Your furry friend is considered part of the family and we all know that Thanksgiving is a time for family traditions and feasting on delicious food. As a responsible dog owner, you want to include your dog in the festivities, but you also want to make sure that you choose the right foods. Turkey is considered a staple Thanksgiving food, and many dog owners wonder if it is safe for their pets to eat turkey. In this article, we will answer that question and provide you with some other Thanksgiving food safety tips for your furry friend.
Can Dogs Eat Turkey?
The answer is yes, dogs can eat turkey, but it must be cooked thoroughly to avoid any risk of salmonella or other bacterial infections. However, you should remove the skin and bones because they can be hazardous to your furry friend’s health.
Is it Safe for Dogs to Eat Gravy?
Gravy is alright for dogs to consume, but it should be given in moderation because it can contain a high amount of salt and fat. Unsalted gravy is a safer option for dogs to eat, but you should avoid giving it to them in large quantities.
Can Dogs Eat Stuffing?
If the stuffing includes any onions or garlic it is best to keep it away from Fido as these ingredients are toxic to dogs. The stuffing may also include some herbs that can be harmful to your furry friend, so it’s best to stick to plain stuffing mixtures without any added ingredients.
Should I Serve My Dog Mashed Potatoes?
Mashed potatoes are safe for dogs to eat, but like gravy, they contain a high amount of fat which can lead to an upset stomach or pancreatitis. Plain boiled or sweet potato cubes may be a better option, and you should not give your dog mashed potatoes with heavy cream or sour cream.
What About Cranberry Sauce?
If your cranberry sauce contains no added sugar, your dog will only get some helpful antioxidants from it. However, cranberry sauce with added sugar or xylitol should be avoided, and if it contains grapes or raisins, it should be kept away from all family pets as they are toxic to dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin Pie?
Dogs can have pureed pumpkin in small amounts, but it’s best to avoid pumpkin pie. The pie contains high amounts of sugar, vanilla, and other artificial flavors, so it’s best to give your dog real pumpkin that is cooked or canned without any extra additives or ingredients.
What Type of Vegetables Can My Dog Eat?
Your furry friend can have some vegetables, but you should always cook them first to avoid upset stomachs. Good options include green beans, carrots, and pumpkin that are cooked and unsalted. However, avoid vegetables like onions and garlic as they are highly toxic to dogs.
Can I Give My Dog Leftovers?
Leftovers are okay to give to your dog, but you should make sure they are not fatty or contain any harmful ingredients like onions or garlic. Additionally, don’t give your dog chicken or turkey bones as they can choke or perforate their intestines.
What to Do If My Dog Eats Something They Shouldn’t Have?
If your furry friend eats something they shouldn’t have, you should monitor them closely for any signs of gastrointestinal distress. Contact your vet if your dog vomits, has diarrhea, refuses food, becomes lethargic or shows any signs of discomfort.
How to Ensure Your Dog Stays Safe During Thanksgiving
Here are a few ways to safeguard your furry friend during Thanksgiving:
- Keep all food and drinks, including alcohol, out of reach.
- Assign someone to keep an eye on your dog when there’s a lot of commotion in the kitchen or dining area.
- Gently remind any guests not to feed your dog scraps, no matter how much they beg.
- Provide your furry friend with their own space and comforts if they don’t enjoy the company of people or other pets.
- Ensure your dog has access to fresh, clean water at all times.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving is a time to spend with family and friends, and that includes your furry friend. You can include your dog in the festivities, but you need to be careful about which foods you give them. Turkey is safe for your dog to eat, but you must ensure that it is cooked thoroughly, and the skin and bones are removed. Some Thanksgiving foods, such as onions and garlic, can be toxic to your dog, so you should avoid giving them any stuffing or holiday sauces. Be a responsible dog owner, keep your furry friend safe, and have a happy Thanksgiving!
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers about dogs eating turkey:
- Can dogs eat turkey bones? No, dogs should not eat turkey bones as they can splinter and make a perforation in their intestines.
- Can dogs eat cooked turkey skin? It’s best to remove the skin before giving turkey to your dog. The fatty skin can cause pancreatitis or inflame your dog-friendly ‘s stomach.
- Can dogs eat turkey deli meat? Deli meats contain high levels of sodium and usually have preservatives in them that can be harmful to your dog’s health. Therefore, it’s advisable to avoid giving them deli meats, including turkey.