Top 10 tips for keeping your dog safe this Thanksgiving Holiday

2009-11-23
7:54:56

There are only 39 short days left until this year is over, the days seem to pass by more quickly each year.  With Thanksgiving only a few days away, we’re officially starting the holiday season, which will continue past the New Year into January.  The holidays are going to be even busier than the rest of the year was.  We will have friends and family over, large meals to cook, presents to wrap, and parties to throw.  Taking a moment now to remind yourself of the holiday dangers that your dog can get into, can save you from a holiday of heartache.

“Top 10 tips for keeping your dog safe this Thanksgiving Holiday”

Most of the items on this list are important things to keep in mind, throughout the holiday season.  This list highlights some of the most common dangers that our dogs will face this Thanksgiving holiday.

1. Safely secure all kitchen trash, including strings used to hold together a turkey while cooking.  Many items your dog would normally not touch can be very tempting when covered in turkey juice.  Strings, plastic and foil can all cause internal blockages which are medical emergencies.
2. The fireplace is often light for the first time of the season in preparation for the Thanksgiving meal.  Your dog, especially a young puppy may not understands the dangers of a fire the way a more mature dog does.  It only take a split second for your curious puppy to burn his nose or mouth.  Until your confident that your dog understands the fireplace is strictly off limits, constant supervision around any open flame is required.
3. Don’t feed your dogs table scraps without thinking about what they can handle.  Dogs that are not accustomed to eating real food or cooked food may have severe digestive upset for a serving of the Thanksgiving meal.  I suggest that you advise your guests not to feed your dogs as well.  You know your dog best, and know what he can handle, don’t over do it just because of the holiday.
4. While a serving of the Thanksgiving meal may digest without issue for some dogs, no dog should be allowed access to cooked bones.  Once bones are cooked, they are no longer safe for your dog to eat.  There are many reports of dogs who have developed obstructions from eating cooked bones.  Only feed your dog raw bones if your confident it is something they can safely eat.
5. Candles – We frequently burn candles for hours on end during the holiday season.  Not only can dogs burn themselves, but fires can be started by a candle that is bumped over.  Please keep safety in mind when lighting a candle.
6. Liquid Potpourri is frequently used this time of year to make our homes smell better.  Liquid Potpourri presents multiple hazards to dogs.  The liquid itself can be quite caustic and harmful to dogs.  The warming pads and candles can get very hot and cause burns to a curious dog.  Ensure these items are well out of reach at all times.
7. Prevent Counter Surfing.  Your counters are likely to be filled with a array of tempting foods, if you know your dog may be able to reach what is on the counter, keep him out of the kitchen when your not able to supervise.
8. Food Warmers and burners – Ensure that your dog is not able to gain access to any food warmers, hot plates or burners.  With plug in electric burners, it is easy to place one in a convenient location for a party.  Keep you dog safe from burns and make sure they are always a safe distance from all hot burners.
9. Prevent door dashing – If your dog is ready to charge outside as soon as you open the door, you need to prepare yourself in advance, before company comes.  Put your dog is his crate, put a leash on him or put him behind closed doors before you open the door.  Don’t be afraid to make a guest wait for a minute at the door while you ensure your dogs safety.  For a dog that is dedicated to getting out, it only takes a split second of inattention and they are heading for the road.
10. Know your vets number, as well as what to do after hours.  Some vets will offer emergency services on nights, weekends, and  holidays, however many do not.  Make sure you know when your vet is available and how to reach them.  If your vet won’t be available during the holiday, find out from them who the closest 24 hour vet is.  If you dog has any medical conditions, always keep a copy of their medical records at home in case of emergency.

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