Rocky’s Viewpoint
Turkey is a common ingredient in many dog foods and treats. As long as it is safely prepared, turkey is a high-protein option that can help support your dog’s nutritional goals. Any turkey that is offered to your dog should be thoroughly cooked, skinless, boneless, unseasoned, and have no gravy.
Undercooked turkey can cause foodborne illness in pets just as it can in humans. If your dog consumed meat that has not been cooked to a safe temperature, it may result in your dog getting diarrhea, an upset stomach, or even illnesses such as pancreatitis, salmonella, or listeria poisoning.
The bones in turkeys can easily splinter, which creates the risk of choking as well as entrapment in your dog’s digestive system. Make sure any bones have been removed entirely before offering a bite to your pooch.
Sweet potato is another holiday food that is Fido-friendly when safely prepared. These savory veggies are high in fiber, vitamin A, B6, and C.
If you’re sharing with your pup, it’s best to boil or steam the potatoes, which softens them enough for your dog to eat them. Serve the potatoes with no seasonings, and no butter.
Because of their fiber content, sweet potatoes can be used to help dogs with constipation. Their nutritional benefits also make them a great food to add into your pup’s meals year-round if they need to lose weight.
Like sweet potatoes, pumpkin is high in fiber, and it contains micronutrients that make it a very healthy and canine-friendly food.
Pumpkin is safe for your dog whether it is cooked or canned, but you will need to make sure that it is 100% pumpkin or pumpkin puree. Even though the main ingredient in pumpkin pie filling is still pumpkin, it also contains additives and ingredients, like condensed milk, that aren’t safe for dogs.
Helping your pet maintain its health is one of the greatest gifts that you can give them – make sure that none of these foods result in a trip to the vet this holiday season:
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which are toxic to dogs. Make sure Fido isn’t being offered any foods containing chocolate and he can’t accidentally come across any secret candy stashes.
While slices of apple aren’t unsafe for your pup to consume, apple seeds contain traces of cyanide, which is toxic for dogs. If you decide to give your dog a bite of apple, make sure that it has been cut and that all of the seeds and core have been removed.
This ingredient is found in all kinds of human foods, including candies, marshmallows, baking mixes, packaged foods, and even some store-bought cranberry sauces. Xylitol causes a dog’s blood glucose levels to drop and is potentially life-threatening.
Remind all of your guests that Fido should never be offered food that hasn’t been prepared specifically for him – especially those that could contain dangerous ingredients such as xylitol.
“Better safe than sorry” is a good rule when it comes to pet safety and holiday treats. If you haven’t checked with a veterinarian or aren’t sure if a food is safe for your pet, avoid taking any chances. Other foods to avoid include:
Our College Park dog daycare center wants to bring you one step closer to mastering the art of canine nutrition – so you and Fido can both enjoy the delicious foods that are served this time of year!
Holiday stress is real – for both you and your pup! Large crowds can be overstimulating or distressing for dogs. Find a spot in your house where your pet can relax without being disturbed.
This is especially helpful for anxious dogs, those that are in their senior years, or that don’t handle lots of noise or stressful situations as well.
Staying in a good routine is one of the best ways for both you and your dog to maintain good mental health and low stress levels. Keep a daily walk scheduled so that you can get outside, burn off energy, and beat stress.
If you need extra help with Rover’s exercise, our College Park dog daycare now offers dog walking and pet sitting.
Want to simplify pet safety even more? Sign your pooch up for a session of doggy daycare or overnight boarding at Rocky’s Retreat.
If you choose to board your dog or send them to doggy daycare, they will be able to enjoy amenities such as:
Our facility has numerous features that will allow your pet to socialize, exercise, and avoid any possible holiday chaos, all at the same time.
As long as you keep your pet’s health in mind during seasonal festivities, there’s no reason for them to miss out on the fun!
Contact our College Park dog daycare if you need an extra hand – or paw – to help with your holiday pet safety plan this year.
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