With Thanksgiving quickly approaching, you’re likely planning your menu and deciding which tastebud-tantalizing foods you and your family will be indulging in this year. Whether you’re spending the holiday with family or planning on staying in with your immediate family, it’s important to consider your furry family members, too. When the big day arrives, you may be tempted to share some of your meal with them. It’s so hard to say “no” to those big, sad eyes! Unfortunately, not all parts of your Thanksgiving feast are safe for your canine companion. If you don’t want your holiday to end with a visit to a vet in Indianapolis, here are a few foods you shouldn’t share with your dog this Thanksgiving (or ever!). 

Onions and/or Garlic

Members of the onion family, including garlic, chives, leeks, shallots, etc., are not safe for dogs. They cause damage to red blood cells, which can lead to anemia. Even if you only used a bit of onion or garlic powder to season your turkey, it’s best to err on the side of caution and not share even a bite with your pet. 

Fats and Bones

Dogs may love snacking on fat and munching on bones, but neither is good for them. Ingesting too much fat can lead to an upset stomach and, in severe cases, even pancreatitis. And bones - especially cooked ones - can splinter or become lodged in your dog’s throat or digestive system and need to be removed by a vet in Indianapolis. 

Sweet Treats

You probably already know that dogs should never eat chocolate. What you may not know, though, is that it isn’t the only sweet thing that is dangerous for dogs. An artificial sweetener that is commonly used in baked goods, xylitol, can lead to liver damage and low blood sugar in pets. Even real sugar isn’t particularly good for dogs, so it’s best to keep your pets away from sweets entirely. 

When to See a Vet in Indianapolis

If your pet ingests any of the foods mentioned above, it’s best to err on the side of caution and bring them to a vet in Indianapolis. Even if they aren’t showing any symptoms, they could be in danger. You should also take your pet to the vet if they show signs of distress after eating or drinking anything unusual. Keep in mind that the list above is by no means exhaustive and there are many other foods and ingredients that are toxic or poisonous to dogs. 

If your canine companion needs a vet this holiday season, trust VetCheck Pet Urgent Care Center in Fishers, Indiana. Call now or bring your pet in for the care they need and deserve.