Turkey Day is right around the corner! Many people are already anticipating spending quality time with their families while savoring those delicious holiday foods. Of course, pets are also part of the family! Your furry buddy may be paying very close attention as those yummy dishes come out of the oven. Thanksgiving can be dangerous for dogs and cats, though, so you’ll want to take some steps to keep your four-legged pal safe. Read on as a Bucks County, PA vet lists some Thanksgiving hazards for pets.

Bones

Despite that iconic image of dogs happily gnawing on them, bones, especially cooked ones, are extremely dangerous for pets. When they are cooked, they become very brittle, and can splinter into very sharp pieces that can hurt or choke Fido or Fluffy. Never give your furry friend meat on the bone.

Dangerous Foods

Many of our favorite foods are toxic to pets. Garlic, onions, scallions, and chives are particularly concerning, as they are often used as seasonings or toppings in many of those scrumptious seasonal dishes. Some other foods to avoid giving your furry pal include pitted fruits, especially avocados; grapes, currants, and raisins; raw dough or meat; chocolate; caffeine; alcohol; and anything containing xylitol. If in doubt, err on the side of caution and offer something you know is safe, such as cooked, unseasoned boneless turkey.

Trash

Fido has been known to dig through the trash in hopes of scoring himself some yummy leftovers. Use garbage cans with secure lids.

Candles/Heating Elements

Scented candles can be the perfect touch for that holiday spread. However, pets and flames can be a deadly mix! Use thick, secure candleholders, and place only candles in spots that your furball can’t reach. Fireplaces can also pose a risk: be sure to use protective gratings on fireplaces.

Other Hazards

Large family gatherings can pretty hectic! Pets are at increased risk of getting accidentally stepped on, or getting their tails caught in closing doors. Dogs and cats can also get over-excited as people are coming and going. You don’t want your four-legged buddy slipping out an open door! Consider putting your furkid in a quiet back room, with food, treats, toys, and bedding, and, in Fluffy’s case, a litterbox. Better safe than sorry!

Do you have any questions about your pet’s health or care? Contact us, your local Bucks County, PA animal clinic, anytime!