Thankful for Our Pets This Thanksgiving:
A Guide to Safe and Festive Celebrations
Thanksgiving is a season of gratitude—a time to recognize the people and, of course, the pets who fill our lives with happiness. Pets are family, bringing us comfort, companionship, and unconditional love. This Thanksgiving, let’s take a moment to honor all they bring to us. Here’s how to celebrate with your pets safely, with ideas for including them in your holiday traditions.
Thanksgiving isn’t just for humans—our pets deserve a spot at the table (figuratively speaking!) too. For all they bring to our lives, this holiday is the perfect time to show our gratitude. Here’s how to make Thanksgiving memorable for your pets, from safe treats to holiday traditions they’ll love.
Thankful Ways to Celebrate with Your Pets
Share a Pet-Safe Feast Together
Not all Thanksgiving foods are safe for pets, but you can create a tasty, pet-friendly feast. Here are safe options to share:
Turkey (Plain and Boneless):
Turkey (Plain and Boneless): Offer small pieces of plain turkey without skin, bones, or seasoning.
Sweet Potatoes
These are nutritious and delicious for pets, as long as they’re plain and unseasoned.
Pumpkin Puree
Plain canned pumpkin (no spices or sugars) is great for dogs and cats alike.
Carrots & Green Beans
Low-calorie, fiber-rich veggies make healthy, safe options for pets.
Skip Dangerous
Foods:
Foods like onions, garlic, chocolate, and grapes are toxic to pets, so keep these out of reach.
"Thanksgiving is about sharing love, and our pets share that with us every day. Let’s show them the same joy and gratitude they bring to us."
Create Thanksgiving Traditions with Your Pets
Go for a Family Walk
A pre- or post-dinner walk with your pet is a great way to bond and manage some holiday energy. Plus, it’s a healthy activity for everyone.Set Up a Cozy Space
Set up a comfortable spot for your pet near the family gathering. Bring out their favorite bed or blanket, and let them be close to the action.Say “Thank You” in Your Own Way
Take a moment with family to share what makes your pet special. This could be a simple memory, a unique habit they have, or just the way they greet you at the door. Celebrating these small details reminds us why we’re so grateful for our pets.Capture the Moment with Photos
Make Thanksgiving memorable with a pet photo shoot! Add festive backdrops or seasonal props (like mini pumpkins or blankets) to get adorable holiday shots.
Creating a Grateful and Safe Celebration for All
When you take time to include your pet in Thanksgiving traditions, you’re strengthening the bond you share and creating lasting memories. By offering safe, thoughtful ways to celebrate, your pet feels more connected to the family, and you get to experience Thanksgiving with even more joy.
Prepare Emergency Contact Info:
- Keep the Kitchen Secure: Pets love sneaking in, but hot food, sharp tools, and heavy dishes pose risks.
- Decorate with Care: Avoid candles, small decorations, or any decor that could be a choking hazard.
- Set Up a Quiet Space: Large gatherings can overwhelm pets. Make a designated safe space for pets who may need a break.
- Limit Table Scraps: Keep holiday treats pet-safe. Skip foods like stuffing, gravy, and desserts.
- Prepare Emergency Contact Info: Have your vet or pet emergency contacts on hand just in case.
Holiday Hazards to Avoid
While Thanksgiving is a fun celebration, certain hazards can spoil the fun for your pet.
Be aware of these common holiday risks to keep Thanksgiving safe:
Food Hazards: Many traditional foods are harmful to pets. Avoid giving them fatty, spicy, or seasoned foods, and keep chocolate, grapes, onions, and garlic completely out of reach.
Decor Hazards: Festive decorations, from candles to small ornaments, can be hazardous if pets chew or swallow them. Opt for pet-friendly decor when possible.
Stress and Anxiety: Some pets feel anxious around new people and loud gatherings. Have a quiet room or safe space set up where they can retreat when they need a break.
Garbage Access: Pets are often curious about trash bins, especially if they contain food scraps. Keep the garbage secure to prevent accidental ingestion of bones, wrappers, or food scraps.
As we gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, let’s take a moment to celebrate the special role our pets play in our lives. Their loyalty, joy, and companionship enrich every day, and this holiday is the perfect time to show them just how much they mean to us. From everyone here at Rescued by Rembrandt, we wish you and your furry friends a safe, joyful, and gratitude-filled Thanksgiving. May your day be full of warmth, love, and a few extra treats for the ones who make life a little brighter. Happy Thanksgiving!
Share the love this Thanksgiving!
Feel free to use and share this blog, but remember to give credit to Rescued by Rembrandt for our work in supporting rescues and pet families.