11/22/2024
WHAT CAN FIDO EAT ON TURKEY DAY?
The aromas saturate every corner and crevice of your home. Turkey, green beans, pumpkin pie…the delectable bouquet encircles each of us as we await the savory treats.
Those canine eyes will be upon you as Fido’s olfactory system kicks into overdrive. Fully aware of the delicacies on hand, the pooch’s frenzy has begun. He, too, wishes to celebrate the 1621 gathering of Pilgrims and Wampanoags in Plymouth.
Fortunately, many of the most common, traditional Thanksgiving dishes are suitable and healthy for your canine.
Turkey contains protein, riboflavin and phosphorous…all of which are beneficial to your dog. So long as there are no bones present, turkey is a healthy option!
Sweet potatoes and pumpkin contain fiber, beta carotene and essential vitamins. Assuming that your dish does not include marshmallows or brown sugar, Fido is good to go. Regular potatoes, however, should be avoided. Some recent research, using foods containing regular potato, raised concerns regarding canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Raw potatoes contain a toxic substance called Solanine… a glycoalkaloid poison found in the potato (Solanum tuberosum), the tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) and the eggplant (Solanum melongena). While it appears that large amounts would need to be ingested, and that certain forms of cooking may destroy Solanine, you may wish to avoid sharing these foods with your dog.
Additionally, potato skins are high in Oxalates and, while it would require large volumes of potato skins to cause serious damage to your dog’s kidneys, we recommend avoiding potato skins.
Green beans are an excellent side-dish to share with your dog. Loaded with vitamins and minerals and fiber…low in calories…green beans are a winner. Ensure that your green beans are free of garlic and/or onions, as they are toxic to canines.
Lastly, cranberries, in small quantities are acceptable. Cranberries contain vitamin C, potassium and fiber. Dogs can safely eat raw, dried or cooked cranberries, however, remember that the dish must not include raisins…which are quite toxic. Cranberry sauce, however, is high in sugar and should be avoided.
Always speak with your veterinarian regarding foods and diets best suited for your particular pet!
