Thanksgiving With Fido

It’s hard to believe, but Thanksgiving is just around the corner! Pets are definitely something we can be thankful for! Remember to keep your canine buddy in mind on this special holiday! Read on as a Bennington, NE vet discusses Thanksgiving with Fido.

Foods

Your four-legged pal will definitely be very interested in that delicious feast! Feel free to offer Fido a special treat, but be careful not to give him anything dangerous. Some of the things you should never give your dog include garlic, onions, chives, scallions; meat on the bone; nuts; chocolate; alcohol; grapes, currants, and raisins; pitted fruits; and anything containing xylitol. Your furry friend will no doubt be delighted with some plain, cooked meat with the bones, skin, and fat removed. Though meat should make up the bulk of your pup’s diet, you can give him small amounts of cooked, plain sweet potato, squash, beans, peas, or spinach. Your canine companion can also have small bits of cheese, sausage, bacon, or hamburger, but don’t overdo it with these fatty treats.

Hazards

While toxic foods are the biggest concern for Thanksgiving, they certainly aren’t the only thing to be concerned about. Candles, potpourri burners, heaters, and fireplaces are also a danger. Pets and flames definitely do not mix! Trash is another concern, as the trash after a big meal may contain things like bones, toothpicks, tin foil, can lids, plastic wrappers, and other dangerous items. Use a garbage can with a secure lid, just in case Fido decides to try and score some leftovers out of the trash.

Petiquette

We know, it can be hard to resist those adorable puppy dog eyes. However, begging is bad doggy manners! It can also make guests uncomfortable. Feed your pooch at the same time as your guests, or keep him in another room during dinner. If your four-legged buddy tends to greet people by jumping them, keep him crated as people are coming or going. You may also want to tire your canine companion out with a long walk and a vigorous play session before people arrive, to burn off his excess energy. Last but not least, give Fido a good bath before the holiday, so your friends and family members can be greeted by a soft, fresh-smelling pet.

Happy Thanksgiving! Please contact us, your local Bennington, NE animal clinic, anytime! We’re here to help!