Thanksgiving is a cherished time of celebration, family, and gratitude—but for pet owners, it’s also a time to be mindful of potential hazards that can put your furry friends at risk. From tempting foods to unexpected dangers in your home, being prepared can make the holiday safe and stress-free for your pets. At Pinedale Animal Hospital in Pinedale, Wyoming, we’re dedicated to helping you protect your pets during the holiday season. Here’s what you need to know to keep your pets safe this Thanksgiving.

Common Thanksgiving Hazards for Pets

Food Dangers

While we’ve covered Thanksgiving food safety in detail in another blog, it’s worth reiterating that many holiday foods can be harmful or even toxic to pets. Here are some specific risks to watch for:

  • Turkey Bones and Fat: Cooked bones can splinter, causing choking or internal injuries, while turkey skin and fatty drippings can trigger pancreatitis.
  • Seasonings and Sauces: Many holiday dishes contain onions, garlic, or spices that can cause gastrointestinal upset or anemia in pets.
  • Non-Food Items: Foil, plastic wrap, skewers, and strings used for cooking can smell like food and are highly appealing to pets, but they can lead to dangerous blockages or perforations if swallowed.

Pancreatitis: A Holiday Danger

What is pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, an organ responsible for digestion and blood sugar regulation. Thanksgiving foods, especially fatty dishes like gravy, turkey skin, and buttery sides, are common culprits that can trigger this painful condition.

Dangers of pancreatitis:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Lethargy and weakness
  • Dehydration

If left untreated, pancreatitis can lead to serious complications, including organ damage or death. Pets showing these symptoms should be seen by a veterinarian immediately. Learn more about how we manage emergencies on our Emergency Services page.

Foreign Body Ingestion

What are foreign bodies?
Pets are naturally curious and often explore with their mouths, making them susceptible to ingesting non-food items. During Thanksgiving, common foreign bodies include turkey bones, string used to tie poultry, plastic wrap, skewers, and aluminum foil.

Symptoms of foreign body ingestion:

  • Persistent vomiting or gagging
  • Loss of appetite
  • Abdominal pain or bloating
  • Straining to defecate or diarrhea

Foreign objects can cause intestinal blockages, perforations, or even life-threatening infections. Prompt veterinary attention is crucial if you suspect your pet has swallowed something inappropriate. For emergencies like this, visit our Emergency Care page.

Oral Burns from Hot Oils and Pans

Dangers of oral burns:
Hot pans, oils, and fryers used for Thanksgiving meals pose serious risks to pets, especially if they lick or chew on these items. Oral burns can result in severe pain, swelling, and even internal injuries.

  • Hot oil or pans: Pets attracted to the smell of food may lick or bite these items, causing burns to their tongue, gums, and esophagus.
  • Electric cords: Chewing on electric cords can cause electrical burns in the mouth, leading to difficulty eating, drooling, or worse, shock.

Symptoms to watch for:

  • Drooling or pawing at the mouth
  • Difficulty eating or drinking
  • Red or swollen gums
  • Vomiting (if internal burns are present)

If your pet suffers from burns, it’s essential to seek immediate veterinary care. Our team at Pinedale Animal Hospital is equipped to treat oral burns and manage related complications. Contact us for emergency assistance.

Preventative Measures for a Safe Thanksgiving

Set Boundaries in Food Areas

To keep your pet away from food hazards, set up barriers like baby gates or playpens around the kitchen and dining areas. This also ensures they can’t sneak into the trash or swipe food off counters.

If your pet is known for counter-surfing, focus on training commands like “leave it” and “drop it” before the holidays. These skills can prevent them from grabbing something dangerous.

Create a Quiet Retreat

Prepare a cozy, quiet space for your pet to escape to if things get overwhelming. Here’s how to prepare their retreat:

  • Comfort Items: Include their favorite bed, blanket, and toys.
  • Noise Control: Use calming music or a white noise machine to mask the sound of guests and festivities.
  • Treats and Distractions: Offer food puzzles, frozen Kongs, or chew toys to keep them occupied.

Ask Guests for Help

Guests may unknowingly contribute to risks by feeding your pet table scraps or leaving plates unattended. Here’s how to set clear expectations:

  • Politely Request No Feeding: Let guests know not to feed your pet, and consider adding a cute sign to your pet’s collar saying, “I know I’m adorable, but please don’t feed me!”
  • Supervise Kids with Food: Children often carry food at pet-level, making it easy for pets to snatch snacks. Remind kids to keep food out of reach.
  • Monitor Plates: Keep an eye on food left unattended on chairs, tables, or counters. Pets can be sneaky!

Exercise Before Guests Arrive

A tired pet is a happy pet. Give your dog a long walk or play an interactive game with your cat before guests arrive. This helps reduce their energy levels, making them more likely to relax during the festivities.

Consider Boarding or Daycare

If your pet becomes overwhelmed by large gatherings or tends to escape when doors are opened, consider boarding them for the day or enrolling them in daycare. This ensures they are safe and stress-free while you enjoy the holiday.

Why Choose Pinedale Animal Hospital?

At Pinedale Animal Hospital, we understand that pets are family. From wellness check-ups to urgent care, our experienced team is here to provide the highest quality care for your pets year-round. Whether you’re concerned about a Thanksgiving hazard or need advice on keeping your pet safe, we’re just a call away. Learn more about our team and services and how we can support you and your pet.

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and joy, and with a little planning, your furry family members can safely join in the celebrations. By taking these precautions, you’ll ensure your pet stays happy, healthy, and safe this holiday season. Contact us to schedule a pre-holiday check-up or for any questions about pet safety.