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In the veterinary world, the day after Thanksgiving in the United States is considered "pancreatitis Friday". Why? Because so many foods we eat on Thanksgiving are not safe for our dogs. It's important to understand not only which foods are safe for dogs on Thanksgiving, but also why dogs should avoid the dangerous ones.
Safe Foods for Dogs on Thanksgiving
Before we dive into the dangerous foods, let's talk about what celebratory dinner you can actually make for your dog on Thanksgiving. Your pup can enjoy:
Unseasoned, fully cooked turkey
Cranberries (not sauce)
Plain, unseasoned sweet or white potatoes
Green beans
Cooked or canned pumpkin
Apples
Unseasoned corn (no cob)
Rice or quinoa
Small amounts of cheese
Small amounts of baked, unseasoned bread
You can make a feast fit for your furry family member with these foods!
Dangerous Foods for Dogs on Thanksgiving
Now, let's get into the dangerous foods that can land your pup in the hospital on the busiest day of the year for veterinary ERs. There are three main dangers to dogs on this holiday: pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), intestinal obstruction (a blockage in the intestinal tract), and toxic foods.
Foods that may cause pancreatitis
Foods cooked in butter or other fats
Turkey skin
Ham
Gravy
Foods high in salt content
Foods that may cause intestinal obstruction
Corn cobs
Turkey or ham bones
Turkey twine or string
Toxic foods
Onions and garlic
Nuts
Mushrooms
Raw bread or dough
Artificial sweeteners (xylitol)
Sage and nutmeg
Grapes and raisins
Chocolate and other sweets
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
There are similar signs and symptoms for each of these dangers on Thanksgiving. Take your dog to the vet right away if he shows the following symptoms after Thanksgiving dinner or the next day:
Vomiting
Lethargy
Diarrhea
Bloody stool
Excessive panting
Restlessness
Not wanting to eat
Loss of coordination or tremors
Pancreatitis, intestinal blockages, and toxic foods can all be life threatening. It may be tempting to wait until Monday to see your regular veterinarian and avoid long wait times and expenses at the ER, but you should go right away. If you catch your dog eating one of the toxic foods, stop what you are doing and take them to the ER right away. Many of the foods listed above can cause serious issues such as seizures and kidney or liver failure in small amounts very quickly.
Safety Tips
Be sure to warn each of your guests not to feed your dog table scraps as they may not be aware of some of the dangers these foods can cause. If your dog has a particularly sensitive stomach, avoiding new foods altogether may be best. Instead, offer them a celebratory treat that they are used to, especially one that will keep them away and distracted from the kitchen and dinner table. New toys can also be a great distraction!
Martha's Garden wishes you all a safe and happy Thanksgiving!