How to Make Thanksgiving Safe and Enjoyable for Pets

Introduction: Thanksgiving with Pets—A Time for All to Enjoy

Thanksgiving is a holiday centered around giving thanks and celebrating with loved ones. And, of course, for many of us, our pets are just as much a part of the family as anyone else. But with the festivities and indulgent meals that accompany the day, Thanksgiving can be a challenging time for our furry friends. The kitchen, with its delicious aromas and tempting foods, can pose risks for pets, and the busy nature of gatherings can sometimes overwhelm them.

So how do you ensure that your pet has an enjoyable and safe Thanksgiving? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to include your pets in the holiday celebrations while also keeping them safe, comfortable, and happy.

1. Create a Safe, Calm Space for Your Pet

While you’re busy preparing dinner and hosting guests, your pet might become anxious or overstimulated by the hustle and bustle. To ensure they feel comfortable, it’s essential to create a quiet, calm space where they can retreat if needed.

Set up a cozy corner or room where your pet can relax. Include their favorite blanket or bed, and consider adding some toys to keep them entertained. If your pet is crate-trained, you can also use the crate as a safe space where they can feel secure.

For pets that get nervous with crowds, this space will be their sanctuary away from the commotion, and they can come and go as they please. Having a quiet retreat gives your pet a break from all the excitement, ensuring they don’t feel overwhelmed.

Pro Tip: Consider playing soft music or using a calming diffuser with pet-safe essential oils to promote relaxation.

2. Watch Out for Thanksgiving Food Hazards

We all know that Thanksgiving dinners are a feast for the senses—aromatic turkey, buttery mashed potatoes, and sweet pies galore. However, many of these beloved dishes can be harmful to pets. Common Thanksgiving foods like turkey bones, onions, garlic, chocolate, and rich gravies can lead to gastrointestinal issues or even serious health problems.

Be sure to keep your pet out of the kitchen during meal preparation, and don’t leave food unattended on counters or tables. Even if your pet is begging for a taste, it’s essential to resist the urge to feed them scraps. Instead, you can prepare pet-safe treats and offer them during the meal to keep them engaged and satisfied.

If you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner and will be serving guests, remind them not to feed your pet any scraps or leftovers. Well-meaning family and friends may not be aware of which foods are toxic to animals, so it’s crucial to communicate your pet’s food safety needs.

Pro Tip: If you’d like to include your pet in the celebration, make some homemade pet-friendly dishes, such as turkey broth or dog-friendly treats, to enjoy together.

3. Keep Decorations and Guests Safe

Thanksgiving decorations like candles, centerpieces, and table settings add a festive touch, but they can also pose risks to your pets. Curious cats or dogs may knock over candles or ingest decorative items, which could lead to injury or digestive problems. To prevent accidents, keep any fragile or hazardous decorations out of your pet’s reach.

If you plan to decorate with fall plants, be cautious of the types of plants you choose. For instance, some common Thanksgiving plants like lilies, chrysanthemums, and poinsettias are toxic to pets. Stick with pet-safe options like pumpkins, gourds, and non-toxic flowers.

Additionally, if you’re hosting a large gathering, remember that unfamiliar people and noises can stress out your pet. Some pets may become frightened by the noise and bustle of a party, and others may even feel threatened by strangers in the house. Consider notifying your guests in advance about your pet’s needs, especially if they have any concerns about their comfort.

Pro Tip: Set up a designated space for your pet where they can relax, and ensure that guests are aware of your pet’s boundaries, such as avoiding feeding them or crowding them.

4. Keep the Door Closed to Prevent Escapes

Thanksgiving often brings guests in and out of the house as people arrive and leave, which can create an opportunity for pets to slip out unnoticed. Whether you’re hosting guests or taking your pet outside for some fresh air, be vigilant about keeping doors and gates securely closed.

It’s a good idea to have a designated person responsible for monitoring the door area, especially if your pet is prone to running outside. You can also place a sign near the door or on your pets’ collar to remind guests to be extra careful when entering or exiting.

Pro Tip: Ensure your pet has proper identification, such as a collar with an ID tag or a microchip, in case they do manage to slip out.

5. Keep Them Active and Engaged

After a long day of festivities, your pet may have a lot of pent-up energy, especially if they were confined to a quiet room or safe space. It’s important to take the time to engage in some physical activity with your pet, even if it’s just a short walk or play session in the backyard.

This can help them release energy, reduce stress, and feel more content after a day of holiday excitement. Additionally, mentally stimulating activities such as puzzle toys or obedience training can help keep your pet’s mind sharp and give them something enjoyable to focus on.

Pro Tip: If you have a backyard, set up an impromptu game of fetch or hide-and-seek to tire them out and help them wind down.

Conclusion: A Safe and Fun Thanksgiving for All

By taking some simple precautions and being mindful of your pet’s needs, you can ensure that Thanksgiving is a joyous and safe occasion for everyone—including your furry friends. Keep them comfortable with a quiet space to retreat to, protect them from food hazards, and ensure they are included in the fun with pet-safe activities and treats. After all, Thanksgiving is about sharing gratitude with the ones you love, and that includes your loyal companion!

Q&A: Thanksgiving and Pets

Q: What Thanksgiving foods are safe for my pet?

A: Plain turkey meat (without seasoning or bones), sweet potatoes (without butter or spices), and plain pumpkin are all safe for pets in moderation. Always avoid adding sauces, gravies, or any seasoning.

Q: How can I make Thanksgiving less stressful for my pet?

A: Set up a quiet space where your pet can retreat from the noise and commotion, and make sure to provide them with familiar toys, bedding, and maybe even some calming music to ease their nerves.

Q: Can I let my pet participate in the meal by giving them leftovers?

A: It’s best to avoid giving your pet human leftovers, as many common Thanksgiving foods can be harmful. Stick to pet-safe treats and special snacks designed for them.

Q: My pet is scared of loud noises—what should I do during Thanksgiving?

A: If your pet is frightened by noise, consider keeping them in a quiet room or crate during dinner. Use calming aids such as pheromone diffusers, music, or a blanket to help soothe them.

Q: What should I do if my pet eats something harmful from the table?

A: If you suspect your pet has ingested something harmful, immediately contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal clinic. They can assess the situation and recommend the best course of action.