Thanksgiving is all about family, friends, and delicious food. But with all the excitement, it’s easy for pets to get overwhelmed—or even end up with a tummy ache! Here’s a quick guide to help keep your pets safe and comfortable during the holiday.
1. Be Mindful of What They Eat
Many Thanksgiving foods are not pet-friendly, so keep these tips in mind:
Skip the Turkey Bones: Turkey bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries. Stick to pet-safe treats instead.
Avoid Fatty Foods: Dishes like gravy, buttery potatoes, and stuffing can upset your pet’s stomach and even lead to pancreatitis in severe cases.
Watch for Toxic Ingredients: Onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and chocolate can be toxic to pets, so make sure they stay far away from these foods.
No Alcohol: Keep cocktails and other alcoholic beverages out of reach, as alcohol can be extremely harmful to pets.
2. Create a Quiet Retreat
With the extra activity and guests around, pets might feel stressed or overwhelmed. Set up a calm space where they can relax:
Quiet Zone: Choose a room or cozy spot where your pet can retreat if they need a break.
Comfort Items: Place their bed, blankets, and favorite toys in the space to make them feel safe and secure.
Give Them Time to Adjust: If you’re hosting guests, give your pet time to warm up to them, especially if they’re not used to visitors.
3. Keep Decorations Out of Reach
Festive decorations can be intriguing to pets, but they may pose a danger:
Avoid Candles and Fire Hazards: Candles can be easily knocked over by curious pets. Opt for flameless candles if possible.
Skip Tinsel or Ribbons: Tinsel and ribbons can be dangerous if ingested, as they can cause intestinal blockages.
Place Plants Carefully: Certain holiday plants, like lilies and amaryllis, are toxic to pets. Keep any decorative plants well out of reach.
4. Manage Guest Interactions
Not all pets are comfortable with new people. Here’s how to make interactions easier for everyone:
Pet Etiquette for Guests: Politely remind guests to approach pets gently and let pets come to them first.
Monitor Young Children: Young kids may not understand how to interact with pets safely, so keep an eye out to avoid accidental pulls or pokes.
Reward Calm Behavior: Encourage good behavior by offering treats when your pet is relaxed around guests.
5. Stick to Routine as Much as Possible
Pets feel more secure when their routines are stable, even during holidays:
Feed Them on Schedule: Stick to their regular feeding times to avoid stress and tummy troubles.
Regular Exercise: A walk or play session can help burn off energy and reduce anxiety.
Avoid Overfeeding: With so many tasty smells around, pets may beg for extra treats. Keep portion sizes normal to prevent upset stomachs.
At Oak Grove Kennel, we want you and your pets to have a safe and joyful Thanksgiving! If you have any questions about keeping your pet comfortable during the holidays, or if you’re interested in our services, feel free to contact us. We’re here to help you and your pets have a wonderful holiday season!
Sources
ASPCA, Holiday Safety Tips for Pets: ASPCA Guide.
American Veterinary Medical Association, Pet Safety and the Holidays: AVMA Resource.
PetMD, Thanksgiving Safety Tips for Pets: PetMD Guide.
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