Thanksgiving is coming up fast! Our canine companions are definitely something to be thankful for. Their love, loyalty, intelligence, and bravery are all truly special, and their silly antics keep us smiling even on bad days. However, you will need to take some precautions to keep your pup safe over the holidays. A FM 1960 North, TX vet offers some advice on spending Turkey Day with Fido below.

Food

Fido will definitely notice those yummy holiday spreads! Go ahead and offer him a special meal! Just stick with safe options. Plain, cooked, boneless chicken or turkey is fine. Since it’s a special occasion, your pooch can also have small amounts of things like finger sausages, deli meat, meatballs, or bacon. You can also offer him many cooked veggies, such as spinach, pumpkin, squash, or sweet potatoes, as long as they aren’t topped with spices, butter, and/or cheese. It’s also important to know what isn’t safe. That list includes garlic, onions, scallions, and chives; grapes, currants, and raisins; meat on the bone; raw dough or yeast; avocado; chocolate; and alcohol. Ask your vet for more information.

Grooming

Are you hosting this year’s dinner? Make sure Fido puts his best paw forward. Brush and/or bathe your canine buddy before the big day. Or, better yet, take him to a salon for a full beauty treatment.

Decoration

Keep Fido in mind as you decorate for the holiday. Anything small or sharp is a potential hazard. You’ll also want to keep things like garlands and toxic plants out of paws’ reach. Candles, fireplaces, and heaters are also unsafe.

Zoomies

Is your furry pal super playful and bouncy? Take Fido for a long walk before guests arrive. A vigorous play session is also not a bad idea. Your canine pal will (hopefully) be calmer if he’s a bit tired.

Anxious Pooches

While some dogs think every guest is their new best friend, others are quite nervous with strangers. If Fido is fearful or anxious, you may want to offer him some pet-calming products. Ask your vet for recommendations.

Begging

Begging isn’t just bad petiquette: it can also be dangerous. You don’t want your furry bff convincing someone to give him something that isn’t safe! Keep Fido in a separate area during dinner. Happy Thanksgiving from all of us here at your FM 1960 North, TX animal clinic. Call us anytime!