Making a Paw-sitively Pet-Friendly Thanksgiving Feast

As Thanksgiving approaches, the season of gratitude and indulgence is upon us. And while we're busy preparing a sumptuous feast for ourselves and our loved ones, let's not forget about our furry family members – our pets. At Huckleberry's Pet Parlor, we believe that pets should be a part of the Thanksgiving celebration, but their safety and well-being should be a top priority. To help you create a pet-friendly Thanksgiving dinner that your four-legged friend will adore, we've compiled some expert advice and tips from pet care specialists.

Building a Thanksgiving Plate for Your Pup Before diving into the details of creating a pet-friendly Thanksgiving dinner, remember that some common Thanksgiving foods can harm dogs. To ensure your pet's safety, avoid feeding them:

• Turkey Bones: These can splinter and cause digestive issues.
• Onions and Garlic: These ingredients are toxic to dogs.
• Sweets: Chocolate and xylitol-containing sweets are dangerous for pets.
• Alcohol: Keep alcoholic beverages away from your pet.
• Raisins and Grapes: Both can be harmful to dogs.
• Cooked Bones: These can also splinter and pose a choking hazard.
• Heavy Fats: Butter and turkey skin can lead to pancreatitis in dogs.
• Foods Containing Spices: Spices can upset a dog's stomach.
  Now, let's focus on the delicious and safe options for your pet's Thanksgiving feast:

Turkey Breast (Shredded): Start with the centerpiece of your Thanksgiving meal – turkey. Opt for shredded turkey breast without the skin. The skin can be high in fat and salt, which is not suitable for dogs.

Sweet Potatoes: These are rich in beta-carotene and fiber. Mash boiled sweet potatoes before adding any butter or spices.

Gravy: While human gravy might not be suitable, you can make dog-friendly gravy using canned dog food or purchase pre-made gravy made for dogs.

Carrots: Steam or boil carrots and add a few unseasoned ones to the plate. They are low in calories and high in fiber and vitamin A.

Green Beans: Use fresh or frozen green beans without seasoning. They are filling and low in calories.

Cranberries: These are a great source of antioxidants, but offer them sparingly, as not all dogs enjoy cranberries.

Apple Slices: Apples are a sweet treat for your pup, but ensure you remove seeds and skin before serving.

Pumpkin: Whether steamed, baked, or canned, pumpkin is a superfood for dogs and aids digestion.

When serving these foods, remember to keep portion sizes small, especially if you include several different items on your pet's plate. Overfeeding can lead to digestive discomfort, which is something we want to avoid.

Have a Tail-Wagging Time

This Thanksgiving, let's show our pets how thankful we are for their companionship and love by including them in the festivities. With the proper knowledge and careful preparation, you can create a pet-friendly Thanksgiving dinner that's safe and delicious for your furry family member. Remember to avoid harmful ingredients, keep portion sizes in check, and indulge your pet with a meal they'll truly appreciate.

Visit Huckleberry's Pet Parlor

No bones about it: Huckleberry's Pet Parlor is Sycamore and DeKalb's premier pet center. Our services include full-service pet grooming, doggy daycare, dog training, self-service pet wash, treats, toys, and more. Visit our website to learn more or call us at (815) 899-3435 to make an appointment.

Sources:
https://www.aspca.org/news/sharing-caring-foods-you-can-safely-share-your-pet
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/thanksgiving-foods-to-share-with-your-dog-oravoid.
https://www.sidewalkdog.com/thanksgiving-meal-for-dogs/
https://www.pethub.com/article/how-make-yummy-safe-thanksgiving-feast-your-pets
https://www.huckleberryspetparlor.com/