Thanksgiving Cautions: Some Tips to Give Thanks For

With aromas filling the house and visitors coming and going, Thanksgiving can be an exciting time, for you and your pets.  Such a meaningful holiday doesn't come without it's hazards though, and we'd like to give you every opportunity to avoid a hiccup in your holiday plans.  Here are some items and information to keep your pets happy come dinner time:

Fatty foods:  Too much fatty, rich, or unfamiliar foods can give your pet pancreatitis or gastroenteritis; two medical conditions that can be very painful and even life-threatening.

Bones:  Make no bones about it.  Certain bones can lacerate or obstruct your pets' insides.  Save the bones for the broth, not your dog.

Onions:  Onions and onion powder, widely found in stuffing and used as a general seasoning, will destroy your dog or cat's red blood cells, which can lead to anemia, lowering the ability of the blood to carry oxygen to different parts of the body.

Grapes and Raisins:  Grapes and raisins, in stuffings, pies, and other Thanksgiving goodies contain a toxin that can cause kidney damage to both dogs and cats.

Chocolate:  Chocolate can actually be fatal to your dog or cat; so all those sweets should be kept far out of reach.

Food wrappings:  Aluminum foil, was paper, plastic wrap, and other food wrappings can cause intestinal obstructions, which can be life-threatening.  Make sure these items are kept out of reach and find their way to the garbage.

Garbage:  Keep an eye on the garbage and make sure it's always secured.  If you dog gets into it, he may think he hit the jackpot!  But all he'll be winning are potential health problems such as gastric disturbance, vomiting, diarrhea, and possibly death.

Other tips:
Fresh water:  Make sure your pet always has fresh water available.  With so many people coming and going, their stress level may be higher, causing them to drink more.  And also, with so many people, there's often a chance their bowl may get knocked, dumped, or forgotten.

Quiet place:  Also be sure to give your pet a quiet place to retreat to during the holiday hustle.  Watch their behavior to be sure they're not too stressed.

Diet and Exercise:  Maintain your pet's regular meal and exercise schedule and avoid too many holiday leftovers.  A disruption in their dietary routine can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting.

With a careful eye, some due diligence, and plenty of attention, your pets can have a happy Thanksgiving too.  From all of us at Norwich Regional Animal Hospital, we hope pets and owners have a happy and safe Thanksgiving holiday!