Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, plenty of delicious food! While you’re enjoying turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and pumpkin pie, your four-legged family members are probably hoping for a little taste of the festivities, too.

It’s tempting to share a few bites with your dog or cat, especially when they’re giving you those irresistible puppy eyes. Fortunately, there are several Thanksgiving foods that pets can safely enjoy when prepared properly. The trick is knowing which foods are safe, which ones should be avoided, and how much is too much.

Before you fill your pet’s holiday bowl, here’s what every pet parent should know!

Thanksgiving Foods Your Dog or Cat Can Safely Enjoy

The good news is that some traditional Thanksgiving ingredients can make tasty, pet-friendly treats. Just remember that plain preparation is key. Avoid butter, salt, seasonings, sauces, and other added ingredients.

1. Plain Turkey

Turkey is probably the most popular Thanksgiving food, and your pet can enjoy a little, too! Offer a small amount of fully cooked, boneless, skinless white meat. Make sure it’s free from butter, garlic, onion, gravy, and other seasonings. Never give your pet cooked turkey bones.

2. Green Beans

Green beans are a great low-calorie snack for dogs. They’re packed with fiber and make an easy addition to a pet-friendly Thanksgiving plate. Serve them plain, steamed, or cooked without butter, salt, onions, or seasonings. Cut them into manageable pieces.

3. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are another holiday favorite that can be shared with your dog. They’re a source of fiber and vitamins and are best served cooked, peeled, and mashed or cut into small pieces. Skip the marshmallows, brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon-heavy casserole recipes.

4. Plain Pumpkin

Pumpkin is a wonderful seasonal treat for dogs! Plain pumpkin puree contains fiber and can support digestive health. A small spoonful mixed into your dog’s regular food can be a tasty holiday surprise. Be sure to choose 100% pure pumpkin rather than pumpkin pie filling, which may contain added sugar and spices.

5. Apples

A few small apple slices can make a refreshing treat for your dog. Apples contain fiber and vitamins, but always remove the core and seeds before serving. Keep portions small and avoid caramel apples or other sugary apple desserts.

6. Plain Mashed Potatoes

A little plain, fully cooked mashed potato can be okay for dogs. The important part is keeping it simple. Traditional mashed potatoes often contain butter, cream, garlic, and salt, so set aside a small portion before adding those ingredients.

Note: These suggestions are primarily for healthy adult dogs. Cats may enjoy a tiny piece of plain cooked turkey, but their regular complete and balanced cat food should remain their main diet. Check with your veterinarian before introducing new foods, especially if your pet has allergies, dietary restrictions, or an underlying health condition.

Thanksgiving Foods Your Pets Should NEVER Eat

Unfortunately, not everything on the Thanksgiving table is safe for our furry friends. Some foods can cause serious digestive problems, while others can be toxic or even life-threatening.

Here are some of the biggest Thanksgiving food hazards to watch out for:

• Stuffing and dressing: Often contain onions, garlic, scallions, and other seasonings that can be toxic to pets.
• Turkey bones: Cooked poultry bones can splinter and cause choking, internal injuries, or intestinal blockages.
• Turkey skin and gravy: High-fat foods can cause digestive upset and potentially trigger pancreatitis.
• Onions and garlic: These ingredients can damage red blood cells and cause serious illness in dogs and cats.
• Grapes and raisins: Can cause kidney injury in dogs. Avoid giving them to cats, too.
• Chocolate: Contains substances that are toxic to pets and can cause serious health problems.
• Pumpkin pie: Often contains sugar, spices, and other ingredients that aren’t appropriate for pets.
• Alcohol: Even small amounts can be dangerous to dogs and cats.
• Sugar-free desserts: May contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that can cause a life-threatening reaction in dogs.
• Raw bread dough: Yeast dough can expand in the stomach and produce alcohol during fermentation.

When in doubt, it’s always best to keep human food off your pet’s plate. Some seemingly harmless dishes contain hidden ingredients that can be dangerous.

How to Make a Pet-Friendly Thanksgiving Plate

Want your furry family member to enjoy Thanksgiving dinner without the worry? Consider preparing a special little plate just for them!

Here’s a simple combination you can try:

• A few small pieces of plain, cooked turkey breast.
• A spoonful of plain cooked sweet potato.
• A few chopped, unseasoned green beans.
• A small spoonful of plain pumpkin puree.

Mix these ingredients together or serve them separately alongside your pet’s regular food.

Remember, treats and extras should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories, with the rest coming from a complete and balanced diet. Keep portions especially small for little dogs and cats.

6 Tips for Keeping Your Pets Safe on Thanksgiving

Food isn’t the only thing pet parents should think about during the holidays. With guests coming and going, a busy kitchen, and plenty of tempting smells, Thanksgiving can create some unexpected hazards.

Here are a few ways to keep your pets safe:

1. Keep food off the countertops. Even the most well-behaved pets can become curious when delicious food is within reach. Don’t leave dishes unattended.

2. Secure the garbage. Turkey bones, food scraps, plastic wrap, and packaging can be tempting for pets. Use a covered trash can and dispose of leftovers promptly.

3. Remind guests not to feed your pets. Your family and friends may mean well, but even a small bite of the wrong food can cause problems. Let everyone know that only approved pet treats are allowed.

4. Give your pets a quiet place to relax. Thanksgiving gatherings can be overwhelming, especially for shy or anxious pets. Set up a comfortable space with fresh water, bedding, and favorite toys.

5. Watch the kitchen. Hot pans, boiling water, sharp utensils, and dropped food can all create hazards. Consider using a baby gate to keep curious pets out of the cooking area.

6. Stick to your pet’s routine. Try to maintain regular feeding times, walks, playtime, and rest. A little consistency can help pets feel comfortable during a busy holiday.

What Should You Do If Your Pet Eats Something They Shouldn’t?

Even the most attentive pet parents can experience an unexpected Thanksgiving mishap. If your dog or cat gets into something potentially dangerous, don’t wait for symptoms to appear.

Contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary clinic right away. If you suspect poisoning, you can also contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435. A consultation fee may apply.

Watch for concerning symptoms such as:

• Vomiting or diarrhea.
• Excessive drooling.
• Loss of appetite.
• Unusual tiredness or weakness.
• Abdominal pain or bloating.
• Tremors or seizures.
• Difficulty breathing.

Never try to induce vomiting or administer home remedies unless instructed by a veterinary professional. Prompt treatment can make a significant difference.

A Happy Thanksgiving for the Whole Family!

Thanksgiving is all about spending time with the ones we love, and that certainly includes our pets! While it may be tempting to share every delicious dish on the table, a little extra caution can help keep your four-legged family members happy and healthy.

By choosing simple, pet-friendly ingredients, keeping dangerous foods out of reach, and making sure guests understand the rules, you can let your pets enjoy a little holiday fun without putting their health at risk.

And remember, your pets don’t need a plate full of Thanksgiving leftovers to feel included. Sometimes, their favorite treat, a little extra playtime, and a cozy spot beside their family are all they need.

There’s nothing better than spending time outdoors with your dog. Whether you’re hiking a wooded trail, exploring a local park, camping for the weekend, or simply enjoying a walk around the neighborhood, fresh air and exercise are great for both of you.

Unfortunately, the same places dogs love to explore are often home to ticks and mosquitoes. These tiny pests can transmit serious diseases that may affect your dog’s health. The good news is that with a few simple precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk and enjoy your adventures with greater peace of mind.

Why Ticks and Mosquitoes Matter

Ticks and mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance—they can carry diseases that impact dogs in different ways.

Ticks may transmit illnesses such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis. Mosquitoes are best known for spreading heartworm disease, a potentially life-threatening condition that affects the heart and lungs.

Not every bite leads to illness, but prevention is always easier than treatment.

Start with Year-Round Prevention

One of the most effective ways to protect your dog is to use veterinarian-recommended parasite prevention throughout the year. Depending on your location and your dog’s lifestyle, your veterinarian may recommend:

• Oral medications
• Topical treatments
• Long-lasting collars
• Monthly heartworm preventives that also protect against certain parasites

Because parasite activity varies by region and climate, your veterinarian can help you choose the best option for your dog.

Choose Your Walking Route Wisely

Ticks are commonly found in tall grasses, brush, leaf litter, and wooded areas. Whenever possible:

• Stay on established trails.
• Avoid letting your dog wander into dense vegetation.
• Keep your dog on a leash in heavily wooded areas.
• Mow your yard regularly and remove piles of leaves or brush.

Mosquitoes thrive around standing water, especially during warmer months. Try to avoid areas with stagnant ponds, puddles, or water-filled containers where mosquitoes breed.

Perform a Tick Check After Every Adventure

Even if your dog is on preventive medication, it’s a good habit to check for ticks after spending time outdoors.

Run your hands slowly over your dog’s body, paying close attention to:

• Around the ears
• Under the collar
• Between the toes
• Around the eyes
• Under the tail
• In the armpits and groin
• Around the neck and chest

Ticks can be surprisingly small, so take your time during the inspection.

Remove Ticks Properly

If you find a tick attached to your dog:

1. Use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool.
2. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.
3. Pull upward with steady, even pressure.
4. Clean the bite area after removal.
5. Dispose of the tick safely.

Avoid twisting the tick, crushing it with your fingers, or using home remedies like petroleum jelly or heat, which may increase the risk of disease transmission.

If you’re unsure whether you’ve removed the entire tick or notice redness, swelling, or signs of illness afterward, contact your veterinarian.

Reduce Mosquito Exposure

Mosquitoes are most active around dawn and dusk. To help protect your dog:

• Schedule walks during other times of day when possible.
• Eliminate standing water around your home.
• Keep window and door screens in good repair.
• Consider using pet-safe mosquito deterrents recommended by your veterinarian.

Never use insect repellents made for people unless your veterinarian specifically says they are safe for dogs. Many common ingredients found in human products can be harmful to pets.

Watch for Signs of Illness

Even with excellent prevention, it’s important to monitor your dog after outdoor activities.

Contact your veterinarian if your dog develops symptoms such as:

• Lethargy
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Limping or joint pain
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Persistent coughing
• Difficulty breathing
• Unexplained weight loss

Early diagnosis and treatment often lead to better outcomes.

Make Outdoor Safety Part of Your Routine

Protecting your dog from ticks and mosquitoes doesn’t mean giving up outdoor fun. A consistent prevention plan, routine tick checks, and awareness of where parasites are most common can go a long way toward keeping your dog healthy.

With a little preparation before each adventure and a quick check afterward, you can spend more time enjoying the trail, the park, or your own backyard—and less time worrying about unwanted pests.

Your dog’s favorite adventures should end with happy memories, not preventable illnesses.

When temperatures soar, our daily routines with our pets often need to change. Long walks, energetic games of fetch, and afternoons spent exploring the neighborhood may need to take a back seat until the weather cools down.

While protecting your pet from heat-related illness is essential, it’s equally important to make sure they’re getting enough mental enrichment. A bored dog or cat can quickly become frustrated, anxious, or develop unwanted behaviors. Fortunately, keeping your pet’s mind active doesn’t require hours outdoors.

Why Mental Stimulation Matters

Mental exercise can be just as rewarding as physical exercise. Solving puzzles, learning new skills, and engaging their natural instincts all help keep your pet happy and fulfilled.

For dogs, enrichment activities can:

• Reduce boredom and destructive behavior
• Build confidence
• Strengthen your bond
• Encourage calm behavior indoors

Cats also benefit from activities that encourage stalking, climbing, problem-solving, and play, especially when they’re spending more time inside during hot weather.

Beat the Heat with Indoor Enrichment

When it’s too hot for extended outdoor activity, try bringing the fun indoors.

Food Puzzles and Slow Feeders

Instead of serving every meal in a bowl, use puzzle feeders, snuffle mats, or treat-dispensing toys. Working for their food encourages natural foraging behaviors and keeps pets occupied for longer.

Freeze wet food, yogurt (for dogs, if appropriate), or pet-safe broth inside enrichment toys for a refreshing challenge.

Teach Something New

Extreme heat can be the perfect opportunity for short training sessions. Spend five to ten minutes practicing:

• Sit, stay, and recall
• Spin or shake
• Target training
• Nose-touch games
• Trick training

Keep sessions positive and reward your pet with praise or treats.

Put Their Nose to Work

Dogs experience the world through scent. Hide treats around a room and encourage your dog to “find it.” As they improve, increase the difficulty by hiding treats behind furniture or inside safe containers.

Scent games provide excellent mental exercise while requiring very little physical exertion.

Rotate Toys

Rather than leaving every toy available all the time, rotate them every few days. A toy that’s been out of sight for a week often feels brand new.

Mix up plush toys, chew toys, puzzle toys, and interactive games to keep things interesting.

Create Indoor Obstacle Courses

Use cushions, chairs, blankets, and boxes to build simple courses that encourage your dog to navigate around, over, or under obstacles. Keep activities low-impact and appropriate for your pet’s age and mobility.

Cats may enjoy tunnels, cardboard boxes, climbing trees, and window perches where they can safely observe birds and squirrels.

Keeping Pets Safe During Extreme Heat

Mental stimulation is important, but safety always comes first.

Walk During Cooler Hours

Early mornings and late evenings are usually the safest times for walks. Even then, check the temperature before heading out.

Protect Sensitive Paws

If pavement feels too hot for your hand after a few seconds, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws. Choose grassy routes whenever possible.

Keep Fresh Water Available

Ensure your pet always has access to cool, clean water both indoors and outdoors. Bringing water on walks can help keep them hydrated.

Watch for Signs of Overheating

Heat stress can become serious very quickly. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet shows signs such as:

• Excessive panting
• Drooling
• Weakness or collapse
• Vomiting
• Bright red or pale gums
• Difficulty breathing

Move your pet to a cool area while seeking veterinary care.

Never Leave Pets in Parked Cars

Even with windows cracked, temperatures inside a parked vehicle can rise to dangerous levels within minutes. Leaving a pet unattended in a vehicle during warm weather can be life-threatening.

Make Rest Part of the Routine

Just as people slow down during hot weather, pets naturally need more rest. Provide cool, shaded places to relax, use fans or air conditioning when available, and avoid encouraging vigorous exercise during the hottest part of the day.

Cooling mats, frozen treats, and plenty of quiet downtime can help pets stay comfortable while still enjoying their day.

A Happy Mind Makes for a Happier Pet

Summer doesn’t have to mean your pet misses out on fun. With a little creativity, indoor enrichment can provide the mental challenges they crave while helping them stay safe from dangerous temperatures.

Whether it’s a frozen food puzzle, a new trick, or a simple game of hide-and-seek, small moments of enrichment can make a big difference. By balancing mental stimulation with sensible heat safety, you’ll help your pet stay healthy, comfortable, and engaged all season long.

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The holiday season is full of gatherings, decorations, and special meals, but it can also introduce unexpected risks for our pets. With a little preparation, you can keep your dogs and cats safe while still including them in the festivities. Let’s look at key areas of holiday safety, including food hazards, decoration precautions, as well as pet-friendly activities to keep your pets merry!

Food Safety: What Your Pets Should Not Eat

Holiday meals bring tempting aromas, and many pets are skilled at begging for a taste. While it may be difficult to resist, several traditional holiday foods can be dangerous for animals. These are the most important items to avoid:

Foods to Keep Away From Pets

• Chocolate, including cocoa powder and dark varieties

• Grapes and raisins

• Onions, garlic, and chives, commonly found in holiday sides and gravies

• Cooked bones, which can splinter and cause internal injuries

• Rich or fatty foods such as turkey skin, ham scraps, and buttery dishes

• Alcohol of any kind, including small spills

• Artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which are extremely toxic to dogs

• Raw yeast dough, which can expand in the stomach

Pet-Safe Treat Alternatives

• Plain, fully cooked turkey meat without seasoning

• Steamed or cooked vegetables such as carrots, pumpkin, or green beans

• Holiday-themed treats made specifically for pets

Decoration Safety: Keeping the Holiday Spirit Without the Hazards

Holiday decorations are attractive to pets, who may see them as playthings or snacks. Taking a few precautions can help prevent accidents and injuries.

Christmas Trees

• Ensure the tree is securely anchored to prevent tipping

• Keep tree water out of reach, as it may contain fertilizers or bacteria

• Avoid edible decorations such as popcorn strings or candy canes

Ornaments and Lights

• Use shatterproof ornaments on lower branches

• Keep tinsel away from pets; it can cause intestinal blockages, especially in cats

• Cover or secure electrical cords to prevent chewing

• Turn off lights when not at home

Candles and Scents

• Do not leave lit candles unattended around pets

• Be cautious with diffusers or scented oils, and verify they are safe for animals

Holiday Plants to Avoid

Many common holiday plants can cause digestive upset or toxicity in pets, including poinsettias, mistletoe, holly, and lilies. Consider substitutes or place them well out of reach.

Holiday Activities Pets Can Safely Enjoy

The holiday season offers many opportunities for pets to participate in family traditions. Here are some pet-friendly ideas that are both fun and safe.

Holiday Walks

Many dogs enjoy the extra stimulation of seasonal lights and new scents. Use reflective gear for nighttime walks.

Homemade Toys

Simple do-it-yourself toys, such as fleece tug ropes or crinkle toys for cats, can be enjoyable and inexpensive.

Pet Stockings

Prepare a small stocking filled with safe toys, treats, or chews. Many pets enjoy “helping” open their gifts.

Quiet Time

With the noise and excitement of the holidays, many pets appreciate peaceful downtime with soft bedding and your company.

Training Games

Short training or trick sessions can help pets burn off extra energy and stay mentally engaged during busy gatherings.

The holiday season is a wonderful time to celebrate with the entire family, including pets. By staying aware of food hazards, decorating with care, and offering safe activities, you can ensure your pets enjoy a comfortable and stress-free holiday.