8 Thanksgiving Safety Tips for Your Pet

Thanksgiving is a time of celebration and gathering, but it’s important to keep in mind that some of the holiday festivities can pose risks to your dogs and cats. 

This post reviews some Thanksgiving safety tips to ensure your pets have a safe and enjoyable holiday.

Ensure Food Safety

Avoid giving your pets table scraps, especially rich, fatty, or seasoned foods. Foods like turkey skin, gravy, and stuffing can upset their stomachs and potentially cause pancreatitis.

• Bones: Cooked turkey bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries. Keep bones out of reach
• Chocolate and sweets: Chocolate, xylitol (found in many sugar-free foods), and other sweets can be toxic to pets. Keep desserts and candies away from them
• Onions and garlic: These common ingredients can be toxic to pets and lead to gastrointestinal distress or more serious health issues
• Raisins and grapes: These can be toxic to pets and cause kidney failure

Adhere to Table Etiquette

Securely dispose of food scraps and trash to prevent pets from rummaging through and potentially ingesting harmful substances.

Offer Pet-Friendly Treats

If you want to include your pets in the holiday meal, offer them pet-safe treats or a small amount of unseasoned, cooked meat.

Provide Stress Management

With the increased activity and visitors, your pets might feel stressed. Create a quiet, safe space for them to retreat to if they need a break from the commotion.

Get Safe Decorations and Plants

Some common holiday plants, like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly, can be toxic to pets if ingested. Be sure to keep the harmful plants and decorations out of your pet’s reach.

Keep Alcohol Away

Never give alcohol to pets. In severe cases, alcohol can cause intoxication, respiratory distress, and even coma or death.

Get Proper Pet Identification

With the door frequently opening for visitors, ensure your pets are securely indoors and have proper identification (collar with tags and microchip) in case they manage to escape.

Avoid Stressful Situations

Introduce your pets to guests gradually, especially if your pet is anxious around new people. Don’t allow your visitors to bring their own pets unless you know yours will handle the new addition well. 

Visit Our Fulton County Animal Hospital for Your Pet’s Health

We know you love your pets and want them to enjoy Thanksgiving with you and your family. Taking these precautions helps your furry friends stay safe and healthy during the Thanksgiving celebrations.

Remember to always pay attention to your pet’s behavior, and if you’re unsure about anything, feel free to contact our Alpharetta veterinarian team. Happy Thanksgiving!