Thanksgiving is such an exciting time for many people and pets, especially cats and dogs. But, it can also be dangerous and stressful for them as their environment suddenly changes. All at once, there are tempting treat all over, delicious and welcoming smell of yummy roasted turkey floating through air, shuffle of many feet around the home, family-friends and possibly strangers chatting, laughing, and ignoring the furry family members. It is quite easy for pets to get lost in shuffle while the mirth is occurring however. In that case it’s important to pay attention on pets, so that they do not fall victim to potential injury, edible ills, or an over burden of excitement. Here are some ways to ensure that they remain comfortable, happy and safe on Thanksgiving.
1) Give a proper place to your pet: If you are planning to have lots of guests at your home, then place your pet in a separate room and close the door. Gear up pet’s place with his/her favorite toys and a pet bed. Familiar items and low music can help your pet stay comfortable and calm. When everyone has arrived, settled in, then allow pet to come out of the room and greet people. For a pet bird, it’s a great idea to cover over the bird’s cage. A cat may like to stay in a quiet spot; do not force cat to greet guests as it may scratch or bite if it feels threatened.
2) Keep eye on pet while preparing food: It’s possible that your feline suddenly jumped on the counter, when you’re busy in getting food ready. So, it’s very important to keep your eyes on pets. Clean up your table, dishes and kitchen as you go. Put empty cans, vegetable peelings, bottles, plastic bags and wrappers in the trash as soon as possible. Spices and seasonings should also be away from pets. Garlic, onion and other seasonings can be toxic to your pet. So, make sure these are not in easy reach of your pet.
3) Decide a proper place for guests’ stuff: Make sure that you should have a proper place where guests can place their belongings, coats, purses and alike stuff safely. Cats are very curious towards new temptations found inside the purses, and fur coats are their favorites. Dog may steal your guest’s leather purse, a hat or scarf, as these are chew worthy for them. So, it’s important to keep your guests belongings out of your pet’s reach.
4) Keep your turkey out of pet’s reach: Be aware when you take turkey out of oven. Be sure that your pet is not close enough to be burned by the heat or hot dripping gravy. Carve turkey carefully so that no turkey falls on floor. Hot turkey may be scooped up by hungry dog and it can burn them or make them vomit. In case it happens, quickly give them some cool milk which may cool their throat. Turkey pop-ups, string, skewers, leaf seasoning flavored with turkey juice, all are tempting to your pets. Wrap them into a foil and put into the garbage with a tight fitting lid.
5) Serve your pet too, before starting the meal: Before you start the meal, serve your pet few pieces of cooled turkey, some gravy, a couple of cranberries and sweet potato which are generally safe for pets. Request your guests not to feed pet from table and at the end of meal give a small piece of turkey as reward for his/her good behavior. Hopefully, like Halloween safety tips, this article will be helpful for you in making your every occasion a joyfully success with your pet. For more pet caring tips, ideas or pet products keep browsing 123PetMall.com.
