With Thanksgiving nearly here, the Wisconsin Humane Society (WHS) is reminding local
families to keep their four-legged companions in mind this holiday season.
While Door County pets may argue that the holiday was invented specifically for them to sample every dropped crumb from mom’s famous stuffing to pecan pie, WHS says a little caution can make the difference between a cozy holiday and an emergency trip to the vet.
Cory Viars, from the WHS Green Bay campus, shares the operations vital suggestions to keep your furry friends safe this coming season. Their first tip is to watch snacks and treats. A sudden smorgasbord of rich foods can wreak havoc on your pet’s digestive system, Viars says, and certain human favorites can be toxic. If your dog has perfected the art of the “puppy eyes gaze”, he suggests sticking to the safest options, a few small pieces of boneless cooked turkey, a spoonful of plain mashed potatoes, or even a tiny lick of pumpkin pie. The key is moderation, even if moderation feels personally insulting to your dog.
Some items, however, are holiday no-nos. Viars says, raw or undercooked turkey can carry salmonella. Turkey bones, a classic temptation, can splinter and lead to choking or serious internal injury. And while we humans love herbs like sage and thyme in our stuffing, many seasonings contain oils or resins that can upset your pet’s stomach or affect their nervous system. Cats, being little royalty, can be especially sensitive.
Another surprising danger is raw bread dough. Once ingested, the dough can rise in a pet’s stomach, creating a painful and potentially life-threatening situation. Viars recommends keeping dough well out of reach, especially from the curious canine counter surfers.
For families hosting larger gatherings, he also suggests providing pets with a quiet room away from all the noise. Door County homes can get lively at this time of year, and even the friendliest animals sometimes need a break from the hustle and bustle. Let them enjoy their own post meal nap in peace. Some of us can join them and get our football fix and a reprise from the in-laws.
Finally, Viars warns that with the holiday traffic, constant in-and-out of guests, and below freezing temperatures looming, microchipping is a smart precaution. This time of year, it is especially dangerous for lost pets as the winter weather ramps up, he says. WHS offers microchipping for just $25 at public vaccine clinics, ensuring that if a pet slips out during the festivities, they can be reunited quickly.
Founded in 1879 and serving more than 40,000 animals each year, the Wisconsin Humane Society operates shelters across the region, including right here in Door County. More information is available on the WHS website.
