Thanksgiving Treats for Fido

Believe it or not, it’s almost Thanksgiving! That delicious holiday food will play a big role in the day’s agenda. If there’s one thing that our canine companions are thankful for–aside from walks, car rides, toys, belly rubs, and comfy beds–it’s treats. Fido definitely deserves something special! Just be sure to stick with safe options. In this article from Arapahoe Animal Hospital, your Boulder, CO vet clinic, serving Louisville and surrounding areas, a local vet goes over some safe and unsafe treats for dogs. 

Main Course

You can definitely share some of that mouth-watering turkey with Fido. There are a few caveats here, however. Only give your pooch cooked, plain meat, without any skin or fat. Also, don’t give your canine pal any bones. Cooked bones are actually extremely dangerous for dogs. They easily splinter into sharp pieces, which can cause choking and/or severe internal injuries if ingested. 

Appetizers

While not all appetizers are suitable for Fido, there are a few things he can enjoy. Your furry friend can have a few cocktail wieners or plain cooked shrimp, some deli meat, or even a meatball. Small amounts of cheese or cooked eggs are also okay. Cold cuts are also fine. Just don’t go overboard with treats! 

Side Dishes

Meat should make up the bulk of your pet’s holiday plate. However, Fido can have a few veggies. Cooked pumpkin or sweet potato is fine, as are peas, carrots, spinach, and string beans. Just don’t give your pup anything that is topped with things like butter, oil, cheese, nuts, or spices. 

Unsafe Foods

Not everything on the menu is safe or suitable for your four-legged buddy. Never let Fido have anything that contains garlic, onions, scallions, or chives. (These things are often used as seasonings, so anything with a lot of spice is also off the table.)  Grapes, currants, and raisins are also unsafe. In fact, some dogs can go into organ failure from eating just one! Other foods on the no-no list include chocolate; caffeine; alcohol; nuts; avocado; pitted fruits; raw meat, dough, or yeast; mushrooms; and anything that contains xylitol and/or a lot of salt, sugar, or fat. Ask your vet for more information. 

Happy Thanksgiving from everyone here at Arapahoe Animal Hospital, your Boulder, CO vet clinic, serving Louisville and surrounding areas. Please contact us if ever we can be of assistance.