Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate gratitude, love, and delicious food. But for pet owners, sharing holiday treats with your furry friends could result in an unexpected trip to the vet. While 1 in 3 pet parents admit to slipping their pets a little something from the dinner table, these well-meaning gestures can be harmful—or even dangerous—for pets.

Annie-Mae Levy, a professional dog trainer from Woofz, highlights five Thanksgiving foods to keep far away from your pets. These holiday staples might delight humans, but they can pose serious health risks for our four-legged family members.

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1. Turkey Bones

While plain, cooked turkey meat is safe in small amounts, turkey bones are a hazard. Cooked bones can splinter into sharp pieces, risking cuts to your pet’s mouth, throat, or even a punctured intestine. (Pro Tip: Share a slice of turkey, but never the bones.)

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2. Stuffing

This Thanksgiving favorite is a no-go for pets. Stuffing often includes onions, garlic, and certain herbs, all of which are toxic to dogs and cats. These ingredients can damage red blood cells and lead to serious illness. Unless you’ve made a pet-safe stuffing, this dish should stay on the table—not in your pet’s bowl.

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3. Casseroles

Rich casseroles like green bean or sweet potato casserole are packed with butter, cream, and other ingredients that can upset a pet’s stomach. The same goes for mashed potatoes loaded with butter and cream. Avoid holiday tummy troubles by keeping casseroles off your pet’s menu.

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4. Cranberry Sauce

Cranberries on their own are harmless in moderation, but cranberry sauce often includes sugar, sweeteners, or raisins—ingredients that can be toxic to pets. Raisins, in particular, can cause kidney damage. When in doubt, skip this side dish for your pets.

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5. Desserts

Sweet treats like pumpkin pie or chocolate cake may tempt your pet’s puppy-dog eyes, but they’re highly dangerous. Chocolate, xylitol (a sugar substitute), and other dessert ingredients can cause seizures, liver damage, or worse. Keep desserts out of reach to avoid a medical emergency.

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Safer Ways to Celebrate with Pets

Thanksgiving is a time for family—including your furry companions. Instead of sharing unsafe table scraps, treat your pets to holiday snacks made just for them. Options like plain pumpkin puree (without spices), unseasoned cooked turkey, or store-bought pet treats can let your pets safely join the festivities.

This holiday season, protect your pets by keeping risky foods away and giving them safe, tasty alternatives. Thanksgiving is about love and togetherness—let’s keep it that way for every member of the family.

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