What not to share with your dog this holiday season
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Think twice before sneaking your dog that bite of Thanksgiving dinner.
Why it matters: Foods loaded with seasoning, gravy or bones can cause vomiting, diarrhea and other health issues for dogs.
What they're saying: You can share some holiday food with your dog, but that comes with caveats, according to Kacey Joseph, a veterinarian at VCA Ben White Animal Hospital in Austin.
- "Food with high fat content tends to cause irritation and GI upset," Joseph tells Axios. "Bones of any size or shape can also cause a risk of blockage, stomach upset or broken teeth. It's also important for pet owners to be mindful of dogs with food allergies or sensitivities."
- Skip any food with high levels of seasoning or gravy fat, onions, garlic, turkey bones, corn on the cob and unbaked yeast dough.
Yes, but: Some Thanksgiving foods can be shared with your furry friend, Joseph says. That includes:
- Plain, cooked turkey without skin, fat or bones
- Plain sweet potato
- Unseasoned green beans
- Plain pumpkin (no pumpkin pie)
- Plain corn (no butter and it must be off the cob)
Between the lines: Joseph's clinic tends to see more dogs coming in with vomiting and diarrhea during the holidays because of the table scraps they've received.
- "We understand it is hard to resist the puppy dog eyes, but if everyone at the table gives extra treats, that pup could be in for a rough night," Joseph says.
What to watch: Pet owners should watch for signs like excessive drooling, GI issues and not wanting to eat their own food and or drink water.
The bottom line: It's best to stick with kibble.