Previously, we mentioned three ways to pet-proof your home for the holidays, but what about pet-proofing your dinner table? Valley Animal Hospital knows that when it comes to human food, pets can’t get enough! We want to share a few foods that are safe for your pet to nibble on during the holidays. However, while some of these foods may not harm your dog do not substitute them for a formulated diet. Always ask our veterinarians about what foods are safe for your pet.
Try These Pet-Friendly Options
Dogs benefit from a balanced meal just as humans do. This can include lean meats and some vegetables, fruits, and grains. Offer these treats in tiny proportions to not upset your dog’s stomach.
Treat your pet to:
- Brown rice.
- Bananas or apples without the core and seeds.
- Turkey, chicken, or fish without the bones or fat.
- Carrots, broccoli, sweet potatoes (hold the marshmallows and any sugar ingredients).
Protect Your Dog from These Foods
If you allow your pet to eat unhealthy human snacks, your pet may react by vomiting or having diarrhea. Plus, other foods such as corn-on-the-cob or peach pits can be potential choking hazards.
Avoid the following:
- Alcohol
- Chocolate
- Leftover bones
- Baked goods and xylitol
- Grapes, raisins, currants
- Unbaked yeast bread dough
- Onions, leeks, chives, and garlic
How to Handle Thanksgiving Day
It can feel festive having your pet in the kitchen with you on Thanksgiving morning, but there are many potential risks.
Instead:
- Crate your dog while you cook.
- Ask your guests not to feed your pet.
- Keep your pet away from compost bins.
- Dump all your trash before eating your meal.
- Hide household dangers such as toothpicks, skewers, mothballs, and rodenticides.
Contact our Pharr Veterinary Clinic
The holidays can be fun, but also a hectic time. Keep your pet healthy and happy, and call (956) 787-2709 to set up an appointment with our vets in Pharr, Tx for a routine check-up. We also offer microchipping.
