*Turkey

Avoid giving your pet turkey meat, especially the fatty dark meat and skin (a small amount of unseasoned white meat is ok.)  and never ever give them leftover bones.  Not only are bones a choking hazard, but they can splinter inside your pet's digestive tract and cause a trip to the emergency vet.

*Garlic, onion, leeks, and chives

These seasonings are common in many Thanksgiving dishes and are toxic to dogs and cats-they can cause destruction of their red blood cells.  Avoid giving your pet a bite of anything cooked with these ingredients such as green beans, stuffing, potatoes, and gravy.

*Unbaked dough containing yeast

unbaked yeast dough can cause a stomach blockage if eaten because the yeast will continue to rise and expand.  Plus the natural fermentation of the yeast in you cat or dog's stomach can cause alcohol poisoning.  If you plan on baking some delicious dinner rolls for Thanksgiving, make sure to proof your dough somewhere your pet cannot get into it., such as a turned off microwave, not right on the counter where is often in easy reach.

*Desserts

Desserts like pies, fruitcakes, or cookies should be kept out of your pet's reach as well.  Many people know that chocolate is toxic for dogs and cats, but so are raisins, currants, and the popular sugar substitute, xylitol.  Xylitol, even in small amounts, is toxic to dogs, so keep that slice of keto/diabetic/sugar-free pie to yourself.  In all your attention to keeping pets away from the table, remember to keep the trash can lid secured and watch the coffee table where uncles are taking a nap with their last plate.

Now, for the good stuff!

Your furry friends could have raw fruits and vegetables like baby carrots, green beans, apples, chunks of sweet potato, or pumpkin puree (not the sweetened pumpkin pie filling).  All of these will make great options to make the furry friends included in your festivities!