What Thanksgiving Food Can Dogs Eat
Laura Evans
34,197Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! As we gather today to celebrate with loved ones, I’m reminded of last year’s Thanksgiving, when my furry friend, Max, eyed the turkey with great interest. It was a moment that made me question: What Thanksgiving treats are actually safe for our canine companions? This curiosity led me to consult with Dr. Emily Rhodes, a well-known veterinarian, who shared, “Thanksgiving is about sharing joy and gratitude, and that includes our pets. But it’s crucial to know what’s safe for them to eat.” So, here’s a guide to help you enjoy this special day with your dog, safely.
Safe Dog-Friendly Thanksgiving Feast
- Turkey: The Main Attraction (With a Caveat): Your dog can partake in the turkey festivities, but only the meat—no bones, no skin, and definitely no seasoning.
- Sweet Potatoes: A Sweet Treat (Minus the Toppings): Dr. Rhodes advises, “Sweet potatoes are full of essential nutrients, but skip the marshmallows and sugars for your dog’s portion.”
- Apples for Dessert (Seedless and Coreless): An apple slice or two is a great treat, but make sure to remove the seeds and core.
- Green Beans: Simple Yet Nutritious: Serve them plain, and your dog will thank you.
- Plain Peas, Please: A few peas can add to the feast, as long as they’re not from a creamy dish.
- Pumpkin: Not Just for Pies: Pure pumpkin puree is a canine superfood, perfect for Thanksgiving.
- Potatoes: Boiled or Baked Only: Avoid mashed potatoes with all the rich trimmings.
- Dessert Twist: Yogurt and Pumpkin Blend: This simple dessert can be a delightful end to your dog’s meal.
Avoid These Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs
- No-No to Turkey Bones, Skin, and Gravy: These can cause digestive upsets or worse.
- Avoid Stuffing and Casseroles: Common ingredients like onions and garlic are harmful to dogs.
- Sweets, Chocolate, and Alcohol: These are big no’s in the dog world.
- Raisins, Grapes, Onions, Garlic: Toxic to our four-legged friends.
- Ham and Yeast Dough: Not suitable for a dog’s digestive system.
- Fatty Foods and Spices: Can lead to health issues like pancreatitis.
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Thanksgiving Day Veterinary Insights
According to Dr. Rhodes, “Thanksgiving sees a significant rise in vet visits due to dogs eating harmful human foods.” She emphasizes the importance of sticking to dog-safe foods and keeping an eye on what our pets nibble on. If your dog eats something dangerous, immediate veterinary attention is crucial.
Thanksgiving, much like other holidays such as Christmas and Easter, sees a heightened risk of dogs consuming harmful substances like chocolate. In 2023, for instance, there was a notable increase in chocolate poisoning cases among dogs during the Easter season. It’s important to remember that during holidays, regular veterinary clinics might be closed. In such situations, the availability of 24/7 pet helplines can be a reassuring resource for pet owners, offering guidance and support when it’s needed the most.
Wrapping Up
As we enjoy today’s feast and festivities, let’s ensure our furry family members are also having a safe and joyous Thanksgiving. A little caution with their diet can make all the difference. As Dr. Rhodes says, “A safe pet is a happy pet, and that’s something truly to be thankful for.”
Happy Thanksgiving to All, Two-Legged and Four-Legged Alike!
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