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

  • Writer: Caely Romero
    Caely Romero
  • Nov 24
  • 2 min read

Thanksgiving brings warm gatherings, delicious food, and festive fun — but it also brings risks for our pets. Rich dishes, unfamiliar visitors, and holiday stress can create situations where curious noses get into trouble.


A little planning and awareness can help ensure your pets enjoy the holiday safely right alongside you. Here’s what to keep in mind.


🚫 Foods to Keep Away From Pets

Many Thanksgiving staples contain ingredients that can be harmful — even in small amounts.

Avoid feeding your pet:

Food

Why It’s Unsafe

Turkey bones

Splinter easily, may cause choking or internal injury

Turkey skin & gravy

High fat content → risk of pancreatitis

Stuffing & casseroles (often contain garlic, onions)

Onions/garlic can cause anemia in dogs/cats

Mashed potatoes with butter/cream

Can upset digestion; high-fat

Chocolate & desserts

Toxic to pets and high sugar

Grapes & raisins

Can cause kidney failure

Alcohol

Toxic even in tiny amounts

Even well-meaning family members should resist the urge to “treat” your pet from the dinner table.


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Safer Holiday Treat Alternatives

If you'd like to share the holiday spirit with your pet, offer pet-safe treats instead:

  • Unseasoned, cooked turkey breast (no bones or skin)

  • Plain green beans

  • Plain pumpkin puree

  • Carrot sticks

  • A special veterinary-approved holiday treat or safe chew

Always introduce anything new slowly and in moderation.


Holiday Hosting Tips for a Calm & Safe Environment

Beyond food, the hustle and bustle of Thanksgiving can feel overwhelming for some pets. Consider:

  • Providing a quiet, cozy space away from guests

  • Letting visitors know not to feed your pet

  • Keeping trash secured

  • Watching front doors to prevent escaping pets

  • Giving anxious pets calming enrichment toys or chews

If your pet is already anxious during loud gatherings or change in routine, talk to your veterinary team about additional support options.


When to Call the Vet

Seek urgent veterinary care if your pet shows:

  • Vomiting or diarrhea

  • Loss of appetite

  • Lethargy or restlessness

  • Abdominal pain or bloating

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Sudden collapse

If you're unsure whether something is safe — call us. We’re here to help your holiday stay happy and healthy.

📞 (386) 585-4211


Happy Thanksgiving From Our Team

With a little preparation, your pet can enjoy a safe and cozy holiday right alongside your family. If you need advice, pre-holiday medication refills, or wellness care, we’re just a call away.

We’re grateful to share in your pet’s life — today and every day.


Sources

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