Thanksgiving is a special time for families, loved ones, and friends. But don’t forget your furry friend just because you are busy preparing delicious food and minding your guests. You must be aware of all of the Thanksgiving food and safety hazards for your pet. You may even be wondering can dogs even eat turkey? So before roasting and basting the bird and preparing the stuffing, be sure to keep these Thanksgiving dog safety tips in mind:
1. Keep Away Raw Meat
For your pooch’s safety, keep all raw meat in places that they can’t reach. If your dog has a crate or a playpen, it’s better to keep your pup in there. Raw meat contains dangerous bacteria, such as salmonella, which are hazardous to their health, as well as yours. Keeping them away from raw meat prevents them from eating it and possibly becoming contaminated.
2. Don’t Feed your Dog Side Dishes
Even cooked Thanksgiving side dishes are not recommended for pet consumption. The fat and ingredients in dishes are not good for your pooch. These could lead to diarrhea or indigestion. Instead, keep dog treats in hand to give just so he will feel part of the festivities. You can also positive reinforcement your pup’s good behaviors with the treats. Be aware when using alternative sweeteners such as Xylitol and chocolate, as these are both toxic to dogs.
3. But Can Dogs Eat Turkey?
Turkey is not toxic to dogs. Turkey is high in nutrients that are good for dog, such as protein, riboflavin, and phosphorus. However, our Thanksgiving turkeys are usually basted and roasted with lots of butter, oil, seasonings, and herbs. All of these excess ingredients on the turkey can upset your pooch’s stomach and even cause pancreatitis.
If you do want to feed your dog turkey this holiday, be sure to remove all the excess butter, oil, seasonings, and herbs by removing the skin. Also, be sure that there are no bones, onions, or pieces of garlic in the turkey that you give to your dog. Onions and garlic can both be toxic to dogs. So, is turkey safe for dogs to consume? Only if you follow these guidelines. However, if your dog has any underlying health issues, such as diabetes, be sure to speak with your veterinarian first.
4. Have a Quiet and Secure Place for your Dog
With all the festivities, the smell of food, and guests coming in and out of the house, anxiety can step in at any time. Even numerous ringing of the doorbell can lead to dog stress. So make sure that your dog has his own space where it’s quiet and secure, such as his crate or playpen. And because of the people coming in and out, it is best to keep his dog tag on in case he gets out of the house unnoticed. This Thanksgiving dog tip is also applicable when it’s you who’s visiting friends or relatives.
5. Exercise your Pup Beforehand
One way to take the Thanksgiving dog blues away is to take your pet for a walk. This will help tire him out and calm him down. Make sure to bring some treats. A little quality time and exercise goes a long way in keeping those holiday anxieties at bay.
6. Avoid Candles as Decorations
Another Thanksgiving dog safety concern during the holidays is decorations, especially candles. If you traditionally light candles during Thanksgiving, make sure they aren’t on tables that can easily be knocked down by your pet or children. Candles are fire accidents waiting to happen, so skip them this year and use other ambient lighting for the effect you want. Safety first.
A little planning for your best friend’s benefit will ensure that Thanksgiving remains a happy holiday. Keep in mind that you are responsible for your pup’s best interest. The biggest Thanksgiving dog safety question is always – Can dogs eat turkey? In short, yes, only if you follow the precautions outlined above. Remember, all of the other delicious holiday treats are for people, not for dogs. If you have any further questions about food safety, we recommend speaking with your veterinarian. Have a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving for both you and your pet!
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