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​Keeping pets safe for Thanksgiving

​Keeping pets safe for Thanksgiving

11 15 2023

Thanksgiving can be a joyous time for families, including our furry friends. To ensure a safe and happy holiday for you and your pets, consider the following tips

Avoid feeding pets table scraps
Avoid feeding your pets table scraps, especially bones, fatty foods, and foods with spices or seasonings. In particular turkey or turkey skin can cause a life-threatening condition in pets known as pancreatitis.

    Secure the Trash:
    Dispose of turkey bones and other food scraps ASAP. Tie it up and get it out into the bin!  Pets can be tempted to dig through the trash, leading to exposure to bones, food they should not eat and other potential hazards (ribbons, kitchen twine, etc.) 

    Watch the sweets:
    Keep desserts, especially those containing chocolate, raisins, even sugar free sweeteners and yeast doughs away from pets. These items are known pet toxins. 

    Safe Space During Gathering:
    If you're hosting guests, create a quiet and secure space for your pet to retreat. Loud noises and increased activity can stress some animals. Don't forget to check on them and see if they need food or water - its easy to get caught up in the hecticness of hosting. 


    My Zubin is like that - he will hide!

    Decorations Awareness:
    Be cautious with decorations, especially those that might be appealing to pets, such as candles, potpourri, ribbon, string or plants. Some festive items can be toxic if ingested or dangerous to play with.

    Beware of Bones:
    Never give your pets poultry or other bones, as they can splinter and cause choking or damage to the digestive tract.

    Avoid Alcohol Exposure: 
    Alcoholic beverages should be kept out of reach of pets. Even small amounts can be harmful, causing intoxication and potential organ damage.

    Check ID Tags and Microchips:
    With doors opening and closing more frequently during gatherings, make sure your pet's ID tags and microchip information are up-to-date in case they accidentally escape.

    Plants to Avoid:
    Let's just say Placido ate all the lilies out of an arrangement his first thanksgiving when he was 8 weeks old. It was not pleasant (he got into a closed room he was not supposed to be in). Just assume your holiday arrangement is a pet no no and keep it out of reach. (Unless maybe it's cat grass).

    Educate Guests: If you have guests, ensure they are aware of your pet's needs and any specific rules to follow to keep the environment safe for your furry friends. (i.e. "No the cats do not go outside")

For more detailed tips visit the AVMA: American Veterinary Medicine Association

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