Thanksgiving is the one day your dog's nose works overtime. The kitchen smells like heaven, guests sneak scraps under the table, and the trash can is full of temptation. Vets see a spike in upset stomachs and emergency visits every late November, and most of them start with one "harmless" bite.
Here are the 7 Thanksgiving foods dogs can't eat, plus the simple setup that keeps your pup safe while you cook.
1. Turkey bones
Cooked bones turn brittle and can splinter, causing choking or injuries inside the stomach and intestines. Toss the carcass in a lidded trash can or take it straight outside.
2. Turkey skin, fat and gravy
Rich, fatty foods can trigger pancreatitis in dogs, a painful condition that often needs vet care. That buttery skin is the worst offender.
3. Stuffing (onions, garlic, leeks)
Onions, garlic, leeks and chives damage a dog's red blood cells, whether raw, cooked or powdered. Almost every stuffing recipe has at least one of them.
4. Grapes and raisins
Even small amounts can cause kidney failure in some dogs. Watch out for fruit salads, salads with raisins and holiday breads.
5. Chocolate desserts
Chocolate pies, brownies and cookies contain theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. Dark and baking chocolate are the most dangerous.
6. Sugar-free treats with xylitol
Xylitol (often called birch sugar) is found in some sugar-free desserts, gum and peanut butters. It can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar and liver damage in dogs.
7. Raw bread dough
Yeast dough keeps rising inside the stomach and can produce alcohol as it ferments. Keep rolls and pie dough well out of reach while they proof.
What dogs can enjoy
A small plate is fine if you keep it plain: - Boneless, skinless white turkey meat (no seasoning) - Plain cooked pumpkin (not pie filling) - Plain green beans - Plain baked sweet potato
Keep portions small, and skip anything with butter, salt or spices.
The easiest fix: keep your dog out of the kitchen
The safest scrap is the one your dog never reaches. A sturdy gate in the kitchen doorway lets your pup still see and smell the action (no lonely whining from a closed room) while keeping paws off the counter and out of the trash.
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If your dog eats something it shouldn't
Call your vet right away, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply). Don't wait for symptoms.
Have a happy, safe Thanksgiving from all of us at FurryNest.