Keep your pup safe during your mountain adventures and backyard barbecues. Summer in Colorado is perfect for spending time outside with your dog; whether you’re hiking alpine trails, paddleboarding on a lake, or enjoying a backyard BBQ.  But with all that sunshine and freedom comes a surprising number of hidden hazards that can seriously harm your furry friend.

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🥾 1. Wild Mushrooms

After summer rains, mushrooms can pop up everywhere! From city parks to high elevation

hiking trails. While some are harmless, others (like Amanita species) are highly toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, seizures, liver failure, or death.

What to do:

• Keep your dog leashed in wooded or grassy areas

• Don’t let them sniff or chew unknown plants or fungi

• If they eat an unknown or possibly toxic mushroom, call your veterinarian immediately

 

🌊 2. Blue-Green Algae

Many Colorado lakes and ponds develop harmful algal blooms during the hot summer months.  Just a few sips of contaminated water can be deadly for dogs. 

Watch for:

• Bright green or blue scum on the water surface

• Foul or musty smells

• Dogs vomiting, drooling, or showing tremors after swimming

What to do:

Avoid letting your dog swim in or drink from stagnant or discolored water, and always rinse them off after a swim.

 

🍬 3. Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener)

Xylitol is found in sugar-free gum, mints, peanut butter, and even some baked goods. It’s

extremely toxic to dogs and can cause low blood sugar, seizures, and liver failure within hours.

What to do:

• Keep all snacks sealed and stored out of reach.

• Never give your dog human food unless you know it’s safe.

• Double-check peanut butter labels before using it as a treat.

 

🍖 4. BBQ Bones & Greasy Scraps

Cooked bones from ribs, chicken, or steak can splinter and get stuck in your dog’s throat or

digestive tract. Fatty table scraps can trigger pancreatitis, a painful and dangerous condition.

What to do:

• Ask guests not to feed your dog during gatherings.

• Keep trash bins secured with lids or baby locks.

• Stick to dog-friendly treats only.

 

🌽 5. Corn on the Cob

Plain corn kernels are generally safe in moderation, but the cob is a big no-no. Dogs often chew quickly or swallow large pieces, and corn cobs can block the intestines or cause choking.  They’re tough, not digestible, and often require emergency surgery to remove.

Watch for symptoms of ingestion:

• Vomiting

• Lethargy

• Abdominal pain

• No bowel movement

• Whining or restlessness

What to do:

• Never give corn on the cob to your dog

• Dispose of used cobs right away in a dog-proof trash bin

• If you want to share, give a few plain corn kernels; no butter, salt, or seasoning

 

🌾 5. Foxtails & Grass Seeds

Foxtails are sharp, barbed grass awns that can burrow into your dog’s skin, ears, nose, or paws; sometimes requiring surgery to remove.

What to do:

• Avoid overgrown fields with dry grasses

• After hikes, inspect your dog’s ears, paws, and coat

• Keep fur trimmed short in high-risk areas

 

🧪 6. Rodent Poison & Lawn Chemicals

During summer pest season, many people use rat bait and herbicides in their yards. Dogs can be poisoned by eating treated grass, drinking runoff, or even catching a poisoned mouse.

What to do:

• Avoid treated lawns for at least 48 hours after application.

• Store chemicals in locked areas.

• Use pet-safe pest and lawn products when possible.

 

💦 7. Dehydration & Salt Poisoning

Hot hikes and long days in the sun can quickly lead to dehydration. And if your dog sneaks salty snacks or drinks from salty puddles or runoff, they could suffer from salt poisoning—causing confusion, seizures, or worse.

What to do:

• Always bring plenty of fresh water for your dog

• Offer water frequently and rest in the shade

• Avoid salty treats and trail mix while out with your pup

 

If your dog ingests something suspicious or shows signs of distress, don’t wait! 

Call your veterinarian or a poison hotline:

• ASPCA Animal Poison Control: 888-426-4435

• Pet Poison Helpline: 855-764-7661

 

Time can make all the difference in an emergency.

 

Colorado summers are full of adventure, but they also require a little extra caution for our

four-legged friends. By being aware of these common ingestion dangers, you can keep your

pup happy, healthy, and ready to enjoy every trail, lake, and backyard BBQ right by your side. 

 

Stay safe, pack smart, and give your dog extra belly rubs for being such a good adventure buddy. 🐶

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