Thanksgiving Pet Safety

Keeping Your Pets Happy and Healthy This Holiday

Thanksgiving is all about gratitude, family, and food, but for our pets, it can also bring unexpected hazards. From tempting table scraps to busy gatherings, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping your furry family members safe and stress-free.

Skip the Table Scraps

While it’s tempting to share your feast, many traditional Thanksgiving foods can upset your pet’s stomach—or worse, cause serious illness. Avoid feeding pets:

• Turkey bones or skin – bones can splinter and cause internal injuries, while skin is high in fat and hard to digest.
• Stuffing, drippings and gravy – often contain onions, garlic, and butter, which can be toxic or high in fat, which can cause pancreatitis.
• Desserts – especially those with chocolate, xylitol (a sugar substitute), raisins, or macadamia nuts.

If you want to include your pet in the celebration, offer a small portion of plain cooked turkey or sweet potato with no seasoning, butter, or oil. Set expectations with your guests about what treats are permitted.

Mind the Trash

Pets have incredible noses and can’t resist the smell of leftovers. Make sure trash is secured in a pet-proof container to prevent scavenging. Ingesting bones, fatty foods, or string used to tie the turkey can lead to dangerous blockages or poisoning.

Keep Decorations Out of Reach

Festive décor like candles, potpourri, and flowers may look beautiful, but they can pose risks if chewed or knocked over. Use flameless candles when possible, and be mindful of toxic plants like lilies, amaryllis, and baby’s breath when decorating.

Manage Guests and Doorways

With friends and family coming and going, doors may be left open accidentally. Keep pets safely in another room or use baby gates to prevent escape. Microchips and ID tags should be up to date—just in case.

Give Them a Quiet Space

Some pets love company, but others get anxious with extra noise and people. Set up a calm, comfortable spot with familiar bedding, toys, and water so they can retreat when things get busy.

At Airport Animal Emergi-Center, we’re thankful for your pets and the joy they bring to your family. We want your holiday to be full of wagging tails and happy memories, not unexpected trips to the emergency room. If your pet gets into something they shouldn’t this Thanksgiving or shows any signs of distress, don’t wait—call us immediately at (317) 248-0832 or come in right away.