Thanksgiving is a cherished time for gathering with family and friends, and naturally, our pets are part of that celebration. However, while sharing the holiday joy, it’s essential to keep your pets safe, particularly when it comes to what they eat. At Monte Vista Animal Hospital in Reno, Nevada, we’re committed to helping you navigate these concerns with some simple guidelines to keep your pets safe during the holiday season.

Thanksgiving Food Safety for Pets

When you’re preparing your Thanksgiving feast, it’s tempting to share some treats with your pets. But not all foods are pet-friendly! Let’s start with the safe options:

  • Plain Turkey: A small amount of cooked, skinless, boneless turkey is a safe and tasty treat for your dog or cat.
  • Cooked or Raw Vegetables: Carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes (without seasoning, butter, or sugar) are also safe in moderation.

Even safe foods should be offered in small quantities to avoid digestive upset. For personalized advice, visit our Nutrition Guidance page to learn how we can help.

Foods to Avoid

Unfortunately, some popular Thanksgiving dishes can be harmful to pets. Common ingredients to keep away from your dog or cat include:

  • Onions and Garlic: These ingredients can cause anemia in both dogs and cats.
  • Rich Gravies & Butters: High-fat foods may lead to pancreatitis, a serious condition requiring veterinary attention.
  • Desserts & Sweets: Chocolate and xylitol (found in sugar-free desserts) are highly toxic to pets and can be life-threatening.
  • Bones: Some bones, like poultry, can shatter and splinter, causing damage to your pet’s mouth and GI. Harder bones can easily cause tooth breakage or blockages if swallowed. 

If you suspect your pet has ingested something harmful, contact your vet immediately. For emergencies, you can find help on our Emergency Services page. 

Preventive Measures for a Safe Thanksgiving

To ensure your pets enjoy a safe Thanksgiving, keep these tips in mind:

  • Secure Trash Cans: Avoid any accidental ingestion by keeping trash bins closed.
  • Monitor Pets Closely: With guests and activity, pets can sometimes sneak food they shouldn’t eat.
  • Use Pet-Safe Decorations: Some decorations might be appealing to chew on but can be dangerous if swallowed.

Holidays can also bring stress to pets. If your dog or cat seems anxious, consider our Behavior Counseling services to help them stay calm and comfortable.

Regular Check-Ups for Holiday Peace of Mind

A pre-holiday check-up is a great way to ensure your pet is healthy and ready to enjoy the festivities. At Monte Vista Animal Hospital, we offer comprehensive Health Screenings to detect any potential issues early.

How to Handle Pet Emergencies During the Holiday

Thanksgiving festivities can sometimes lead to unexpected pet emergencies, especially with rich foods and decorations around. Knowing what to do in an emergency situation can make all the difference. Here are some essential steps to help keep your pet safe and respond quickly if needed:

  1. Recognizing Signs of Food Toxicity Certain foods can be highly toxic, and the sooner you spot symptoms, the faster you can get help. Common symptoms include:
    • Vomiting or Diarrhea: An early sign of potential poisoning, especially if they have ingested high-fat foods or toxins like onions or chocolate.
    • Lethargy or Weakness: Can indicate pancreatitis or other serious issues, especially if accompanied by a swollen abdomen.
    • Excessive Drooling or Foaming at the Mouth: May occur if they ingest something bitter or harmful.

If your pet displays any of these symptoms, or you witness them eating something potentially harmful, it’s critical to seek veterinary assistance immediately. There is a limited window of time to induce vomiting. 

  1. Steps to Take if Your Pet Eats Something Dangerous

    • Contact Your Vet: Reach out to your veterinarian or an emergency vet clinic. 
    • Call Poison Control: Both the ASPCA and the Pet Poison Helpline offer resources for pet owners. Having these numbers saved can be a lifesaver in a stressful moment.
    • Avoid Inducing Vomiting: Never try to induce vomiting without guidance from a vet, as this can sometimes worsen the issue depending on what was ingested.
  1. Additional Prevention Tips for Avoiding Emergencies
    • Establish a Pet-Free Food Zone: Keep food preparation and dining areas off-limits to prevent pets from sneaking harmful treats.
    • Brief Your Guests: Let friends and family know not to feed your pet any food without checking with you first. Many people may not realize how harmful some foods can be.

By following these emergency tips, you can feel prepared and at ease. For any holiday concerns, contact our clinic for guidance on keeping your pet safe this Thanksgiving. Learn more Thanksgiving safety advice from trusted resources like the AVMA and ASPCA.

Thanksgiving is a time for joy and togetherness, and with a few mindful steps, your pets can enjoy a safe and happy holiday too. By being aware of which foods are safe, keeping dangerous items out of reach, and preparing for emergencies, you can prevent common holiday hazards. At Monte Vista Animal Hospital, we’re here to support you in keeping your pet healthy year-round. If you have any questions or concerns about holiday safety for your pets, don’t hesitate to reach out.