Thanksgiving is just around the corner. We are definitely very grateful to our canine companions, and all the love and laughter they bring into our lives. Of course, Fido will need a bit of extra TLC and monitoring around the November holiday. An Oradell, NJ vet talks about spending Thanksgiving with Fido below.

Food

Fido will definitely take note of that delicious feast. You can make him a plate, but be careful what you put on it. Many popular foods are toxic to dogs! Grapes, currants, and raisins are some of the biggest concerns. Even just eating one of these tiny fruits can cause organ failure. Other unsafe foods include garlic and onions; alcohol; caffeine; chocolate; avocado; pitted fruits; meat on the bone; raw meat, dough, or yeast; and anything that contains xylitol. What can your furry friend eat? Plain, cooked meat, fish, or poultry; unseasoned cooked sweet potatoes, squash, or pumpkin; a few cocktail wieners; or some cooked eggs. Ask your vet for more information.

Guests

Fido can get pretty excited when there are a lot of visitors in ‘his’ home. Tire him out with a vigorous walk and a fun play session before your guests arrive. Your pooch will be calmer—and better behaved—after he’s burned off some of that extra energy. If your canine pal is extremely rambunctious, put him in a quiet back room with food, toys, bedding, and treats as people are coming and going. You don’t want him jumping on your elderly aunt and knocking that green bean casserole out of her hands!

Decorations

Our furry friends can get a bit mischievous. When decorating, keep anything that could be hazardous to Fido in a spot he can’t reach. This includes small or sharp objects; plastic bags and wrappers; wires and cords; medicine; candles; and anything with ropes or cords.

Petiquette

You’ll want your canine buddy to put his best paw forward for company. Give Fido a bath before the big day, or take him to the groomer’s. Fall is peak shedding time for many dogs, so it’s also a good idea to brush your pup, and then dust and vacuum thoroughly. If you know or suspect that you’ll be having guests with allergies, set out lots of tissues, and pick up some OTC allergy medicine.

Happy Thanksgiving! As your Oradell, NJ animal clinic, we’re grateful for all of you. Contact us anytime!