How To Have a Pet Friendly Thanksgiving In 2024

Thanksgiving is all about friends, family, and food! The delicious turkey, sides, and desserts make it a feast to remember. But while we indulge in the holiday cheer, it’s important to keep our furry friends safe and happy. Pets love to be part of the celebration, but not all Thanksgiving treats are good for them. Let’s explore how to share the holiday with your pets safely, ensuring they enjoy the festivities just as much as you do.

Safe Foods for Your Pet This Thanksgiving

While you might be tempted to sneak your pet a bite from your plate, not all human food is pet friendly. The good news? There are plenty of safe and delicious options your pet can enjoy:

1. Turkey (with a twist) - Turkey can be safe for pets, but only if it’s unseasoned. Skip the skin, bones, and spices—these can upset their stomachs or cause harm. Offer them small pieces of plain, cooked turkey meat as a special treat.
2. Apples - Rich in vitamins A and C, apples are a nutritious snack for dogs. Just make sure to remove the seeds and core, as they can be toxic in large quantities.
3. Pumpkin - Pumpkin is a tasty and healthy choice that aids digestion. Stick to plain, cooked pumpkin and avoid any spiced or sweetened pumpkin products like pie filling.
4. Pet-Friendly Dessert - Your pet deserves a sweet treat to cleanse their palette just like you do. Look for pet-friendly desserts or serve unflavoured frozen yogurt as an alternative. Check the ingredients to ensure there are no artificial sweeteners or harmful additives.
   

Foods Your Pet Should Avoid

While it’s fun to share the holiday spirit, some Thanksgiving staples can be dangerous for pets. Here’s a list of foods to keep out of reach:

• Turkey bones and skin: Bones can splinter and cause choking or injuries, while the fatty skin is hard to digest.
• Mashed potatoes: Butter, milk, and seasoning make this dish unsuitable for pets.
• Onions and garlic: These can damage your pet’s red blood cells and are toxic.
• Raisins and grapes: Even small amounts can cause kidney failure.
• Chocolate: A well-known hazard, chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs.
• Alcohol: Even tiny amounts can be harmful.
• Sugary or spicy foods: Desserts and dishes with high sugar content or spices can upset your pet’s stomach.

Tips to Keep Your Pet Safe

1. Be Watchful: Pets are clever and quick to snag food. Keep plates, bowls, and countertops out of their reach.
2. No Table Scraps: Avoid feeding your pets directly from the table to prevent bad habits and accidental ingestion of harmful foods.
3. Create a Safe Space: If your home is bustling with guests, set up a quiet spot for your pet to relax away from the chaos.
4. Have Emergency Numbers Handy: If your pet eats something they shouldn’t, contact your vet immediately.

A Pet-Friendly Thanksgiving Recipe 

To include your pet at the table and at the festivities, you can put together this pet-safe and delicious thanksgiving dish quickly. 

Chicken and Mash – Your Bowl of Joy 

Ingredients: Chicken, French beans, carrots, pumpkin, rice, boiled eggs (egg whites), chicken broth. 
Step 1: Start by boiling chicken along with healthy French beans, carrots, and pumpkin until tender.
Step 2: Prepare freshly boiled rice, which will serve as the base of the meal.
Step 3: Once the chicken is cooked, shred it and combine it with the vegetables and rice. Mash
Step 4: Mash everything together, adding a bit of chicken broth for extra flavor and moisture. 
Step 5: Finally, garnish the dish with a topping of egg whites for a nutritious finish. Enjoy your wholesome and delicious meal! 

With a little preparation, you can make Thanksgiving a joyful occasion for everyone, including your pets. By choosing safe treats and being mindful of what they eat, you’ll be sure to have a happy, healthy holiday with all your family.