Thanksgiving Foods: What’s Safe and What’s Not for Your Dog
As Thanksgiving approaches and we get ready to feast, it’s hard not to notice our furry friends watching us (or maybe more so our plates), hoping to score a bite. But not all human foods are safe for dogs. As pet owners, it’s crucial to be aware of what’s safe and what can potentially pose a health risk. That way, our four-legged family members can safely join in the festivities. Let’s explore what Thanksgiving foods are safe and which ones should be kept out of paw’s reach.
Safe Thanksgiving Foods
While it’s always best to stick to your dog’s regular diet, here are some Thanksgiving foods that are generally safe in moderation:
- Plain, cooked turkey (no bones or skin): Turkey is a lean protein that can be a healthy treat for dogs, but it must be fully cooked, unseasoned, and free of bones and skin, which can cause choking or digestive issues.
- Plain, cooked vegetables (green beans, carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin): These vegetables are rich in vitamins and fiber, making them a nutritious snack for dogs. However, they should be served plain, without any butter, oil, salt, or seasonings.
- Small amounts of plain, unseasoned mashed potatoes: While not particularly nutritious, a small amount of plain mashed potatoes (without milk, butter, or seasonings) is generally safe for dogs as an occasional treat.
- Cranberries: Plain, unsweetened cranberries can be a healthy treat for dogs in moderation, as they are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. However, cranberry sauce and other sweetened cranberry dishes should be avoided.
- Apple slices (without seeds or core): Apples are a good source of vitamin C and fiber for dogs, but the seeds and core should be removed, as they can be a choking hazard and contain harmful compounds.
Foods to Avoid
Some popular Thanksgiving dishes can be harmful to dogs. Here’s what to keep away from your pup:
- Turkey bones and skin: Bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries, while the skin is often high in fat and seasonings that can upset your dog’s stomach or cause pancreatitis.
- Stuffing and gravy: These dishes often contain onions, garlic, and other ingredients that are toxic to dogs, as well as high amounts of fat and salt that can cause digestive issues or pancreatitis.
- Desserts (especially chocolate and anything with xylitol): Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and can cause serious health problems. Xylitol, an artificial sweetener found in many sugar-free desserts, is also highly toxic to dogs and can cause rapid insulin release and liver failure.
- Alcohol: Alcohol consumption can cause severe health problems in dogs, including vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, coma, and even death.
- Bread dough: Raw bread dough can expand in a dog’s stomach, causing bloating and potentially dangerous complications. It can also ferment, producing alcohol that can lead to alcohol poisoning.
- Onions, garlic, and chives: These vegetables contain compounds that can damage a dog’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. They should be avoided in all forms, including raw, cooked, and powdered.
What to Do If Your Dog Eats Something Unsafe
If you suspect your dog has eaten something they shouldn’t have, stay calm and watch for these signs:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty breathing
Keep your vet’s contact information and the number for the nearest emergency animal hospital handy. If you’re concerned, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and contact a professional.
With a little planning and consideration, Thanksgiving can be a wonderful time for the entire family, including your dog. To create a safe and enjoyable holiday, inform your guests about which foods are safe for your pup and which ones should be avoided, maintain your dog’s normal routine as much as possible, and prepare some special, dog-friendly treats in advance. If your pup is prone to begging, consider feeding them their regular meal before the festivities begin. By taking these precautions and keeping your dog’s well-being in mind, you can create a happy, healthy, and memorable Thanksgiving for everyone, both two-legged and four-legged alike.