Thanksgiving Pet Safety Tips: Keep Your Holiday Paw-sitively Memorable!

Thanksgiving is a time for pumpkin pie, turkey, and cherished moments with friends and family. But as pet parents, it's crucial to be aware of the potential hazards that come with the festivities. Here are essential tips to ensure your holiday is safe and enjoyable for everyone, including your furry friends! 

Meal Time  

Keep human food away from pets. 

Many Thanksgiving staples can be harmful to pets. Foods high in fat can lead to digestive issues, while others may be toxic, resulting in serious health risks like tummy discomfort, anemia, or even kidney failure. Avoid giving your pets these common Thanksgiving foods: 

• Onions, scallions, and onion powder 

• Garlic and garlic powder 

• Raisins, currants, and grapes 

• Chocolate 

• Ham 

• Turkey Bones 

• Sugar Free desserts 

Be sure to visit the ASPCA Poison Control Center and the Pet Poison Helpline websites to learn more about the most common household pet toxins. 

Tame your trash. 

Pets can be quite crafty when it comes to snagging a taste of our delicious meals. Ensure all food waste is disposed of in a closed container to prevent access to turkey bones, baker’s twine, and packaging, which can be dangerous and potentially obstructive to their digestive systems. 

Know what to do if your pet eats something they shouldn’t.  

If you think your pet has eaten something they shouldn’t have eaten, it is important to call your veterinarian or visit an emergency vet right away. You can also call or visit the  ASPCA Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) for expert help (Note: charges may apply).  

Travel Tips 

Health certificates: Know before you go! 

Planning to travel with your pet? Be aware that you may need a health certificate for crossing state lines or traveling internationally. Check the requirements on the USDA website and schedule an appointment with your vet to ensure you’re prepared for your trip. 

Practice road trip safety. 

Always use a secure harness or carrier that’s clear of airbags when driving with your pet. This keeps them safe in case of an accident and prevents distractions while you’re driving. Remember: never leave your pet alone in the car, regardless of the weather, and never transport them in the bed of a truck. 

Get your pet necessary vaccines and prescriptions. 

If you’re leaving your pet with a trusted boarder during your travels, make sure they are up to date on vaccinations to protect them from contagious diseases. Refilling prescriptions is also an important step to make sure they don’t miss any essential care over the holidays! 

This season is all about gratitude, and the team at Sheboygan Animal Hospital is grateful that you trust us with your pet’s health! If you need a prescription refill, health certificate, or wellness appointment for your pet, please call us at (920) 452-2882 or book online today.