Mark, Eileen, Robin, and I are already thinking about that last week of November. It’s one of our busiest times. We’re always grateful that you trust us to care for your beloved companions.

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, gathering, and eating approximately three times as much as any reasonable person needs. The house fills with wonderful smells, the doorbell rings, and someone is inevitably asking where the good serving spoon went.

Meanwhile, your dog is having the best day of their life. Someone dropped a crumb! Surely, this is the holiday your pet has been preparing for all year. But Thanksgiving also brings a few unexpected hazards. A little planning can help keep the day joyful for everyone.

The Turkey is Not the Whole Story

We know those pleading eyes, but a holiday feast isn’t pet-friendly. Rich, fatty foods can upset stomachs and may trigger pancreatitis. Cooked turkey bones can splinter, while onion, garlic, grapes, raisins, chocolate, alcohol, and foods containing xylitol can be toxic to pets.

If you’d like to share some holiday love, offer a little plain, fully-cooked, boneless turkey without skin or seasoning, provided your pet tolerates it. Otherwise, a favorite pet-safe treat will do just fine.

And secure those leftovers! A determined dog with access to a turkey carcass can turn a peaceful afternoon into an emergency veterinary visit faster than you can say, “Who left the kitchen door open?”

A House Full of Guests can be a Lot

Some pets greet visitors like long-lost friends. Others prefer to submit a formal complaint and relocate to a quiet room. Both reactions are understandable. Extra visitors, unfamiliar voices, and opening doors can stress pets. Give your dog or cat a quiet retreat with fresh water and familiar toys.

Remind guests not to feed pets from the table and watch those open doors. Even a normally reliable dog may seize the opportunity for an unscheduled neighborhood adventure.

If You Need Us, Please Reach Out (Soon)

Thanksgiving isn’t about the perfect table or meal. It’s about the people—and pets—we’re lucky enough to share our lives with.

Our team loves helping you enjoy the holidays, and we want to be able to give first priority to you, our clients, for Thanksgiving week. If you need our services, please let us know as soon as you know. We’re thankful every day of the year that you continue to choose Buckhead Paws.