellness care, anxiety management, or preventative medicine, our team is here for you. We hope you and your pets enjoy a safe, relaxing Memorial Day weekend together.