Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and food—a day to gather, celebrate, and give thanks for the blessings in our lives. As we prepare our homes for feasting and fun, it’s easy to overlook how the hustle and bustle of the holiday can affect our furry family members. For our beloved dogs, like the gentle and loving English Labradors, the holiday season can be both exciting and overwhelming.
At Ambassador Labradors, we understand how much your pups mean to you. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help keep your dogs safe, happy, and stress-free this Thanksgiving. With a little preparation and a few precautions, you can enjoy the holiday without compromising your dog's health and well-being.
Thanksgiving Safety Tips for Dogs
1. Limit Stress: Create a Quiet Space for Your Pup
The sound of laughter, the hum of conversation, and the clinking of plates are hallmarks of a warm Thanksgiving gathering. But for dogs, especially those who are shy or sensitive, a house full of guests can be overwhelming.
Set up a quiet, comfortable space away from the main event where your dog can relax. Add their favorite blanket, toys, or a chew treat to make the area feel like a safe retreat. This helps reduce stress and ensures your pup doesn’t feel overstimulated by the crowd.
2. The Dangers of Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs
We know how tempting it is to slip your dog a little piece of turkey or a spoonful of mashed potatoes while you're enjoying the feast. After all, those pleading puppy-dog eyes can be hard to resist! But many Thanksgiving dishes are far from dog-friendly. Here’s why:
Turkey Bones: Cooked bones can splinter and cause serious damage to your dog’s digestive system, including choking hazards or perforations.
Rich, Fatty Foods: Foods like gravy, buttered rolls, or turkey skin may seem harmless, but their high-fat content can lead to pancreatitis in dogs.
Onions and Garlic: Found in stuffing, mashed potatoes, and other dishes, these ingredients are toxic to dogs and can damage their red blood cells.
Desserts: Chocolate, artificial sweeteners (like xylitol), and raisins—common in pies and cookies—are all dangerous for dogs.
Alcohol: A spilled cocktail or a few sips of wine can lead to alcohol poisoning, even in small amounts.
Instead of sharing your table scraps, have some dog-safe treats on hand to satisfy your pup’s appetite. Plain, cooked sweet potatoes or green beans (without butter or seasoning) can make a safe and festive snack for your furry friend.
3. Keep an Eye on the Trash
The smells of Thanksgiving aren’t just tantalizing for humans—they’re downright irresistible to dogs! Be sure to secure your trash can and leftovers. Dogs are experts at sniffing out turkey bones or discarded scraps, and ingestion of these items can lead to emergency vet visits.
Consider using a trash can with a locking lid or storing it in a pantry to keep curious noses away from harm.
4. Be Mindful of Decorations
Thanksgiving decorations add a cozy and festive touch to your home, but some can be hazardous for dogs. Keep these potential dangers in mind:
Candles: While they create a warm ambiance, curious tails or noses can accidentally knock them over, leading to burns or fire hazards.
Festive Plants: Plants like lilies, holly, and mistletoe are toxic to dogs if ingested. Stick to dog-safe decorations or keep plants out of reach.
Small Objects: Items like acorns, pinecones, or plastic decorations can become choking hazards if chewed on or swallowed.
5. Be Cautious About Doorways and Exits
With guests coming and going, your front door will likely see a lot of action. This creates an easy opportunity for your dog to slip outside unnoticed. Make sure your pup is wearing a secure collar with an up-to-date ID tag, just in case they manage to make an escape.
Better yet, keep them away from entryways when guests arrive and leave. This will ensure their safety and prevent any accidental escapes during the excitement.
A Holiday of Gratitude
As we gather around the table this Thanksgiving, let’s take a moment to appreciate the joy and companionship our dogs bring into our lives. Their loyalty, unconditional love, and playful spirits make every day feel like a holiday.
At Ambassador Labradors, we wish you and your family—including the furry members—a safe and joyful Thanksgiving! With a little planning and extra caution, your dog can enjoy the holiday right alongside you, without any stress or risk to their health.
And remember, if you’re considering adding a new four-legged friend to your family, our English Labrador puppies make the perfect addition to any home. They’re as loyal and loving as they are adorable—just another reason to be thankful this year.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your furry companions! 🦃 🐾
Bonus Tip:
Want to keep your dog entertained while you celebrate? Fill a Kong toy with dog-safe peanut butter or plain yogurt and freeze it. It’ll provide hours of enjoyment for your pup while you enjoy your feast!