Thanksgiving isn’t far off! Although this year’s gatherings may be smaller than usual, many of us are still looking forward to enjoying some delicious food with our loved ones. Fido definitely falls into that category! However, you may want to take a few precautions to keep your pet safe, happy, and out of trouble. A local Carmel Valley, CA veterinarian offers a few tips on this below.
Food
Fido will be paying very close attention to those mouthwatering dishes. Go ahead and make your canine buddy a plate. Your pup can enjoy some of that delicious turkey, as long as you remove the skin, bones, and fat. You can also share a few appetizers, such as some cold cuts or a cocktail weiner. Just be careful not to give your pet anything that isn’t safe for him. Garlic, onion, scallions, and chives are at the top of the dangerous foods list. These are particularly concerning, as they’re often used as seasonings. Other foods to avoid include chocolate; meat on the bone; caffeine; pitted fruits; nuts; mushrooms; grapes, currants, and raisins; avocados; alcohol; and anything that contains xylitol. Be sure to ask guests not to feed your dog without permission!
Guests
Is your dog a bouncing ball of mischief? Tire your furry buddy out with a long walk and a fun play session before your company arrives. Fido will be naturally calmer once he’s burned off his zoomies. For additional ways to keep your dog calm and happy during festive events, consider exploring our “Alternative Vet Therapies,” which include treatments like acupuncture and massage that can help manage stress and enhance well-being.
Trash
Man’s Best Friend is extremely opportunistic when he comes to food. Some pups will even go through the trash in search of leftovers. This can be very dangerous, as the garbage could contain things like bones, toothpicks, tin foil, and other hazardous items. Make sure FIdo can’t access the garbage.
Best Paw Forward
Are you hosting this year’s gathering? Give your pooch a good bath before the big day. You’ll also want to vacuum, dust, and change your air filters.
Tail Wags
Dogs definitely rank pretty high on the list of things that we are thankful for! Pay your canine buddy some extra attention, and get that cute tail going. Once dinner is over, taking Fido for a walk can help you work off some of that feast. Later, settle in with your furry bff and a plate of leftovers for some quiet quality time. If you’re also a cat owner, you might find our article on “Drink Wine With Your Cat Week” amusing and relaxing as a way to spend time with your feline friend during a quiet evening.
Wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving from Santaluz Animal Care, your trusted provider of veterinary services in Carmel Valley, CA. Please feel free to reach out to us at any time.
