Thanksgiving is one of our country’s most beloved holidays. After all, what’s not to love about gathering with friends and family over a big, delicious meal? While we enjoy our Thanksgiving feasts, though, it’s easy for our four-legged friends to get their noses into trouble. Here are some tips for keeping your pet safe and healthy this Thanksgiving.
Watch the table scraps. It’s tempting to slip your dog or cat a bite of turkey under the table, but many Thanksgiving staples can cause serious problems for pets. Turkey skin, gravy, and other fatty foods can trigger pancreatitis, a painful and sometimes serious inflammation of the pancreas. Bones, especially cooked poultry bones, can splinter and cause choking or internal injury. If you’d like to share a small taste of turkey with your pet, stick to plain, boneless, skinless meat in moderation.
Keep toxic ingredients out of reach. Many common Thanksgiving ingredients are toxic to pets, including onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and certain nuts like macadamia nuts. Keep an eye on stuffing, casseroles, and desserts that may contain these ingredients, and make sure counters and tables are cleared before guests arrive so curious pets can’t help themselves.
Be mindful of alcohol and sweets. If your Thanksgiving gathering includes wine, beer, or cocktails, keep drinks out of paw’s reach, as alcohol can be dangerous even in small amounts. Sugar-free desserts and gum containing xylitol are also extremely toxic to dogs, so be especially cautious with anything sweet on the dessert table.
Give your pet a quiet retreat. Thanksgiving gatherings often mean more noise, more people, and more chaos than your pet is used to. Consider setting up a quiet room away from the festivities where your pet can relax if they become overwhelmed by the extra guests and activity.
Watch the door. With guests coming and going throughout the day, doors are opened and closed more often than usual, which increases the risk of a pet slipping outside unnoticed. Make sure your pet is wearing a properly fitted collar with current identification, and consider microchipping for extra peace of mind if they ever do get out.
Know when to call the vet. If your pet manages to get into something they shouldn’t have, whether it’s a toxic food or a large amount of fatty table scraps, don’t wait to see if symptoms develop. Call San Juan Veterinary Hospital at (505) 326-2205 right away so we can advise you on the best next steps.
With a little extra planning, your pet can enjoy the holiday alongside the rest of the family safely. Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at San Juan Veterinary Hospital!