20 Oct A Safe and Happy Pet Thanksgiving Tips for Celebrating with Your Furry Friend
Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family gatherings, and, of course, indulgent feasts. While it’s tempting to share the bounty of this holiday with your furry friend, it’s important to prioritize their safety and well-being. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving for both you and your beloved pet
Nine Tips to Keep Your Pet Safe this Thanksgiving
1. Mind the Menu
Many Thanksgiving foods are not safe for pets. Keep these items out of your pet’s reach and make sure your guests are aware of the rules:
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- Turkey bones: These can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries.
- Onions, garlic, and chives: These ingredients are toxic to dogs and cats and can lead to serious health issues.
- Gravy and sauces: Rich gravies often contain ingredients harmful to pets, including onions and garlic.
- Stuffing: Garlic, onions, and certain spices in stuffing can be harmful to pets.
- Chocolate, nuts, and raisins: These common holiday snacks are toxic to dogs.
- Alcohol: Ensure alcoholic beverages are kept far away from your pet.
2. Prepare a Pet-Friendly Meal
Consider preparing a separate, pet-friendly meal for your furry friend to enjoy while you and your guests dine. Cooked, plain turkey meat (without bones, skin, or seasoning) and plain sweet potatoes or pumpkin can make a delicious, safe treat for your pet.
3. Be Cautious with Table Scraps
Kindly ask your guests not to feed your pet table scraps, no matter how much they beg with those puppy dog eyes. Remind them of the potential dangers of certain foods.
4. Secure the Trash
Dispose of leftovers and food scraps promptly and securely. Dogs, in particular, are known to raid the trash can when tantalizing food odors tempt them.
5. Create a Safe Space
If you’re hosting a big gathering, consider creating a quiet, comfortable space for your pet to retreat to if they become overwhelmed by guests or the commotion. Provide them with their favorite toys and bedding.
6. Avoid Decorative Hazards
Thanksgiving often involves festive decorations. Keep decorations like candles, tablecloths, and centerpiece ornaments out of your pet’s reach to prevent accidents or ingestion.
7. Watch the Door
With guests coming and going, it’s easy for pets to slip out unnoticed. Make sure your pet has proper identification and consider using a baby gate or keeping them in a secure room when people are entering or leaving.
8. Plan for a Walk
After the meal, take your dog for a relaxing walk to burn off excess energy and prevent them from scavenging for scraps when no one is looking.
9. Be Prepared for Emergencies
Keep the number of your veterinarian and an emergency pet clinic handy in case of accidents or unexpected health issues.
Dog and Cat Dentist in Colorado Springs
Thanksgiving is a time for joy and celebration, and you can include your furry friend in the festivities with a little planning and care. By prioritizing their safety, avoiding harmful foods, and creating a pet-friendly environment, you can ensure that both you and your pet have a wonderful and worry-free Thanksgiving together. Enjoy the holiday, and give thanks for the love and companionship of your four-legged family member! And don’t forget, your pet needs routine dental care to stay happy and healthy. If your dog or cat is due for their annual oral exam and cleaning, contact Animal Dental Care & Oral Surgery to schedule an appointment.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (10/20/2023). Photo by Oliver on Unsplash