Happy Thanksgiving.. But Stuff your Turkey and not your Dog.

Dogs relish the festivities just as much as humans, with various morsels falling to the floor and delicious aromas filling the house. However, Thanksgiving should not be a free-for-all for them. Just because we indulge ourselves doesn't mean our dogs should too. There are specific items that your dog should definitely steer clear of.

“Veterinarians experience an increased number of office calls due to digestive problems after the holidays because humans invite their animals to celebrate with high fat meals (ham, gravy, turkey skin), chocolates, bones, etc.,” warns Casandria Smith, L.A. Animal Services Chief Veterinarian, in a PetFinder article.

Here are some tips that will help your dog get through Thanksgiving safely and with a smile on her snout:

Stuff Your Turkey, Not Your Dog

It is easy to want to give your dog a big fat bowl of turkey, mashed potatoes, and whatever else you think she might enjoy. But that is a bad idea. Overindulging in fatty foods can lead to an upset stomach, diarrhea, or a life-threatening condition called pancreatitis. A few strips of turkey on a dog’s normal food is fine, but do not overdo it, no matter how she may plead with her “I’m STARVING” eyes. Keep in mind that turkey skin can wreak havoc with a dog’s digestive system, so make sure she gets skinless, boneless turkey.

 It's crucial to be aware that many hidden ingredients in human food might unknowingly be given to our pets; such as onions, garlic, sage, raisins, walnuts, macadamia nuts, Xylitol  and overly rich foods, all of which can lead to anything from mild stomach issues to serious toxicity problems.

Give them exercise

A dog that has gone on a long walk or played fetch countless times is more likely to be exhausted during the feast than a dog that has stayed indoors all day. A well-exercised dog is a well-behaved dog on Thanksgiving. Ensure your pup gets ample exercise before the celebrations start.

Make No Bones About It

Cooked turkey bones present a serious danger to your dog. They are sharp and can be very harmful. You might not notice that your dog has a turkey bone lodged in its digestive system for several days. Do not leave plates with bones unattended. The same caution applies to the turkey carcass. Dogs are known to run off with the remains of a carved turkey. It can happen in an instant. Suddenly, you find both the turkey and the dog missing. Ideally, you find their hiding spot before any problems occur. If you can't dispose of everything right away, place plates where the dog cannot reach them.

Don’t Cry Over Onions

Onions are toxic to dogs. They can lead to a dangerous form of anemia that may not be detected for days. Make sure your dog stays away from the pearly whites, and yellows, and reds.

Don’t Give Him the Raw Deal

Unless your dog is already on a raw diet, we would not recommend plopping a piece of raw turkey in her bowl (the change from her regular food might cause an upset stomach). But more importantly, keep your pup away from the uncooked dough for bread or rolls. What helps make dough rise? Heat. If a dog eats raw dough, what is it like for the dough in the dog’s stomach? Warm. The dough rises in the dog’s stomach, and if the dog has eaten enough, the swollen dough can cause pain, vomiting, and bloating — conditions that can send you to the doggy ER on Thanksgiving.

Avoid Yappy Hour

Some dogs seem to enjoy alcoholic drinks. Walk away from your drink that is set on the coffee table, and Lulu may get lit. Dogs and booze are always a bad mix. Your dog may not do anything embarrassing she will regret in the morning, but she could become disoriented and quite ill. Too much alcohol can even lead to a coma, and death. Watch where you – and others – put their drinks, especially if you have a curious pup.

Advertisement

By following a few basic tips, your dog will enjoy a fun, safe holiday. Now if only you could avoid Aunt Edna’s gravy … Have a delicious and pawesome Thanksgiving!