With holidays right around the corner, it’s important to think about how you can celebrate with your dog while also keeping them safe. This is why we’ve put together a few Thanksgiving safety tips for your dog. The last thing you want during the holidays is to take a trip to the vet.
What’s Safe for Dogs?
The holidays are usually a time where we are tempted to over indulge. While you are reveling in the holiday spirit, you may be tempted to indulge your dog as well. It’s alright to give them a little bit extra, but it’s imperative that you give them foods that will not harm them. Take a look below at what is safe for your dog to consume.
Fruits and Veggies
There are many fruits and vegetables associated with this time of year. There are a lot of things you can give your dog but there are also some things you should keep them away from.
Apples and pumpkin can be a great treat for your dog to enjoy. Apples have a lot of vitamin A and C and are also a great source of fiber. Just remember that the seeds of an apple can be toxic to dogs, so make sure any apple you give them is separated from the core first. Likewise, pumpkin has a lot of fiber and regulates your dog’s digestive tract. Again, just be sure to separate the seeds from any pumpkin you give them. Also make sure you only give them pumpkin that has not been spiced or sweetened.
Peas and green beans are also a great treat for your dog. You will just want to be sure there is nothing added to these veggies. Any creams, butter or salt can upset your dog’s stomach.
Turkey
Obviously, if you’re treating your dog to some holiday treats, you’ll want to give them some turkey too. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that! You just have to make certain that the turkey you do give them is only meat. You shouldn’t give them the fatty skin from a turkey, and bones can actually be a dangerous choking hazard. Poultry bones have a tendency to break and turn to sharp shards that can cause your dog’s digestive tract problems.
Dessert
While you are finishing up dinner and heading to dessert, you might be tempted to give some to your dog as well. It isn’t advisable to give your dog any kind of cakes or other human desserts. Anything with sugar added should be avoided. What you can do though is purchase a dessert specifically made for dogs. Many pet shops and even some grocery stores sell treats that are safe for your dog to eat. If you can’t find a treat for your dog, feel free to give them some frozen yogurt. It is a great post meat treat that also has probiotics for a healthy belly.
Thanksgiving Safety Tips for Your Dog
Here are some things you should avoid giving your dog this Thanksgiving:
- Stuffing
- Creamed veggies
- Chocolate, cookies or pies
- Raisins or grapes
- Onions or garlic
- Foods that are highly spiced
The above foods are unsafe for your dog to consume. Some foods like sweets or creamed green beans may just give your dog an upset stomach. But foods like onions, grapes or chocolate can get your dog in trouble very quickly if consumed.
This probably goes without saying, but your dog should also not be any alcohol. Most people are smart enough to not give this to their pets, but your dog may find their way to alcohol if a guest simply puts their drink down on the wrong table.
While enjoying your time with friends and family, be sure to keep your eye on the garbage too. Dogs have a magnificent nose and they will certainly find their way to the tastiest leftovers even if they are in the trash. If your dog gets into the trash, who knows what they’ll find. It’s best to keep the trash closed when not in use.
Lastly, you should keep an eye on your decor. There are many ways to decorate your home for the season. Candles, pinecones and floral arrangements set the mood of the season, but these can be dangerous if your dog is unsupervised around them. Be sure to keep these decorations out of reach of your dog, or at the very least you should supervise them while decorations are out.
With a little bit of planning and forethought, you and your dog can enjoy the very best of the holiday season together.