Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, togetherness, and, of course, delicious food. As we gather with family and friends to celebrate this special holiday, our four-legged companions are often right by our side, smelling and eagerly waiting for a taste of the Thanksgiving feast. While it’s tempting to share the joy of the holiday with our pets, it’s important to be mindful of the foods we offer them. In this blog, we’ll explore some pet-friendly Thanksgiving foods that can be safely enjoyed by your furry friends.
Pet-Safe Options
Turkey
Turkey is the star of the Thanksgiving table, and it’s also a pet-friendly option in moderation. Remove the skin, bones, and excess fat before offering small, cooked, boneless pieces of turkey to your pets. Be cautious not to give them seasoned or heavily seasoned meat, as some spices can be harmful to pets.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a nutritious and delicious treat for pets. They are rich in vitamins and fiber. You can share a small portion of plain, cooked sweet potatoes with your pets. Avoid adding butter, sugar, or marshmallows, as these can be harmful to them.
Plain Pumpkin
Plain, canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) is an excellent choice for pets. It’s packed with fiber and can help with digestion. A spoonful of plain pumpkin can be mixed into your pet’s food to add some holiday flair to their meal.
Green Beans
Plain, steamed green beans can be a healthy addition to your pet’s Thanksgiving plate. These veggies are low in calories and a good source of vitamins and minerals. Just ensure they are plain, without added seasonings or sauces.
Cranberries
Cranberries are a festive option, but they should be offered in moderation. Fresh cranberries are too tart for most pets, so it’s best to opt for a small amount of plain, unsweetened cranberry sauce. However, be cautious with store-bought cranberry sauce, as it often contains high amounts of sugar, which can be harmful to pets.
Plain Mashed Potatoes
Plain mashed potatoes can be shared with your pets in small amounts. Avoid adding butter, cream, garlic, or onions, as these ingredients can be toxic to dogs and cats. Plain, boiled, and mashed potatoes are the safest option.
Carrots
Carrots are a crunchy and nutritious treat for pets. They are low in calories and an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. You can offer small, raw carrot sticks or steamed carrots as a healthy snack for your furry friends.
Pet-Specific Chew Options
Pet Releaf Edibites are organic pet chews that offer a fantastic way to involve your dogs in the festivities while ensuring they enjoy clean and safe ingredients. Edibites come in a variety of flavors like Sweet Potato Pie, Bacon, or Blueberry Cranberry, which can rival the most enticing Thanksgiving dishes.
Thanksgiving can bring the presence of extra guests into your home. While this is exciting, it can also be overwhelming for your pets. Pet Releaf Edibites may offer calming support during these changes in the typical routine, helping pups stay relaxed and comfortable throughout the holiday gathering.
Avoid Harmful Foods
While there are pet-friendly Thanksgiving options, there are also several foods that should be strictly avoided, as they can be toxic to pets. These include onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, chocolate, nuts, and alcohol. Keep these items out of your pet’s reach at all times.
Thanksgiving is a great time to show gratitude for the love and companionship our pets bring into our lives. Sharing a few pet-friendly Thanksgiving foods with them can be a delightful way to include them in the festivities. However, always remember to offer these treats in moderation and be mindful of their dietary restrictions and allergies. The safety and well-being of our pets should be a top priority during the holiday season.
