Offering Some General Advice Regarding Pet Safety During The Thanksgiving Holiday
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and delicious food, but it can also present some hazards for your pets. With all the excitement of the holiday, it’s important to ensure that your furry companions stay safe and happy throughout the festivities. Here’s how to make Thanksgiving enjoyable for everyone—including your pets.
1. Mind The Feast
Thanksgiving meals are full of tempting smells and treats that your pets might want to sample, but many of these foods can be harmful.
Avoid feeding your pets table scraps:
Turkey skin, bones, fatty foods, and rich dishes like stuffing or casseroles can upset your pet’s stomach and even lead to more serious issues like pancreatitis.
Keep toxic foods out of reach:
Onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, chocolate, and anything containing the sweetener xylitol (found in some desserts) are toxic to pets. For more information on what ingredients are toxic to pets, click here.
Offer pet-safe treats:
If you want to include your pet in the celebration, give them treats specifically designed for animals, or set aside plain, cooked turkey meat (without seasoning) as a small treat.
2. Be Cautious With Decorations
Thanksgiving decorations add a festive touch to your home, but some can pose risks to curious pets.
Keep candles out of reach:
Lit candles can be a fire hazard if knocked over by pets, and even unlit candles can be dangerous if ingested.
Watch out for toxic plants:
Some popular holiday plants, such as amaryllis and certain types of lilies, are toxic to pets if ingested. Stick to pet-friendly options or place harmful plants in areas that your pets can’t access. For more information on what plants are toxic to pets, click here.
Monitor small decorations:
Be wary of small, shiny decorations that could be mistaken for toys. Items like ribbons, strings, and plastic pieces can be choking hazards or cause intestinal blockages if swallowed.
3. Create a Safe Space
The hustle and bustle of Thanksgiving can be overwhelming for pets, especially if you have guests coming and going.
Set up a quiet room:
Make sure your pet has a comfortable, quiet space to retreat to if they feel overwhelmed. This could be a bedroom or another room away from the action where they can relax without being disturbed.
Ensure ID tags and microchips are up to date:
With doors opening and closing frequently as guests arrive, there’s a higher chance of pets slipping outside unnoticed. Having current identification on your pets increases the chances of them being returned quickly if they get lost. Additionally, having your pet microchipped can help ensure they are always identifiable at a veterinarian or animal shelter. For more information about pet microchipping, click here.
4. Keep Trash Secure
Trash cans filled with leftover food, packaging, and bones are an irresistible temptation for pets, but they can also be dangerous.
Use a pet-proof trash can:
Secure trash cans to prevent your pets from digging through and eating something harmful.
Dispose of bones properly:
Turkey bones can splinter easily and cause choking or internal damage if swallowed, so be sure to dispose of them in a way that’s inaccessible to pets.
5. Be Mindful Of Guests
Not everyone may be familiar with pet safety, so it’s important to set some ground rules for your guests.
Ask guests not to feed your pets:
Even well-meaning guests might slip your pet a piece of turkey or a sweet treat, not realizing the potential risks. Politely ask them to avoid feeding your pets from the table.
Supervise interactions with children:
If you have young children visiting, make sure they know how to interact with your pets safely. Pets can become stressed or react unpredictably if they are overwhelmed or handled roughly.
6. Watch Out For Stress
Holidays can be as stressful for pets as they are for humans. Changes in routine, new people, and loud noises can lead to anxiety.
Stick to your pet’s routine:
As much as possible, keep your pet on their normal feeding and walking schedule. Familiar routines can help reduce stress.
Provide distractions:
Give your pets toys, puzzles, or long-lasting chews to keep them occupied and help reduce their anxiety during the festivities.
7. Know When To Call The Vet
In case your pet does get into something they shouldn’t, it’s important to know the signs of a problem and be prepared to act quickly.
Watch for symptoms:
Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, excessive drooling, or difficulty breathing can all be signs that your pet has ingested something harmful. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your vet immediately.
Have emergency numbers handy:
Keep your vet’s contact information and the number for the nearest emergency animal hospital in an easily accessible place, just in case.
A Fun & Safe Thanksgiving For All
Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to celebrate with family, friends, and pets. By being mindful of potential hazards and taking steps to keep your pets safe, you can ensure that everyone enjoys a happy and healthy holiday. With a little preparation, your furry friends can be a part of the Thanksgiving festivities without the risk of accidents or health issues. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your pets!
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