Our vets from Valley Animal Hospital want to share a few of these unsafe foods, plus tips for keeping you and your pet safe this holiday season. Our animals are more than just pets, they’re family. With the holiday season almost here, so are the holiday feasts. Leftovers may be delicious and nutritious for you, but not so much for your furry friends. Please don’t feed your pet any foods that can potentially be a risk to their health unless you know otherwise.
Foods That Are Toxic to Your Pet
It’s easy to give in to your dog’s deeply sad, but for their sake, you must refrain from giving them leftovers from your plate. The following foods are considered toxic and can potentially cause severe illness:
- Chocolate
- Onions
- Garlic
- Alcohol
- Caffeinated drinks
- Raw yeast dough
- Macadamia nuts
- Grapes and raisins
- Raw or undercooked meat
- Xylitol (often found in sugar-free gum)
Ask a Veterinarian What Foods Are Safe or Unsafe
It can be near irresistible to feed your pet a scrap or two. However, some human food is just not safe to feed. Read below a few foods you can and cannot provide your pet:
Do Not Feed:
- Stuffing – fat, onions, garlic, and sodium are toxins
- Mashed Potatoes – salt, dairy, and fat can lead to stomach irritation
- Potato Salad – mustard, garlic, and onions can lead to stomach irritation
- Pecan Pie/Tarts – pecan have juglone which causes illness and vomiting in dogs
Feed Seldomly:
- Cranberries
- Plain white bread
- Cooked turkey, ham, or other meats – as long as it’s not buttered, salted, or seasoned
- Steamed vegetables such as carrots, spinach, peas, corn, broccoli, and cucumbers
4 Easy Tips to Keep Your Pet Healthy this Holiday Season
- Wash your hands before and after touching your pet. Doing so can protect you from bacteria and a young or sick pet’s health.
- Keep your pet active and provide a nutritious diet. Learn more ways to support your pet’s longevity.
- Ask your veterinarian what vitamins your pet may need. While most pets get their nutrients from food, some pets may need additional support. Always ask your vet first.
- Contact us for an annual check-up. Stay on top of your pet’s care by taking them to see a veterinarian regularly. Our veterinarians will help determine underlying health conditions.
Call to Schedule an Appointment with Valley Animal Hospital Today
Keep your pet safe this holiday season from potentially harmful toxins, and provide a comfortable environment healthy environment. Call Valley Animal Hospital to schedule an appointment today
