Ensuring a safe Thanksgiving for your canine companions involves mindful consideration of their well-being amidst the festive celebrations.
Here are some tips to keep your dog safe during this holiday:
Mindful Feeding: While indulging in a Thanksgiving feast, resist the urge to share certain foods with your dog. Onions, garlic, grapes, chocolate, and fatty foods can be harmful. Instead, offer dog-friendly treats or prepare a special dog-safe meal.
Beware of Bones: Turkey and chicken bones can splinter and pose a choking hazard. Keep bones out of reach and dispose of them securely to prevent accidental ingestion.
Watch the Scraps: Remind well-meaning guests not to sneak table scraps to your dog, as this can disrupt their regular diet and potentially introduce harmful ingredients.
Secure the Trash: Dogs are notorious for sniffing out enticing smells in the garbage. Make sure your trash is securely sealed to prevent them from ingesting anything harmful.
Quiet Space: Thanksgiving gatherings can be overwhelming for dogs. Create a quiet and comfortable space where they can retreat if they need a break from the festivities.
Decorations and Candles: Be cautious with festive decorations, as some may be enticing for dogs to chew on or play with. Keep candles out of reach to prevent accidental burns.
Emergency Plan: Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest emergency veterinary clinic and have their contact information readily available in case of any unforeseen incidents.
Name Tags and Microchips: Ensure your dog has proper identification, including a secure collar with a tag containing your current contact information. If your dog is microchipped, confirm that the information is up to date.
Exercise: Prioritize a pre-celebration walk or play session to help your dog expend energy, making them calmer during the festivities.
Training Refresh: If your dog will be around guests, ensure they are familiar with basic commands like sit, down, place and off to manage their behavior effectively.
By incorporating these tips into your Thanksgiving plans, you can create a safe and enjoyable environment for both your family and your pup!
Happy Thanksgiving from The Clever Canine!