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Thanksgiving is a cherished holiday, filled with good food, laughter, and family. But as we gather around the table, it’s important to remember our pets and their unique needs during this festive time. With a few careful steps, you can create a joyful and safe Thanksgiving environment for all including your furry friends. Let’s dive into some practical tips for celebrating Thanksgiving safely with your pets.
1. Watch What They Eat: Foods to Avoid
- Say No to Unsafe Foods: Many common Thanksgiving dishes can be harmful to pets. Avoid giving them foods containing onions, garlic, chocolate, nuts, and alcohol. Even small amounts of these can lead to health issues for your pet.
- Limit Rich and Fatty Foods: Rich foods, such as buttery mashed potatoes or gravy, may cause digestive upset or even pancreatitis in dogs and cats. If you want to share, stick to plain, skinless turkey in small amounts.
- No Bones Allowed: Cooked bones, especially turkey bones, are a choking hazard and can splinter, leading to serious injuries.
2. Prevent Overwhelming Situations for Your Pets
- Give Them a Quiet Space: Thanksgiving can be noisy with guests and lively conversations, which may stress out pets. Set up a quiet area with their bed, toys, and water so they have a retreat to relax in when things get busy.
- Consider Pet Anxiety Products: If your pet gets anxious around strangers or loud noises, consider a calming vest or pheromone sprays to reduce stress.
3. Communicate Pet Rules with Guests
- Keep Guests Informed: Not everyone knows what’s safe or off-limits for pets. Politely inform guests about foods to avoid sharing with pets, and ask them to follow any house rules regarding your furry family members.
- Door Safety: With people coming and going, doors are frequently opened, increasing the risk of your pet escaping. Try keeping pets in a secure area or assigning someone to help monitor entryways if they are curious or prone to wandering.
4. Secure Leftovers and Trash
- Dispose of Leftovers Properly: Food scraps like bones, string, and packaging are often scented with delicious smells and can tempt your pets to rummage through the trash. Use a secure garbage can and clear leftovers promptly to prevent potential accidents.
- Be Cautious with Desserts: Many desserts contain chocolate, artificial sweeteners (like xylitol), and other ingredients harmful to pets. Avoid sharing sweet treats, and keep them safely stored out of reach.
5. Offer Safe Treats and Activities
- Make a Pet-Safe Plate: Prepare a small, pet-friendly Thanksgiving plate with plain, cooked vegetables like green beans, carrots, or pumpkin (without added spices or sugar).
- Distract with Enrichment Toys: Keep pets occupied with puzzle feeders, chew toys, or a long-lasting treat, especially during meal times. This will allow them to enjoy the day in a fun and safe way.
6. Avoid Dangerous Decorations
- Watch for Hazardous Decor: Small decorations, scented candles, and floral arrangements may be harmful if chewed or swallowed by curious pets. Place decorations high out of reach, and opt for pet-safe options if available.
- Choose Battery-Free Items: Pets can accidentally chew on decorations with small batteries, which are toxic if ingested. Select decorations that don’t require batteries or have inaccessible compartments.
Final Words
With a bit of foresight, you can create a Thanksgiving that’s both enjoyable and safe for your pets. By planning meals, setting boundaries, and providing pet-friendly treats and spaces, you’ll ensure a joyful celebration for everyone in the family. Here’s to a warm, memorable, and pet-safe Thanksgiving!.
Kindly check with vet before giving these treats to pets
