Healthy Thanksgiving Options for Pets
Pets and people alike love to enjoy good food. Thanksgiving is a day full of good food and smells. While your pet may be giving you the puppy dog eyes to try and get a bite, you should be careful with what you share. Threats of pancreatitis, gastrointestinal obstructions, or toxicities come into play when you sneak your furry friend bites from your plate. Avoid spending your Thanksgiving in an emergency veterinary hospital by opting for the following tasty, pet-safe alternatives:
- Plain turkey breast — Dogs and bones are often paired together, but tossing your pooch a turkey leg is a big no-no. Instead, offer small bites of unseasoned turkey breast with skin, bones, and excess fat removed.
- Fresh veggies — Fresh vegetables, minus garlic and onions, are always an excellent healthy treat for your pet. When preparing your side dishes, save a few carrots, green beans, or broccoli chunks for your pet to nibble while your family enjoys casseroles, stuffings, and other sides stuffed with veggies.
- Unseasoned mashed potatoes — While your typical mashed potatoes loaded with butter, milk, garlic, and other seasonings are off-limits for pets, plain mashed potatoes are perfectly acceptable in small portions. Before adding all the extras that make mashed potatoes delicious, save a bite or two free from seasonings and dairy products. Many pets are lactose-intolerant—including cats—and can vomit or develop diarrhea from milk.
Have a healthy and happy Thanksgiving this year. By making sure to make safe choices for your pet, you will have a worry-free holiday. If your pet does happen to get themselves into some trouble getting into the leftovers, contact us!