Filling the dining table with delicious food is a timeless Thanksgiving tradition. It can be tempting to feed the inevitable leftovers to your pets. However, certain table foods can endanger their health. According to the veterinarians at Waipio Pet Clinic in Waipahu, HI, when it comes to animal wellness, it’s best to familiarize yourself with the impact certain foods can have on your pets.

Are These Holiday Foods Safe for Your Pet?

Turkey Meat

This is safe for your pets, so long as you remove excess fat, skin, and bones from the meat. Fats can cause pancreatitis, an inflammation of the digestive system, and jeopardize animal wellness. Since pets aren’t eating holiday foods every day, suddenly consuming fatty foods can trigger inflammation, especially in dogs. Avoid giving them turkey bones; they splinter easily and can cause choking or cuts within your pets’ digestive system.

Garlic & Onions

Foods with garlic or onions, such as turkey stuffing or mashed potatoes, can lead to anemia, which reduces red blood cells responsible for providing oxygen to the body’s cells and tissues. This could be potentially life-threatening, so make sure none of the foods you give your pets contain either of these. 

Raisins

Raisins are delicious in stuffing and sweet potatoes, but this seemingly harmless fruit can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, or kidney failure in dogs. Although research is still being conducted on what part of the grape is toxic, most animal wellness tutorials warn against feeding your dog this fruit.

This holiday, express your thankfulness to your pets by feeding them safe holiday treats. Whether you’re looking for a routine health examination or more information on what foods are safe for your pets, take them to Waipio Pet Clinic for the most attentive and passionate service by the top veterinarians on Oahu. Call the vets at (808) 676-2205 or visit their website for a full list of their services.