Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of summer here in Lyman. From backyard cookouts and lake trips to time spent outdoors with friends and family, it’s a weekend many of us look forward to all year long.
But while the holiday weekend is exciting for people, it can sometimes bring unexpected risks for pets too. Summer can bring an increase in preventable pet emergencies, which is why a little preparation can go a long way in helping your pets stay safe and comfortable.
Watch the Cookout Food
Holiday cookouts are full of tempting smells for pets, but many popular barbecue foods can cause serious stomach upset or even become dangerous.
Cooked bones, fatty meats, onions, chocolate desserts, grapes, alcohol, and greasy table scraps should all stay out of reach. Even pets with “iron stomachs” can end up sick after eating rich foods.
If you’re hosting family or friends, it’s also helpful to remind guests not to feed pets under the table — even when those puppy eyes are extra convincing.
Keep Pets Safe Around the Grill
Grills, skewers, grease drippings, and hot surfaces can all become hazards during outdoor gatherings. Curious pets are naturally drawn toward food and activity, especially when everyone is outside together.
Creating a safe space away from the grill area can help prevent burns, injuries, or accidental ingestion of dangerous items.
Be Careful in the South Carolina Heat
By Memorial Day, temperatures around Lyman and the Upstate are already beginning to climb. Heat exhaustion and heatstroke can happen quickly, especially for senior pets, flat-faced breeds, overweight pets, and dogs with thick coats.
Make sure your pets always have access to fresh water and shade, and avoid extended outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day.
Signs of overheating can include:
- Excessive panting
- Drooling
- Weakness
- Vomiting
- Bright red gums
- Collapse
If your pet seems overheated, move them to a cool area and contact your veterinarian right away.
And as always, never leave pets in parked vehicles — even for a few minutes.
Fireworks Can Be Stressful for Pets
Fireworks and loud holiday celebrations can be frightening for many pets. Even normally calm animals may become anxious, hide, or try to escape when startled by loud noises.
During fireworks, keep pets indoors in a calm, quiet environment and make sure collars, ID tags, and microchip information are all up to date.
Every summer, many lost pets go missing after fireworks displays, so taking a few extra precautions can make a big difference.
Don’t Forget Summer Preventative Care
Memorial Day weekend also marks the beginning of peak flea, tick, and mosquito season in South Carolina. Staying current on heartworm prevention and parasite control helps protect your pets from serious illnesses throughout the summer months.
If your pet is due for a wellness exam, prevention refill, or routine care, now is a great time to schedule before summer gets fully underway.
Trust Your Instincts
You know your pet better than anyone. If something seems unusual — whether it’s vomiting after a cookout, acting lethargic, or simply not behaving normally — trust your instincts and give us a call.
At Lyman Vet, we’re always happy to answer questions and help you decide when your pet should be seen.
Keeping Lyman Pets Safe This Summer
At Lyman Vet, we’re proud to care for the pets and families who make our community feel like home. Whether you need help with summer safety, preventative care, anxiety management, or unexpected concerns, our team is here for you every step of the way.
We hope you and your pets enjoy a safe, relaxing, and happy Memorial Day weekend together.