Turkey, stuffing, green bean casserole, pumpkin pie…your mouth waters simply thinking about Thanksgiving. And although it’s a day to give thanks, your pets won’t be any too grateful if they end up at the vet’s office due to a holiday emergency.
Follow these simple tips:
Keep the table scraps to a minimum.
If you want to spoil Fido with some plain sweet potatoes or a small piece of fully cooked, de-boned turkey, do so sparingly. Do NOT give your pet anything made with onion, spices, grapes, or raisins, as these will make them very sick. It’s best to keep your pet on his or her regular diet, but small portions of pet-friendly table scraps shouldn’t hurt.
Pass on the wishbone.
Wishbones and any other bones from your feast should not be given to your pets. These bones are brittle and can easily splinter and tear your pet’s digestive tract.
Offer a safe space.
If you’re having lots of family and friends over this Thanksgiving, make sure your pet has a quiet, safe space he or she can go to if overwhelmed. This space could be a bedroom, den, or any other room that won’t be occupied and where your pet will feel safe.
Watch your exits.
With all the hustle and bustle the holidays can bring, it can be easy for your pet to slip out the door during a big family gathering. Always make sure your doors and windows are latched, and, to help ensure your pet makes it home in case he/she does escape, make sure your pet is wearing an ID tag and/or is microchipped.
Thanksgiving is a time to be thankful. Follow these tips, and you and your pet will both have a day to be grateful for.
Source: ARL – Animal Rescue League of Iowa, Inc. 2018 – https://www.arl-iowa.org/