Thanksgiving is that special time when we come together with family, indulge in a mouth-watering feast, and maybe sneak into a football game between bites of pumpkin pie. But while we’re busy creating memories, our furry friends might be feeling a little left out—or worse, getting into mischief with all the food and excitement around. The chaos of cooking, guests coming and going, and irresistible smells can be overwhelming for pets, so it’s vital to make sure they’re safe and feeling the love, too.
Whether it's keeping them away from the tempting spread or finding ways to include them in the festivities, Thanksgiving can still be a blast for your pets! After all, they’re part of the family, and they deserve to enjoy the day just as much as we do. So, while you're dishing out the mashed potatoes and swapping stories, don’t forget about your four-legged pals! Let's figure out some fun and simple ways to keep your furry companions safe, happy, and out of trouble this Thanksgiving.
Mind the Food: What’s Safe and What’s Not
Thanksgiving dinner is a feast for us humans, but it can be a minefield for pets. Here’s the lowdown on what to avoid:
Foods to Avoid
- Turkey Bones: These can splinter and cause serious harm to your pet's digestive system. No thanks!
- Onions and Garlic: Both are toxic to dogs and cats. Keep those flavor enhancers far from their reach.
- Stuffing: Often contains ingredients like onions or spices that aren’t pet-friendly.
- Cranberry Sauce: While cranberries are okay in small amounts, the sugar in the sauce can be a no-go.
- Chocolate: You probably know this one, but it bears repeating—chocolate is a big no-no for pets.
Safe Treats
- Plain Turkey: A little bit of plain turkey (no skin or seasoning) is a tasty treat for your pup.
- Pumpkin: Plain canned pumpkin (not the spiced pie filling) is great for digestion and can be a fun snack. For the taste of pumpkin, you can check on Fruitables Pumpkin & Apple Crunchy Baked Dog Treats which are the best.
- Carrots and Green Beans: These are healthy snacks that most pets love.
- Healthy commercial treats: Greenies are the best dog treats. They are quite tasty, savory, and healthy, which can be great for cherishing your furry pal during the festive season.
Pro Tip
If you want to share the love, consider making some pet-friendly treats! There are tons of easy recipes online that will have your fur babies wagging their tails.
Create a Safe Space
With all the excitement of family gatherings, your pets might feel overwhelmed. Create a cozy spot where they can chill out away from the chaos.
Tips for a Chill Zone
- Quiet Room: Set up a space with their bed, toys, and some water. This gives them a retreat when things get too loud.
- Familiar Scents: Bring in their favorite blanket or toy to help them feel secure.
- Background Noise: A little soft music or white noise can help drown out the sounds of the party.
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Keep an Eye on the Door
Thanksgiving often means more visitors than usual, which can lead to some sneaky escapes if you’re not careful. Make sure your pets don’t dart out when people come in and out.
Door Duty
- Leash Up: If you’re expecting a lot of guests, keep your pets leashed when people arrive.
- Baby Gates: Use baby gates to block off areas where pets might bolt for freedom.
Avoid Stressful Situations
Not every pet loves being around a crowd of people. Some might get anxious with all the noise and new faces.
Signs of Stress
Watch for signs like excessive barking, hiding, or destructive behavior. If your pet seems stressed:
- Take Breaks: Give them some one-on-one time away from the crowd.
- Calm Them Down: To help ease anxiety, use calming treats such as Vet’s Best brand treats or pheromone sprays such as Sentry Calming spray for dogs.
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Keep Decorations Pet-Friendly
Thanksgiving decorations can be festive but also pose risks for curious paws.
Safe Decorating Tips
- Avoid Small Decor Items: Things like candles or small ornaments can be knocked over or chewed on.
- Secure Tablecloths: If you’re using tablecloths, make sure they’re secured so they don’t become a tug-of-war toy.
- Plants Matter: Some plants are toxic to pets (like certain types of flowers), so double-check what you bring into your home.
Don’t Forget About Exercise
With all the festivities, it’s easy to forget about regular exercise for your pets. Keeping them active helps burn off energy and keeps them happy!
Fun Activities
- Pre-Dinner Walks: Take your dog for a nice walk before guests arrive to tire them out. Don’t forget to use a harness and leash when you go out for a walk. Herm Sprenger harnesses and leashes are the best to have for your fur boy.
- Playtime with Guests: Encourage guests to play with your pets—fetch or tug-of-war can be fun!
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Keep an Eye on Your Drink
Let’s face it: we all love our holiday drinks—whether it’s apple juice or wine, or something stronger! But remember that some drinks can be harmful to pets.
Drink Safety Tips
- Keep Drinks Out of Reach: Make sure glasses are placed where curious noses can’t reach them.
- Alcohol Awareness: Never let your fur kid sip on any alcoholic beverages; they can be very harmful!
Calling It a Day: Happy Tails All Around!
Thanksgiving is all about gratitude, family, and good food—but let’s not forget about our furry family members! By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure that your pets stay safe, happy, and included in the festivities. So go ahead—enjoy that turkey dinner, knowing your four-legged pals are having just as good a time as you are!
