Thanksgiving Safety for Dogs: What’s Safe to Share and What to Skip

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and, of course, delicious food. As we gather around the table, it’s natural to want to share the festivities with our beloved dogs.

However, not all Thanksgiving treats are safe for our furry companions. To ensure your dog enjoys a happy and healthy holiday, here are some tips for Thanksgiving safety and guidelines on which foods are dog-friendly.

Thanksgiving Foods That Are Safe for Dogs

While much of the Thanksgiving feast is off-limits for dogs, some items can be safely shared in moderation:

• Turkey (Plain and Cooked): Lean, skinless, and boneless turkey meat is a great source of protein for dogs. Avoid feeding them skin, bones, or turkey seasoned with onions, or heavy spices.
• Plain Vegetables: Cooked carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes (without butter, seasoning, or sugar) can make tasty and healthy treats.
• Mashed Pumpkin: Plain, unsweetened pumpkin is excellent for digestion and can be given in small amounts. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains sugar and spices that are harmful to dogs.
• Bone Broth: Adding a small amount of dog-safe bone broth (like Fido’s Simply Bone Broth) to their meal can enhance flavor and provide extra hydration and nutrients.

Foods to Avoid

Some traditional Thanksgiving dishes and ingredients can pose serious risks to dogs. Keep these off their plates:

• Turkey Skin and Bones: The fatty skin can lead to pancreatitis, and bones can splinter, causing choking or internal injuries.
• Stuffing and Gravy: Both often contain onions, and high amounts of salt, which are toxic to dogs.
• Desserts: Chocolate, raisins, grapes, and xylitol (a common sugar substitute) are highly toxic to dogs. Avoid sharing any desserts or baked goods.
• Alcohol and Caffeinated Beverages: Even small amounts of these can be life-threatening for pets.

Tips for a Safe and Happy Holiday

• Create a Dog-Friendly Plate: Prepare a small, balanced serving of safe Thanksgiving foods so your dog can feel included without risking their health.
• Stick to Their Routine: Holidays can be overwhelming for dogs with new people, smells, and noises. Keep their feeding and exercise schedule as normal as possible.
• Prevent Counter Surfing: Many dogs are tempted by the abundance of food on countertops. Keep food out of reach and use baby gates or closed doors to block access to the kitchen or dining area.
• Provide Distractions: Offer a chew toy or a lick mat spread with Fido’s Mobility Bone Broth to keep your dog entertained while the meal is prepared.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure your dog stays safe and feels like part of the celebration. Thanksgiving is about sharing love and joy, and with a little care, your dog can enjoy the holiday right alongside you.

Looking for a delicious, dog-safe addition to your Thanksgiving feast? Try Fido’s Simply Bone Broth, perfect for keeping your pup happy and hydrated this holiday season!

Sources:

American Veterinary Medical Association. (n.d.). Thanksgiving pet safety. Retrieved November 25, 2024, from https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/thanksgiving-pet-safety