Thanksgiving is right around the corner. The smell of food cooking, the bustle around the house, the clink of glasses after a toast. Even the dog gets to eat some of the feast. But be careful what you feed him, because many foods can be toxic to your furry friend. Here is a list of dishes that you should avoid, along with some that you and your pet can enjoy.
AVOID
Turkey:
Raw or undercooked turkey can contain salmonella, which can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. If you’re going to give your dog turkey, make sure it is white meat, lean, and properly cooked. Feeding your dog turkey skin is harmful as well. Dogs’ stomachs can’t handle it. Too much fatty food can inflame their pancreas. This is known as Pancreatitis, and some symptoms include dehydration, lethargy, fever, and difficulty breathing.
Alcohol:
A big no-no. Ethanol, a chemical toxic to dogs, is a main ingredient in alcohol. Ethanol can cause diarrhea, seizures, and comas, all of which could lead to death.
Nutmeg:
Nutmeg has mild hallucinogenic properties that can give your dog seizures. While pumpkin and sweet potatoes by themselves are good for dogs, make sure you don’t use nutmeg when you make them.
Dairy Products:
Many dogs are lactose intolerant, meaning they are allergic to an ingredient in milk. Stay away from milk, butter, cream cheese, ice cream, and cheese.
Chocolate:
Most pet owners know this one, but that doesn’t make it any less important. Chocolate is the most common cause of canine poisoning. Even in small amounts, it can be fatal. Why is chocolate so dangerous? The cocoa that is used to make it contains a chemical called theobromine, which dogs take a very long time to digest.
ALL CLEAR
Cranberries:
Vitamins A, B1, B2, and C, antioxidants- what’s not to love? Just make sure it’s not canned or jellied.
Mashed Potatoes and Gravy:
As with turkey skin, gravy is very fatty and could make your pet very ill. However, as long as you serve it with no butter or gravy, a small amount of mashed potatoes is okay.
Pumpkin:
It’s best fresh and not canned, but pumpkin is very good for a dog’s digestion. Pumpkin is full to the brim with vitamins, fiber, and beta carotene.
Apples:
Raw apples are a great source of vitamins and omega-3s. Cut out the core before you offer them to your dog— the seeds contain amygdalin, which is a form of cyanide.
Sweet Potatoes:
These are actually healthier than regular potatoes, and dogs love them. Sweet potatoes are full of fiber, vitamins, and carotenoids.
Be careful with the trash: aluminum foil, plastic wrap, wax paper, toothpicks, and skewers. Pets can ingest some of the wrapper when they lick them clean. This could give them intestinal obstructions. Additionally, avoid giving them hot food. If its too hot for you, it’s too hot for them.
Do not give bones to your dog. The small ones are a choking hazard, and the larger ones can crack his teeth, break into pieces and, when swallowed, can cause internal lacerations.
Have a great Thanksgiving, humans and dogs alike!
Have a great Thanksgiving, humans and dogs alike!
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