A feast not fit for a dog
Axel
Sammy
Special thanks to the Isert family from BriarCliff for sending in this adorable picture of Axel (top) and the McCracken family from Pine Ridge for sending in this regal picture of Sammy to accompany our story. Both local pet owners will receive a $25 gift card for their participation.
By Susan Helton; courtesy photos
We love our pets; they are part of our families. We love to share with them, especially during celebrations like Thanksgiving. Unfortunately, some foods we might want to share are unhealthy for our pets, so here are some tips to help you keep your pets safe during the holiday feast.
Many of the foods we enjoy can pose poison risks and other dangers for our pets. Let your guests know ahead of time not to feed your pets any table scraps; it is in the pets’ best interest.
Foods to keep away from pets include mushrooms, onions, garlic, chives, currants, raisins and grapes. Fatty foods such as butter, fatty meat drippings, turkey skin, and nuts can be hard for animals to digest, causing stomach problems or even pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Spices and seasonings are also hard on a pet’s stomach. Poultry bones can cause injuries to a pet’s digestive system. Keep pets away from raw or undercooked eggs and turkey, to avoid possible salmonella poisoning.
Holiday sweets are not for pets either. Sweets often contain ingredients that are poisonous to them, including chocolate and the artificial sweetener Xylitol. Raw yeast dough is something else to keep away from your pets; if they eat any, it can cause potentially life-threatening bloating.
Alcohol is a big no for pets, as well. What might be a small amount for people can be toxic for our furry friends. Even atypical items like fruit cake can cause alcohol poisoning in pets – it can contain rum or other liquor.
This is not an exhaustive list of foods that pose a danger to pets. Check first with your veterinarian before giving your pet any people-food treats. Or better yet, make or buy treats that are made just for your pets, to help keep them safe and healthy.
And while Thanksgiving can be fun, it can also be overwhelming for pets. Give your pets a safe, quiet spot where they can get away from all the excitement and find some peace, so you and they can have a happy Thanksgiving!
