5 Essential Tips for Keeping Your Pets Safe This Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving brings joy, memories, and tasty treats. However, while we're enjoying the holiday, it's important to remember that some festivities can be harmful to our pets. Whether it’s a curious dog or an inquisitive cat, keeping our companions safe is vital. Here are some essential tips and examples to help protect your furry friends during this festive season.

1. Secure Your Food

During Thanksgiving, the sight and smell of delicious food are hard to resist for pets. Items like turkey skin, which is rich and fatty, can lead to digestive issues in dogs. In fact, around 36% of pet owners have reported that their pets have experienced gastrointestinal problems after consuming human food during the holidays. Always keep food in sealed containers and educate guests about not feeding anything to your pets. Consider placing a gate across the area where food is kept or keep cats & dogs in a separate room all together when you have guest around.

2. Beware of Toxic Ingredients

Many holiday recipes include ingredients that can be toxic to animals. For example, onions and garlic, often found in stuffing, can damage red blood cells in dogs and cats. Chocolate, found in many desserts, can be highly toxic even in small amounts. Consider doing a quick review of your recipes before cooking. Avoid adding any toxic ingredients and stick with healthy alternatives, such as plain turkey or carrots, for your pets.

3. Designate a Pet-Free Zone

With people celebrating and moving around, some pets may feel overwhelmed. Designating a quiet area in your home creates a safe space for them. This could be a quiet room with their favorite bed, toys or even a pet friendly food item. By providing a haven, you help reduce pet anxiety and provides them a place they can retreat and chill out.

4. Keep Decorations Out of Reach

Thanksgiving often comes with festive decor, but many decorations appear as a fun toy for many pets. Candles may cause burns if knocked over, and small items could present choking or intestinal blockage hazards. It's reported that approximately 27% of pet emergencies are related to decorations during the holidays. Ensure all decorative items are high enough to be out of reach for both dogs & cats. Opt for non-toxic decorations that are made from safe materials in case one gets knocked down.

5. Monitor Guests

Not every guest understands how to interact with pets, which can create stressful situations. While many people love animals, it's important to supervise interactions. This avoids overwhelming your pets, especially if they are timid or shy, and avoids overwhelming your guest that aren't confident with your pets.

Teach guests to approach pets calmly and encourage gentle petting. If your pet starts showing signs of stress, such as hiding or excessive panting, it might be a good idea to direct them back to their safe space. This allows everyone to enjoy the company without causing your pet distress.

Safe Celebrations for All

Thanksgiving is a time to cherish all those we love, including our furry companions. By implementing these simple tips, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for your pets and your family. With preparation and awareness of potential hazards, you can create a cozy atmosphere for everyone, two-legged and four-legged alike.

Wishing you, your loved ones, and your pets a safe and joyful Thanksgiving!