Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and delicious food—but for dog owners, it also comes with potential risks for their furry family members. Follow these essential safety tips to ensure your dog enjoys Thanksgiving as much as you do!
1. Keep Unsafe Foods Out of Paw’s Reach
Not all Thanksgiving dishes are dog-friendly. Here’s a breakdown of common Thanksgiving foods and their impact on your pup’s health:
- Turkey: Plain, cooked turkey (without skin, bones, or seasoning) is safe in moderation. However, cooked turkey bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries.
- Stuffing and Gravy: Many recipes contain onions, garlic, and spices, which are toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or even anemia.
- Mashed Potatoes: Plain potatoes are fine, but mashed potatoes often contain butter, cream, or garlic, which aren’t ideal for dogs.
- Desserts: Chocolate and artificial sweeteners like xylitol (found in some sugar-free desserts) are highly toxic to dogs. Even pumpkin pie might contain nutmeg, which can be harmful.
💡 Fact: Onions, garlic, and related vegetables contain thiosulfate, a compound that can damage red blood cells in dogs, leading to hemolytic anemia.
2. Avoid Overfeeding Treats
It’s tempting to share table scraps, but too much rich or fatty food can lead to pancreatitis, a painful and potentially life-threatening condition. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lethargy.
Tip: Offer safe alternatives like plain, unseasoned green beans, a small piece of plain turkey, or specially made dog treats.
3. Beware of Decorations and Candles
Thanksgiving decorations like cornucopias, floral arrangements, and candles can pose risks:
- Toxic Plants: Flowers such as lilies, chrysanthemums, and some varieties of daisies can be harmful if ingested.
Candles: Curious dogs can easily knock over lit candles, leading to burns or house fires.
4. Provide a Calm Space
Thanksgiving gatherings can be overwhelming for dogs. Create a quiet, comfortable space where your dog can retreat if they feel stressed or overstimulated. Signs of stress in dogs include:
- Panting or pacing
- Hiding or trying to escape
- Excessive barking
5. Dispose of Leftovers Properly
Make sure trash bins are secure. Dogs are naturally curious and may rummage for bones, food scraps, or packaging that could cause choking or intestinal blockages.
💡 Fact: A study published in Veterinary Science found that ingestion of foreign objects like food wrappers increases significantly during holiday seasons, leading to a rise in emergency vet visits.
6. Watch for Holiday Hazards
- Alcohol: Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and tremors in dogs.
Raw Dough: Yeast in raw dough can expand in a dog’s stomach, causing painful bloating or alcohol poisoning from fermentation.
7. Plan Ahead for Emergencies
Despite your best efforts, accidents can happen. Keep your veterinarian’s contact information and the number for a 24/7 emergency animal clinic handy.
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Hotline: 1-888-426-4435
Final Thoughts
Thanksgiving is a special time, and with some precautions, it can be safe and enjoyable for everyone—including your furry companions. Share the love (and maybe a small piece of turkey), but remember to prioritize your pup’s safety and well-being.
Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving! 🦃🐾
Author: Bougie Dogwear
At Bougie Dogwear, we’re passionate about creating stylish, handcrafted accessories that let your pup shine. Inspired by our three beloved dogs—Tilly, Chewie, and Doc—we share stories, tips, and dog fashion inspiration to celebrate the bond between pets and their people.