VERO BEACH — Thanksgiving may be the perfect holiday for feasting with family and friends, but The Humane Society of Vero Beach and Indian River County (HSVBIRC) is advising pet parents to keep those high calorie and high fat foods away from Fido and Fluffy.
According to the Humane Society, veterinarians often get emergency calls about sick animals during the holidays. Many of these animals have consumed foods containing onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, chocolate, and the sugar substitute xylitol, all of which can be toxic to pets.
Pet parents should avoid giving out treats of turkey skin and dark meats, since these usually contain higher amounts of fat. Fried turkey, gravy, stuffing, and other dishes laden with oil and butter are also dangerous and can lead to pancreatitis, a potentially fatal condition.
As an added precaution, all garbage containers should be tightly covered so that pets can’t ingest bones, dangerous leftovers, or the twine used for trussing turkeys.
Looking for a safe way to include pets in your Thanksgiving festivities? The Humane Society suggests healthier alternatives for dogs such as small cuts of raw carrot and sweet potatoes, small amounts of natural peanut butter, green beans, sliced apples, and plain canned pumpkin without sugar or spices.
Feline family members can indulge in some fresh catnip or have a few store bought treats.