1. Mind the Menu – While it’s tempting to treat your pet to some Thanksgiving delights, not all human foods are safe for them. Avoid sharing the following foods with your pets:
Bones: Cooked bones can splinter and pose a choking hazard or cause severe internal injuries.
Onions and Garlic: These ingredients, common in holiday dishes, can be toxic to pets.
Fatty Foods: Rich, fatty foods can lead to pancreatitis in pets.
Chocolate and Grapes: These are toxic to both dogs and cats.
Alcohol: Keep alcoholic beverages out of reach. Even small amounts can be harmful.
2. Safe Treats Only – If you want to give your pet a special treat on Thanksgiving, stick to pet-friendly options. Consider preparing some pet-safe snacks in advance to have on hand.
3. Secure the Trash – The Thanksgiving feast generates a lot of delicious but potentially hazardous leftovers. Ensure your trash is securely sealed to prevent your curious pet from digging in and consuming something harmful.
4. Create a Safe Space – During the excitement of holiday gatherings, some pets may feel overwhelmed. If your pet is easily stressed or anxious, consider setting up a quiet, safe space where they can retreat when needed.
5. No Table Scraps – Teach your guests to resist feeding your pet scraps from the table. While it’s hard to resist those puppy-dog eyes, it’s essential to maintain a consistent and healthy diet.
6. Decorate with Care – Holiday decorations can be enticing to pets, but many of them can be dangerous if ingested. Keep ornaments, tinsel, and electrical cords out of reach.
7. Watch the Door – With guests coming and going, there’s a risk of your pet slipping out the door unnoticed. Make sure your pet is correctly identified with a collar and updated microchip.
8. Emergency Numbers – As a responsible pet owner, it’s a good idea to have your veterinarian’s contact information and the number for an emergency veterinary clinic readily available in case of unexpected incidents.
Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and togetherness. By following these safety tips, you can ensure that your pet is a part of the celebrations without compromising their health and well-being. From our veterinary family to yours, we wish you and your furry friends a safe, happy, and healthy Thanksgiving filled with love, laughter, and delicious food (for humans and pets)! If you have any concerns about your pet’s health or well-being during the holidays, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help!