Post by Trish Manche
Welcome to the 2024 holidays! While we have so much to be thankful for, including our furry companions, things can go awry if we do not take special precautions for them during this holiday season.
The number one thing on my list for both dogs and cats is related to visitors. Make sure your pets are safety away from your exterior doors when you are greeting and saying goodbye to guests. Some dogs are very well trained about not running out the door, but sometimes in certain situations, they may do just that. Cats on the other hand, can be sneaky, so be alert. Sometimes a baby gate, kennel or safely in another room is key. Also, make sure your pets are microchipped and with your current information. All TMHPR pets are microchipped before they leave the center and it is up to you to login and add your information following adoption.
The second big thing has to do with foods. While there are many foods dogs and cats can enjoy during the holidays, moderation is key as well as knowing which foods are safe and not overfeeding them. An article I read recently says in the veterinary world there is a huge spike in pancreatitis during Thanksgiving. New foods and foods that are too rich may be the culprit. In an article from the Whole Dog Journal (a great online publication that can come straight to your inbox), they recommended making a plate with safe foods for your dog and putting it on the counter. You can allow guests to give small treats from that plate vs. their plate knowing just how much food they received and exactly what items were given. I thought this was brilliant! Remember the same goes for cats as far as feeding from your plate, best not to do so.
You will also want to watch trash cans and make sure if food is left on the counter in another room that it is covered and safe from your pet’s surfing behavior. I often move my trash to the garage so that it’s not available.
What can dogs eat on Thanksgiving (in moderation of course) per Whole Dog Journal:
- Unseasoned vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, green beans.
- Turkey (no skin which is higher in fat, salt, and other seasonings) and only a small amount of the cooked meat. The gizzard and organ meat are tasty treats, but can be rich so limited.
- Ham tiny pieces as it has lots of fat and salt.
- Mashed potatoes that are very basic, but no gravy.
- Pumpkin healthy for dogs but only a tiny bit of the pumpkin pie as it contains sugar.
- Cranberries plain or cooked without a lot of sugar.
What can cats eat on Thanksgiving (in moderation of course) per The Meow Place website:
- Turkey this site recommends not giving them turkey at all due to small bones.
- Cranberries are fine, but not cranberry sauce due to the sugar content.
- Mashed potatoes and gravy or sweet potatoes (no sugar) in small amounts is fine.
- Pumpkin is a healthy snack, but no pumpkin pie due to the sugar.
- Unseasoned vegetables like carrots and green beans (not casseroles).
Things dogs and cats should not consume during Thanksgiving:
- Spices, especially garlic and onions (which can be toxic)
- Fatty foods can cause stomach upset
- Cooked meat with bones for a choking hazard. Poultry bones splinter which can cause internal issues.
- Grains
- Sugary foods
- Chocolate!!!!
- Coffee (often served with dessert)
It is the hope of this author that these tips make for a joyful and stress free Thanksgiving holiday for you and your entire family.