The most common hazard is turkey bones. They are hollow and easily splinter into sharp pieces when chewed. The splinters lodge in your pet's throat or intestine or cause punctures and create blockages. They may stay lodged in your pet's body for days before there are any symptoms. Signs of serious problems may include loss of appetite, depression, vomiting or diarrhea. Sometimes the bone will pass by itself. Other times, surgical removal is necessary.
Make sure to secure garbage cans with food scraps & bones inside!
Sharing the rest of whats on the Thanksgiving table is not a good idea either. Although it may seem cruel to withhold fatty meats, turkey carcasses, gravies, or baked goods from your pets, feeding “people food” often results in problems ranging from mild gastrointestinal upset to severe pancreatitis and even potentially life-threatening obstructions.
Below are some pet friendly treats you can serve to keep everyone happy
Yummy Turkey Treats for Dogs
** 2 cups cooked turkey (cut up)
** 2 teaspoons grated cheese
** 1 tablespoon parsley (freshly chopped)
** 2 eggs
** 2 cups whole wheat flour
** 2 tablespoons brewer's yeast
** 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
** Combine turkey, cheese, parsley and mix well. Beat the eggs and pour over turkey mixture. Add the flour, yeast, and oil. Stir until thoroughly mixed and all ingredients are coated. ** Drop into small lumps onto ungreased cookie sheet ** Cook in a 350-degree oven for about 20 minutes, until brown and firm. Store in refrigerator.
Patches Special Dinner
** 1 egg
** 1 tablespoon minced, cooked green beans
** 1 teaspoon shredded carrot
** 2 tablespoons baked chicken breast (no skin) minced
** 1/3 cup cooked brown rice or wild rice
** 1 tablespoon olive oil (good for preventing hair balls and constipation)
** Mix all ingredients thoroughly with a wood spoon or in a blender/food processor. It's important to get the rice mixed in well so that it can't be picked out. (Diabetics need fiber and cats with kidney failure problems need to limit their protein intake, so this serves two purposes.) ** Cook in a small Pyrex skillet over low heat, stirring and "chopping" constantly until the egg is at least soft-set but done. ** Refrigerate in air-tight containers. ** Use within 36 hours (refrigerated). Stores well in freezer in Zip-lock baggies and can be thawed and warmed simultaneously in boiling water in the bag.
