The holidays can be really overwhelming to pets and people alike. It’s no surprise that pets can start to feel a little unmoored in the weeks leading up to (and following) Thanksgiving. The food, the family, and the absolute departure from their regularly scheduled programming can all threaten a truly pet safe Thanksgiving.
Creatures of Habit
Your pet not only enjoys their routine, they depend on it to feel safe and secure. They can time all the things that happen in a single day, down to the minute. They know exactly when the day starts and ends, when meals happen, and other daily events like owner departure/arrival, workouts, playtime, and more.
You can promote Thanksgiving pet safety by simply sticking to your pet’s routine as much as possible. If you aren’t able to meet all of their needs on the schedule they know so well, hire a pet sitter or daycare to help them burn off steam and keep them out of trouble.
Along the Same Lines
Some pets really need a quiet place to rest when guests are over. Set them up in a room away from the crowd and noise. Set up comfy bedding, toys, treats, and fresh water. Play music or the TV for them to distract them from the festivities.
Be sure to provide timely bathroom breaks and lots of exercise opportunities so they can burn off steam. If needed, stay with your pet until you’re sure they are calm and sleepy.
Thanksgiving Pet Safety
For a holiday that centers around food, there are lots of traditional foods that are dangerous for pets. Pets should never be offered or have access to any of the following Thanksgiving foods:
- Uncooked yeast dough
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
- Chocolate
- Xylitol
- Macadamia nuts
- Buttery, rich foods
- Poultry skin and bones
- Garlic, onions, leeks, chives, and shallots
To keep your pet’s hunger and curiosity at bay, provide them with a small plate of these tasty, healthy Thanksgiving foods:
- Small bites of white meat (no skin or bones)
- Unsweetened pumpkin or sweet potato
- Steamed green beans and carrots
- Peas
- Plain, low-fat yogurt
- Small bites of apples
Always supervise your pet and watch for any changes to their appearance or behavior.
Other Tips for Health and Safety
To keep your pet free from harm this holiday season, check out these additional tips:
- Check your home’s windows and doors to ensure they are safe and secure.
- Add features to your exit doors, like gates or screens to reduce a pet’s chances of darting off.
- Make sure your pet’s ID tags are clean and legible and update their microchip if your contact information has recently changed.
- Always store your guest’s personal items, like coats, backpacks, and handbags, in areas your pet cannot get to.
- Request that guests never feed your pet or let them outside without your consent.
- Keep trash, compost, and recycling bins closed and locked to prevent accidental exposure to possible toxins or choking hazards.
From all of us at Sky Canyon Animal Hospital, we wish you and your pet a very happy and safe Thanksgiving. Please call us at (951) 461-4100 with any questions or concerns.