Food is prevalent during the holiday season; with each gathering, you can expect an abundance of delicious spreads you’ve been waiting all year to indulge in. Pet’s love a good spread too, and they have a mischievous way of getting on tables and countertops and into the garbage when you’re not looking. Be extra safe this holiday season with these helpful pet treat tips! 

Hide the Chocolate 

Chocolate contains theobromine, which is highly toxic to pets. The darker the chocolate, the more likely it is to make your pet fall ill. Keep the chocolate cakes and Halloween candy far from your pet and instead, keep pumpkin puree on hand to feed your furry friend when they need a sweet treat! 

Properly Dispose of All Bones 

While feeding your dog or cat white meat turkey is safe and healthy, turkey bones can cause significant damage to your pet’s mouth and stomach. Cooked turkey bones tend to split or crack and can cause tears within your pet’s digestive tract that will require an emergency veterinarian visit to rectify. 

Load Up on Vegetables

Vegetables provide your pet with the necessary nutrients for a balanced diet, as they are rich in fiber, minerals, antioxidants, and enzymes. Carrots, green beans, broccoli, celery, and beets are excellent snacks to keep your pet healthy. Avoid onions or any other type of allium vegetable, as they are poisonous to your furry friend.

Ditch the Dairy 

Dairy products like milk, butter and cheese are heavily used in signature holiday meals such as mashed potatoes and casseroles, but they are known for causing digestive disturbances in pets. We recommend avoiding decadent, creamy dairy treats and opting for all-natural snacks for your pets. 

Contact your local veterinarian for more helpful holiday treat information so you can keep your pet safe, happy and healthy during the busy holidays.