Thanksgiving Food Safety: Keeping Your Pup Safe at the Feast

Thanksgiving is a time for friends, family, and a delicious feast. As pet parents, it's only natural to want to share the joy with your furry family members. However, while your dog may be a cherished part of the holiday gathering, not all Thanksgiving dishes are safe for them. In this blog post, we'll discuss the food safety precautions pet parents should take this Thanksgiving and highlight a few traditional Thanksgiving foods that dogs cannot eat and some they could enjoy in moderation.

Food Safety Precautions:

1. Beware of Bones: It's tempting to share turkey bones with your pup, but it's a big no-no. Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking, gastrointestinal blockages, or even puncture your dog's intestines. Dispose of bones safely to prevent any accidents.

2. Skip the Skin and Fat: Turkey skin and fatty drippings may lead to pancreatitis in dogs, a painful and dangerous condition. Opt for lean, well-cooked turkey meat without any seasoning, and avoid using butter or oils.

3. No Onions and Garlic: Onions and garlic, whether raw or cooked, can be toxic to dogs. These ingredients can cause damage to your pet's red blood cells, leading to anemia. Avoid dishes seasoned with these ingredients, including stuffing and gravy.

4. Keep Desserts Out of Reach: Many Thanksgiving desserts, like pies and cakes, often contain xylitol (a sugar substitute) or chocolate, both of which are extremely toxic to dogs. Keep these sweet treats well away from your curious canine.

Thanksgiving Foods Your Dog Can Enjoy (in Moderation):

1. Plain, Cooked Turkey: As mentioned earlier, plain turkey meat is safe for dogs. Just make sure it's well-cooked and free of any seasoning or additives.

2. Mashed Potatoes: Plain mashed potatoes without butter, cream, or seasoning can be a dog-friendly treat. Remember, moderation is key.

3. Green Beans: Fresh, steamed, or blanched green beans are a healthy, low-calorie snack for dogs. Just avoid any green bean casserole laden with creamy, high-fat sauces.

4. Plain Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are a good source of fiber and vitamins for your pup. Serve them plain without butter, spices, or marshmallows.

5. Pumpkin: Plain, unsweetened canned pumpkin can be a nutritious and tasty addition to your dog's diet. It's great for digestive health.

Thanksgiving is a time to show gratitude, and part of that includes keeping your furry family members safe. By being mindful of the food safety precautions mentioned in this post and knowing which Thanksgiving foods are safe for dogs, you can ensure that both your human and canine guests have a wonderful and worry-free holiday. Remember, it's always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian if you're uncertain about what treats are safe for your specific dog. Happy Thanksgiving, pet parents, from all of us at Earth Doggy! 🦃🐾