Thanksgiving and Christmas are a time for celebration, food, and family fun, but they can also pose some holiday-specific risks for our pets. While we’re busy preparing food and hosting loved ones, it’s easy to overlook some common hazards that could affect our furry family members. Here are a few tips to avoid pet mishaps (or a trip to the emergency vet!) this holiday season:

  • Trash Troubles: Dispose of food scraps, turkey bones, and packaging properly. Pets can easily get into trash bags, which can lead to choking hazards or digestive blockages. Consider using a pet-proof trash can or taking out the trash promptly.
  • Unattended Plates: With so much delicious food around, it’s tempting for pets to grab a quick snack from an unattended plate. Keep an eye on your food and remind guests to do the same to avoid accidental ingestion of harmful foods.
  • Alcohol Awareness: Festive drinks left within reach can be dangerous. Even a small amount of alcohol can cause severe health issues in pets, so be sure to clean up any spills and keep glasses out of reach.
  • Visitor Stress: If your pet isn’t accustomed to crowds or new faces, they may become anxious. Create a quiet, comfortable space for them to retreat to when the holiday hustle becomes too much.
  • Hot Surfaces and Open Flames: With lots of cooking and candles burning, ensure pets are kept away from stovetops, hot pans, and open flames to prevent burns or accidents.

If you want to share a little bit of your holiday meal with your pet, keep in mind that not all table scraps are equal. In moderation, some things are fine to share a little bite- and others not so much:

Foods Dogs CAN Have:

  • Carrots
  • Celery
  • Corn (off the cob)
  • Sweet Potatoes
  • Green Beans
  • Apples (no core or seeds)
  • Pumpkin
  • Rice
  • Quinoa
  • A little cheese
  • Turkey (no skin, fat, or bones)

Foods Dogs CANNOT Have:

  • Ham
  • Chocolate
  • Garlic
  • Leeks
  • Onions
  • Grapes
  • Raisins
  • Raw Potatoes
  • Mashed Potatoes (often contain butter, cream, or garlic)
  • Raw Dough
  • Canned Cranberry
  • Pre-Made Desserts
  • Pie Filling
  • Stuffing

If you’re ever unsure or suspect your pet has eaten something dangerous, don’t hesitate to call the Pet Poison Helpline: 1-855-764-7661 for immediate assistance.

With a little extra vigilance around these holiday risks, you can ensure a happy holiday season for your whole family, including your pets!