Many pet parents and guests want to share the Thanksgiving feast with the dog. That can be a problem though because sometimes things on the table contain ingredients that are harmful to them. The best way to ensure that your dog will stay safe while enjoying the Thanksgiving festivities is to make them their own yummy Thanksgiving feast.
When your guests arrive, politely ask that they do not feed any food from the dinner table or their plate to your dog. Let them know that you have a safe and healthy meal especially prepared for your pup waiting in the fridge.
Things you can include on your pet's plate:
Turkey breast (shredded) – Every balanced meal includes some protein. Select turkey from the middle of the breast because it is least likely to have absorbed the fatty, salty brine and leave the skin off. The high-fat content and salt in the skin can make your dog sick.
Sweet potatoes – Sweet potatoes are high in beta-carotene and fiber. Mash up some of the boiled sweet potatoes before any butter or spices are added.
Carrots – they are low in calorie and high in fiber and vitamin A. They are also high in sugar though so you may want to skip them if your dog is diabetic. Steam or boil them and place a couple of unseasoned ones on the plate.
Green Beans – Green beans are filling and low calorie. Make sure you use fresh or frozen green beans with no seasoning.
Cranberries – they are a great source of antioxidants and can add a fun burst of flavor to your dog's plate. Not all dogs like cranberries though so I would try adding just a few as a desert or topping.
Apple slices – Apples are a sweet treat for your pup. Save a few slices if you make apple pie and chop them up or mash them for your pup. Just make sure you have removed the seeds and skin.
Pumpkin – it can help regulate your dog's digestive tract. That's probably helpful after a Thanksgiving meal containing foods they don't eat regularly. Whether the pumpkin is steamed, baked, or canned make sure that nothing has been added to it.
Once you're gathered the Thanksgiving foods you are going to share with your furry pet, you can arrange them on the plate so it resembles the way family dishes up theirs. Just remember to keep the portion sizes small if you are using several different foods so you don't stuff your pup with foods their tummy is not used to.
- Heavy fats like butter and turkey skin
