Pets

I am a member of the Guardians program with the ASPCA. I always receive  emails for tips and warnings.  I received this one regarding the Thanksgiving Holiday and thought it was important to pass on to my readers.  I hope you will read this article and click on the links to learn more.    If you are not aware of items and foods that are dangerous, this post has valuable information; for others that do know, this list could be a valuable update of items you might not be aware of. Six Tips for a Happy Thanksgiving with your pet is just that! “Happy” and “Safe”.

Thanksgiving festivities mean friends, family and food, food, food. But the ingredients for a happy human holiday can be distressing, and even dangerous, for pets. ASPCA experts shared raw or undercooked turkey—it could contain salmonella bacteria.

Not-So-Sweet Treats:
You’re probably aware that chocolate is toxic to dogs, and you might know that raisins and grapes should be kept far from canine companions. But not everyone knows about the dangers of xylitol, a sweetener and baking ingredient found in many types of gum, mints, candy and pastries. Consuming a little bit of xylitol can give a dog seizures, low blood sugar and liver failure and can be fatal, says Dr. Murray. If any of the sweets you serve this Thanksgiving contain xylitol—or chocolate or raisins—keep them clear of Fido.

Off-Limits Snacks:
Sweets aren’t the only danger the holidays pose for furry tummies. At this cooking-heavy time of year, it can’t hurt to consult this list of foods you should not share. Alcohol, onions, yeast dough and macadamia nuts can all lead to stomach upset, diarrhea or pancreatitis. And sage, part of many stuffing recipes, can cause pets to suffer stomach upset and possible depression of the central nervous system.

Flowers to Weed Out:
Be careful with holiday floral arrangements. Lilies are commonly used this time of year, and all varieties, including Tiger, Asian, Japanese Show, Stargazer and Casa Blanca, can cause kidney failure in cats. If your dog or cat accidentally ingests flowers or any potentially harmful products, please consult your veterinarian or the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or www.aspca.org/apcc.

Stranger Danger
Let’s face it: your pets are adorable, and guests may want to lavish them with attention. But guests can also cause pets stress and increase the risk that they’ll escape out the door. If you’re expecting a lot of company, make sure guests refrain from feeding your pets. They’ll be happily occupied trying to get their meal out, and way too busy to come begging for table scraps.

Check out their extended list of Thanksgiving pet tips at ASPCA.org, and have a safe and happy holiday weekend!

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