5 Ways to Keep Your Dog Out of the ER This Thanksgiving
- Avoid Feeding Foods Containing Onions, Garlic, or Seasonings.
- Keep Turkey Bones and Fatty Skin Away from Your Dog.
- Skip the Sweets, Especially Anything with Chocolate or Xylitol.
- Offer Safe Alternatives Like Plain Turkey or Sweet Potatoes.
- Supervise Trash and Table Scraps to Prevent Sneaky Snacking.
"5 Ways to Keep Your Dog Out of the ER This Thanksgiving"
Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones, enjoy a feast, and reflect on everything we’re grateful for—including our dogs. But while you’re indulging in turkey and all the trimmings, your furry friend might be eyeing the table for a feast of their own. Unfortunately, not everything we enjoy during Thanksgiving is safe for dogs. To ensure your pet doesn’t spend the holiday in the emergency room, here are five essential tips to keep them happy and healthy.
1. Avoid Feeding Foods Containing Onions, Garlic, or Seasonings.
Many popular Thanksgiving dishes, like stuffing and gravy, are loaded with onions, garlic, or rich seasonings. These ingredients are toxic to dogs and can cause serious issues like anemia. Even a small amount can be harmful, so it’s best to keep these completely off-limits.
2. Keep Turkey Bones and Fatty Skin Away from Your Dog.
While plain turkey meat can be a healthy treat, turkey bones are a choking hazard and can splinter, causing internal damage. The skin, along with drippings or gravy, is high in fat and can lead to pancreatitis—a painful and potentially life-threatening condition.
3. Skip the Sweets, Especially Anything with Chocolate or Xylitol.
Desserts might be a highlight for humans, but they’re a big no for dogs. Chocolate is toxic, and even small amounts can cause vomiting, tremors, or worse. Xylitol, a common artificial sweetener in sugar-free treats, is extremely dangerous and can lead to a sudden drop in blood sugar or liver failure.
4. Offer Safe Alternatives Like Plain Turkey or Sweet Potatoes.
If you want your dog to feel included, stick to plain, unseasoned options. A small piece of turkey meat, plain sweet potatoes, or steamed green beans can be a tasty and safe treat that won’t upset their stomach.
5. Supervise Trash and Table Scraps to Prevent Sneaky Snacking.
Dogs are opportunists when it comes to food, and the trash or an unattended plate can be an irresistible temptation. Make sure trash is securely stored, and remind guests not to leave plates within paw’s reach.
Thanksgiving is all about sharing, but it’s important to draw the line when it comes to foods that could harm your dog. By being mindful of what you’re serving and where leftovers are going, you can keep your furry friend safe and happy this holiday season. After all, nothing ruins Thanksgiving faster than an emergency trip to the vet.
Bonus: 5 Pet-Friendly Thanksgiving Foods
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Plain Turkey: Fully cooked, unseasoned turkey meat (without skin or bones) is a lean and healthy treat.
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Sweet Potatoes: Cooked and plain, these are packed with vitamins and safe for dogs to enjoy in moderation.
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Green Beans: Steamed or boiled without any seasoning, they’re a crunchy, low-calorie option.
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Pumpkin: Plain canned pumpkin (not pie filling) can be great for digestion and a tasty holiday treat.
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Apples: Sliced apples without seeds or cores make a fresh, dog-friendly snack.
When offering these foods, always stick to small portions and avoid any seasoning or additives. A little goes a long way in keeping your dog feeling part of the celebration while staying healthy.
