Thanksgiving Leftovers and Your Dog

Thanksgiving is a time of indulgence and gratitude, and your dog undoubtedly is one of the things you are grateful for. As you gather with loved ones to feast on the delicious spread, you might be tempted to share the great food with your dog. While it's heartwarming to include them in the festivities, it's crucial to exercise caution and make informed choices about the leftovers you offer. These are some things you might want to think about with common Thanksgiving foods.

1. Turkey:

Plain, cooked turkey meat is safe for dogs in moderation. Remove the skin and bones before sharing. Turkey is a great source of protein, but avoid giving your dog any seasoned, spiced, or fatty parts.

2. Plain Vegetables:

Certain plain vegetables like carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes are safe for dogs. These veggies provide fiber and vitamins to your dog's diet, but avoid those that have onions or garlic added as these things are bad for dogs..

3. Plain Potatoes:

Mashed, boiled, or plain baked potatoes are safe for dogs, but skip the butter, gravy, or marshmallows that are often added during Thanksgiving because too many fatty foods are bad for your dog’s digestion and can lead to problems you would rather not have on a holiday.

4. Cranberries:

A small amount of plain cranberries can be safe for your dog if they will eat them, but avoid giving them more than a tiny bit of cranberry sauce, as it's often high in sugar which is bad for their teeth and weight.

5. Pumpkin:

Plain, cooked pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) can be a healthy treat for dogs. Pumpkin is rich in fiber and can help with digestion. In fact it is a food often recommended by vets for dog’s with stomach issues. so save your dog some when you make a pie.

6. Unseasoned Stuffing:

If your stuffing doesn't contain onions, garlic, or spices, you might be able to share a small portion with your dog. However, stuffing often contains ingredients that might not be safe, so it's best to err on the side of caution.

7. Watch Out for Harmful Foods:

Certain Thanksgiving foods are toxic to dogs and should be strictly avoided. These include onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, chocolate, nuts (especially macadamia nuts), alcohol, and foods containing xylitol (a sugar substitute).

8. Portion Control:

While sharing Thanksgiving leftovers, remember that dogs have different nutritional needs and sensitivities than humans. Small portions are key to preventing upset stomachs and maintaining a balanced diet.

9. Consult Your Veterinarian:

If you're unsure about whether a particular leftover is safe for your dog, it's always best to consult your veterinarian before sharing. Do this before Thanksgiving Day. Your vet needs a day off, trust me.

10. Homemade Dog Treats:

If you want to share the holiday spirit with your dog, consider making homemade dog treats using safe ingredients like plain turkey, vegetables, or pumpkin. This ensures that you're offering them something tasty and wholesome.

As you enjoy the warmth and togetherness of Thanksgiving, it feels good to share the joy with your loyal companion. Just remember that moderation, caution, and knowledge about safe foods are essential when including your dog in the feast. By making informed choices, you can create a Thanksgiving experience that's truly memorable for both you and your furry friend.

This is exactly how your dog will look (and you too!) if too much food is eaten! Haha, look at that belly ( he is on a diet now so don’t let him know what he is missing out on)