Keeping Your Pets Safe During Thanksgiving

As we gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving to celebrate and enjoy a delicious feast, it’s essential to remember that our pets may face some unexpected hazards around the holiday festivities. Keeping our pets safe during Thanksgiving requires a bit of planning and mindfulness, but it can make all the difference in ensuring a joyful and stress-free holiday for both you and your furry friends. At Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, we’re committed to helping you with Thanksgiving pet safety to ensure a safe and happy holiday for your entire family.

1. Be Careful with Thanksgiving Food

Thanksgiving is a time for indulgence, but not all holiday foods are safe for our pets. Some of our favorite holiday dishes can pose serious health risks to cats and dogs. Here are some common dangers:

• Turkey Bones: Turkey bones may seem harmless, but they are a serious choking hazard. When chewed, bones can splinter and cause cuts or blockages in a pet’s throat, stomach, or intestines. To ensure safety, keep all bones out of reach.
• Rich, Fatty Foods: Thanksgiving dishes like gravy, buttery mashed potatoes, and stuffing are rich and fatty, making them difficult for pets to digest. Such foods can lead to stomach upset or, worse, pancreatitis, a potentially life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas. Keep the table food on the table, and resist the temptation to give your pet “just a little taste.”
• Onions, Garlic, and Other Toxic Ingredients: Many Thanksgiving recipes include ingredients like onions, garlic, chives, and leeks, which are toxic to pets, especially dogs and cats. Even small amounts can lead to anemia or damage their red blood cells. Foods with these ingredients should be kept out of reach to ensure pet safety.
• Desserts and Sweets: It’s not Thanksgiving without a slice of pie, but desserts are packed with sugar, artificial sweeteners (like xylitol), and chocolate—each posing a unique threat to pet safety. Chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats, and xylitol (found in sugar-free treats) can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar. Instead of offering your pet a slice of pie, try a small pet-safe treat or consult us for safe options.

2. Be Cautious of Decorations and Table Settings

Thanksgiving decorations make the holiday feel festive, but they may pose unexpected safety risks for pets. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Candles and Fire Hazards: Flickering candles add ambiance, but they are risky around pets who may knock them over, causing burns or fires. Battery-operated candles provide a safer alternative for pet safety.
• Table Decor: Small decorations like cornucopia fillers, miniature pumpkins, and dried corn can be choking hazards if chewed or swallowed. If you decorate with these items, place them on high surfaces where pets can’t reach.
• String Lights and Electrical Cords: Many of us start decorating for the winter holidays around Thanksgiving, which may mean exposed cords and lights. Pets, particularly puppies and kittens, may chew on these cords, risking electrical shocks. Keep cords secured and out of reach to ensure their safety.

3. Managing Pet Stress and Anxiety

Thanksgiving gatherings can bring a lot of hustle and bustle, which may make some pets anxious. Here’s how to help manage your pet’s stress:

• Provide a Quiet Space: With the influx of visitors, your pet may feel overwhelmed. Create a quiet space where they can retreat if they need a break. Stock the area with their favorite toys, a cozy blanket, and fresh water.
• Introduce Guests Gradually: If your pet isn’t used to visitors, introduce new people gradually and allow your pet to approach them on their terms. This helps build trust and reduces stress for pets who might be nervous around strangers.
• Maintain Their Routine: Pets find comfort in routine, so try to stick to their regular feeding and walking schedule, even on Thanksgiving. This consistency can help reduce stress and keep your pet calm.

4. Know When to Contact a Veterinarian

Even with the best intentions, accidents can happen. If your pet ingests something they shouldn’t or displays unusual symptoms, it’s essential to seek help quickly. Signs of distress may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or difficulty breathing. Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital is here to support you during the holiday season. Our team is available to answer your questions and provide the necessary care to ensure your pet’s safety if an emergency arises.

Keeping Safety in Mind this Thanksgiving

By following these Thanksgiving pet safety tips, you’ll be well-equipped to protect your pet from common holiday hazards. At Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, we’re committed to helping you keep your pet safe, happy, and healthy throughout the holiday season and beyond. If you have any concerns about your pet’s well-being or need emergency care, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to provide compassionate, expert care whenever you need it.

Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks for our loved ones—including our pets. By taking a few extra precautions and prioritizing pet safety, you can ensure a safe, joyous holiday for every member of your family.