As we prepare for the upcoming holiday season, keeping our furry family members safe and comfortable through the holiday hustle and bustle is a top priority. With Thanksgiving right around the corner, it’s marked a time for family, friends, delicious food, and taking time for all we’re thankful for.
We are grateful for all of our furry family members. To keep your dog and/or cat comfortable and safe during your feast, follow these five essential Thanksgiving pet safety tips:
1. Keep Turkey Bones and Other Human Food Out of Reach.
Thanksgiving meals often include foods that can be harmful to pets. Avoid giving your dog or cat turkey bones, which can splinter and cause choking or digestive issues. Make sure your pets have access to their own food, so they aren’t tempted to help clean up any abandoned plates.
Keep in mind that other popular side dishes are made with ingredients including onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and chocolate – all of which are toxic to pets and should always be kept out of their reach.
2. Create a Safe Space.
With guests coming and going, your home can become a stressful environment for pets. Set up a quiet, comfortable space where your dog or cat can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. Make sure they have access to their favorite toys, a cozy bed, and fresh water. If you are bringing your pet along to festivities elsewhere, be sure that they have time to get comfortable and keep an extra close eye on them.
Bonus Tip: To tire your pet out ahead of your Thanksgiving gathering and to Help your pet feel calm ahead of your Thanksgiving gathering by giving them some exercise and mental stimulation. Take them for a long walk to burn off extra energy, or engage them with indoor enrichment activities such as filling a puzzle toy with their favorite treats or kibble, or playing hide and seek.
3. Keep Decorations out of Reach.
Dogs and cats are curious creatures by nature and may be tempted to chew on or play with decorations. Eliminate the temptation by keeping candles, floral arrangements, and small decorative items out of reach to prevent accidents. If you use decorative plants, ensure they are non-toxic to pets.
4. Monitor Doorways and Exits.
With frequent visitors, doors may be left open, providing an opportunity for pets to escape. Be sure to keep an eye on doorways and other possible exits. As an added layer of security, you can consider using baby gates or keeping pets in a secure area during high-traffic times.
5. Avoid Holiday Stress.
Pets can pick up on their owners’ stress, so work to maintain a calm and relaxed atmosphere. With the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it’s easy to fall out of our normal routine. Stick to your pets’ regular feeding and exercise routines as much as possible. Set alarms on your phone as needed for a reminder. If you know your pet gets particularly anxious during this time of year, consult your veterinarian about their recommendations to keep them comfortable.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can create a memorable Thanksgiving celebration that’s as safe and joyful for your furry friends as it is for the rest of the family. Remember, a little extra care and attention can go a long way in keeping your pets happy and healthy during your holiday festivities. And as colder weather approaches in many parts of the United States, don’t forget to prepare for winter! Check out our winter dog walking safety tips to keep them protected in the chilly months ahead. From all of us at Post Consumer Brands, we wish you and your furry family members a Happy Thanksgiving!