Sharing Thanksgiving With Your Pup (Literally)
November 22, 2017
The holidays put everyone in a giving spirit – but some things shouldn’t be shared with your dog! We’ve put together a list of healthy bites to sneak Fido while you’re cooking, and foods to avoid if you want to stay away from the vet.
Foods to Share
Turkey: Turkey is a wonderful, protein-packed treat for your dog, as long as it is boneless, skinless, and unseasoned.
Pumpkin: Modest servings of plain canned pumpkin actually aid your dog’s digestion. Keep it handy year-round!
Potatoes/yams: Cooked potatoes and yams are fine for pets to consume, as long as they aren’t full of dairy or spices.
Apples: Before you sweeten and spice the apples for your pie, share a slice or two with your pup for a crunchy treat.
Carrots: Satisfying and full of beta-carotene, vitamins, and fiber, raw (or cooked) carrots are a favorite for many dogs.
Foods to Avoid
Bones: Bones, especially cooked poultry bones, can cause choking or intestinal blockage. Pass!
Garlic/onion: Both are toxic to dogs, even if cooked, and both are found in lots and lots of Thanksgiving dishes.
Dairy: Most, if not all, pets are lactose intolerant. A little dairy isn’t cause for alarm, but it might lead to a stinky Thanksgiving.
Dessert: Sugar isn’t good for anyone, but keep a special eye out for chocolate, nutmeg, and xylitol (an artificial sweetener).
Alcohol: There’s no drinking age for dogs – their kidneys aren’t designed to process alcohol. Especially avoid the hops in beer.