For most families on Thanksgiving, the meal is the main event. But if you have a dog, you might sense their frustration at being excluded. Even if they’re not sitting at the table, your pet can still enjoy some Thanksgiving treats. Use this guide to learn which items are good for your dog and which veterinarians want you to avoid. 

Which Thanksgiving Foods Are Safe for Dogs

When you’re making green bean casserole, set aside some fresh, raw green beans. These veggies are full of fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals and won’t pose any danger to your pet.

Pumpkin can be served to dogs in its raw, unsweetened form—just remove the seeds and strings when offering your pup the inner carvings. Just like sweet potatoes, pumpkin can be baked into dog treats. It’s often recommended for dogs with tummy trouble. 

When sliced and served plain, apples are also a great source of fiber for your pet and will help clean their teeth.

If you remove the skin and bones, you can even serve your furry friend some fully cooked turkey.

What You Can’t Feed Your Dog

You might have noticed that most of the approved items above are included in your favorite Thanksgiving treats. However, they’re only safe for dogs in their raw, unsweetened forms. 

While pumpkin and sweet potato are safe, the wheat, sugar, whipped cream, and marshmallows used in pies and casseroles are off-limits. The same goes for apple pie, with its added sugar and array of spices.

In green bean casserole, the garlic and onions that pack a zesty punch can damage your pet’s organs and limit their oxygen flow.

If you allow your dog some cooked turkey or chicken, make sure there’s no garlic or onion powder on the meat. Also, remove the bones first—they can easily splinter and pierce your pet’s digestive tract.

Additionally, keep your dog away from the grapes on that pre-dinner charcuterie board—these refreshing fruits can lead to kidney failure in furry friends.

If your dog happens to get ahold of something they shouldn’t, take them to Ohana Veterinary Hospital of Honolulu, HI. Their veterinarians will be ready to welcome pets this Thanksgiving, whether you bring in a dog, cat, or an exotic animal. To learn more about the clinic’s offerings, visit the website. You can also call (808) 845-1762 to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian.