Our Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionist, Dr. Barragan, DVM, DACVIM (Nutrition), was kind enough to share the following:
🍁 Thanksgiving Pet Safety Tips! 🍁
At Foothill Farms Veterinary Hospital, we know how tempting it can be to share holiday treats with your furry family members 🐶🐱. While some foods are safe in moderation, others can be harmful—or even dangerous. Here's a quick guide to help you keep your pets happy and healthy this Thanksgiving!
Safe Foods to Share
✅ Turkey (plain, fully cooked, and boneless) – A small amount of skinless, plain turkey meat can be a delicious treat for your pets. Avoid bones and seasonings!
✅ Green beans – Plain and cooked (not in casseroles or butter).
✅ Sweet potatoes – Plain and cooked (no marshmallows, butter, or spices).
✅ Pumpkin – Canned or cooked pumpkin is a fiber-filled snack (make sure it’s plain, not pie filling).
Foods to Avoid
🚫 Stuffing and gravy – Commonly contains onions, garlic, and spices toxic to pets.
🚫 Turkey skin and bones – Skin is high in fat, and bones can splinter, causing blockages or injuries.
🚫 Mashed potatoes – Often made with butter, cream, or garlic—all of which can upset your pet's stomach.
🚫 Desserts – Especially chocolate, xylitol-sweetened treats, and anything containing raisins or grapes.
🚫 Alcohol and caffeinated beverages – Even small amounts are toxic to pets.
Additional Tips
🦴 Secure leftovers: Ensure trash cans are covered, so pets can’t sneak scraps.
🐾 Create a pet-safe space: If your pets are overwhelmed by guests, provide a quiet area where they can relax.
🆘 Emergency Preparedness: If your pet eats something questionable, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or your local emergency vet.
Let’s make this Thanksgiving joyful and safe for everyone in the family—including your pets! 🧡
Please share your Thanksgiving pet photos in the comments below—we’d love to see them! 📸
Celebrating National Pet Week
Mocha enjoying a workout and rewards.
