Pet Friendly Thanksgiving Tips: Keeping Your Pets Safe and Happy. Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and delicious food. But as you prepare to indulge in your holiday feast, it’s important to remember that many Thanksgiving foods can pose serious risks to your pets. With a little planning, you can keep your furry friends safe and happy during the festivities.
Foods to Avoid Sharing with Pets
1. Turkey Bones and Skin While plain, cooked turkey meat is safe in moderation, turkey bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries. Turkey skin, especially if seasoned or fatty, can lead to digestive issues or pancreatitis.
2. Stuffing and Gravy Ingredients like onions, garlic, and herbs commonly found in stuffing and gravy are toxic to pets. Even small amounts can harm their red blood cells or upset their stomach.
3. Mashed Potatoes and Yams These may seem harmless, but if they’re loaded with butter, cream, or spices, they can cause digestive upset. Watch out for dishes topped with marshmallows, nuts, or raisins, which are dangerous for pets.
4. Desserts Chocolate, raisins, and artificial sweeteners like xylitol (found in some sugar-free pies and candies) are highly toxic to pets. Keep all desserts out of reach.
5. Alcohol and Caffeine These can cause serious health problems in pets, from seizures to respiratory issues. Always keep drinks out of your pet’s reach.
Safe Treats for Your Pets
You don’t have to leave your pets out of the celebration! Here are some pet-safe options:
- Cooked, Plain Turkey Meat: No skin, bones, or seasoning.
- Steamed Veggies: Carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes (plain) are healthy treats.
- Pet-Friendly Treats: I recommend trying pawTree’s all-natural treats. These are specially formulated for pets, free of harmful ingredients, and made in the USA. They’re perfect for giving your furry friend a taste of the holiday spirit without compromising their health!
Additional Tips for a Pet-Friendly Thanksgiving
- Set Boundaries: Create a safe, quiet space for your pets to retreat to if they feel overwhelmed by the holiday hustle. pawTree also carries a great line of anxiety supplements to help your pets stay calm and relaxed during the festivities.
- Secure the Trash: The smell of discarded food scraps can be irresistible, but they pose serious dangers if ingested.
- Educate Guests: Let friends and family know what’s safe to share with your pets—and what’s not.
- Monitor for Signs of Trouble: If your pet sneaks something they shouldn’t, watch for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite. Contact your vet immediately if you notice these signs.
Thanksgiving is about togetherness, and that includes our pets. By taking these precautions, you can ensure that everyone—two-legged and four-legged alike—has a happy and healthy holiday!