Thanksgiving With Fido

Thanksgiving is just a few weeks off now! While there may not be as many people traveling for the autumn holiday, it’s likely safe to say that many people will still enjoy some delicious seasonal meals with their immediate families. This can be a dangerous holiday for our canine pals, however, so you’ll need to take a few precautions to keep Fido safe and healthy. A Louisville, KY veterinarian discusses Thanksgiving safety for dogs in this article.

Food

Your furry friend will definitely be paying close attention as those delicious dishes start coming out of the oven. It’s fine to give your pup something special, but pay close attention to what you offer him. Plain, cooked turkey is fine, as long as you remove the skin, bones, and fat. Fido can also have a few cocktail wieners, or some cold cuts. Never give your pooch garlic, onions, scallions, or chives; chocolate; caffeine; alcohol; grapes, currants, or raisins; meat on the bone; avocado; or anything that contains xylitol. Ask your vet for more information.

Stress

Dogs are very much creatures of habit, and they can get quite stressed out by noise, commotion, and guests. If Fido is timid or uneasy, tire him out with a fun play session before people come over. You may also want to keep your pup in a quiet back room or in his crate for part of the day. Give him treats and puzzle toys to occupy himself with, and visit him regularly, so he doesn’t get lonely.

Decorations

Keep Fido in mind when setting out decorations. Anything small or sharp is a choking hazard, as are items with strings or threads, such as garlands. Keep candles and potpourri burners out of paws’ reach, and use a thick grate before fireplaces. We also recommend using a trashcan that closes tightly.

Tail Wags

Dogs are definitely something to be grateful for. Fido is not only super cute, he’s also very loyal and loving, and makes a wonderful companion. Take a long walk with your canine buddy after dinner, and walk off some of that turkey. Later on, settle in with a good movie, some leftovers, and your furry best friend. That’s a perfect way to wind down after a long day!

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us here at Evergreen Animal Hospital, your Louisville, KY veterinary clinic. Please feel free to call us anytime!