Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and fun—but for pet parents, it can be a minefield of hazards for our furry friends. While we’re busy carving the turkey and sneaking bites of pumpkin pie, our dogs and cats are often nearby, wagging tails and giving hopeful eyes, ready to join the feast. 

The problem? Not all human foods are safe for pets—and some can be downright dangerous. Here’s a guide to keeping your pets safe, happy, and included this Thanksgiving.

Safe Foods for Your Pet

Some traditional Thanksgiving foods are perfectly safe in moderation. Think of these as special treats rather than full meals:

• Turkey (plain, cooked, unseasoned) – Skinless, boneless white meat is best. Avoid processed turkey with added salt, spices, or gravy.
• Pumpkin – Plain, cooked pumpkin (not pie filling) can actually support healthy digestion.
• Sweet potatoes – Safe when cooked plain. Skip the marshmallows, butter, and sugary toppings.
• Green beans – Steamed or boiled, these make a crunchy, low-calorie treat.
• Carrots – Raw or cooked, they’re packed with vitamins and great for chewing.
• Apple slices – Remove seeds and the core; a sweet, crisp snack many dogs love.

Foods to Avoid

Some Thanksgiving staples can be toxic or harmful for pets, even in small amounts. It’s best to keep these completely off their plate:

• Turkey bones – Cooked bones splinter easily, leading to choking, blockages, or internal injuries.
• Gravy – Often loaded with salt, onions, garlic, and fats that upset your pet’s stomach and lead to more serious health issues.
• Onions, garlic, leeks, chives – These ingredients are toxic to both dogs and cats and can damage red blood cells, potentially causing anemia.
• Chocolate and desserts – Chocolate is highly toxic to pets, and sugar-laden pies  or fatty desserts can trigger vomiting, diarrhea, or even pancreatitis.
• Raisins and grapes – Even small amounts can lead to kidney failure in dogs, making these especially dangerous
• Alcohol – While it might seem funny when pets show interest, alcohol is extremely dangerous and can be life-threatening even in tiny quantities. 

Thanksgiving Safety Tips

A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your pets safe during the holiday:

1. Keep a close eye on the table –  Curious noses and wagging tails can quickly turn into a stolen snack. Make sure food is never left unattended.
2. Provide their own feast – Consider preparing a small “pet plate” with safe options so they can feel included in the celebration.
3. Secure the trash – Leftovers, bones, and food scraps in the garbage can be just as tempting—and just as dangerous.
4. Watch for signs of distress – Symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or difficulty breathing should be taken seriously and may require an immediate vet visit.
5. Educate guests – Many well-meaning family and friends may assume it’s fine to feed them scraps—make sure everyone knows what’s safe and what’s strictly off-limits.
6. Have emergency numbers handy – Keep your veterinarian’s contact information nearby, along with the ASPCA Poison Control number: 1-888-426-4435.
   

Bottom Line

Thanksgiving can be enjoyable for everyone—including your pets—when you plan ahead. Stick to plain, pet-safe foods and avoid risky table scraps. Your pets may not understand why they can’t have grandma’s stuffing, but they’ll still be wagging, purring, and thankful for the safe love and care you give them.