We all love sharing Thanksgiving dinner with our furry friends, but not everything on the table is safe for them. This holiday season, keep your pup healthy by avoiding these foods:
Bones: They can easily splinter, become a choking hazard, or cause serious internal injuries. It’s always safer to give your dog a bone-shaped chew toy instead!
Garlic and onions: These are common in holiday dishes but are actually toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause stomach upset or more serious health problems over time.
Grapes and raisins: Even a small amount can lead to kidney failure, so it’s best to steer clear completely. Remember, many desserts and stuffings include these ingredients without you realizing it!
Keeping these foods off your dog’s plate ensures they enjoy the holidays without any unexpected vet visits. A little extra care now can save you a lot of worry later!
You might be wondering what is okay to give your dog as a special treat. Luckily, there are some tasty, safe options!
Plain turkey (no seasonings, onions, or garlic) makes a great protein boost. Be sure to remove any skin or bones before serving it to your pup.
Apples are a yummy snack—just remember to remove the seeds. They’re also a good source of fiber and vitamins!
Sweet potatoes and green beans are healthy veggies for dogs, as long as they’re unseasoned. These can make your pet feel included at the dinner table without upsetting their stomach.
Peanut butter is a favorite, too! Just double-check that it doesn’t contain xylitol or bits of nuts. Try spreading a little on a dog toy for a fun treat that keeps them busy!
Sharing safe foods is a fun way to include your pets in the festivities—just keep portions small to avoid overfeeding. Moderation and simplicity are key!
When the temperatures drop, it’s important to keep your dogs warm and comfortable. Even dogs with thick fur can get hypothermia or frostbite if left outside too long.
Limit their outdoor time when it’s really cold. Try planning walks for the warmer parts of the day, like late morning or early afternoon.
Dress them in sweaters, jackets, or booties to protect against the chill. This can also help keep salt and ice off their paws.
For smaller pups, try carrying them outside when it’s snowy to keep them warmer and drier.
Always dry your dog’s paws and belly after coming inside, especially if they’ve been walking through snow or slush. Keeping them cozy helps prevent colds and keeps their tails wagging all winter long!
Cats need extra care during winter, too—especially those that spend time outdoors.
Use pet-safe salt and ice melt to protect their paws. Traditional products can cause painful burns or be toxic if licked off.
Always check under your car hood or wheels before starting the engine, since cats often curl up in warm spots to nap. A quick tap on the hood can help wake any hidden kitties.
Be careful with antifreeze, as it’s extremely poisonous—clean up any spills right away. Even a few drops can be deadly for pets.
If you’d like to make a cozy outdoor shelter, straw works great because it keeps moisture out. You can also fill a pillowcase with newspaper for extra warmth.
During cold months, it’s also a good idea to provide fresh, unfrozen water and check it often. With a few simple precautions, your cats can stay safe, warm, and comfortable all winter long.
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