Essential Thanksgiving Safety Guidelines for Pet Owners
The cozy holiday season is here, and with Thanksgiving just around the corner, we’re excited about sharing special moments with family and friends. Our furry companions are important members of our lives, and making sure they stay safe and healthy during the festivities is a big priority. In this blog, we’ll go through some important Thanksgiving safety tips to make sure your four-legged friends have a great holiday, just like you.
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 being together. By following these safety tips, you can make sure your pet joins in the celebrations without risking their health. 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 both humans and pets)! If you have any worries about your pet’s health during the holidays, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to assist you!