Pet Poison Prevention: Holiday Foods and Decorations to Avoid
Festive gatherings, yummy food, friends and loved ones—what is not to like about Thanksgiving? While this should be a time of year we all enjoy together, Western Veterinary Center, Medical, & Surgical Center wants our pet-loving friends to remember that holiday pet hazards are real. Make sure your holiday pet safety is on point this Thanksgiving.
Holiday Food Follies
Not everything is meant for sharing, even during the holiday season. Many traditional Thanksgiving foods can lead to upset tummies or worse. Pancreatitis in pets and toxicities are possible when we don’t pay attention.
Thanksgiving food for pets to avoid include:
- Actual bones, especially small sharp turkey bones or those that have been cooked
- High fat foods like bacon, ham, or poultry skin
- Very rich sauces and butter
- Baked goods or candies that contain the artificial sweetener xylitol
- Stuffing or baked goods that contain grapes or raisins
- Anything containing chocolate
- Raw doughs
- Large amounts of onion or garlic
Dangerous ingestions occur by accident. If you are hosting guests, be sure to keep glasses of alcoholic drinks out of the reach of curious pets. Also, ask them not to share with pets even if they’re begging.
Lock up purses and coats so that pets don’t find things like cigarettes, medications, sugar-free gum, or inhalers to get into trouble with.
Other Holiday Pet Hazards
Food is certainly the top concern when it comes to holiday pet safety, but other Thanksgiving pet hazards should be on your radar as well. Don’t forget:
- Candles and Decorations — Lit candles or hot wax melts and liquid potpourri can easily be knocked over by curious pets, which can lead to burns or fires. Keep these items out of reach, and consider using flameless candles for safety. Additionally, be cautious with decorative items like ribbons, strings, or small ornaments that pets might chew or swallow.
- Trash and Food Scraps — Pets are often tempted to dig through the trash for leftovers, especially when it is full of good smells. Ensure that your trash is secure and out of reach.
- Guests and Doors — When guests are coming and going, doors may be left open, giving pets an opportunity to escape. Make sure your pets have proper identification like microchips or collars with tags just in case they get out. If your pet is easily stressed by noise or unfamiliar people, consider setting up a quiet space where they can retreat during the festivities.
Making Your Thanksgiving Pet Friendly
It’s not Thanksgiving without your loved ones, and that includes your pets!
When sharing in holiday festivities, choose fun activities and treats that are safe to include your pet in. Don’t forget to consider any diagnosed health conditions that may affect your choices.
Pet-friendly Thanksgiving ideas to celebrate with your pet might include:
- Baking some special festive treats like cranberry cheese dog biscuits or turkey and sweet potato meatballs
- Sharing a small portion of pumpkin puree with your dog or cat
- Sharing some veggies sans butter, oil, or bacon
- Throwing around the football with your pet in the backyard
- Taking a stroll and enjoy the autumn sights
- Visiting family or friends with your pet if they enjoy outings
- Raking a pile of leaves to play in
Holiday pet safety requires a little extra effort, but by taking some time you can avoid Thanksgiving pet hazards and be sure all have a good time. Contact us if you have questions or concerns. We wish you and your entire family a safe and happy holiday season.