25 Nov 2025
By Humane Society of Ventura County
Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and celebration! However, the holiday can also bring unexpected hazards for our pets. To ensure your furry friends stay safe and happy during the festivities, follow these essential Thanksgiving pet safety tips.
1) Mind the Feast: Keep Food Out of Reach
Many Thanksgiving foods can be toxic or harmful to pets. Here's what to avoid giving them:
Turkey Bones: Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or digestive blocks.
Seasoned Turkey Skin: The seasoning and fats can upset your pet's stomach and cause pancreatitis.
Onions, Garlic, and Chives: Common in stuffing and other dishes, these ingredients are toxic to both cats and dogs. Onions contain thiosulfate, which damages red blood cells and can cause anemia in dogs.
Chocolate and Desserts: Chocolate and artificial sweeteners like xylitol can be life-threatening. Foods containing grapes, raisins, and currants can result in kidney failure in dogs. Instead, offer pet-safe treats like plain cooked turkey (no skin, bones, or seasoning) or their favorite store-bought snacks.
A Feast Fit for a Queen/King: While your family enjoys a delightful meal, why not treat your cat and dog to a little feast of their own. Mixing in some delicious boneless and fully cooked turkey pieces, sweet potatoes, and green beans with their regular dinner can make their day extra special. A drizzle of gravy on top adds a tasty touch! For even more fun, consider stuffing their Thanksgiving treats into a puzzle toy to keep them happily occupied while you savor your meal.
2) Secure the Trash
The enticing smell of leftovers and scraps in the trash can be irresistible to pets. To prevent your pet from ingesting harmful items like packaging, bones, or spoiled food, make sure your trash is in a sealed container and out of reach.
3) Watch for Decorations
Thanksgiving decorations like candles, floral arrangements, and table centerpieces can pose risks.
Candles: Curious pets can knock over lit candles, causing burns or fires. Flameless LED candles are a safer alternative.
Toxic Plants: Flowers like lilies, amaryllis, and certain ferns are toxic to cats and dogs. Stick to pet-safe greenery like roses or sunflowers.
4) Provide a Quiet Space
With all the excitement of guests and activity, pets can feel stressed or overwhelmed. Set up a quiet, comfortable room with their bed, water, and a place to retreat if they need a break.
5) Beware of Doors and Exits
With guests coming and going, doors may be left open, allowing pets to slip outside. Assign someone to be on "door duty," or use a baby gate to keep your pet away from exits.
6) Educate your Guests
Remind guests not to feed your pets table scraps or leave plates unattended. Children, especially, may not know which foods are safe for pets. Sharing the information in advance can help prevent accidents.
7) Keep Emergency Contacts Handy
Despite your best efforts, accidents can happen. Keep the phone numbers of your veterinarian and the nearest emergency animal hospital clinic handy. If you suspect your pet has ingested something harmful, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
8) Engage and Entertain Your Pets
Provide your pets with fun, engaging activities to keep them distracted from the tempting smells of Thanksgiving dinner. Puzzle feeders, chew toys, and interactive games can keep their minds and bodies busy.
Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate and show gratitude, including the joy and ownership our pets bring to our lives. By taking a few simple precautions, you can ensure your furry family members stay safe and happy through the holiday festivities. Wishing you and your pets a happy, healthy, and safe Thanksgiving.
