SPOKANE, Wash. — Now if you are a pet owner, you know that dogs will not leave you alone in the kitchen. The American Kennel Club is reminding pet owners which foods your pet can have this Thanksgiving, and what they should avoid!
As your pup gives you some puppy dog eyes, here are some classic Thanksgiving dishes they can try.
Sweet PotatoesThese are a great source of dietary fiber, vitamin B6, vitamin C and beta-carotene. Plain mashed sweet potatoes are great for pets, just make sure there is no brown sugar, marshmallows of maple syrup!PotatoesMashed potatoes with butter, cream, onions or garlic are not good for dogs. But if you want them to enjoy the holiday, they can have a boiled or baked potato. ApplesThese are full of vitamins A and C and contain lots of great fiber, making them a healthy Thanksgiving treat for your pet. As you are making an apple pie, save a couple slices for your pet!Turkey meat (no bones, no heavy seasoning, no skin)This is okay to offer up to pets as long as it has not been prepared with any seasoning. Please keep any turkey bones and skin away because it can trigger painful, dangerous pancreatitis or other digestive issues for your dog.Green beansThese have ample amounts of plant fiber, manganese and vitamins C and K which are great for dogs. Make sure they are plain green beans and have no added ingredients like butter and salt!Plain peasThese are fine to add to your dogs diet in moderation. Like other items, make sure they are plain and are not creamed peas.PumpkinPumpkin helps with digestive health and it’s great for a dog’s skin and coat. Make sure it is pure pumpkin puree and not pre-spiced or sugary pie mix!
Now, if you have some leftovers on your plate other than those items above, here are things that you and your guests should not feed pets.
Turkey bones or skinGravyStuffingCasseroleMashed potatoesCreamed peasChocolate, cookies, pies and sweetsRaisins or grapesOnions, scallions and garlicHamYeast doughAny foods containing spices
Once you and your guests have finished your Thanksgiving meal and are relaxing, try to keep unsafe food items out of reach for pets. They may be tempted to get on the counter or table to try foods they weren’t given!
If your dog gets into something that they shouldn’t eat, seek help right away. In the event of an emergency, contact the Pet Poison Helpline or call your local emergency vet!
For more information about what your pups can eat on Thanksgiving, visit the American Kennel Club website.
