🦃 Thanksgiving Safety & Fun: How to Include Your Dog in the Feast (Without the Harm)

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and delicious food — and of course, your furry family member deserves to be part of the celebration too! But before you slip your pup a piece of turkey under the table, it’s important to know which holiday favorites are safe for dogs and which could send them straight to the vet. Here’s how to make this Thanksgiving joyful and safe for your pup.

🍗 Safe Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs

You don’t have to leave your dog out of the feast! Here are a few safe, dog-friendly items you can share in moderation:

• Plain turkey (no skin or seasoning): A few small bites of lean, cooked turkey are perfectly fine.
• Sweet potatoes: Full of nutrients and fiber — just skip the marshmallows and butter.
• Pumpkin puree: A spoonful of plain pumpkin supports digestion and adds a festive touch.
• Green beans: A crunchy, healthy side that your dog will love.

🐶 Pro Tip: Make your dog their own “Thanksgiving bowl” with small, plain portions of the above foods.

🚫 Foods to Avoid

Some traditional dishes are dangerous for dogs. Keep these far from their reach:

• Turkey bones or skin – they can splinter or cause pancreatitis.
• Onions, garlic, or chives – toxic to dogs in any form.
• Stuffing and casseroles – often filled with unsafe ingredients.
• Desserts – especially those containing chocolate, xylitol, or raisins.

If your pup sneaks a bite of something suspicious, call your vet or a pet poison hotline right away.

🏠 Hosting a Dog-Friendly Thanksgiving

Make sure your dog enjoys the day without stress:

• Create a quiet retreat: Set up a calm corner with their bed and toys if guests make them anxious.
• Keep the trash secure: Dogs are notorious for raiding leftovers!
• Exercise before the meal: A long morning walk helps them relax and rest while you dine.
• Watch the doors: With guests coming and going, it’s easy for dogs to slip outside unnoticed.

🎉 Ways to Include Your Dog in the Celebration

• Let them “help” with cleanup — safely licking a clean turkey spoon or sniffing around the yard.
• Take family photos that include your pup (bonus points for a fall bandana or bowtie!).
• Give thanks for them! Encourage each family member to share something they love about your dog.

❤️ A Thanksgiving to Remember

Your dog may not understand what Thanksgiving is, but they do understand love, attention, and good food. Including them safely in your holiday traditions strengthens your bond and ensures they enjoy the season just as much as you do.

So, while you fill your plate this Thanksgiving, don’t forget to fill your dog’s heart too — with safe treats, warm snuggles, and plenty of gratitude. 🐾