CVRC is Open 24/7/365 for Emergency Care

Labor Day weekend is a time for barbecues, pool parties, fireworks, and fun with family and friends. But while we celebrate the end of summer, this holiday can pose serious dangers for pets. Each year, veterinary emergency hospitals see a spike in pet visits during Labor Day due to common, but preventable, hazards.

At CVRC, we want you and your pets to enjoy a safe and stress-free holiday. Here are the top Labor Day dangers to watch out for and what to do if trouble strikes.

1. BBQ & Picnic Food Hazards

Labor Day cookouts often feature foods that are toxic or dangerous for pets:

• Bones → Can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries.

• Onions, garlic, and chives → Can damage red blood cells, leading to anemia.

• Grapes, raisins, and certain fruits → Can cause kidney failure in dogs.

• Alcohol → Even small amounts are toxic and potentially deadly.

• Greasy, fatty meats → Can trigger pancreatitis, a painful and potentially life-threatening condition.

Tip: Keep food and drinks out of reach and remind guests not to feed your pets without asking.

2. Heatstroke & Dehydration

Labor Day often comes with high temperatures, and pets are more prone to heat exhaustion than humans. Signs of heatstroke include:

• Excessive panting or drooling

• Lethargy or weakness

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Collapse or unresponsiveness

Prevention:

• Provide fresh water and shade at all times.

• Never leave pets in a parked car, even with the windows cracked.

• Limit outdoor exercise during the hottest parts of the day.

3. Fireworks & Loud Noises

Fireworks and other loud noises can cause severe stress and anxiety for many pets. Signs of fear may include shaking, hiding, pacing, drooling, barking, or trying to escape.

How to help your pet stay calm:

• Keep pets indoors in a safe, quiet space

• Use calming tools such as white noise, pheromone sprays, or blankets

• Talk to your veterinarian ahead of time about medications or supplements that may help your pet relax

• Make sure your pet’s ID tags and microchip information are up to date, just in case

4. Water Safety for Pets

Pool parties and lake trips are common on Labor Day, but not all pets are natural swimmers and water can present hidden dangers.

• Always supervise pets near water.

• Use a pet life jacket if boating or swimming.

• Rinse off chlorine or lake water to avoid skin irritation.

• Do not let pets drink pool, pond, or lake water, as it may contain harmful chemicals, bacteria, or algae that can make them sick

5. Trash & Leftover Dangers

After the party, curious pets may dig into trash bags full of skewers, corn cobs, and spoiled food - all potential choking and poisoning hazards.

Solution: Dispose of trash in sealed containers and keep them out of reach.

We’re Here for You 24/7/365

Despite your best efforts, accidents can happen. If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, overheated, or suffered an injury, time is critical.

Our team of experienced emergency veterinarians and support staff is available 24/7/365, even on holidays, to provide immediate care when your pet needs it most.

You can view the forms in PDF format by downloading the free Adobe Acrobat reader.

DOWNLOAD OUR LABOR DAY HAZARDS PDF