Which Australia Day Foods Are Pet-Friendly?

Jan 21, 2025 | PRA Blog

The aroma of sizzling snags on the barbie, the clinking of cold drinks, and the sounds of backyard cricket—Australia Day celebrations are a classic tradition for many families, including their four-legged members. At Pet Resorts Australia, we understand the importance of protecting our furry friends during festivities. Celebrations can quickly turn into emergencies when pets consume the wrong foods. That’s why we’re passionate about prioritising our furry mates stay safe from potentially harmful foods that commonly appear at these gatherings. Let’s take a look at some of the most dangerous foods your pet might encounter during your Australia Day celebrations, and what you can offer them instead.

Hidden Dangers at Your Australia Day Barbie

Onions, Garlic, and Chives: The Sneaky Toxins

That classic combination of snags and onions might be an Aussie favourite, but it poses serious risks to our pets. These ingredients contain organosulfides, compounds that can cause severe damage to your pet’s red blood cells, potentially leading to anaemia. Be particularly mindful of dishes like gourmet sausages, hamburgers, and party dips that often contain these ingredients.

Grapes and Raisins: Seemingly Innocent but Dangerous

While adding grapes to your fruit platter or raisins to your pavlova might seem harmless, these fruits can cause severe kidney failure in pets. Though researchers haven’t identified the specific toxin responsible, the risk is real. Keep an eye on fruit salads, cheese platters with dried fruit, and seasonal baked goods that might contain these ingredients.

Chocolate: A Treat for Us, Not for Them

That Tim Tam slice or chocolate pavlova might be irresistible to both humans and pets, but chocolate contains theobromine, which can be lethal to our furry friends. Dark chocolate is particularly dangerous due to its higher concentration of this compound. Watch out for desserts, chocolate-based drinks, and even chocolate-covered fruits.

Macadamia Nuts: Our Native Nut, Their Nightmare

Despite being an Australian native, macadamia nuts can cause serious problems for pets, including weakness, tremors, and hyperthermia. These nuts often appear in party cookies, cakes, and premium nut mixes. Keep these treats well out of reach of curious paws.

Avocado: Not as Healthy for All

While smashed avo might be a staple at any Australian gathering, it contains persin, a compound toxic to birds and some larger animals. Be mindful of guacamole dips, sandwiches, and salads containing avocado, especially if you have multiple types of pets.

Alcohol: Keep the Drinks Human-Only

Your pet shouldn’t share in the Australia Day drinks, even accidentally. Animals process alcohol much faster than humans do, leading to dangerous drops in blood sugar, body temperature, and blood pressure. Watch out for unattended drinks, and be careful with desserts containing alcohol, like rum balls or brandy sauce.

Cooked Bones: A Recipe for Disaster

While your dog might eye those leftover lamb chop bones hopefully, cooked bones can splinter easily, potentially causing serious internal injuries. This is especially true for chicken and rib bones from the barbie. Instead, consider having some pet-safe treats on hand.

Corn Cobs: An Unexpected Hazard

Those corn cobs from your BBQ might seem harmless, but they can cause serious intestinal blockages if consumed by pets. While the corn itself isn’t toxic, the cob can create a life-threatening obstruction requiring emergency surgery.

Pet-Safe Australia Day Treats

While many traditional Aussie Day foods are off-limits for our furry friends, there are still plenty of delicious and safe options to include them in the festivities! Here are some ideas:

Lean Meats

Small pieces of cooked, lean meat like chicken, turkey, or lamb (without bones or fat) can be a tasty and safe treat. Remember to keep it plain – no marinades, sauces, or seasonings.

Fish

Flaked, cooked unmarinated fish (boneless) can be a healthy and enjoyable treat for your pet.

Prawns

A classic Aussie favourite! Prawns can be a safe treat in moderation, but ensure they are peeled and cooked thoroughly. Important: Be mindful of your dog’s food tolerances, as some pets can be allergic to seafood.

Eggs

Scrambled or boiled eggs (without added salt or butter) are a protein-packed treat.

Veggies (in moderation and plain)

  • Carrots: Raw or cooked carrot sticks can be a satisfying and crunchy snack, keep them unseasoned
  • Sweet Potato: Cooked sweet potato (without skin) is a good source of fibre and vitamins
  • Pumpkin: Cooked pumpkin (without skin) is a great source of fibre and can aid in digestion
  • Green Beans: Steamed or boiled green beans can be a healthy and low-calorie treat

Frozen Treats

Blend plain yoghurt with pet-safe fruits like bananas or blueberries for a refreshing and cooling treat on a hot Australia Day.

Celebrate Safely with Pet Resorts Australia

Having a ripper of an Australia Day shouldn’t mean compromising your pet’s safety. Worried about your pet around party food and crowds? Planning a massive backyard barbie? Or perhaps you’re heading away for the long weekend? Pet Resorts Australia has you covered for every situation. Our premium facilities offer both doggy daycare and dog boarding accommodation services, providing your mate with a safe haven away from party hazards – complete with our own Australia Day celebration and pet-safe treats! Book online for peace of mind this long weekend.

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Pet Resorts Australia

At Pet Resorts Australia, we are always here to assist you with any queries or concerns you may have about our pet accommodation services. Whether you’re ready to enrol your pet or just need more information, our team is eager to help.

Get in Touch with Us

Send an online enquiry through this website. Fill out an enquiry form, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

Visit Our Locations

Schedule a tour at your local resort, see our facilities, meet our team, and experience the environment your dog will enjoy.

 

Stay Connected

 Follow us on our social media to stay updated on news, events, and stories from our daycare centres.  Our sign up to our newsletter below

 

Connect with Pet Resorts Australia

At Pet Resorts Australia, we are always here to assist you with any queries or concerns you may have about our pet accommodation services. Whether you’re ready to book your pet in or just need more information, our team is eager to help.

Get in Touch with Us

Send an online enquiry through this website. Fill out an enquiry form, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

Visit Our Locations

Schedule a tour at your local resort, see our facilities, meet our team, and experience the environment your dog will enjoy.

 

Stay Connected

Follow us on our social media to stay updated on news, events, and stories from our daycare centres.  Our sign up to our newsletter below