Thanksgiving Pet Safety: A Guide to Keeping Your Furry Friends Happy and Healthy

While we are eagerly anticipating a delicious Thanksgiving feast with family and friends, it's essential to consider the well-being of our four-legged family members during this festive time. While it may be tempting to share your Thanksgiving food with your pets, it's crucial to be aware of the potential dangers that certain foods pose to them. In this guide, we'll explore tips for keeping your pets safe and stress-free during the Thanksgiving celebrations.

Mind Your Pet's Plate:

Thanksgiving dinner often involves rich and fatty foods that can be harmful to your pets. Avoid feeding them ham, gravy and turkey skin, as these can lead to issues like diarrhea and pancreatitis. Side dishes like stuffing and mashed potatoes may contain toxic ingredients for dogs and cats, such as garlic, onion, leeks, or chives. Additionally, desserts with chocolate, raisins, currants, and Xylitol should be kept out of reach. Ensure that bones and carcasses are properly disposed of to prevent life-threatening obstructions.

Pet-Friendly Foods:

While it's important to exercise caution and avoid sharing certain Thanksgiving foods with your pets, there are some pet-friendly options that can be incorporated into their meals. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your pet's diet. Here's a list of Thanksgiving foods that are generally considered safe for pets:

Remember to introduce new foods gradually and in moderation to monitor how your pet reacts. Always remove bones, skin, and excess fat from meats, and avoid seasonings, sauces, and additives that could be harmful to pets. If in doubt, consult with your veterinarian to ensure the safety of the food you plan to share with your furry friend.

No Cheers For Pets:

Keep alcoholic beverages away from your pets, and be cautious with unbaked yeast dough, as it can cause alcohol poisoning and severe bloating. Even if your pet doesn't consume the spiked punch, the ethanol released by yeast can be harmful.

Guests On a Diet:

Politely request that your Thanksgiving dinner guests refrain from feeding your pets leftovers. Multiple bites of greasy turkey and other rich foods can be detrimental to their health, so it's best to keep their diet consistent.

Supervise and Be Prepared:

Keep a watchful eye on your pets during the festivities, especially if they are not accustomed to large gatherings. If your pet does ingest something toxic, have essential numbers programmed into your phone, including your regular vet, emergency vet, and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Look out for symptoms of distress, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and sudden changes in behavior.

Pet Poison Helpline:

If you cannot reach a veterinary professional, you can call the ASPCA 24/7 Poison Control Hotline at 888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661. There are fees for the services, but it's well worth it.

Create a Safe Space:

The hustle and bustle of guests can be overwhelming for pets. Ensure your furry friends have a designated safe space, whether it's a crate or a quiet room, where they can retreat and relax. This is especially important for pets who may be anxious due to changes in routine.

Combat Travel Stress:

If you're traveling for Thanksgiving with your pet, take steps to make the journey as stress-free as possible. Familiarize your pet with their crate, bring along their favorite items, and consider using calming aids like pheromone sprays or Thunder Shirts. If necessary, consult your vet about prescription-strength medications for extreme anxiety.

This Thanksgiving, show your pets gratitude by prioritizing their safety and well-being. With a few precautions and thoughtful planning, you can ensure that your furry friends have a happy and stress-free holiday season alongside the rest of the family.

You may also like our blog on Harmony in the Household: 4 Ways to Help Cats and Dogs to Get Along.