Celebrating Thanksgiving with Pets

Whenever the smell of turkey  wafts in the air, your dear pet is usually not far behind with their mouth watering in anticipation. 

Unfortunately for your pet, they are better off not partaking in the feast for their own safety. 

Say "no"  to those puppy dog eyes and avoid an emergency trip to the vet. 

Can your pets eat ....

Turkey? The answer is yes and no.  Turkey meat without the trimmings/seasonings (found mostly on the skin) is fine for your pet in small amounts. 

Dressing? No. Dressing contains a combination of ingredients that may be toxic to your pet like onions, as well as other seasonings that could easily cause a stomach upset. 

Gravy? No. Gravy is not good for your dog for the same reason as dressing, the seasonings, plus there is the added fat that your pet does not need.

Casseroles? No. Casseroles contain a variety of ingredients, best left for human consumption.

Sweet Potatoes? Yes, but only the cooked sweet potato without butter and seasonings.

Desserts? No! Sweets and many nuts are not good for pets and chocolate can be fatal. Xylitol (artificial sweetener) can be lethal.

Foods with  seasonings, spices, butter, and other ingredients are often too rich for pets and can cause pancreatitis or other digestive ailments. an be very toxic to dogs. Onions and garlic can be toxic to dogs, so be sure that these ingredients are not added to any food that you are considering sharing with your dog.

To be safe, just refrain from giving them anything that is served at the table for human consumption. 

Is there anything they can eat?  They can eat some PLAIN food without added seasonings in moderation such as: Turkey meat (no bone or skin), plain potatoes, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, peas, apples. Doesn't sound too exciting, but it's better than having a sick pet. 

You can also keep a supply of  healthy pet treats on hand so that your pet can feel included in the celebrations!  Happy Thanksgiving!
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