The holidays are here!
For many people, the holidays mean numerous family and friend gatherings. However, this time of year is also the most common for emergency room trips with your pets.
Your pets are more prone to diseases like pancreatitis, GI upset, and intestinal foreign body obstructions because many pets receive leftover table scraps, eat higher fatty foods, and get a hold of bones that lead to obstructions.
But there are also many ways that you can help your dog be a part of the celebration by offering unprocessed, healthy foods as a treat or snack during these times. Make sure you learn which foods are safe and which you need to avoid to keep your pet from getting sick and getting an unwanted, expensive bill to put a damper on the holiday spirit.
Which foods are healthy to give to your dog in moderation?
These foods are safe and healthy to include in your dog’s regular meals in moderation or as a snack:
Turkey (without gravy or bones)
Unsalted green beans
Plain cooked sweet potato, butternut squash, and/or potatoes
Lightly cooked unsalted broccoli
Unhealthy and even potentially toxic foods that you want to avoid your dog getting into include:
Cooked bones
Turkey skin and fat
Creamed veggies
Xylitol in sweets and desserts
Nuts, especially macadamia nuts
Coffee
Chocolate
Grapes, raisins, and currants
Onions and garlic
By avoiding these toxic foods and feeding our dogs light to moderate amounts of healthy foods, your dogs can participate in the holiday cheer and stay healthy. Make sure to feed your dogs prior to guests coming over, and this will help decrease begging behavior and less chance of a sneaky pup taking left-overs off of the table.
Share below what your favorite treat is for your pets, and make sure you follow us on social media to learn more about safe and healthy treats you can give to your dogs during this holiday season.
MORE PET HEALTH INFORMATION
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*Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your own veterinarian or doctor. The information contained in thenaturalpetdoctor.com is strictly for educational purposes. Therefore, if you wish to apply ideas contained in thenaturalpetdoctor.com, you are taking full responsibility for your actions. Please consult your veterinarian for medical advice for your own pets. Dr. Katie Woodley cannot answer specific questions about your pet’s medical issues or make medical recommendations for your pet without first establishing a veterinarian-client-patient relationship.