Veterinary Care by Georgetown Animal Clinic, Williamsville, New York NY / thanksgiving safety

STUFF THE TURKEY
NOT YOUR PET!
Thanksgiving Safety Tips

Don't feed tablescraps to your pet. You may think a scrap here and there will do no harm, but your pet is likely much smaller than you and a little can go a long way. Feeding turkey or other rich, fatty foods can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and can lead to pancreatitis, requiring emergency medical care.

NEVER FEED BONES TO YOUR PET, raw or cooked! Small soft bones splinter easily and can be caught in the pets throat causing choking. When swallowed, they can cause impaction or even tear the intestines; both would require surgery. Larger bones may also splinter, causing internal injuries. Often these large hard bones also cause cracking of the teeth.

Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine. Theobromine is highest in dark chocolate, but even milk chocolate contains theobromine. Chocolate can be fatal to your pet. Bowls of candy or pieces dropped by guests or children may go unnoticed for hours. If you suspect your pet has eaten chocolate, call your veterinarian immediately!

Secure your garbage! It takes only a minute for your pet to get into the garbage and wolf down whatever smells good, including aluminum foil, plastic wrap, wax paper, garlic, and of course turkey bones and scraps. Even a vegetarian household has hazards in the garbage, so it is best to remove it as soon as you can.

Provide a quiet refuge for your pet. With all the holiday fanfare, your pet will need time-out from visiting family and friends. Your pet will likely be sleep deprived, as pets home alone will sleep up to 20 hours a day.

Make sure fresh water is available at all times. Frequently check your pet's water bowl to make sure the supply is clean. Busy children and relatives may bump a bowl and spill the water.

Don't give your pet different food than he or she would normally get, and maintain feeding and exercise schedules. Minimizing the stress of your pet means being aware of his or her daily routine.

	Georgetown Animal Clinic, PC