Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and gathering around the table. And if you're a pet owner, you know your four-legged family members are usually right in the middle of it all! While it's tempting to share a little holiday goodness with our pets, Thanksgiving can present some unexpected hazards.
Between tempting food, visiting guests, and a house full of activity, a little preparation can go a long way toward keeping your pets happy and healthy. Here are some things every pet parent should keep in mind before the holiday festivities begin.
1. Watch Out for Thanksgiving Foods
Those puppy-dog eyes can be hard to resist, especially when everyone is enjoying a delicious Thanksgiving meal. Unfortunately, many traditional holiday foods aren't safe for pets.
Some foods to keep away from your pets include:
Turkey bones and skin: Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or serious intestinal injuries. Turkey skin is also high in fat and can contribute to digestive upset or pancreatitis.
Stuffing and gravy: Often contain onions, garlic, butter, and other ingredients that can be harmful to pets.
Onions and garlic: These ingredients can damage red blood cells in both dogs and cats.
Grapes and raisins: Even small amounts can cause serious kidney problems in dogs.
Chocolate and desserts: Chocolate can be toxic, while sugar-free desserts containing xylitol are especially dangerous.
Alcohol and yeast dough: Both can cause serious health complications.
The safest option? Keep your pet's holiday treats separate from the dinner table.
2. Be Careful with Table Scraps
We know it's tempting to share a little something from your plate, but rich, fatty foods can upset your pet's digestive system. Even a small amount of unfamiliar food can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or more serious problems.
If you'd like your pet to enjoy a little Thanksgiving treat, stick with small portions of plain, cooked, boneless, skinless turkey with no seasoning. Plain pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) or a little plain sweet potato can also be appropriate for many pets.
Remember, treats should always be given in moderation!
3. Keep an Eye on the Kitchen and Trash
Thanksgiving kitchens are busy places, and curious pets can easily get into trouble when food is being prepared.
Turkey packaging, cooking twine, skewers, aluminum foil, and discarded food scraps can all become tempting hazards. Make sure trash cans are secure and food is kept out of reach.
Pay special attention to turkey carcasses and leftovers. A quick trip into the trash can turn a happy holiday into an unexpected veterinary emergency.
4. Give Your Pet a Break from the Holiday Crowd
Not every pet enjoys a house full of visitors. Extra noise, unfamiliar faces, children, and constant activity can be overwhelming, even for normally social pets.
Give your pet a quiet, comfortable place where they can retreat if they need a break. Make sure guests understand not to disturb pets who are resting or hiding.
If your pet is nervous around visitors, consider keeping them in a separate room with fresh water, familiar bedding, and a favorite toy.
5. Watch the Doors!
With guests arriving and leaving throughout the day, it's easy for a pet to slip outside unnoticed.
Before the festivities begin, make sure your pet's identification tags are current and their microchip information is up to date.
Remind visitors to watch for pets near exterior doors, especially when carrying food, gifts, or other items in and out of the house.
A little extra awareness can prevent a holiday escape!
6. Know When to Call Your Veterinarian
Even with the best preparation, accidents can happen. If your pet gets into something they shouldn't, don't wait for symptoms to appear.
Contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary hospital for guidance. Some foods and household items can cause serious problems even when your pet initially seems perfectly fine.
If your pet ingests a potentially toxic substance, you can also contact:
ASPCA Animal Poison Control: 888-426-4435
Pet Poison Helpline: 855-764-7661
Fees may apply to poison-control consultations. Never induce vomiting or give home remedies unless directed by a veterinary professional.
A Little Preparation Makes for a Happier Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving should be a time to enjoy family, friends, and all the things we're thankful for—including our pets!
With a little planning, you can make sure your four-legged family members enjoy the holiday without an unexpected trip to the veterinarian.
From all of us at Atlantic East Animal Clinic, we wish you and your furry family members a safe, happy, and wonderful Thanksgiving!
Happy Thanksgiving!