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Keep Your Furry Friends Thankful and Safe
Thanksgiving is a time for food, family, and friends. But while you’re in the midst of the festivities, don’t forget about the four-legged members of your family. To ensure this holiday is happy for everyone, here are some clever and warm safety tips to keep your pets healthy and grateful this Thanksgiving.
1. Skip the Turkey Trot to the Vet
It’s tempting to slip your pup a piece of turkey or let your cat sneak a taste from the plate, but remember: most human foods are not pet-friendly. While plain, unseasoned turkey can be okay in small amounts, the skin, bones, and rich seasonings can cause digestive upset or lead to serious health issues like pancreatitis or choking hazards.
Pro Tip: Offer pet-safe treats instead! Fill a Kong or other puzzle toy with peanut butter, frozen broth or other pet-friendly treat to keep your furry friend busy and happy during the meal. This will also help keep them for scavenging for crumbs or begging at the table.
2. Beware the Counter Surfers
Your dogs and cats may see your buffet as an open invitation. But onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, chocolate, and xylitol (an artificial sweetener) are highly toxic to pets.
Pro Tip: Assign a “pet patrol” to your guests. This person will keep in charge of keeping your pet away from food and off counters. This is a great job for a kiddo attending the festivities.
3. Keep the Trash Talk for the Football Game
The trash can is a treasure trove of tempting but dangerous items for pets. From discarded turkey bones to foil wrappers, the garbage is full of hazards.
Pro Tip: Use a lidded trash can and frequently empty it to avoid scavenging mishaps.
4. Quiet Spaces for Stressed Pets
Thanksgiving gatherings can be loud and overwhelming, especially for pets who thrive in calm environments. Your furry friend might feel stressed with the doorbell ringing, kids playing, and adults chatting.
Pro Tip: Create a cozy retreat for your pet in a quiet room with their favorite bed, toys, and maybe a little calming music. It’s their Thanksgiving “zen den.”
5. Watch Those Doorways
With guests coming and going, the front door might become a pet’s escape route. Cats and dogs can dart out unnoticed, especially if they’re feeling anxious.
Pro Tip: Use baby gates or keep your pets in their “zen den” during peak comings and goings. Also, make sure your pet has ID tags and is chipped.
Gratitude Goes Both Ways
At the heart of Thanksgiving is gratitude, and there’s no doubt our pets bring endless joy and unconditional love into our lives. This holiday, show your appreciation by keeping them safe, healthy, and stress-free.
With a little preparation and mindfulness, you can ensure your furry friends have just as much to be thankful for as you do. Happy Thanksgiving from 417 Pet Sitting to your family – human and pets! 🐾 🦃