Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with family, sharing delicious food, and giving thanks for all the good things in life. But with all the holiday excitement, it’s important not to forget about our furry friends. From the smell of turkey roasting in the oven to the hustle and bustle of guests, pets can easily get caught up in the festivities—sometimes with unintended consequences.
To help ensure your pets stay safe and happy this Thanksgiving, here are some essential Thanksgiving pet safety tips:
Keep Guests and Pets Separated
The holiday crowd can be overwhelming for some pets, especially those who are shy or anxious around strangers. The doorbell ringing, the hustle and bustle of guests, and the excitement of the day can all create stress for your pet.
Set up a quiet, cozy area in your home where your pet can retreat to if they need a break. Be sure to provide fresh water, their favorite toys, and a comfy bed or blanket. If your pet is not accustomed to being around a lot of people, consider keeping them in a room with the door closed during the main festivities.
Be Mindful of Decorations
Thanksgiving often includes festive decorations like candles, centerpieces, and pumpkins. While these add to the holiday ambiance, they can be hazardous to pets, especially if they’re placed in areas where pets can reach them.
Candles: Pets, especially cats and dogs with wagging tails, may knock over candles, causing a fire hazard.
Pumpkins and Gourds: While pumpkins are safe for pets in moderation, other decorative squash or pumpkins may be treated with chemicals or preservatives that could harm your pet if ingested.
Place candles and decorative items on high shelves or in areas where your pet cannot reach. Consider using flameless, battery-operated candles to reduce the risk of fire.
Mind the Door
With people coming and going, the front door is often opening and closing throughout Thanksgiving Day. This provides plenty of opportunities for pets to escape into the yard or even the street.
Make sure your pet is securely indoors or in a safe, enclosed space before the guests start arriving. Consider putting your pet in a crate or a separate room while guests are coming in to prevent them from darting out the door.
Pet Safe Foods
Many of the foods we love during Thanksgiving can be harmful to pets. If your pet accidentally eats something harmful, contact your veterinarian or an emergency pet poison hotline immediately.
