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Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, food, and giving thanks but it’s also a time to show love to our furry friends who are always by our side. As pet owners, we want to include our pets in the holiday festivities, but we also need to make sure they’re safe and comfortable amid all the excitement. From special treats to keeping your pet calm during the hustle and bustle, there are plenty of ways to make Thanksgiving a memorable day for your pets as well.
Here’s how you can celebrate Thanksgiving with your pet, making sure it’s both joyful and safe for everyone.
1. Treat Your Pet to Thanksgiving-Inspired Goodies
Just like us, pets enjoy a little indulgence during the holiday season. While it’s tempting to share your Thanksgiving feast with your furry friend, it’s important to remember that not all foods are safe for pets. Instead, why not make some pet-friendly treats? Here are some ideas:
- Pumpkin Treats: Pumpkin is great for dogs in small amounts. You can make simple pumpkin treats by mixing canned pumpkin (without added spices or sugar) with oat flour and baking them into bite-sized cookies.
- Turkey and Sweet Potato Bites: If your dog loves turkey, try cooking some plain, unseasoned turkey breast and mix it with mashed sweet potatoes. Shape into small portions and bake. This is a healthy, pet-safe treat your dog will love.
- Catnip Turkey: For your feline friends, you can make a catnip turkey treat by mixing cooked turkey (without seasoning) with some catnip. Cats will love the combination of turkey and their favorite herb.
Remember to check with your vet before introducing new treats to ensure they’re suitable for your pet.
2. Create a Pet-Friendly Space During the Feast
Thanksgiving dinners can be loud, busy, and full of activity. For some pets, this might be overwhelming, especially if they’re not used to having a lot of people around. Creating a quiet, cozy space for your pet will help them feel safe and secure. Here’s what you can do:
- Set Up a Special Spot: Whether it’s a favorite blanket, crate, or bed, create a designated area where your pet can retreat to relax. This will give them a peaceful escape when things get too hectic.
- Keep Their Toys Nearby: Leave some of your pet’s favorite toys or chew items in their special space so they can stay entertained while the family enjoys the meal.
- Consider Calming Products: If your pet gets anxious with all the noise, you might want to consider calming aids like pheromone sprays, soothing music, or a cozy wrap that can help reduce stress.
Having a safe retreat will allow your pet to enjoy the holiday in their own way.
3. Watch Out for Toxic Foods and Dangerous Ingredients
While we love to share our meals, some common Thanksgiving foods can be dangerous for pets. Certain ingredients, such as garlic, onions, chocolate, and certain spices, can cause severe health issues. Make sure to keep these foods well out of your pet’s reach. Here are some specific foods to avoid:
- Onions & Garlic: Both onions and garlic are toxic to dogs and cats, even in small amounts. Be mindful when cooking, and never share dishes that contain them.
- Gravy & Sauces: Gravy is often rich in fat and can upset your pet’s stomach. It may also contain seasonings like garlic or onion powder, which are harmful to them.
- Bones: Cooked turkey bones can splinter and pose a choking hazard, or cause internal injuries if swallowed.
- Chocolate: A holiday favorite for us, but chocolate is toxic to both dogs and cats. Keep all chocolate desserts and treats well out of reach.
Instead of giving them table scraps, provide your pets with their own healthy, safe treats.
4. Include Your Pet in Family Time
Thanksgiving is about togetherness, and your pet is a part of the family too. Include them in the celebration in ways that make them feel special:
- Take Family Photos with Your Pet: Dress up your dog or cat in a cute holiday bandana or sweater and take a family photo with them. This can become a cherished memory for years to come.
- Give Them Extra Attention: Spend some quality time with your pet during the day. Whether it's a nice walk after dinner or playing with their favorite toy, they’ll appreciate the extra attention.
- Let Them Join in the Fun (Safely): If you’re having a game or watching a holiday movie, let your pet join in on the action by curling up next to you on the couch or playing alongside the kids.
Including your pet in the family festivities will show them that they are loved and cherished during this special time.
5. Keep Your Pet Active and Engaged
After a long Thanksgiving meal, both humans and pets can become sluggish. But instead of lounging on the couch all day, why not engage your pet with some fun activities? Here are some ideas:
- Take a Holiday Walk: A post-feast walk is a great way to get some fresh air and burn off some of those extra calories. Your dog will enjoy the exercise, and it’s a great way for the family to bond while taking care of your pet’s needs.
- Interactive Play: If the weather is bad or you’re stuck indoors, make sure to keep your pet entertained with interactive toys like puzzle feeders, fetch games, or laser pointers for cats.
Keeping your pet active and mentally stimulated will help them stay happy and healthy during the holiday.
6. Make Sure They’re Comfortable at Night
After a long day of excitement, your pet may be ready to wind down. Make sure they have a quiet place to sleep at night. You can even give them a special new bed or blanket for the occasion, so they have their own cozy spot to relax.
If your pet tends to get anxious in the evening, consider using calming music or a nightlight to help them feel secure.
Final Thoughts: Celebrate Safely and Creatively
Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate everything we’re thankful for and that includes our pets! By keeping them safe, comfortable, and involved, you can ensure that your furry friend has just as much fun as the rest of the family. With a little planning and some extra love, you can make this Thanksgiving a memorable, pet-friendly holiday.
Here’s to a happy, healthy, and safe Thanksgiving for you and your beloved pets!
