Thanksgiving is coming up quickly! We’re definitely looking forward to savoring some delicious foods with our loved ones. Of course, your canine buddy will be underfoot and paying close attention to those yummy dishes. Like any other holiday, Turkey Day presents a lot of potential for doggy mishaps. A Mint Hill, NC vet goes over some Thanksgiving safety for dogs below.

Food

Food is one of the biggest concerns here. Many things on that Turkey Day menu are toxic to dogs. Meat on the bone is one to be aware of. Bones get very brittle when they are cooked, and can break into sharp shards and splinters. This can cause very dangerous—and potentially fatal—internal injuries. It’s also a choking hazard. Other unsafe foods include garlic and onions; raw dough or yeast; avocado; pitted fruits; grapes, currants, and raisins; chocolate; and caffeine.

Mishaps

Man’s Best Friend definitely has a knack for mischief. Guests of course should never be a direct threat: the issue is more of mishaps, such as someone leaving a door open, or giving Fido that turkey bone to chew on. Ask guests not to feed or discipline your canine companion, and keep a close eye on him. If you have people staying overnight, ask them to keep the guest room door closed. You definitely don’t want your dog chewing on someone’s heart medication or eating their socks. It’s also a good idea to tire your furry pal out with a fun play session before everyone arrives. Tired dogs are good dogs!

Trash

This one probably isn’t much of a concern for people with Chihuahuas. However, if your four-legged friend is tall enough to get into the trash, it’s best to use trash cans with lids. Fido isn’t above going through the garbage in search of leftovers! That can be very dangerous, as the trash can contain things like bones, tin foil, fat trimmings, can lids, plastic bags, and all sorts of things that you don’t want your pooch eating.

Decorations

Keep Fido in mind as you are decorating. Candles should be placed in high, secure spots, well out of paws’ reach. Anything with ropes or strings, such as garlands, is also a concern, as are small or sharp objects, plastic bags, and medications. Happy Thanksgiving from all of us here at Fullwood Animal Hospital. Please contact us, your Mint Hill, NC animal clinic, anytime!