Thanksgiving Safety Tips for Pets: Keep Your Furry Friends Safe This Holiday

Thanksgiving is a special time to gather with family, enjoy delicious food, and reflect on what you’re grateful for. For pet owners, however, the holiday brings unique challenges. While you’re busy preparing the turkey and setting the table, your dog or cat could be navigating a minefield of hazards from toxic foods and choking hazards to stress caused by loud gatherings. Here’s everything you need to know to keep your pets safe, healthy, and happy this Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving Safety Tips for Pets

1. Skip the Table Scraps

It can be hard to resist those pleading eyes as you carve the turkey, but feeding your pet table scraps is risky. Many Thanksgiving foods contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs and cats.

• Turkey skin and fatty meat: High-fat foods can trigger pancreatitis, a serious inflammation of the pancreas that requires immediate veterinary care.
  

• Stuffing and gravy: Ingredients like onions, garlic, and rich seasonings are toxic to pets. Even small amounts can lead to digestive upset or more severe health issues.

Instead, stick to your pet’s regular diet or offer vet-approved treats. You can even prepare a small “Thanksgiving-safe” plate for them using plain cooked turkey (without skin or seasoning) and some dog-friendly vegetables like carrots or green beans.

Pro tip: Pre-portion these treats in advance to avoid temptation throughout the day.

2. Never Give Cooked Bones

Cooked turkey or chicken bones are one of the most dangerous items during the holiday. They can splinter easily, causing:

• Choking hazards
  

• Intestinal blockages
  

• Internal injuries

Even if your dog has never had a problem before, the risk is too high to ignore. Always dispose of bones securely in a trash can that your pet cannot access.

Alternative: Offer dental chews or raw bones specifically designed for dogs, as these are safer and still satisfy their chewing instinct.

3. Beware of Toxic Foods

Several traditional Thanksgiving foods are toxic to pets, and it’s easy to overlook them:

• Chocolate and desserts: Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to both dogs and cats. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and potentially fatal heart arrhythmias.
  

• Artificial sweeteners: Xylitol, often found in sugar-free desserts, gum, and peanut butter, can trigger life-threatening drops in blood sugar and liver failure.
  

• Grapes, raisins, and certain nuts: These items can cause kidney failure in dogs and cats.

Keep these foods out of reach and educate guests not to feed pets anything from the table. You might even place a small sign in your kitchen or near the dining area, reminding visitors: “No people food for pets.”

4. Create a Safe, Quiet Space

Large gatherings, loud noises, and the constant coming and going of guests can be overwhelming for pets. Just like you need a quiet retreat after a hectic day, pets benefit from a safe space they can call their own.

• Set up a dedicated area: Use a spare room, laundry area, or quiet corner. Include their bed, water, toys, and a blanket with your scent to provide comfort.
  

• Limit access to chaotic areas: Close doors or use baby gates to prevent pets from wandering into crowded rooms or near open flames.

A safe space reduces stress, prevents behavioral issues, and keeps pets from accidentally ingesting harmful foods or objects.

5. Secure Trash and Leftovers

Pets are notorious for dumpster diving, and Thanksgiving trash is particularly tempting. Food wrappers, bones, aluminum foil, and discarded leftovers can lead to serious injuries or poisoning if ingested.

• Use pet-proof trash cans: Ensure lids are tight or use a trash can in a secured pantry.
  

• Dispose of leftovers promptly: Don’t leave turkey carcasses or pies on counters. If you plan to store leftovers, keep them in sealed containers on high shelves or inside the fridge.

Small precautions here prevent trips to the emergency vet and keep your pets safe from dangerous temptations.

6. Mind Decorations and Plants

Thanksgiving decorations can pose hidden hazards for pets:

• Pumpkins and gourds: Small decorative pumpkins can be a choking risk. Avoid leaving them on the floor where curious pets can reach them.
  

• Candles and open flames: Curious pets can knock over candles, causing fires or burns. Consider flameless LED candles instead.
  

• Holiday plants: Mums, holly, and certain decorative berries are toxic to pets. Keep them out of reach or opt for artificial alternatives.

7. Manage Holiday Stress

Pets can pick up on your stress, and a busy holiday can make them anxious. Signs of stress include pacing, whining, excessive grooming, or hiding.

• Stick to routine: Try to maintain normal feeding, walking, and play schedules. Pets thrive on consistency.
  

• Offer mental stimulation: Puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys can occupy them safely while guests are in the kitchen.
  

• Use calming aids if necessary: Consult your veterinarian about pheromone diffusers or other anxiety-reducing solutions.

8. Traveling? Plan Ahead for Boarding

If you are traveling for Thanksgiving, leaving your pet with friends or family isn’t always ideal. A trusted pet boarding facility like Furry Resorts ensures your pet receives professional care, attention, and a safe environment while you’re away.

• Benefits of professional boarding: Regular feeding schedules, exercise, socialization, and supervised play.
  

• Peace of mind: You can enjoy your holiday knowing your pet is safe and comfortable.

Make reservations early, as holidays are busy, and ensure the facility is fully licensed and staffed by trained professionals.

9. Know Your Emergency Contacts

Emergencies can happen even with the best precautions. Keep these numbers handy:

• Veterinarian contact: Your regular vet’s number for quick advice.
  

• ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: 1-888-426-4435.
  

• Local emergency vet clinic: Identify the closest after-hours clinic in advance.

Having a plan in place allows you to act quickly if your pet ingests something dangerous or becomes ill.

10. Consider Pet-Friendly Thanksgiving Recipes

If you want your pet to feel included in the feast safely, consider preparing pet-friendly treats. Some ideas:

• Turkey and vegetable medley: Plain cooked turkey with carrots or green beans.
  

• Pumpkin dog treats: Unsweetened pumpkin mixed with oat flour for homemade biscuits.
  

• Frozen fruit cubes: Blueberries or small pieces of apple (without seeds) can be a refreshing treat.

These options let your pet enjoy the holiday safely and prevent begging at the table.

Final Thoughts: A Safe, Happy Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving should be a time of gratitude, togetherness, and celebration. For your pets' safety starts with awareness and planning by:

• Avoiding table scraps and cooked bones
  

• Securing trash and decorations
  

• Providing a quiet retreat
  

• Preparing safe treats
  

• Having emergency contacts ready

…you ensure a stress-free holiday for everyone in your household.

If you’re traveling, professional pet boarding like Furry Resorts offers the peace of mind you need, with trained staff, exercise, socialization, and care while you’re away. This Thanksgiving, be thankful for the safety and happiness of your furry family members.

Your pet deserves a holiday just as much as you do, safe, healthy, and full of love.