As we prepare for the most delicious (and gluttonous) day of the year, be mindful of your four-legged friend as well. Sometimes it’s not just the human that overindulges at the dinner table. Thanksgiving safety for your dog will prevent emergency pet visits as well as save you and your dog undue stress.
Yes And No Foods For Thanksgiving Dinner
You are a dog lover and want to spoil your pup with something special on Thanksgiving. Absolutely! But there are wrongs and rights on what your dog should be served:
Yes Please:
- Sweet Potatoes (plain)
- Potatoes (hold the butter and sour cream)
- Turkey (absolutely no bones or skin)
- Green Beans (plain, no spices)
- Apples (just not the seeds)
- Pumpkin (plain and not the pie mix)
Just Say No:
- Turkey bones and skin
- Stuffing, Casseroles, etc.
- Mashed Potatoes
- Yeast Dough
- Onions and garlic
- Chocolate, cookies, pies
Thanksgiving Safety To Doggy Proof The House
Before your guests arrive and you even start cooking in the kitchen, follow these Thanksgiving safety tips:
- Grab the baby gate and make sure your dog stays out of the kitchen
- Make sure that all food (appetizers, dinner and dessert) is kept up and out of the dog’s reach
- Clean up the leftovers and put them securely away in the refrigerator
- Lock down that garbage can and then immediately take out excess trash to prevent dumpster diving
Exercise & Stimulation
Taking your dog for a walk before the all the activities begin will help them relax when the whole family arrives. Boredom is the enemy of a well-behaved dog, so get out there and urn some calories early in the day.
As all your guests arrive and during the meal, it’s time to break out some stimulation for the dog. New toys and stuffies will hold their attention. In addition, a frozen Kong stuffed with pumpkin is a great babysitter that could keep your dog busy for hours.
Following the meal, the best thing for the dog mom and dog dad and Fido is to take a nice leisurely stroll around the neighborhood. Your dog will love this special treat way more than a piece of pumpkin pie.
The Thanksgiving Crowd
If you know your dog does not do well with a crowd or new people, designate a safe place for them to spend part of the day. Whether it’s the master bedroom with soothing music and a treat, or in the backyard chasing squirrels, make sure your pet is safe and doesn’t suffer any anxiety from the invasion of people.
Lastly, make sure you dog has proper identification on their dog collar as well as up to date micro-chip information. It’s all fun and games, until someone forgets to latch the gate or close the door all the way and the last thing you want on a joyous holiday is a dog escapee!
Thanksgiving Safety When You Hit The Road
If Thanksgiving brings you to travel with your dog, follow these safety tips:
- Always bring your dogs vet records in case of emergency
- Never leave your dog in your car unattended
- Dogs should always travel in a crate or restrained with a dog safety belt to prevent injury
- Pack extra food, toys, treats, leashes and dog beds so your dog will have all the comforts of home
