With Thanksgiving just around the corner, many people are starting to make plans for the autumn holiday. It’s always great to slow down and enjoy a good meal with our loved ones. Don’t forget about Fido! Here, a Fort Bragg, NC vet offers tips on keeping your dog safe and happy on Thanksgiving.

Before the big day, give Fido a bath, or at least a good brushing, and clip his claws. That way, your company will be greeted by a clean, fresh-smelling pup!

Vacuuming and dusting thoroughly will help remove dead fur and dander from your home. Washing Fido’s bed will also help reduce odors. Use a squeegee, rubber dish gloves, or a damp sponge to get fur off upholstered furniture.

Before your guests arrive, take Fido for a long walk, and then indulge him with a fun play session. If your canine pal is worn out, he’ll be much calmer, and less likely to act up.

Does Fido tend to greet people by jumping on them? Keep him in his crate or in a separate room as people are coming and going.

Keep Fido in mind as you are decorating. Candles, potpourri burners, and fireplaces are all hazardous to dogs. Small and/or sharp items are also unsafe, as are wires, cords, and things like wreaths and garlands.

Don’t be surprised if Fido puts on his most effective sad-puppy expression when dinner is served. Begging may be cute, but it’s bad petiquette, and may make guests nervous. You also don’t want to risk someone feeding your pooch something that isn’t safe for him. If your canine buddy tends to beg, put him in his crate or a separate room with toys, treats, and comfy bedding during dinner.

Your furry friend definitely deserves a special holiday treat! Fido can have some plain, cooked meat, fish, or poultry, without the skin, bones, or fat. Never give your dog meat on the bone; raw meat, dough, or yeast; or anything that contains garlic, onions, scallions, chives, chocolate, alcohol, or xylitol. Grapes, currants, and raisins are also unsafe, as are nuts, pitted fruits, and anything fried or sugary.

It can get chilly this time of year. Make sure Fido has a comfy bed to snuggle up in!

Please contact us, your Fort Bragg, NC vet clinic, anytime. We’re here to help!