Nov 15, 2025 | By, For Pet's Sake
Paws off the turkey: A Thanksgiving food warning for all pet parents
Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and of course—feasting! But while you’re piling your plate high with turkey, stuffing, and gravy, your dog may be eyeing that golden bird with hopeful anticipation. Before you give in to those irresistible puppy dog eyes, it’s important to understand why turkey and other Thanksgiving foods might not be the best treat for your furry friend.
Seasonings and herbs: A hidden danger
The turkey on your table is likely seasoned with garlic, onions, sage, and other herbs that can be toxic to dogs. Garlic and onions, in particular, can damage red blood cells and lead to anemia. Even small amounts of these ingredients can cause gastrointestinal upset, lethargy, and more serious complications.
Bones: A choking hazard
Turkey bones—especially when cooked—are brittle and can splinter easily. These sharp fragments pose a serious choking risk and can puncture your dog’s digestive tract, leading to internal bleeding or infection. Emergency surgery is often the only remedy, and it’s a painful and costly ordeal.
Skin and fat: Trouble for sensitive systems
Turkey skin is rich in fat and often soaked in butter, oils, and seasonings. Feeding your dog fatty scraps can trigger pancreatitis, a painful and potentially life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lethargy.
Diabetes and allergies: No doggy diet is alike
Dogs with diabetes or food sensitivities may react poorly to turkey, especially if it’s processed or heavily seasoned. Allergens in the meat or additives can cause skin irritations, itching, ear infections, and digestive issues. If your dog has a known condition, it’s best to steer clear entirely.
The risks of turkey
Feeding your dog turkey could lead to:
- Gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea)
- Pancreatitis
- Choking or internal injury from bones
- Toxic reactions from herbs and spices
- Allergic flare-ups or worsening of chronic conditions
Safe, doggy-friendly alternatives
If you simply can’t resist sharing a bite with your dog this Thanksgiving, here’s a safer approach:
- Remove all skin and visible fat
- Rinse the meat thoroughly to remove seasonings
- Offer a small, plain piece of white meat—no bones, no gravy
Better yet, prepare a dog-friendly dish with ingredients like plain pumpkin, sweet potatoes (no marshmallows!), or green beans. These are festive, nutritious, and safe when served plain.
Celebrate safely
Thanksgiving is about sharing love—not emergency vet visits. Keep your dog’s health in mind and resist the urge to share your plate. With a little planning, you can include your pup in the festivities without risking their well-being.
Have a question about pet health? Want to become the best possible pet parent? Find helpful tips, reminders, and insights to give your furry friend the best possible care with For Pet’s Sake!
