Thanksgiving is a time of joy, gratitude, and generous portions of delicious foods. However, while we indulge in festive treats, it’s crucial to consider the safety of our furry friends. The Animal Emergency and Urgent Care Center (AEUCC), based in Deerfield Beach and serving nearby cities including Boca Raton, Coral Springs, Margate, Parkland, Fort Lauderdale, and Pompano, wants to ensure your Thanksgiving remains a happy and safe celebration for everyone in your household—including your dogs.
Safe Thanksgiving Scraps for Dogs
- Turkey Meat (Skinless and Boneless): Turkey is a fantastic source of lean protein for dogs. However, make sure it’s plain, without any seasoning, and remove any bones and skin before offering it to your pet. The skin is often seasoned and can be fatty, which is harmful to dogs.
- Carrots: Raw or cooked (without any seasoning), carrots are a healthy snack full of vitamins and fiber. They can help keep your dog’s teeth clean and provide a low-calorie treat.
- Green Beans: Plain green beans are a safe option for dogs. They are a good source of plant fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K. Just ensure they’re served plain and not in a green bean casserole, which contains other ingredients that could be harmful to your pet.
- Pumpkin: Pure pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) is a safe choice for dogs. It’s a great source of fiber and can help with digestive health. Just a few teaspoons of canned pumpkin mixed into their regular food can be beneficial.
What to Avoid
- Onions and Garlic: These kitchen staples can be very harmful to dogs. They can lead to toxic anemia by destroying a dog’s red blood cells. Ensure that any food you share does not contain these ingredients.
- Chocolate and Sweets: Chocolate is a well-known no-no for dogs, but other sweets, especially those containing xylitol (a common sugar substitute found in sugar-free candies and baked goods), can be just as deadly. Be vigilant about keeping desserts out of your dog’s reach.
- Cooked Bones: While it might seem natural to offer a dog a bone, cooked turkey bones can splinter and cause choking or serious damage to the stomach and intestines.
- Fatty Foods: Foods high in fat, such as turkey skin and gravy, can cause pancreatitis in dogs. This inflammatory condition can be severe and may require urgent veterinary care.
- Raisins and Grapes: These fruits are toxic to dogs and can lead to kidney failure. Avoid giving your dog any food containing these, such as stuffing and fruit salads.
Emergency Care for Dog Food Poisoning
Even with precautions, accidents can happen. Symptoms of food poisoning in dogs include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and abdominal pain. If you notice any of these signs or suspect your dog has eaten something they shouldn’t have, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately.
The Animal Emergency and Urgent Care Center (AEUCC) is here to help. Our state-of-the-art facility in Deerfield Beach, along with our team of experienced veterinarians, provides comprehensive emergency services. We understand that emergencies can happen at any time, especially during holidays, and we are equipped to handle all types of urgent health issues, including dog food poisoning.
For residents of Boca Raton, Coral Springs, Deerfield Beach, Margate, Parkland, Fort Lauderdale, and Pompano, AEUCC is your trusted partner in pet emergency care. If you believe your dog is experiencing a food-related emergency this Thanksgiving, do not hesitate to contact us. As your local Boca Raton emergency vet, we are committed to providing the highest level of care to ensure your pet’s health and well-being.
This Thanksgiving, keep your celebration safe and enjoyable for every member of your family, including your pets. By knowing what table scraps are safe and which to avoid, you can help prevent any unwanted trips to the emergency room. However, should the need arise, remember that the Animal Emergency and Urgent Care Center (AEUCC) is here for you and your pet during this festive season and beyond. Call us 24/7 at (954) 428-9888.
