Thanksgiving is just a few weeks off. We are definitely grateful for our canine friends, and their love, loyalty, and companionship. The autumn holiday does present some opportunities for doggy mischief, so you’ll want to take a few precautions to make sure everything goes smoothly. Read on as a Dolton, IL vet discusses Thanksgiving with Fido.
Prep Work
You want your guests to be greeted by a clean, fresh-smelling dog. Before the big day, make sure to give your canine pal a bath. Don’t forget about nail trims, either. A good vacuuming and dusting is also in order.
Guests
There are a lot of little things—and some not so little things—that can go wrong between guests and pets. Making a few polite requests can go a long way towards preventing mishaps. Our number one suggestion? Ask guests not to feed or discipline Fido.
Of course, you also want your furry bff to be on his best behavior. If your four-legged buddy tends to get a bit rowdy, you may find it helpful to tire him out before your visitors arrive. After a good walk and play session, your pup will probably be ready for a nap. Sleepy dogs are good dogs!
Dinner
Don’t forget to make your furry buddy a plate! Turkey is fine, as long as you don’t give your pooch any of the skin, bones, or fat. In fact, most types of plain, boneless meat, fish, or poultry are fine.
We can’t really mention dinner with dogs without at least touching on begging. Some of our canine patients have their humans wrapped around their paws! If Fido’s table manners are less than stellar, put him in a separate area during dinner. Give him a toy or treat, so he doesn’t feel left out.
Safety
Man’s Best Buddy has a habit of getting underfoot. This can make it easy for him to get stepped on, or get his tail caught in the door. Keep a close eye on things!
Tail Wags
Dogs are definitely something to be grateful for. After dinner, take some time to play with Fido. Toss a ball for him, or indulge him in a game of Tag. This is a fun way to get through that food coma. A new toy would not be inappropriate.
Happy Thanksgiving from everyone here at Sibley Animal Hospital, your Dolton, IL animal clinic. Call us anytime!