Bishop Ranch Veterinary Center & Urgent Care

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and delicious food. While you’re enjoying your turkey and pumpkin pie, it’s important to remember that your pets may not be so familiar with the holiday’s hazards. From table scraps to festive decorations, there are several potential dangers for your furry companions. As you prepare for the holiday celebrations we want to help you keep your pets safe and healthy during this special time of year.

Here are some of the most common Thanksgiving pet hazards to watch out for, and what you can do to keep your pets safe.

1. Toxic Foods: What’s Safe and What’s Not

Many of the foods we enjoy during Thanksgiving can be harmful, even deadly, to pets. Some of the most common culprits include:

Onions and Garlic: These ingredients, often used in stuffing, can cause gastrointestinal upset and, in severe cases, damage to your pet’s red blood cells, leading to anemia.
Turkey Bones: While turkey might seem like a treat for your pet, cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or damage to the digestive tract. Never feed your dog or cat turkey bones, and dispose of any scraps carefully.
Chocolate: Chocolate is toxic to dogs (and cats) and should be kept well out of reach. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, or worse.
Nuts: Nuts like macadamia nuts and walnuts are toxic to dogs, and many nuts are high in fat, which can lead to pancreatitis.
Raisins and Grapes: These fruits can cause kidney failure in pets. While they're not always included in traditional holiday fare, they may appear in baked goods, salads, or desserts, so be vigilant.
Xylitol: Found in sugar-free gum, candy, and baked goods, xylitol can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar and liver damage in dogs.

f your pet sneaks a taste of anything from the Thanksgiving table, contact your veterinarian immediately, even if they seem fine at first. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!

2. Holiday Decorations: A Hidden Hazard

From festive centerpieces to glowing candles, the decorations that make your home festive can pose risks to pets. Here’s what to watch out for:

Candles: Candles may look beautiful on the table or mantle, but they’re a fire hazard for curious pets, especially cats. Cats may try to bat at them, and dogs can knock them over with their wagging tails.
Table Decorations: Small items like glass ornaments, ceramic turkeys, or other breakable objects can be tempting for pets to explore and chew on. If ingested, they could cause choking or internal injury.
Electrical Cords: Pets who are chewers may nibble on electrical cords for decorative lights. This could result in a serious electrical shock.

To keep your pets safe, make sure candles are kept out of reach, and avoid leaving decorations in places where your pet can knock them over or chew on them.

3. Overeating: A Recipe for Stomach Trouble

It's tempting to give your pet a little taste of your Thanksgiving meal, but overindulgence can lead to more than just a guilty conscience. Rich, fatty foods and large portions can cause stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, or even pancreatitis, a serious and painful condition. Symptoms of pancreatitis in pets include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and abdominal pain.

If your pet is prone to begging or has a history of food sensitivities, it's best to avoid giving them anything from the table. Instead, consider a special treat from your veterinarian or pet store to make them feel included in the celebration.

4. Stress and Anxiety

With so many people coming and going, and the noise and excitement of the holiday season, pets can easily become stressed or anxious. Loud conversations, unfamiliar guests, and changes in routine can be overwhelming for pets, especially those who are more sensitive or have anxiety issues.

To help your pet stay calm:

Provide a quiet space away from the commotion where they can retreat if they need a break.
Stick to your pet’s normal routine for feeding, walks, and playtime.
If you’re traveling with your pet, make sure they’re in a safe and familiar space.

5. Pet-proof Your Home

Before your Thanksgiving celebration begins, do a quick check of your home to make sure it’s safe for your pets. Here are a few steps to take:

Secure Trash Bins: With all the extra food scraps, it’s easy for pets to get into trash cans. Make sure your garbage is securely covered or locked away to prevent them from raiding leftovers that could be harmful.
Close Off the Kitchen: If your kitchen is a hub of activity, consider setting up a barrier or baby gate to keep pets out of the cooking zone, where they could be exposed to hot surfaces, sharp objects, or harmful foods.
Supervise Outdoor Time: If your pets are going outside, be mindful of the weather (cold, hot, or wet conditions) and the potential for them to ingest something harmful in the yard or nearby.

6. Guests and Doorway Dashes

The hustle and bustle of Thanksgiving often means people coming in and out of the house. Be mindful of your pet’s safety, especially if they tend to dart out the door. Have a designated "safe zone" for your pet—perhaps a room or crate—where they can relax away from the commotion. You can also keep your pet on a leash during door openings to prevent any accidental escapes.

What to Do if Your Pet Ingests Something Hazardous

Accidents can happen, and your pet might manage to get into something they shouldn't. If you suspect your pet has ingested a harmful food or object, here are the steps to take:

Call Your Veterinarian: Contact your vet immediately for advice. If your regular vet is unavailable, most areas have an emergency clinic that can help.
Keep Packaging or Ingredients: If possible, keep the packaging of any food or items your pet has ingested. This can help the veterinarian identify potential toxins and determine the best course of action.
Monitor Symptoms: Watch for signs of illness, including vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or changes in behavior. If your pet shows any of these symptoms, seek veterinary attention right away.

Keep Your Pets Safe and Happy This Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and fun—but it’s also important to keep our pets safe as we celebrate. By staying aware of the potential hazards and keeping a close eye on your furry friends, you can help ensure that your pet stays healthy and happy during the holiday season.

From all of us at Bishop Ranch Veterinary Center & Urgent Care, we wish you and your pets a safe, enjoyable, and peaceful Thanksgiving!