How to Keep Your Dog Safe on Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time when we tend to overindulge and wind up with bloat and a stomach ache, but that does not mean our pets should suffer the same fate. Holidays can also be stressful for dogs when friends and family come over so be pro-active and advise your company of the do's and don'ts when it comes to your family pet.

Table scraps, toys, and batteries can all be life threatening if precautions are not taken. According to Dr Steven Hansen of the ASPCA, the following safety hazards and preventative tips will help ensure a happy Thanksgiving for both humans and their dogs.

BATTERIES
Cameras, toys and radios all contain batteries; therefore it is important to make sure each device is secured properly so the batteries do not fall on the floor. As anyone with a dog knows, if something falls on the floor it is fair game.

If your dog swallows a battery, not only could he could choke but the alkaline can leak and burn your dog's mouth and esophagus. So play it safe and keep your dog away from the Energizer Bunny.

TOYS
If you or your guests have children who will be playing with toys during Thanksgiving, consider putting them in a separate room.

Dogs can receive cuts on their snout or mouth from chewing sharp objects; and if your dog swallows a toy, he could choke or develop an intestinal obstruction.

Children's toys made in China have been linked to lead, but lead is not just harmful to children; it can also be deadly to dogs. Another hazard is lead-based paint which can sometimes be found in older homes. Dogs are not very picky when it comes to licking things - including walls - so if your home has lead-based paint, consider a remodeling project for the safety of everyone in your home.

FOOD
ASPCA's Dana Farbman, a certified veterinary technician, recommends not overindulging your dog as it can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, or pancreatitis.

Below is a list of just some of the holiday food items that can be harmful to dogs.

Turkey
Do not feed your dog undercooked or raw turkey as it may contain salmonella. You may however feed your dog a small amount of cooked unseasoned turkey, but do not do it from the table. Instead put your dog's food in his bowl away from you and your guests.

Do not feed your dog turkey bones. Bones splinter easily and dogs can choke on them.

Nuts
Macadamia nuts can cause weakness and tremors in dogs.

Sugar Substitute
Xylitol is often used in sugar-free candy and baked goods, but if a dog ingests xylitol he can experience a sudden drop in blood sugar which can cause seizures and even liver damage.

Dried Fruit
Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs.

Seasoning
Sage contains resins and essential oils that can cause stomach upset and depression to a dog's central nervous system.

Onions and garlic can cause anemia and since your dog's breath is probably bad enough, he doesn't need anything to make it worse.

THANKSGIVING DAY TIP
If you want your dog to feel like he is a part of the holiday celebration, consider filling his Kong toy with a few kibbles, treats or even some unseasoned cooked turkey. That way he will be occupied while you and your family eat, and he won't beg at the table.

ANIMAL POISON CONTROL CENTERS
*If you suspect that your dog has eaten anything toxic, call your veterinarian immediately or take him to an emergency animal hospital. For a list of emergency animal clinics in the Houston area, click here.

ASPCA National Animal Poison Control Center
1-900-443-0000 ($60.00 per case. The charge is billed directly to caller's phone.)
1-888-4ANI-HELP (1-888-426-4435. $60.00 per case, billed to caller's credit card only.)
Follow-up calls can be made for no additional charge by dialing 888-299-2973.
There is no charge when the call involves a product covered by the Animal Product Safety Service.

Pet Poison Helpline
24-hour service available throughout North America for pet owners and veterinary professionals who require assistance with treating a potentially poisoned pet.

1-888-213-6680 ($35.00 per incident). Staffed 24-hours a day.

Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888- 426-4435 if you suspect your dog has ingested anything harmful.