Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, gathering, and great food, but for our pets, it can also bring unexpected dangers. At VSH Roseville, your trusted 24/7 emergency veterinary hospital, we want to help you celebrate safely with your furry family members. Here are some essential tips to keep pets happy and healthy during this holiday season.

1. Toxic Treats to Avoid

While it’s tempting to share holiday goodies with your pets, many Thanksgiving staples can be harmful:

• Turkey bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries.

• Stuffing often contains onions, garlic, and herbs that are toxic to dogs and cats.

• Grapes, raisins, chocolate, and alcohol are all dangerous and should be kept far out of reach.

• Fatty foods like gravy and buttery sides can trigger pancreatitis.

What you can do: Stick to pet-safe treats and keep leftovers securely stored. Remind guests not to feed pets from the table.

2. Decorations: Festive but Risky

Thanksgiving décor adds warmth to your home, but it can pose risks to curious pets:

• Candles can be knocked over, causing burns or fires.

• Centerpieces with dried flowers or berries may be toxic if ingested.

• Electrical cords from lights or heated decorations can be chewed.

What you can do: Use flameless candles, keep décor out of reach, and secure cords to prevent accidents.

3. Guests and Stress

A house full of guests can be overwhelming for pets, especially those who are shy or anxious.

What you can do: Create a quiet, safe space for your pet to retreat. Provide toys, calming music, and limit interactions if needed. Make sure your pet’s ID tags and microchip info are up to date, just in case.

4. Know When to Call Us

Despite your best efforts, accidents can happen. Call VSH Roseville immediately if your pet:

• Ingests toxic food or foreign objects

• Shows signs of vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy

• Is injured or behaving unusually

We’re here for you 24/7, no appointment needed. Visit https://www.vshroseville.com or call us at (916) 783-4655.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving should be joyful for every member of your family, including the four-legged ones. With a little preparation and awareness, you can enjoy the holiday while keeping your pets safe and sound.

From all of us at VSH Roseville, we wish you a warm, safe, and tail-wagging Thanksgiving!