It can be so tempting in the spirit of Thanksgiving or Christmas to share our delicious meals that have been cooking for hours with our furry friends. And while some meat (without skin\/bone\/stuffing) may be okay there are some foods you may not cook with regularly that should stay off our pet\u2019s plate.<\/p>\n
1. Spicy foods \u2013 Dogs don\u2019t eat spicy food so introducing them probably with other new flavours are sure to throw your pet\u2019s digestive system off and cause vomiting, abdominal pain and gastro upset.
\n2. Turkey Skin \u2013 This is high fat and likely holds marinades, spices, butter, oils all of which are difficult to digest. High fat foods like turkey skin can lead to pancreatitis.
\n3. Onion and alliums (ie., garlic, leeks, scallions) \u2013 large quantities of these can lead to toxic anemia, especially in dogs. Small, well-cooked portions may be okay but this is one to avoid. Also consider whether any stuffing has onions\/alliums before serving up some stuffed turkey.
\n4. Chocolate \u2013 The cocoa tree contains theobromine and caffeine. Bother are toxic to dogs. The smaller the dog and\/or the higher the concentration of theobromine and caffeine (depending on what type of chocolate \u2013 milk\/dark\/unsweetened baking) will determine the severity of the effects. Dogs metabolise theobromine slowly, it can take up to 20 hours, during which time it interferes with the central nervous system, heart and kidneys.
\n5. Grapes & Raisins \u2013 Watch for these in stuffing, pies, puddings etc. These fruits have been found to cause kidney problems in dogs. Best to steer clear!
\n6. Xylitol \u2013 This sugar substitute is highly toxic and deadly to dogs. It can be found in sugar-free cupcakes, cookies, gums & mints. It may be in the house for cooking purposes. Be careful all year with items containing xylitol.
\n7. Macadamia Nuts – it is recommended that you not feed these to your pets
\n8. Alcohol \u2013 We have all known a dog who has taken their turn at the appetizer tray left on the coffee table unattended, but keep an eye out for drinks that can be knocked over or \u201ctasted\u201d if left on low tables as well. Dogs are more susceptible to the effects of alcohol because of their smaller size.
\n9. Cooked Bones \u2013 Cooked Bones have a tendency to splinter, this can happen even in your dog\u2019s digestive tract. Cooked ham and turkey bones aren\u2019t safe. Dispose of them safely as well.
\n10. Sage \u2013 This herb\u2019s essential oils can cause stomach upset.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"