Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones, share a meal, and reflect on all we’re grateful for –including our pets. But amid the laughter and smells of roasted turkey, it’s easy to forget how enticing the holiday can be for our furry friends. For pets, Thanksgiving isn’t just about gratitude –it’s an all-you-can-eat buffet of smells, excitement, and potential chaos. To make Thanksgiving enjoyable for everyone, including your pets, a little foresight and planning can go a long way.

Set the Scene for Success

Thanksgiving can be overwhelming for pets, especially those who thrive on routine. From the crowded house to the commotion of cooking, the day is full of new sights, sounds, and smells. To help your pet stay calm, create a quiet space where they can retreat when they need a break. A comfy bed, a favorite toy, and some soothing background music or white noise can help them relax away from the hustle and bustle.

If you know your pet tends to get overly excited when guests arrive, consider keeping them leashed, crated, or in a separate room during the busiest parts of the day. This ensures your pet feels secure while preventing any accidental escapes or overly enthusiastic greetings.

Guests and Pets: A Balancing Act

If you’re hosting Thanksgiving, it’s important to set boundaries with your guests. Well-meaning friends and family members may want to share their food with your pet or may not realize the dangers of certain items. A quick reminder about house rules – no feeding from the table and keeping personal belongings like purses and food-covered napkins out of reach –can go a long way in keeping your pet safe.

For pets who are anxious around strangers, a gradual introduction to guests or giving them space away from the action can help minimize stress. Let your guests know not to approach or overwhelm your pet unless invited by the pet – or their pet parent – to do so

Guard the Goodies

Thanksgiving meals are full of tantalizing smells, and pets have a knack for getting into trouble when food is involved. Keep hot dishes, sharp utensils, and tempting ingredients out of reach while cooking. Curious noses and paws don’t mix well with hot pans or sharp knives, so keeping pets out of the kitchen entirely may be the safest option. 

Consider assigning someone in the family to “pet patrol.” This person can monitor your furry friend to ensure they don’t sneak a taste while everyone else is distracted.

Dinner Table Decorum

It’s tempting to let your pet join the feast, but not all Thanksgiving treats are safe for them. Instead of table scraps, prepare a pet-friendly plate with plain, cooked turkey (no skin or bones), a few unseasoned green beans, or a small scoop of plain sweet potatoes. Avoid anything seasoned with garlic, onions, butter, or spices. And desserts? Those are strictly human territory – especially anything with chocolate, raisins, or artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which can be toxic.

If you know your pet tends to beg at the table, redirect their attention by giving them a special treat or toy before the meal begins. A long-lasting chew or a food puzzle can keep them occupied while you enjoy your holiday meal.

Preventing Trash Troubles

Once the meal is over, the real danger begins –the trash can. Turkey bones, aluminum foil, string, and food wrappers can be irresistible to pets but pose serious health risks. Make sure your trash can has a secure lid, or take the garbage out immediately to prevent dumpster diving. This small step can save you an emergency trip to the vet.

Gratitude for Our Pets

While Thanksgiving is a time for indulgence, it’s also a time to recognize what we’re thankful for –and for many of us, our pets are at the top of that list. A little extra thought and care can ensure they feel included in the celebration. Whether it’s a special walk, a new toy, or some quiet cuddle time, showing your pet gratitude in their own way will make the holiday even more meaningful.

With a little preparation, you can celebrate the season while keeping your pets safe, happy, and healthy. After all, Thanksgiving is better when everyone –including our furry friends – feels part of the family.

Originally appeared on CathyRosenthal.com | Thanksgiving and Pets: Gratitude, Boundaries, and a Little Extra Planning