The turkey is on the table, places are set, and the feast is about to begin! Here is how to keep your pets safe during holiday meals:

Don’t give in to begging! 

Those big ol’ puppy eyes and tiny meows might tempt you, but you should not feed your pet table scraps! Consumption of fatty foods such as turkey, butter and gravies can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain triggered by pancreatitis inflammation. Foods containing dough and yeast can also cause painful gas or even be poisonous when ingested, and corn cobs or discarded turkey bones can result in gastrointestinal injuries.

Do prepare your pet their very own turkey dinner

Want your pets to join in on the fun of festive feasts? Many brands offer turkey and pumpkin-flavored food that your pet can enjoy without experiencing a tummy ache. Try feeding them seasonal flavored pet food to include your furry friends in on the fun!

Do plan pre-meal exercise

If you’re hosting this year’s feast, make sure your pet gets plenty of time to run around and tire themselves out. Doing so can put anxious pets at ease, allowing them to relax before your guests arrive.

Don’t leave the trash unattended

Soon after dinner, you might hear your pet’s little nose sniffing around the trash can, searching for the scraps that they had so faithfully begged for. Animals are mischievously resourceful and will scavenge through the trash for leftovers. Prevent your pet from dumpster diving by making sure all garbage is disposed of in a tightly secured trash bag placed in a covered trash bin outdoors.

Do license your pets!

Renewing or getting your pet licensed is so important! All the hustle, bustle, and holiday cheer might seem welcoming to us, but it can be overwhelming and scary for your pets. Some pets may slip out the door and wander far from home in search of a safe place to relax. If your pet is lost, a license can help identify where they belong and get them home quickly and safely.