As Thanksgiving approaches, the aroma of delicious dishes fills the air, and families gather to celebrate and give thanks. While it's tempting to share the bounty with our furry friends, it's crucial to remember that some Thanksgiving leftovers can be harmful or even dangerous to dogs. In this blog post, we'll explore what not to feed your dogs from Thanksgiving leftovers to ensure their safety and well-being during the holiday season.
Turkey Bones:
While a small piece of lean, boneless turkey meat is generally safe for dogs, turkey bones can pose a severe threat. Cooked bones, especially those that are brittle, can splinter and cause choking, intestinal blockages, or even puncture the digestive tract. To keep your pup safe, resist the urge to give them turkey bones.
Fatty Foods:
Thanksgiving feasts often include rich and fatty dishes like gravy, buttery mashed potatoes, and casseroles. While these may be delicious for us, they can lead to pancreatitis in dogs. Pancreatitis is a painful inflammation of the pancreas that can result from consuming too much fat. Stick to lean meat portions without added sauces, and avoid sharing greasy side dishes.
Onions and Garlic:
Many Thanksgiving recipes include onions and garlic, which can be toxic to dogs. These ingredients, whether raw, cooked, or in powdered form, contain compounds that can cause damage to a dog's red blood cells, leading to anemia. Keep stuffing, casseroles, and other dishes seasoned with onions and garlic out of reach of your furry friends.
Grapes and Raisins:
Some Thanksgiving desserts and salads may contain grapes or raisins, both of which are highly toxic to dogs and can lead to kidney failure. Even small amounts can be dangerous, so be cautious with any dishes that include these ingredients and keep them away from your canine companions.
Nuts:
Certain nuts, such as walnuts and macadamia nuts, can be harmful to dogs. Walnuts can cause gastrointestinal upset or obstruction, while macadamia nuts can lead to weakness, vomiting, and tremors. Be mindful of nut-containing dishes, like stuffing or desserts, and keep them well out of your dog's reach.
Some safe options you can share with you pup are:
Turkey (unseasoned, no bones or skin)
Pumpkin (cooked or canned)
Green beans
Carrots
Cranberries
Sweet potatoes (unseasoned)
Apples (no core or seeds)
As you celebrate Thanksgiving with your loved ones, including your furry friends, it's important to prioritize their health and safety. Avoid sharing leftovers that can be harmful to dogs and instead opt for pet-friendly treats or plain, cooked meat without added seasonings. By keeping a watchful eye on what ends up on your dog's plate, you can ensure a joyful and worry-free holiday for everyone in the family.
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