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Keep Your Dogs and Cats Safe this Thanksgiving

November 15, 2014
Thanksgiving is just around the corner—are you prepared to keep your pet safe and happy this holiday while including them in the festivities? Below, a veterinarian in Canal Winchester tells you how to avoid any potential turkey-day hazards and keep everyone in the family happy.

Limit Table Scraps

A lot of fatty, buttery, or salty table scraps aren’t good for pets, and too much of any food that a pet doesn’t normally eat can cause an upset stomach or vomiting. Give your pet their own dog or cat food during the Thanksgiving meal. If you must offer a bit of what’s on your table, stick to fully-cooked white meat or a small dab of plain mashed potatoes.

Beware of Toxic Foods

Various foods on your Thanksgiving table may actually prove toxic to pets: onions, garlic, chives, grapes, raisins, avocado, chocolate, and candy can all produce poisonous effects in our furry companions. Also beware of alcoholic beverages; alcohol affects pets the same way it affects us, except that it only takes small amounts to do serious damage. Never leave drinks unattended.

Don’t Offer Bones

It might be tempting to give your furry friend a turkey bone to munch on, but it’s best to reconsider. Cooked or uncooked bones can break apart, creating chunks that could be choked on or splinters that can pierce a pet’s throat or intestines. Offer a safe chew toy instead of bones.

Watch the Garbage

Your holiday garbage bag is a treasure trove of dangerous materials for pets. Foil or plastic wrap with fatty substances, coffee grounds, toxic foods, bones, and more are just waiting to ruin your holiday. Make sure your pet can’t get anywhere near the garbage bag, because most pets can easily rip open the flimsy plastic material. If necessary, put the bag inside a plastic or metal container to keep it secure.

Create a Stress-Free Zone

Are guests coming over to your place for the Thanksgiving meal? For some pets, the hustle and bustle involved can be quite stressful. Set up a safe haven of sorts in a back room: include a pet bed, some soft blankets, and a few toys. Lead your pet to this area if you see them appearing agitated or overwhelmed. Want even more helpful holiday tips? Call your veterinary clinic Canal Winchester for more Thanksgiving safety advice.