With Thanksgiving just around the corner, it's essential to remember that not all the delicious dishes we enjoy are safe for our furry friends. While it's tempting to share the joy of the holiday feast with your dog, some foods can be harmful to them. Here's a guide to help you navigate the Thanksgiving table without putting your pup at risk.
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- Turkey Bones: While a small amount of plain, boneless turkey meat is generally safe for dogs, cooked bones can splinter and pose choking hazards, punctures or blockages. DO NOT give your dog turkey bones!
- Onions and Garlic: These aromatic ingredients are often present in stuffing, gravies, and side dishes. Onions and garlic, in any form (raw, cooked, or powdered), can damage a dog's red blood cells and lead to anemia. Keep these ingredients away from your pup's plate and out of reach.
- Fatty Foods: Rich and fatty foods, like turkey skin, can cause pancreatitis in dogs. Other items such as butter, bacon, fatty meat drippings, gravies and meat scraps can also be of concern. Pancreatitis is very serious and can be painful and require immediate veterinary attention. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and abdominal pain. Onset can also be delayed up to 4 days. Stick to lean cuts of meat if you want to share a bit of turkey with your furry friend.
- Bread Dough: Unbaked bread dough can be hazardous to dogs. The yeast in the dough produces ethanol, which can cause alcohol poisoning. Ensure that rising dough is out of reach for your pup.
- Nuts: Many holiday dishes feature nuts, but some varieties, like macadamia nuts, can be extremly toxic to dogs. Additionally, the high-fat content in nuts can lead to digestive issues, pancreatitis or mobility issues.
- Grapes and Raisins: These seemingly harmless fruits can cause acute kidney failure in dogs, even in small amounts. Keep dishes containing grapes or raisins well out of reach.
- Chocolate: With desserts abundant during Thanksgiving, be vigilant about keeping chocolate treats away from your dog. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and can lead to various health issues.
- Desserts with Xylitol: Xylitol, a sugar substitute, is often found in sugar-free desserts. It can cause a rapid release of insulin in dogs, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), seizures, and even liver failure.
- Holiday Decorations: These added decorations can be a new temptation for dogs. Keep plants and candles/decorations out of reach. Plants can be poisonous, while candles and other decorations can cause blockages.
Remember, moderation is key, and it's always best to consult with your veterinarian if you're unsure about whether a particular food is safe for your dog. By being mindful of what your pup consumes, you can ensure they have a safe and happy Thanksgiving celebration alongside the family.
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