Keep pets safe this Thanksgiving weekend!

For many, the Thanksgiving weekend can be a time to get together with friends and family to enjoy a meal together. Before you get together, check out our animal safety tips to keep everyone happy and healthy this holiday – including our furry family members! 

Food dangers 

If you’re planning on letting your pet sample some of the food you’re enjoying, speak to your veterinarian first. You don’t want your furry friend to get sick, or suffer from an upset stomach, especially on a holiday weekend! 

Food from the Thanksgiving table may have too much fat, protein or sugar, and this can overload your pet’s digestive system, resulting in inflamed organs, vomiting, diarrhea, or worse. 

Among the toxic foods to look out for are chocolate, raisins, and grapes, which all have strong poisoning side effects for pets. If you plan on enjoying these treats, keep them away from the reach of your furry friends. 

It’s important to tell company not to feed your pet from the table, too. If you’re concerned they won’t comply, consider having your pet in a different room at mealtime, with treats and some of their favourite toys in with them. That way, it is a happy event for your animal, too, rather than a punishment. 

Decorations 

Thanksgiving decorations can also pose a danger to your pet. Things such as corn stocks or dried gourds can cause digestive problems if ingested, potentially leading to blockages that require surgery to remove. Plastic artificial leaves can be even worse because they are made from petroleum bi-products, which can be toxic for pets if ingested. Corn stocks can also be dangerous for cats who want to climb them, risking a fall.  

Candles are also dangerous around pets. Animals have a tendency of knocking things over, whether with a wagging dog tail, or a curious cat. Consider battery-powered candles, that can be just as pretty, but with less risk. 

Visitors 

If visitors are staying overnight on Thanksgiving weekend, it’s a good rule of practice to keep pets out of guest bedrooms. Some people may not necessarily be comfortable with animals, plus you don’t know what your pet could get into their overnight bag. It’s also important to be aware of how your pet responds to strangers, especially when they come in making a lot of noise. 

If your pet gets overly excited or anxious when company comes over, consider giving your furry friend a quiet room to wait in while Thanksgiving company arrives, always including treats and toys for their comfort. You can let your animal out of their room of their crate once that excitement is over. 

Vet Holiday 

Pet parents need to remember vets may not be open Thanksgiving weekend. This means extra precautions should be taken. Always know what number to call after hours in case of an emergency. 

On behalf of everyone at the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, have a safe and happy holiday weekend!