Keeping Your Furry Friend Safe: Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs Thanksgiving is a time for indulgence and gratitude, but it’s important to remember that not all Thanksgiving foods are safe for our four-legged friends. While your dog may be giving you those irresistible puppy eyes at the Thanksgiving table, it’s crucial to resist the temptation to share certain foods that could potentially harm them. Experts warn against feeding dogs Thanksgiving staples such as stuffing, mashed potatoes, and ham due to potentially unsafe or unhealthy ingredients. Some common ingredients found in these dishes, like Xylitol, avocado, onion, garlic, and dairy products, can lead to severe health issues for dogs, ranging from liver failure and vomiting to breathing problems and, in some cases, even death, according to the American Kennel Club. To ensure your furry friend stays healthy and happy this Thanksgiving, the American Kennel Club has compiled a helpful list of foods that dogs can and cannot eat on this festive occasion. Foods Dogs Can Enjoy on Thanksgiving: 1. Sweet Potatoes: A nutritious and delicious treat for dogs, just make sure they are plain and not covered in any marshmallow or sugary toppings. 2. Potatoes: Plain, cooked potatoes are safe for dogs to consume. Avoid adding butter, sour cream, or other toppings that may be harmful to them. 3. Apples: Remove the core and seeds, and slice the apple into small, bite-sized pieces for a healthy and refreshing snack for your canine companion. 4. Turkey Meat (No Bones or Skin): Dogs can enjoy small amounts of cooked, boneless, and skinless turkey meat. Avoid seasoning or using any marinades that may be harmful to them. 5. Green Beans: Plain, cooked green beans are a safe and healthy vegetable option for dogs. They are a great source of vitamins and fiber. 6. Plain Peas: Similarly, plain, cooked peas are safe for dogs to consume. They provide a good source of nutrients and can be a tasty addition to their meal. 7. Pumpkin or Pure Pumpkin Puree: Plain, canned pumpkin or pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) is a dog-friendly ingredient that can aid in digestion and provide a good source of fiber. 8. Frozen Plain Yogurt Blended with Pumpkin Puree: A frozen treat made by blending plain yogurt with pumpkin puree can be a refreshing and safe dessert option for your dog. 9. Pumpkin Dog Cookies: Homemade or store-bought pumpkin dog cookies can be a special, dog-friendly treat during the Thanksgiving festivities. Foods Dogs Should Avoid on Thanksgiving: 1. Turkey Bones and Skin: The bones and skin of turkeys can pose choking hazards and may cause intestinal blockage or other injuries. Keep these out of your dog’s reach. 2. Gravy: Gravy often contains ingredients like onion and garlic, which are toxic to dogs. Avoid feeding your dog any gravy or sauces that may be harmful to them. 3. Casseroles: Many casseroles contain ingredients like onions, garlic, and spices that can be harmful to dogs. It’s best to avoid sharing any casseroles with your furry friend. 4. Mashed Potatoes: Mashed potatoes often contain ingredients like butter, milk, or sour cream, which can cause digestive issues for dogs. Stick to plain, cooked potatoes instead. 5. Creamed Peas: Creamed peas typically contain dairy and other ingredients that are not well-tolerated by dogs. It’s best to avoid feeding them to your furry friend. 6. Pies: Pies are usually loaded with sugar, butter, and other ingredients that can be harmful to dogs. Keep these sweet treats out of your dog’s reach. 7. Alcoholic Beverages: Alcoholic beverages are toxic to dogs and can cause serious health issues. Ensure that your dog does not have access to any alcoholic beverages. 8. Raisins and Grapes: These fruits are highly toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure. Be cautious and keep all foods containing raisins or grapes away from your furry friend. 9. Onions, Scallions, and Garlic: These ingredients are toxic to dogs and can cause severe health issues, including anemia. Avoid feeding your dog any foods that contain these ingredients. 10. Ham: Ham is high in fat and salt, making it an unhealthy choice for dogs. It can lead to pancreatitis and other digestive problems. Keep ham away from your furry friend. 11. Yeast Dough: Raw yeast dough can expand in a dog’s stomach, causing discomfort, bloating, and potentially dangerous gas buildup. Ensure they don’t have access to any yeast dough. 12. Fatty Foods: Foods high in fat, like turkey skin or drippings, can lead to pancreatitis in dogs. It’s best to avoid sharing these fatty foods with your furry friend. 13. Foods Containing Spices: Many Thanksgiving dishes contain spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, or sage, which can be harmful to dogs. Avoid feeding them any foods with added spices. If, despite your best efforts, your pet accidentally consumes something they shouldn’t, it’s crucial to contact your local vet or the Pet Poison Helpline for guidance. They can provide the necessary advice and help ensure your dog’s well-being. As responsible pet owners, it’s our duty to prioritize our furry friends’ health and safety during Thanksgiving and all year round. By being aware of the foods that are safe and those to avoid, we can ensure a joyful and worry-free holiday season for both humans and their beloved canine companions. Tag: Pet Safety Featured Image: Safe Thanksgiving Treats for Dogs Meta Description: Discover the Thanksgiving foods that are safe for your dog to enjoy and those they should avoid to ensure their health and well-being. 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