Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and of course, plenty of food! But while you enjoy the feast, it’s important to ensure your pets stay safe and healthy. At LaGrange Veterinary Hospital in Lagrangeville, New York, we care deeply about the well-being of your pets. To help keep your holiday stress-free, we’ve put together a guide on which Thanksgiving foods are safe to share with your pets and which ones should be avoided.

Thanksgiving Foods That Are Safe for Pets

It’s tempting to share a bit of the feast with your dog or cat, but not all human foods are safe. Here are some pet-friendly options that you can safely include in their meals:

  • Turkey Meat: Plain, unseasoned turkey meat is generally safe for pets, but make sure it’s boneless and skinless. Turkey skin contains too much fat, which can lead to pancreatitis, and bones can splinter, causing injuries.
  • Plain Vegetables: Carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes are great for pets. Just serve them plain, without butter, garlic, or other seasonings.
  • Pumpkin: Plain, unsweetened pumpkin (not pie filling!) is an excellent source of fiber and can help with your pet’s digestion.

Always serve these treats in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Want more ideas for healthy treats? Check out our blog on Pet-safe holiday treat alternatives.

Foods to Avoid to Keep Your Pets Safe

While it’s fun to share, some Thanksgiving dishes can pose serious health risks for pets. Avoid these foods at all costs:

  • Onions and Garlic: Both contain compounds that are toxic to dogs and cats, damaging their red blood cells.
  • Chocolate: Even small amounts of chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or more severe health issues, as it contains theobromine, which is toxic to pets.
  • Xylitol: This sweetener, often found in sugar-free products, can cause liver failure and dangerously low blood sugar levels in dogs.
  • Alcohol: Even a small amount of alcohol, whether from food or drink, can be toxic to pets.

If your pet accidentally eats any of these, contact your vet immediately. You can also refer to our Common Pet Emergencies guide.

Tips for Managing Pets During Holiday Gatherings

Thanksgiving can be overwhelming for pets, especially with the hustle and bustle of guests. Here are a few tips to help them stay calm and safe:

  • Create a Quiet Space: Designate a quiet area where your pet can retreat if things get too chaotic.
  • Monitor the Doors: With guests coming in and out, it’s easy for pets to slip outside. Be sure to keep an eye on exits.
  • Stick to Their Routine: Try to keep your pet’s feeding, walking, and playtime schedule as normal as possible to reduce anxiety.

For more tips on keeping pets and children safe during gatherings, check out our article on Safe Interactions Between Kids and Pets.

The Importance of Monitoring Your Pet’s Health

Even with the best precautions, it’s essential to monitor your pet for any signs of distress. Symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in behavior could signal a problem. If you notice anything unusual, contact us at LaGrange Veterinary Hospital right away. After the holidays, consider scheduling a check-up to ensure your pet’s health is in top shape. Request an Appointment today for a post-holiday check-up.

Conclusion

This Thanksgiving, while you enjoy your meal, remember to keep your pet’s safety in mind. By avoiding dangerous foods and creating a calm environment, you can ensure that everyone in your family—both two-legged and four-legged—has a happy, healthy holiday. For more helpful tips on pet safety, visit trusted resources like AVMA’s Thanksgiving Pet Safety Tips and ASPCA’s Holiday Safety Tips.

Have any Thanksgiving safety tips of your own? Share them with us in the comments or on social media! We wish you and your pets a happy, safe Thanksgiving from all of us at LaGrange Veterinary Hospital.