Thanksgiving is just around the corner! As the holiday approaches, many people are really looking forward to spending some quality time with their loved ones, and to enjoying some delicious seasonal food. Of course, as anyone with a dog knows, our canine friends also love a yummy snack. Turkey Day can be quite dangerous for Fido, however, so if you have a pooch, you’ll want to take some precautions to make sure that your pet stays happy, healthy, and safe on Turkey Day. In this article from your Plano, TX animal clinic, a local vet discusses Thanksgiving with dogs.

Food

Fido will probably be very interested in that scrumptious holiday spread. It’s fine to give your furry buddy a special treat, but you’ll want to be very careful about what you offer him. Many people foods are toxic to Man’s Best Friend. Cooked, boneless meat, fish, or poultry, with the skin, fat, and bones removed, is a great holiday meal for your pup. Fido can also have cooked, unseasoned green beans, peas, carrots, potatoes, pumpkin, or squash. Never give your pooch garlic, onions or chives; meat on the bone; chocolate; caffeine; hard candy; nuts; alcohol; grapes, currants, or raisins; or products that contain xylitol. Ask your vet for more information.

Hazards

Food isn’t the only danger for pet parents to be aware of. Many decorative items are also dangerous for our canine pals. Be very careful with anything your pup could possibly eat, like pine cones or ribbons. Candles and potpourri burners can also endanger your pet. Also, be sure to use a trashcan that closes securely. You don’t want Fido getting into the trash, as it could contain dangerous items, like tin foil, toothpicks, or plastic wrappers.

Petiquette

If Fido begs or sometimes jumps on people, keep him crated during dinner and/or when people are arriving. You can also put your canine friend in a quiet back room, with food, bedding, and toys. Use a baby gate, so your furry buddy can still see, hear, and interact with you.

Exercise

Before your company arrives, take your pup for a nice, long walk, and then play with him for a while. This will burn off Fido’s excess energy. Afterwards, he may be a little tired, and will therefore be calmer and better behaved. Happy Thanksgiving! Please contact us, your local Plano, TX animal clinic, anytime.