Celebrating Thanksgiving with Your Dog
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and yummy food. As you enjoy this holiday, it’s natural to want to share the joy and delicious food with your dog. However, not all Thanksgiving dishes are safe for your furry friend. But don’t worry! Your dog can still get a taste of the action (literally)! Let’s explore some safe Thanksgiving treats and what to avoid to ensure a happy and healthy Thanksgiving for your dog.
Safe Thanksgiving Treats for Dogs
- Turkey Breast: Plain turkey meat is a great source of protein for dogs. Make sure it’s well-cooked and free of any skin, fat, bones, or seasonings.
- Pumpkin: Plain pumpkin (not the pie filling) is a very healthy treat for dogs. It’s good for their digestive system and a great source of fiber, but remember to serve it in moderation!
- Sweet Potatoes: These are a healthy, vitamin-packed treat for dogs. Just make sure they are plain and cooked, with no added sugar or spices.
- Green Beans and Carrots: The perfect low-calorie treat! Serve them cooked or raw, without any butter or seasonings.
Thanksgiving Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Dog
- Onions and Garlic: These common seasonings are toxic to dogs, so avoid feeding them any food containing these ingredients.
- Cooked Bones: While it might be tempting to give your dog a turkey bone, cooked bones can splinter and cause serious internal harm or obstruction.
- Chocolate and Sweets: Chocolate is toxic to dogs, and sweets can lead to pancreatitis due to their high sugar and fat content. Also, be wary of xylitol, a common sweetener in baked goods, which is extremely dangerous for dogs.
- Alcohol: Even small amounts of alcohol, including those in desserts or sauces, can be toxic to dogs, so it’s best to avoid.
- Grapes and Raisins: While grapes and raisins are a perfect addition to your holiday charcuterie board, they can cause kidney failure in dogs. Keep your dog away from dishes containing these fruits.
Tips for a Dog-Safe Thanksgiving
- Portion Control: Even safe foods should be given in moderation to avoid gastrointestinal upset or obesity.
- Create a Dog-Friendly Plate: Set aside some plain turkey, pumpkin, and vegetables for your dog to enjoy while you are eating.
- Keep an Eye Out: With guests around, it’s easy for a dog to snatch up something they shouldn’t eat. Keep an eye on your pet and the dinner table. Make sure to inform any guests or children present not to give any table scraps to your dog!
- Have Emergency Info Handy: Know your vet’s holiday hours and save the number for a pet poison control center in case of an emergency.
Happy Thanksgiving!
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your dog has a fun and safe Thanksgiving. Remember, what’s a treat for us can sometimes be harmful to our furry friends, so do your research and talk to your vet to stay informed. Happy Thanksgiving!