Veterinary Safety Tips for Pets Around Thanksgiving Leftovers

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to gather with family, but it’s also one of the most dangerous holidays for pets. Between the table scraps, leftovers, and curious sniffers, accidents happen easily.

Foods That Are Dangerous

• Turkey bones: Cooked bones splinter easily, causing choking, intestinal tears, or obstructions.
• Stuffing with onions or garlic: Highly toxic to pets, affecting red blood cells and potentially causing anemia.
• Chocolate, raisins, grapes, and alcohol: Even small amounts can be life-threatening.
• High-fat foods and gravy: Can trigger pancreatitis, which is extremely painful and requires hospitalization.
• Dough with yeast: Expands in the stomach, causing pain, bloating, or dangerous gas buildup.

Tips for a Safe Holiday

• Keep pets in a separate area during meal prep and dining.
• Offer pet-safe alternatives, like plain cooked turkey (without seasoning) or vegetables.
• Store leftovers securely and dispose of bones immediately.
• Learn emergency signs: vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, tremors, or trouble breathing.

By planning ahead and keeping a watchful eye, you can ensure the holiday is safe and stress-free for both your pets and family.

If your pet ingests something harmful or shows unusual symptoms, call us or your nearest emergency clinic immediately. Prompt action can prevent serious complications.