To have a safe Thanksgiving with senior pets, create a quiet, comfortable retreat with their bed and familiar items, and provide safe, pet-friendly treats like plain, cooked turkey or dog-safe vegetables. Keep all guests and pets away from toxic human foods like onions, garlic, fatty meats, bones, and sweets containing chocolate or xylitol. Monitor for anxiety and consider using calming aids like pheromone diffusers or anxiety wraps, and ensure all trash is secured.
Prepare a safe and comfortable space
- Create a retreat: Set up a quiet, comfortable area away from the noise and crowds with your senior pet’s bed, blankets, and water.
- Reduce anxiety: Use calming music, pheromone diffusers, or anxiety wraps, and visit your pet often to provide reassurance.
- Secure the area: Make sure this space is a “safe zone” where guests cannot bother your pet, and ensure trash bins are secure to prevent food foraging.
Offer safe holiday treats
- Pet-friendly options: Provide pet-safe treats like plain, boneless, skinless turkey breast (in moderation), or dog-safe vegetables such as green beans, pumpkin, or carrots.
- Avoid dangerous foods: Never give pets bones, fatty meats (like gravy), or anything containing onions, garlic, raisins, or alcohol.
- Be cautious with sweets: Keep all human desserts, especially those with chocolate, raisins, or artificial sweeteners like xylitol, completely out of your pet’s reach.
Manage guest interactions
- Inform your guests: Let visitors know they should not feed your senior pet any table scraps.
- Provide a distraction: Give your pet a favorite long-lasting chew or a puzzle toy filled with safe treats to keep them occupied while you entertain guests.