Whether you're a football fanatic or merely a commercial junkie, chances are you're planning to tune in to the game of all games this Sunday. But watching the action on the field is only half the fun; the other half is the food. Wings, nachos, chips and dips may feed a fan's frenzy - but they can pose a real threat to our pets.
As every pet parent has no doubt learned at one time or another, football fare is irresistible to dogs - especially when sitting at eye-level. Unfortunately, furry fans who intercept game day grub can catch more than they bargained for. You don't have to skip serving them (that would be a personal foul!), but be aware that you should have a strictly paws-off policy for these game day treats:
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.
Wings
Chicken wings have especially fine bones, which can splinter easily and puncture the GI tract. And the spicy sauces are virtually guaranteed to cause an upset stomach.
Onion Rings
Onions in any form (rings, dips, sandwich stackers) are poisonous to pets, not to mention that fried foods can cause diarrhea.
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.
Cubed Meats or Cheese
A bite of meat or cheese won't make your pet sick, but skip serving them on toothpicks, which can cause severe and potentially fatal damage to pets' GI tracts if swallowed.
Between talking, watching the game and having drinks, it can be easy to lose track of your pet. So how do you make sure all paws are protected? That's simple - start with a game plan. If your dog is notorious for stealing food or counter surfing, the temptation of a Super Bowl spread may be too great. If that's the case, stow your scavenger in a quiet room away from the party, or seek alternative arrangements before hosting.
Of course, cheering your team and chowing down on treats is more fun when you let furry friends get in on the action. Go for the extra point by having pet-friendly snacks handy for hounds with hungry eyes. Better yet, go for two by preparing some safe, healthy pet treats! Remember to 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.
Finally, be sure to have your vet's number handy in case your pet sneaks a snack of something he shouldn't. Depending on the size of your dog and the goods he gobbled, you may need to seek treatment to prevent serious sickness.
Make a plan for your pets and put safety first this Sunday and the only threat you need to worry about on game day will come from the opposing team!