Holiday Season Dietary Tips for Your Canine Companion: Thanksgiving
## A Dog-Friendly Thanksgiving: Safe Foods and Foods to Avoid
While many traditional Thanksgiving foods may not be suitable for our four-legged friends, there are several options that can make the holiday season a delight for dogs as well. Veterinarian Dr. Hannah Godfrey provides guidance on the best ways to serve Thanksgiving foods to dogs and which foods should be avoided.
### Safe Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs
- **Plain Squash (No Seeds or Skin)**: Dogs can enjoy squash like pumpkin, butternut squash, zucchini, and acorn squash if they are properly cooked and free of seeds and skin. It should be served plain without seasonings like onion or garlic.
- **Cooked Potatoes**: Dogs can eat plain, cooked potatoes. However, avoid raw potatoes, mashed potatoes with dairy, and potato skins.
- **Unseasoned Chicken or Turkey**: Plain, unseasoned chicken or turkey can be a safe option, but ensure there are no bones or seasonings toxic to dogs. Dr. Godfrey advises that while turkey is generally safe for dogs, it should be served without fat, seasoning, or spices.
### Foods to Avoid at Thanksgiving
Many Thanksgiving foods pose hazards for dogs due to toxicity or potential choking hazards. It's essential to keep the following foods out of reach:
- **Onions and Garlic**: These are toxic to dogs and should be avoided altogether.
- **Pumpkin Pie Filling**: Contains xylitol, an artificial sweetener toxic to dogs.
- **Nutmeg and Cinnamon**: These spices can be harmful if ingested by dogs.
- **Mashed Potatoes with Dairy**: Most dogs are lactose intolerant, so avoid dairy products.
- **Bones**: Cooked bones can splinter and cause obstruction or injury.
- **Fatty Foods**: Avoid giving dogs fatty foods like gravy or butter, as they can cause pancreatitis.
### Additional Safe Treats for Thanksgiving
- **Fresh Cranberries**: Can be given to dogs as a safe and tasty treat.
- **Pumpkin Puree**: Whether canned or homemade, pumpkin puree is a safe and nutritious treat for dogs, containing fiber and various vitamins and minerals.
- **Bone Broth**: Can be used after the Thanksgiving meal, but it should be made dog-friendly by leaving out toxic ingredients such as onions and garlic.
### Shopping for a Dog This Christmas
For those looking to shop for a dog this Christmas, Black Friday deals are being offered on various dog products.
Some popular dog-friendly Thanksgiving meal options include Merrick Lil' Plates Premium Grain Free Natural, suitable for small-breed dogs and dogs with sensitive stomachs, and Merrick Grain Free Wet Dog Food, which includes turkey, granny smith apples, chicken, sweet potatoes, and green beans.
Remember, it's always best to consult with your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your dog's diet. A little planning can help ensure a happy and healthy Thanksgiving for both you and your furry friend.
- To ensure a dog-friendly lifestyle, homemade cooking that excludes harmful ingredients like onions, garlic, nutmeg, and cinnspice can be beneficial for our pets during the holiday season.
- A healthy-cooking approach could include safe foods like plain squash, cooked potatoes, and unseasoned chicken or turkey, offering variety without posing risks to our pet's health.
- When it comes to Thanksgiving meals, consider pet-friendly food-and-drink options like fresh cranberries, pumpkin puree, and bone broth, ensuring a stress-free dining experience for all members of the family.
- For those shopping for a pet during the home-and-garden season, consider brands like Merrick Lil' Plates and Merrick Grain Free Wet Dog Food, offering quality ingredients suitable for different dogs' breeds and dietary needs.
- When introducing new foods to your pet's diet, always consult with your veterinarian for advice on care and proper serving portions.
- Proper feeding and keeping potentially harmful foods out of reach can contribute to maintaining a healthy, happy, and long lifestyle for our beloved pets during holidays and beyond.
