Celebrate Thanksgiving the Dog-Friendly Way

It’s hard to believe that Thanksgiving is tomorrow! Soon, your home will be filled with family and friends, and more food than you know what to do with. For many, their dogs are an extension of their human family, and because of all of the delicious smells and interesting holiday foods, dogs become more curious than ever around the holidays. But you may be doing more harm than good by sharing your Thanksgiving plate. Here are some tips to keep in mind to celebrate Thanksgiving the dog-friendly way!

No-No’s: Your plate will be filled with all kinds of things your dog would like to sample, and while it may seem harmless to sneak them a bite under the table, there are a variety of Thanksgiving foods that are a no-no, namely, turkey. Your turkey is basted in fat, which makes it taste amazing, but it’s terrible for your dog. So are stuffing and gravy because they contain spices and onions that your dog shouldn’t have. To be safe, refrain from feeding your dog table scraps no matter how cute they look begging.

Bones: You might be planning to make a wish with the wishbone, but under no circumstances should you give poultry bones to your dog. They are too brittle and weak for your dog’s strong jaw, and tend to splinter, which could cause them to choke. Dispose of bones in an outdoor trashcan with a tight-fitting lid so that neighborhood critters don’t help themselves either.

Traveling With Your Pet: If you’re heading a friend or family member’s house for Thanksgiving and plan to take your pet, make sure you’re keeping their safety in mind when you’re on the road. Placing your pup in a crate in the car is the best way to keep them safe, but you might also look into a dog car safety harness that acts as a puppy seatbelt.

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