Thanksgiving Treats for Fido

Can you believe that Thanksgiving is just around the corner? Many people are looking forward to getting together with their loved ones to enjoy some quality time and, of course, that delicious holiday food. Fido will no doubt be very interested in those yummy dishes that are coming out of the oven. Here, a Lakeville, MN vet lists some Turkey Day treats you can give your pooch.

Turkey

There’s no reason Fido can’t enjoy some of that mouth-watering turkey. Meat on the bone, however, can be very dangerous for him, as cooked bones can splinter into sharp pieces that can seriously hurt your pup. Remove the bones, skin, and fat before giving your pet his special dinner. Just be sure to hold the gravy! Gravy is too rich for many dogs, and could also be flavored with things that aren’t safe for our four-legged pals.

Veggies

While not all veggies are safe for your canine friend, some are perfectly fine, and a few are actually good for him. Green beans; pureed pumpkin; squash; carrots; peas; and mashed potatoes are all safe for your furry buddy to eat. Just be sure that Fido’s veggies are fully cooked and are not seasoned with herbs, butter, or other toppings, like brown sugar or gravy.

Doggy Nog

You can make your canine buddy his own version of egg nog. Use plain yogurt, sodium-free beef or chicken broth, and a little baby food. When picking the baby food, be sure to check the ingredients, to make sure they are all safe for your four-legged friend.

Sliced Apples

Although many fruits, particularly pitted ones, are dangerous for Man’s Best Friend, plain apple slices, without the seeds or pips, are perfectly fine. You can even dry them in the oven to make them a bit chewier for your furry friend.

Foods To Avoid

Many of our favorite foods are not safe for our canine companions. Never give Fido garlic, onion, scallions, or chives. These are particularly concerning when it comes to holiday food, because they are so often used as seasonings. Also on the no-no list are grapes, currants, and raisins; pitted fruits, especially avocados; nuts; chocolate; caffeine; raw dough, meat, or eggs; and anything containing xylitol. Ask your vet for more information.

Please contact us, your local Lakeville, MN animal clinic, for all your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!