Thanksgiving Dos and Don’ts for Pets

The smells of Thanksgiving will be in many houses this Thursday, and people aren’t the only ones to find those savory scents irresistible. Pets are also looking to partake in the festive holiday feast, but many foods may not be the best idea to feed Fido. Follow these tips for keeping the holiday healthy and happy for everyone, including furry friends.

Foods for sharing

1. Cooked pumpkin and sweet potato – Seasonal squash is often included in many canned dog foods and dog biscuits. It’s nutritious and delicious! Just be sure not to serve it to your pet after you’ve made it into a pie.
2. Green beans – Green beans often substitute dry dog food to help overweight animals lose a few pounds. This nutrient-dense food can be a great treat for your pet, but  avoid giving them to your dog if you’re serving them with onions.
3. Skinless turkey – Lean protein is a favorite among animals and for good reason! Cats and dogs need protein and white meat from turkey is a wonderful treat for pets that is healthy and easy to digest.
4. Carrots, corn, and peas – These veggies are all safe for your pet to eat, but beware of butter. It can upset your pet’s stomach and lead to unpleasant messes in the house. Skip the greasy foods and if flavor is needed to make the meal better, substitute a small amount of low-sodium broth.

Foods to avoid

1. Bones – Brittle bones like chicken and turkey splinter easily in pets’ stomachs and can cause a whole host of problems in their intestinal tracts. Keep these far away from your pet’s reach.
2. Onions and garlic – Compounds in these foods damage your pet’s red blood cells, which can lead to anemia.
3. Grapes and raisins – Found in stuffings and desserts, many people do not realize that these sweet fruits are very harmful to the kidneys of cats and dogs and should be avoided entirely.
4. Xylitol – Used as a sugar substitute in baked goods and found in sugarless gum, xylitol is highly toxic to pets and should be kept far away from their foods.

Happy Thanksgiving!