Thanksgiving is one of our favorite holidays, and let’s be honest, your dog thinks so too. All those smells, all those people, all those plates within reach. But a lot of classic holiday foods can make dogs very sick. Here is a quick guide to keep your pup happy and safe.
Keep these off your dog’s plate
- Cooked turkey bones. They can splinter and cause choking or serious injury inside.
- Turkey skin, gravy and fatty drippings. Rich, fatty foods can trigger stomach upset and pancreatitis.
- Onions, garlic, leeks and chives. These are toxic to dogs, and they hide in stuffing, casseroles and gravy.
- Grapes and raisins. Even small amounts can be dangerous.
- Chocolate and many desserts. Chocolate is toxic, and many baked goods contain xylitol, a sweetener that is extremely dangerous for dogs.
- Raw bread or yeast dough. It can expand in the stomach.
- Alcohol. Keep drinks off low tables.
Treats they can enjoy
Want your pup to feel included? A few small bites are usually fine:
- Plain, cooked turkey breast with no skin, bones or seasoning
- Plain cooked green beans
- Plain cooked sweet potato, with no butter or marshmallows
- A spoonful of plain canned pumpkin, not pie filling
Keep portions small, and ask your veterinarian if your dog has a sensitive stomach or special diet.
A few holiday house rules
- Tell guests, especially kids, not to feed the dog from the table.
- Secure the trash can. Turkey carcasses are irresistible.
- Give your dog a quiet room if the house gets loud or crowded.
- Watch the front door. Guests coming and going make it easy for a pup to slip out.
Signs your dog may have eaten something bad
Know what to watch for in the hours after a big meal:
- Vomiting or diarrhea, especially repeated
- Drooling, pacing or restlessness
- A tight or swollen belly
- Lethargy or hiding
- Shaking, stumbling or seizures
If you notice any of these, don’t wait it out.
If your dog eats something risky
Call your veterinarian or an emergency vet right away. You can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (a fee may apply). Don’t wait for symptoms.
Plan ahead for a calm holiday
Write your veterinarian’s number and the nearest emergency animal hospital on a sticky note by the fridge before Thanksgiving Day. Many regular clinics close for the holiday, and the last thing you want is to be searching for an open emergency vet while your pup is sick. A few minutes now can save precious time later.
Traveling for the holiday?
If your plans take you out of town, Frankie’s is a home away from home for your dog. Our guests enjoy kennel-free days in the house with friends and sleep in kennels at night. Every new pup starts with a free 20 to 30 minute meet-and-greet so they feel at home before their first stay. Holiday dates go fast, so request your stay or call (361) 400-9141 soon.
What is your dog’s favorite (safe) holiday treat? Tell us in the comments.
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