A Feast for Man & Beast
As we gather around the Thanksgiving table, savoring the delicious aromas and flavors of the season, it’s only natural to want to share the joy with our furry companions. It’s important to keep our pets’ safety in mind. Here’s some tips to make sure your pets enjoy a Thanksgiving feast that’s as safe as it is delicious.
Turkey Talk:
While turkey is a Thanksgiving staple, it’s essential to prepare it with your pets in mind. Avoid giving them the turkey bones, as they can splinter and cause serious internal injuries. Also, refrain from seasoning the meat with garlic, onions, or other spices that can be harmful to pets. If you want to share the joy of turkey with your pet, offer them a small, boneless, and well-cooked portion. Raw meat is not recommended to be fed to pets.
Sensible Sides:
Mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, and green beans often find their way to the Thanksgiving table. While these can be safe for pets in moderation, be cautious about added ingredients like butter, sour cream, or marshmallows. Stick to plain, cooked vegetables without additional seasonings to keep your pets’ tummies happy.
Hold the Dessert:
As tempting as it may be to share your pumpkin pie or other sweet treats with your pet, it’s best to resist the urge. Many desserts contain ingredients like chocolate, xylitol, or spices that can be harmful to animals. Instead, treat your pet to a small amount of plain, canned pumpkin—just make sure it’s not the sugary pie filling.
Say No to Onions and Garlic:
These aromatic additions to many Thanksgiving dishes can be toxic to pets, causing damage to their red blood cells and severe anemia. Keep stuffing and other dishes containing onions and garlic out of reach, and make sure your guests are aware not to share these with your pets.
Be Wary of Nuts:
Nuts, a common ingredient in stuffing and desserts, can be a choking hazard for pets. Some nuts, like macadamia nuts, are also toxic to dogs. Keep dishes containing nuts well out of reach, and remind guests not to share nut-filled snacks with your furry friends.
Mindful of Portions:
While it’s a joy to include your pets in the Thanksgiving festivities, be mindful of portion sizes. Too much rich or unfamiliar food can lead to upset stomachs, diarrhea, bloat, or even more severe health issues. Stick to small, pet-friendly portions to avoid any post-feast regrets.
By being mindful of what foods are pet-friendly and keeping tempting but harmful treats out of reach, you can create a Thanksgiving feast that includes every member of the family, furry ones included.