Ah, Thanksgiving! 😊 That magical time filled with delicious smells, family gatherings, and the irresistible urge to slip a little treat to our best friends under the table. As much as we want our dogs to join in the holiday feast, not everything on our plates is as safe for them as it is delicious. So, before you dive into dinner, here’s a quick vet-approved guide to making sure your dog enjoys Thanksgiving as much as you do (minus the tummy troubles):
Tip 1: Do Keep Dangerous Foods Out of Reach
First up on the "no-no" list: human foods that are dangerous for dogs. Turkey bones might seem like a tasty snack, but they can splinter and cause serious digestive problems. The same goes for ingredients like onions, garlic, and chocolate (yes, even the chocolate pecan pie) which are dangerous for your pup. Another trap? Yeast dough can lead to painful gas and digestive issues.
If you're carving up some turkey, set aside a small, boneless, skinless piece for your pup—that’s a safe way to share the Thanksgiving spirit without the risk!
Want more info? Our fellow vets at the AVMA created an awesome page on this: Thanksgiving Pet Safety.
Tip 2: Don’t Let Them Sneak Around the Table
With guests at the table, it’s easy for scraps to fall to the floor—right into the eager jaws of your dog! Make sure everyone knows not to feed table scraps.
Why? Because while you might satisfy them in the moment, they could end up with digestive issues. In the long term, it’s also unnecessary calories they don’t need.
Encourage guests to reward your pup with a healthy treat instead! A great option? Jope Hip & Joint Dog Chews! Not only will they keep your dog busy, but with UC-II® collagen, omega-3s, and curcumin, they’re helping maintain joint health too. An effective supplement that’s tasty and looks like a treat? Now that’s something to be thankful for.
Tip 3: Do Create a Cozy, Quiet Space
With all the noise and commotion, Thanksgiving can be overwhelming for some dogs. We love seeing those little heads running everywhere, but they sure can be noisy! And the same goes for that good old Uncle—we love his laugh, but it can be a bit scary for our canine friends.
Set up a quiet space where your pups can retreat and relax. A comfy bed, like Big Barker's orthopedic dog bed, is perfect for dogs with joint issues and adds comfort to their haven. Just like us, our pets appreciate a little time-out now and then!
Tip 4: Don’t Forget to Stick to Their Schedule
Thanksgiving tends to throw everyone’s schedules off, including our pets’. But dogs thrive on routine, especially when it comes to feeding and potty times. Try to keep their schedule as consistent as possible, including giving them their supplements on time. Consistency with supplements like Jope Chews helps support their joint health and mobility, which is especially important if they’re zooming around entertaining guests.
But the routine doesn’t stop there—make time for their usual walk. Thanksgiving isn’t an excuse to skip their daily exercise. And let’s be honest, you’ll appreciate that post-feast walk with everything planned on the menu! 😉
Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to create memories with your loved ones—fur family included! By keeping these simple do’s and don’ts in mind, you can enjoy the holiday knowing your dog is safe, comfortable, and happy. And remember, a little planning goes a long way in keeping your dog feeling their best, even when surrounded by tempting smells and exciting guests.
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