Pet-Safe Thanksgiving 

Anything that upends a pet’s daily routine can, and probably will, have a profound impact on pet health and safety. While the holidays have many traditions that repeat each year, they do tend to change a pet’s daily routine. The best way to approach a pet-safe Thanksgiving is to adhere to their daily schedule, and closely monitor their appearance and behavior. 

Every Planned Moment

Pets not only enjoy knowing which events are about to occur, they also depend on the soundness of their routine. This awareness leads to a sense of purpose and supports feelings of safety, trust, and confidence. In other words, consistency is the key to pet well-being.

This Thanksgiving, try to keep your pet’s daily routine as close to normal as possible. Knowing they are close to meal times, bathroom breaks, owner arrival, or workouts can greatly reduce stress and anxiety and boost calmness.

Consider Alternatives

You can also board your pet or hire a pet sitter to take care of your pet’s needs if you are traveling or hosting a large group this Thanksgiving. If your pets are staying home during the meal, be sure they have access to a quiet room away from the party to rest and relax. 

Down to Health and Security

Increasing a pet’s safety this time of year can go a long way. Update their microchip information, if applicable, replace old, worn ID tags with shiny new ones, and take a look at certain features in and around your property that could lead to accidental illness or injury. This includes:

• Fixing broken window screens or fence posts
• Installing safety gates near exits to reduce accidental escape
• Investing in secure trash bins so your pet can’t get into discarded, and potentially hazardous, items
• Securing all chemicals in cabinets
• Ensuring that backpacks and handbags are never stored on lower surfaces

In the Kitchen

For a holiday that centers around a table loaded with decadent, indulgent food, Thanksgiving takes the cake for days that present significant danger to pet health. Pets should never have access to the following toxic or otherwise risky foods this Thanksgiving:

• Alcohol
• Caffeine
• Chocolate 
• Super buttery, rich foods
• Gravy
• Poultry skin
• Bones
• Macadamia nuts
• Raisins/grapes
• Galic
• Onion
• Xylitol
• Uncooked bread dough

Please keep our number handy and consult the pet poison helpline for after hours assistance.

Thanksgiving Pet Safety Guidelines

Give your pet lots of opportunities to get outside and exercise before and after the feast. This will mitigate any edgy or anxious feelings and enable your pet to sit through your dinner without interrupting. 

Provide them with a scrumptious Thanksgiving-inspired plate or steamed sweet potatoes, green beans, and carrots. A side of low-fat yogurt and boneless, skinless white meat will keep them satisfied. 

If you have questions about your pet’s health and safety this Thanksgiving, please call Englishtown Vet MD at (732) 786-8877.