What is safe for dogs on Thanksgiving?-petwant.com

Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate with family and friends, and of course, enjoy a delicious feast. But if you have a furry friend at home, you may wonder what foods you can share with your dog on this special occasion. While some Thanksgiving dishes are safe and even beneficial for dogs, others can be harmful or even toxic. Here are some tips on what to feed and what to avoid for your canine companion on Thanksgiving.

Safe foods for dogs

Some of the foods that are commonly served on Thanksgiving are actually good for dogs, as long as they are prepared without any seasonings, sauces, or additives. These include:

Turkey: Turkey meat (boneless and skinless) is a great source of lean protein for dogs. It can help build muscle, support the immune system, and promote healthy skin and coat. However, avoid giving your dog any turkey bones, skin, or fat, as these can cause choking, pancreatitis, or gastrointestinal problems.
Cranberries: Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, which can benefit your dog's urinary tract, immune system, and digestion. However, avoid giving your dog any cranberry sauce, as it may contain sugar, artificial sweeteners, or other ingredients that are not good for dogs. Instead, opt for fresh or dried cranberries, and only in small amounts.
Sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes are another nutritious food for dogs, as they contain vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. They can help support your dog's vision, immune system, and digestive health. However, avoid giving your dog any sweet potato casserole, pie, or marshmallows, as these can be too sweet or contain harmful ingredients like nutmeg, cinnamon, or xylitol. Instead, offer your dog plain cooked or mashed sweet potatoes, and only in moderation.
Green beans: Green beans are a low-calorie and high-fiber snack for dogs, as they can help them feel full and maintain a healthy weight. They also contain vitamin K, vitamin C, and manganese, which can support your dog's bone, blood, and metabolic health. However, avoid giving your dog any green bean casserole, as it may contain onion, garlic, mushroom, or cream, which are toxic or unhealthy for dogs. Instead, give your dog plain cooked or raw green beans, and only as a treat.
Pumpkin: Pumpkin is a superfood for dogs, as it contains beta-carotene, vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber. It can help improve your dog's vision, immune system, skin, and coat, as well as regulate their bowel movements and prevent constipation or diarrhea. However, avoid giving your dog any pumpkin pie, as it may contain sugar, spices, or dairy, which are not good for dogs. Instead, offer your dog plain cooked or canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling), and only in small amounts.
Corn: Corn is a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and antioxidants for dogs, as it can provide them with energy, support their digestion, and protect their cells from damage. However, avoid giving your dog any corn on the cob, as it can cause choking, intestinal blockage, or perforation. Instead, give your dog plain cooked or canned corn kernels, and only as a treat.
Apples: Apples are a crunchy and refreshing treat for dogs, as they contain vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber. They can help clean your dog's teeth, freshen their breath, and boost their immune system. However, avoid giving your dog any apple seeds, core, or stem, as they can contain cyanide, which is poisonous for dogs. Instead, give your dog sliced or chopped apples, and only in moderation.

Foods to avoid for dogs

Some of the foods that are commonly served on Thanksgiving are not safe for dogs, as they can cause allergic reactions, digestive issues, or even poisoning. These include:

Onions, garlic, leeks, and chives: These are members of the allium family, which are toxic for dogs. They can damage your dog's red blood cells, leading to anemia, weakness, or even death. They can also cause gastrointestinal irritation, vomiting, or diarrhea. Avoid giving your dog any food that contains these ingredients, such as stuffing, gravy, or casseroles.
Grapes and raisins: These are fruits that are toxic for dogs. They can cause kidney failure, which can be fatal. They can also cause vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, or lethargy. Avoid giving your dog any food that contains these ingredients, such as fruit salad, bread, or cookies.
Chocolate and cocoa: These are products that are toxic for dogs. They contain theobromine and caffeine, which are stimulants that can affect your dog's nervous system, heart, and blood pressure. They can cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, or even death. Avoid giving your dog any food that contains these ingredients, such as chocolate cake, brownies, or candy.
 Xylitol: This is an artificial sweetener that is toxic for dogs. It can cause a rapid drop in your dog's blood sugar, leading to hypoglycemia, which can be life-threatening. It can also cause liver failure, which can be fatal. Avoid giving your dog any food that contains this ingredient, such as sugar-free gum, candy, or baked goods.
Nutmeg and cinnamon: These are spices that are not safe for dogs. They can cause gastrointestinal irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, or liver damage. They can also cause neurological problems, such as hallucinations, disorientation, or seizures. Avoid giving your dog any food that contains these ingredients, such as pumpkin pie, sweet potato pie, or apple pie.
Alcohol: This is a substance that is not safe for dogs. It can affect your dog's central nervous system, causing depression, incoordination, or coma. It can also cause respiratory failure, which can be fatal. Avoid giving your dog any food or drink that contains alcohol, such as beer, wine, or cocktails.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to share some food and love with your dog, but you need to be careful about what you feed them. Some foods are safe and healthy for dogs, while others are harmful or deadly. Always check the ingredients and preparation methods of any food you want to give your dog, and consult your veterinarian if you have any doubts or concerns. Remember, moderation is key, and your dog's regular diet should not be replaced by Thanksgiving leftovers. By following these tips, you can ensure your dog has a happy and safe Thanksgiving with you and your family.

FAQs

Q: What food can I give my dog during Thanksgiving? 
A: Thanksgiving is a wonderful holiday, but it’s also important to pay attention to your dog’s health and safety. In general, you can give your dog some unseasoned turkey, cranberries, sweet potatoes, green beans, pumpkin, and cored and seeded apples². However, you want to avoid giving your dog any bones, alcohol, greasy foods, or foods containing onions, garlic, or xylitol³. These foods may cause indigestion, poisoning, or choking in your dog.

Q: How should I protect my dog from heat and electrical cords during Thanksgiving? 
A: During Thanksgiving, you may use some ovens, microwaves, kettles and other heat sources to prepare food, or use some lighting, electrical appliances and other wires to decorate your room. These items can be attractive to your dog, but they can also be dangerous. You should try to keep these heat sources and cords out of your dog's reach, or confine your dog to a safe area with a fence or gate. You also want to check on your dog regularly to prevent them from chewing or playing with these items out of curiosity or boredom.

Q: How should I handle my dog’s anxiety or excitement during Thanksgiving? 
A: During Thanksgiving, you may have some friends and family visiting, or take your dog to someone else’s home. These situations may make your dog feel anxious or excited and exhibit some unwanted behaviors, such as barking, running around, biting, etc. You should try to acclimate your dog to these new surroundings and people by giving them some comfort and rewards so they know you are there for them. You can also give your dog some safe toys or chews to distract them and reduce stress. If your dog appears to be overly anxious or excited, you can take them to a quiet area and let them calm down, or check with your veterinarian to see if they need to give them some calming medication.