Holiday-Safe Pet Foods
With the holidays around the corner, bountiful feasts and merry times are right around the corner. Feeding your pup an occasional snack from the table is okay in moderation, but if you choose to do so, it’s important to know what foods are safe for your dog and what might cause an upset stomach or more serious harm. Keep reading to learn what foods are safe (in small amounts) for your pets this holiday season.
Healthy Seasonal Foods
These foods are considered pet-safe in moderation and without any extras added to them. If you’re planning on using some of these ingredients in your holiday cooking, set some aside to prepare for your dog in a pet-safe manner.
Pumpkin
Plain cooked pumpkin (without any added sugar) is high in fibre, aids with digestion, and can help with symptoms like diarrhea and constipation. You can mix a scoop of unsweetened, plain pumpkin into your pup’s food, or stuff it into a KONG or Toppl for added enrichment (pro tip: stick it in the freezer to last longer!).
Apple
Apples are low in calories and high in vitamins A and C. Make sure to remove the core and seeds before giving to your dog. You can even bake homemade treats with them (check out this recipe). Their natural sweetness make them a tasty, crunchy snack that dogs love.
Carrots
These crunchy, sweet, and vitamin-packed vegetables are a great snack for dogs looking for an extra crunch. Most dogs love the texture and they can be beneficial in cleaning teeth. For bigger dogs who like to chew, stick an extra-large carrot in the freezer for a few hours before giving to your dog. It's a perfect snack to keep your pup entertained while you put the finishing touches on dinner.
Sweet Potatoes
If you’re roasting up sweet potatoes for your family, put aside some plain ones for your pup. Sweet potatoes are high in antioxidants and fibre and can be cooked in a variety of different ways. You can bake them, mash them, or dehydrate them as chips.
Cranberries
Full of antioxidants, cranberries are a flavourful fall snack that can serve as a delicious topping for meals or as a treating snack. You can give your pup either fresh or freeze-dried cranberries to enjoy, just make sure they’re sugar-free and without any other additives.
Peanut Butter
A dog favourite, peanut butter is a great treat that can be used in a variety of ways to keep your pup entertained while you enjoy your holiday meal. Try spreading some on a lick mat or mix it with your pup’s kibble and stuff in a KONG or Toppl to keep them busy. Make sure not to buy peanut butter with any xylitol or added sugars, and try to buy salt-free when possible.
Foods to Avoid
Grapes and raisins: Grapes and raisins are highly toxic to dogs and can cause rapid kidney failure.
Garlic, onions, leeks, and chives: These foods are part of the allium family and can cause anemia and damage red blood cells.
Avocado: Avocado pits are particularly dangerous for dogs, and can cause an obstruction and other serious damage if ingested. Persin, a fungocidal toxic, is found in the flesh and skin of the avocado and can pose a serious threat to your dog if ingested.
Nutmeg and other spices: Nutmeg contains myristicin, which is extremely toxic and can cause serious and severe reactions, resulting in high-blood pressure, hallucinations, increased heart rate, and more.
Cooked bones: The cooking process makes bones more brittle and therefore more likely to splinter. This means that if ingested, they not only serve as a choking hazard, but also have the potential to perforate intestines.
Chocolate: Chocolate is incredibly toxic if consumed, and can lead to vomiting, dehydration, irregular heartbeat, and more. Even a small amount can be fatal, especially to small dogs.
Raw Dough: Raw dough contains yeast, which can cause serious health complications if ingested. The dough can continue to rise in their stomach and cause their entire abdomen to expand, resulting in serious pain and intestinal tract blockages.
Macadamia Nuts: Macadamia nuts contain a high fat content that can be poisonous and can cause pancreatitis, diarrhea, inability to walk, and even paralysis.
Remember, while it might be fun to let your pup partake in holiday festivities, it's best to save the festive foods for you and your family. Stuffing a KONG or Toppl with dog-safe ingredients is a great way to help your pup feel included in the festivities while making sure they stay safe and healthy. Because at the end of the day, a healthy and happy family is all that matters.
Until next time,
🐾 Woofs & Wags
- Melissa & Oaklee 🐾
@unleashthepawsitive
