How to Make Thanksgiving a Safe and Happy Holiday for Your Pet

Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks and celebrate with friends and family. But for pets, the holiday can feel overwhelming. Changes in routine, unfamiliar guests, and the commotion of a busy household can all be stressful for dogs and cats. Here are some simple tips to help your pet stay comfortable and safe throughout the holiday.

1. Keep Food and Water Routine Consistent

With so much going on, it is easy to lose track of your pet's feeding schedule. Make sure they have fresh water available throughout the day and stick to their regular meal times as closely as possible. Consistency helps pets feel secure when the rest of the household is anything but.

2. Skip the Table Scraps

Keep turkey bones and holiday food scraps well out of reach. Many common Thanksgiving foods can cause digestive upset in dogs and cats, and some are outright harmful. Turkey bones in particular can splinter and cause injury, so make sure guests know not to share from their plates.

If you want to give your pet something special to celebrate, stick to dog-friendly fruits and vegetables. Not all produce is safe for pets, so check a trusted list before offering anything new.

3. Support Their Nutrition With a Simple Daily Addition

The holidays are a good reminder to think about what your pet gets every day, not just on special occasions. Many dogs and cats do not get enough omega-3 fatty acids through diet alone. Adding salmon oil to their daily routine provides EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids that help support healthy skin and coat, heart function, and a healthy immune system.

Vital Pet Life Salmon Oil is made from sustainably sourced salmon, comes in triglyceride form, and is verified by ORIVO NMR lab testing for species identity and geographic origin. Available in 8 oz, 16 oz, and 32 oz sizes and formulated for both dogs and cats.

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4. Set Up a Quiet Retreat

Some pets do much better with a quiet space to retreat to when the noise and activity gets to be too much. Set up a cozy corner or room away from the main gathering with their bed, a favorite toy, and some water. Playing soft background music in that space can also help them settle.

5. Watch the Doors

A busy household with guests coming and going is a common escape opportunity for pets. If you are hosting, make sure everyone knows to keep doors closed and to check before letting guests in or out. A stressed or overstimulated pet may bolt without warning.

6. Give Them a Little Extra Love

Amid all the activity, make time to give your pet some one-on-one attention before the festivities begin. A walk, a belly rub, or a new toy can go a long way toward helping them feel included and secure rather than overlooked.

From the Vital Pet Life family, Happy Thanksgiving! We are grateful for every pet owner on this journey with us.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can dogs eat Thanksgiving food?
Most traditional Thanksgiving foods are not appropriate for dogs. Turkey meat without seasoning, skin, or bones can be given in small amounts, but many common holiday dishes contain ingredients that can cause digestive upset or are harmful to dogs. Always check with your veterinarian before offering new foods.

Why is my dog anxious during the holidays?
Changes in routine, unfamiliar guests, and increased noise and activity can all be unsettling for dogs and cats. Pets thrive on consistency, so any disruption to their normal schedule can cause stress. Providing a quiet retreat space and maintaining regular feeding and exercise routines can help.

Are turkey bones safe for dogs?
No. Cooked turkey bones can splinter and cause serious internal injury. Always keep turkey carcasses, bones, and food scraps well out of reach of pets during holiday gatherings.

What fruits and vegetables are safe for dogs at Thanksgiving?
Some dog-friendly options include plain carrots, green beans, and small amounts of plain sweet potato without added butter or seasoning. Always introduce new foods gradually and in small amounts. Check a trusted resource or ask your veterinarian before offering anything new.

How can I help my pet stay calm during Thanksgiving?
Stick to their regular routine as closely as possible, provide a quiet space away from the main gathering, and give them extra attention before guests arrive. If your pet is prone to anxiety around guests, speak with your veterinarian about additional strategies.