Thanksgiving is upon us once again!  That time of year when we gather with family and friends, watch some football, eat lots of delicious things and wear stretchy pants that we call our “Thanksgiving pants” (just me???).  It’s also that time of year when our furry friends like to sit by our feet at the dinner table and beg for some of those awesome table scraps.  We’ve all done it, snuck a few morsels of turkey or perhaps a dollop of mashed potatoes to Fido.  We all know we shouldn’t do it, heck it pretty much ruins that whole “no begging” part of their training, but they’re so darn cute AND they deserve a Turkey Day treat too! 

• Turkey: Most agree that a few bits of turkey meat won’t do any major damage, but try to avoid giving them the skin or dark meat.  It can be too greasy and make them sick.  Of course, you must NOT give them turkey bones!  Like chicken bones, they can splinter and lodge in the throat, esophagus or GI tract.
• Mashed Potatoes: If Grandma makes yours with vat of butter and a cave full of salt, then it’s a no-no for Fluffy and Fido.  However, if your MPs are rather plain with just a pinch of salt then a tiny helping can be slipped under the table. 
• Green Beans: Green beans are actually not bad for dogs … as long as they’re not swimming in salt and fatty bacon grease.  So if your the tye that loves fresh green beans without all the trimmings, then your furry friend can have a bite. If you prefer your green beans in a cheesy casserole, then that’s a big no-no for Fido.
• Corn: Although you may think it’s like a bone, corn on the cob is NOT a good idea for dogs.  Loose corn is ok, but if it’s on the cob leave it on your pate!
• Candied Yams/ Sweet Potatoes: C’mon, it’s got the word “candied” in it!  You know better than give that to your dog or cat 🙂

There are tons of other foods on the table, but for the most part make sure your dog or cat is sticking to its regular diet.  Remember, new foods can cause vomiting or diarrhea … and no one wants to deal with that kind of Thanksgiving Day surprise!

Me, Anna and Tyler

We are thankful for our family and friends, but let’s not forget to be just as thankful for our furry friends as well.  I am very thankful for my three amigos at home, Lars, Anna and Tyler.  I am also thankful for all of the dogs and cats who are getting a second chance at the Animal Defense League.

My hubby, Rikel, and Lars

I certainly hope you will come by and visit … and maybe take home a new best friend who can share many more holidays with you!