Did you know Great Danes like tequila? I didn’t either.
I was getting ready to make myself a margarita the other day and poured out a shot of tequila while I got the mix ready, forgetting for the umpteenth time that I now own a dog capable of reaching the counters. Next thing I know, I hear lapping and lo and behold, there is a baby Great Dane lapping up my shot! I quickly took it away– she only got half.
But that was enough.
For the next fifteen minutes, Darla walked around in a bit of a daze, until she (very unsteadily) hopped up on the bed and passed out. Needless to say, when she woke up she was very thirsty.

Ever since we moved up to the DC area, I think I can count on one hand how many BBQs we’ve been to. Back home, a carne asada was mandatory as soon as it was warm enough (which in El Paso is the beginning of March), and either you, your family, or your friends would host one at least once a week.

With Memorial Day around the corner, no doubt many of you will be attending such gatherings, feasting on all sorts of goodies. And of course, either you will be welcomed to bring your furry child (and perhaps your human one, if you have any) or your hosts will be fellow slaves…excuse me, owners of the furry variety as well. But as we down our beers, our hamburgers and assorted BBQ must haves, we have to keep in mind that perhaps what is yummy in our tummies may not be the same for our pets.

For example, in college, I met a pup who loved beer. I’m not even kidding. We had to be careful at parties hosted by his owner because the dog was known for sniffing around and one unsuspecting victim later would be suffering the loss of their beer as the pup happily lapped up the overturned cup’s contents. While it might be laughable and, in some cases, cute, remember that even dogs and cats get hangovers.

And if you think you’ve got it tough, a doggie hangover is no laughing matter. Alcohol does not agree with us, so in animals its even worse.

It can result in coma or death. So remember, when it comes to Fido, say no to the juice. In Darla’s case, I’ll just watch where I put my tequila.

So what else can hurt my dog, you ask? I always give him/her a little hot dog or a bit of burger in celebration. Or, if you are anything like my father was, bones.
I am a big advocate on dogs will be dogs.
But one must also be cautious. Kids will be kids, but would you let a three year old play with Legos they can choke on?
Same rule applies. For more information on dos and don’ts for Memorial Day, click here and read up!

Everyone wants a fun and safe holiday…tails will wag, footballs will fly and many a hot dog will be sneaked away.
But just one…I think.