Have fun outdoors with your pup, but be aware of potential dangers

Ah, summer. Time for you and your dog to spend more time outside. Who knew the potential dangers that lie in wait for Fido in your own backyard?

Here are some things to keep in mind when hanging out with your pup outside:

Some dogs love to chew on mulch or sticks. When wood is chewed, it breaks into sharp pieces that can become lodged anywhere from his gums to his intestines. Larger pieces can cause an obstruction in his stomach or intestines that may have to be surgically removed.

If you compost yard waste, keep Fido away from the compost pile. Decomposing organic matter can sometimes grow mold that is extremely toxic if ingested by dogs, cats or other wildlife. Even small amounts can cause muscle tremors and convulsions.

If your dog loves to hang out with you in the garden, pay attention to what he may be snacking on. Ripe tomatoes pose little threat, but unripe fruit (and stems and leaves) contain solanine that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, weakness and uncoordinated movements.

Onions and garlic can cause damage to Fido's red blood cells. Grapes eaten from the vine can cause kidney failure. And although the rhubarb has long since been harvested, the leaves (if eaten by people or pets) can cause kidney failure.

Mushrooms may pop up in the lawn or garden, or you might encounter them while hiking in the woods. Many mushrooms pose no threat to pets, but some can be very toxic. It is difficult to tell the difference between safe and unsafe mushrooms.

If you think your dog has eaten a wild mushroom, contact your veterinarian or pet poison control as soon as possible. Toxic mushrooms can cause vomiting, diarrhea, neurological symptoms and liver failure.

Many people use fertilizers in summer containers, flower or vegetable gardens, and on the lawn. Some also use herbicides or pesticides to control diseases, insect infestations and weeds. Whether the chemicals employed are organic or synthetic, they can pose a danger to your pets. Always check the ingredients on the package, apply as directed, and follow all safety warnings.

It's fine to take Fido along to the neighbor's barbecue as long as you keep an eye on what he eats. Corn on the cob is not toxic, but poses a choking hazard and, just like wood pieces, can become lodged in the stomach or intestines and necessitate surgical removal.

The same applies to bones. Enjoy those barbecued ribs, but throw the bones away. When dogs chew on bones, they can splinter and cause damage anywhere along the digestive tract. They can also break teeth.

When it comes to food, keep in mind that raisins in fruit salad are extremely toxic to dogs. Most people already know dogs are not allowed to partake in chocolate desserts. Also, keep dogs away from unattended glasses of beer, wine or other drinks with alcohol. Even a small amount can cause vomiting, diarrhea and breathing difficulties.

If you think your dog has ingested anything that might be toxic, contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline at (800) 213-6680 immediately. Prompt and appropriate action is necessary. This sometimes includes inducing vomiting, but in other instances, vomiting should not be forced and alternative care is required.

Summer is a great time to spend outdoors with your dog. Just be aware of his actions while you're playing fetch or tug of war, or just hanging out together in the sunshine.

• Diana Stoll is the Practice Manager at Red Barn Animal Hospital with locations in Hampshire, (847) 683-4788, and Gilberts, (847) 426-1000. Visit redbarnpetvet.com/.