Thanksgiving Pet Tips: Don't Let Your Dog Eat The Foil!

While we’re on the topic of holiday tips, I thought I’d better make sure to add a few tips for Thanksgiving.  This traditional feast of giving thanks is a great way to get together with your family.  However, too much giving of food to your pets can lead to everything from mild stomach discomfort to deathly illness.  To ensure your pets are happy and healthy this Thanksgiving keep these tips in mind: 

1. Onions and onion powder, widely found in stuffing, will harm your pet's red blood cells and may lead to anemia Make sure your pet always has plenty of water. This seems obvious, but having too many cooks in the kitchen can cause an empty water bowl to go unnoticed.

2. Too many fatty, rich, or new foods ("table scraps") can be very hazardous to your pet, and can cause pancreatitis or gastroenteritis; 

3. Make sure your dog has a quiet retreat area should the holiday festivities become too stressful and overwhelming to your pet. (This is true for humans too!)

4. Keep an eye on your garbage and keep it securely closed so your dog doesn't get any extra holiday cheer out of the trash.

5. Grapes, raisins, and chocolate can be toxic to your pet

6. Aluminum foil, wax paper, and other food wrappings can be ingested and can cause intestinal obstruction.

All it takes to keep your pet happy this Thanksgiving is to avoid giving them too many table scraps and to keep an eagle eye on everything in the kitchen and dining room.  Cats and dogs in particular are notorious for making it up onto tables and countertops.  

Source: http://www.examiner.com/x-941-Los-Angeles-Pet-Examiner~y2008m11d21-Thanksgiving-tips-for-safe-holiday-fun-with-your-pet