While you are preparing your Thanksgiving feast this year, you may be tempted to give your pets a few bites of the side dishes. Although your pet would love to have their own place at your holiday table, many of the delicious foods we enjoy are better off not shared with our pets. Threats of pancreatitis, gastrointestinal obstructions, or toxicities come into play when you sneak your four-legged friend bites from your plate. Instead, try giving your pet these tasty pet-safe alternatives:
- Plain turkey breast — Dogs and bones are often paired together, but tossing your pooch a turkey leg is a big no-no. Instead, offer small bites of unseasoned turkey breast with skin, bones, and excess fat removed.
- Fresh veggies — Fresh vegetables, minus garlic and onions, are always an excellent healthy treat for your pet. When preparing your side dishes, save a few carrots, green beans, or broccoli chunks for your pet to nibble while your family enjoys casseroles, stuffings, and other sides stuffed with veggies.
- Unseasoned mashed potatoes — While your typical mashed potatoes loaded with butter, milk, garlic, and other seasonings are off-limits for pets, plain mashed potatoes are perfectly acceptable in small portions. Before adding all the extras that make mashed potatoes delicious, save a bite or two that is free from seasonings and dairy products. Many pets are lactose-intolerant—including cats—and can vomit or develop diarrhea from milk.
If your furry friend happens to run off with the Turkey leg or corn-on-the-cob, we’re here to help. Please contact us if you have any questions!