Our dogs are part of the family, of course, and we love including them in all of the holiday festivities. They bring so much joy and playfulness. And they are a source of comfort during, what can be, somewhat stressful times. Thank goodness for dog cuddles after a long day of planning or prepping or decorating or dealing with some difficult people, right? So let’s look at how we can plan for our dogs and Thanksgiving.
There are a few things to consider. Firstly, what foods are safe and what are not? Secondly, how to make the holiday safe and comfortable overall. And thirdly, how to create a dog specific treat.
Dogs and Thanksgiving foods
Above all, keep your food on the table.There are just too many little things that could be in the ingredients that could cause your pup, at the very least, digestive distress. And who wants that on a holiday (or ever)?!
Remember, too, that overfeeding your dog human foods can lead to obesity, and we’ve written about the dangers of dog obesity and how to handle it over here.
Here are foods that are safe:
- Turkey (without the bones or skin)
- Plain potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Apples
- Plain pumpkin
- Plain peas
- Green beans
- Carrots
- Bread
- Cheese
- Rice
- Corn
Here are foods to watch out for:
- Turkey skin
- Turkey bones
- Turkey stuffing
- Turkey gravy
- Candy and gum
- Chocolate
- Mashed potatoes
- Sweet potatoes with added ingredients
- Pumpkin pie
- Alcohol
- Grapes or raisins
- Onions
- Scallions
In particular, watch out for pies and sweets and your dog. Of course, you all know that they can’t have chocolate. But even something seemingly innocent like a fruit pie can contain things they shouldn’t have. For example, artificial sweeteners might have been used if the fruit came from a can.
Dogs and Thanksgiving and safety
Trash
Make sure you don’t leave the trash sitting out. It’s easy to do this when we’re cooking or when we’re cleaning up. It’s convenient. But it’s also then too convenient for your dog, and again, there is so much that you don’t want them getting in to.
Decorations
If you’re decorating with live plants, be sure to check on their toxicity levels here. But also be aware of other decorations when it comes to choking hazards in particular.
Visitors
If you’re having a lot of people over, it might be best to limit your dog’s ability to be everywhere in the house. Think about putting them in a room that is cozy and full of their favorite things with music playing. Or if you want them out and about, perhaps close off the kitchen.
But also consider who is coming over. Is there anyone your dog gets anxious around? Again, think about giving them the gift of peace in a room by themselves.
The exits
If you’re having people coming and going a lot and you consider that your dog could be extra hyper during all of this, it becomes extra important to watch the exits of the house. Celebrations like this can get very stressful very fast if our dogs get loose.
Dogs and Thanksgiving treats
If you’re a cook or you love to bake, there are some great recipes for doggie holiday feasts. Check this out!
With a little bit of planning and awareness, Thanksgiving can be fun and easeful – for use and our fur friends!