Ummm…the smell of pumpkin pie baking fills the air throughout your home. The table is set, the turkey is resting, and the guests are arriving. Thanksgiving is that traditional time of year filled with lots of great foods, family, friends, and football fun. But for our pets, it can also be a hazardous time of year.
Here are a few simple tips to help you pet-proof your holiday and still allow Fido to be included in all the festivities:
Turkey Talk: Turkey meat in itself is a great treat option to offer your dog. However, fatty foods like the skin of the turkey an gravy are too rich for Fido’s stomach are are difficult to digest. These foods may cause your dog’s pancreas to become inflamed, resulting in pancreatitis, a very serious disease. Also, avoid giving cooked or uncooked bones as they can splinter.
Bread Dough: I’m first in line for fresh bread and rolls, they are indeed scrumptious! But don’t leave the dough rising on the counter within reach of your pet. When raw dough is ingested, the yeast continues to convert to sugar. As it expands, your pet may experience a drunken state, bloating and severe abdominal pain which may become life-threatening and require surgery.
Side Dishes: Often many side dishes contain sage, onions and garlic which are toxic to pets. Best to not offer your pet any sides as treats.
So, what can I feed Fido? We’ve got some great suggestions here for you.
For ap-pawtizers, offer a few baby carrots or sliced apple pieces with a small amount of peanut butter. Dinner can be made with a few pieces of cooked, cooled turkey meat mixed with mashed sweet potato and topped off with green beans. We recommend the following servings: small dogs should be given 3/4 cup, medium dogs may have 1- 1/2 cups and for larger breeds, they can enjoy up to 3 cups. On the dessert menu, try combining a small amount of pumpkin puree with non-fat plain yogurt. Freeze overnight or serve immediately.
A little splurge this Thanksgiving holiday is fine but don’t allow your pet to overindulge. Remember to keep an eye on your pet around table decorations and open trash containers. Avoid putting chocolates and nuts on tables within their reach, plastic wraps and foil laying around and also keep a watchful eye on those guests who may be inclined to sneaking your pet a treat.
If you suspect your pet has eaten something that he or she shouldn’t have, contact your vet, your emergency clinic or the ASPCA Poison Control hotline immediately at 888-426-4435.
We hope you have a fun, safe and Happy Thanksgiving!
Camano Pet Sitters Blog 