7 Ways to Make Thanksgiving Special for Your Pet!

Thanksgiving is a holiday filled with gratitude, delicious food, and time spent with loved ones—including our furry family members! While humans get to indulge in festive treats and special traditions, Thanksgiving is also a wonderful opportunity to make our pets feel loved and appreciated. Here are some creative and pet-safe ways to make Thanksgiving special for your pet, ensuring they feel just as included in the celebration as everyone else.

1. Prepare a Pet-Friendly Thanksgiving Feast

One of the best ways to involve your pet in Thanksgiving is to treat them to a special meal that mirrors your own. Consider these safe and nutritious options:

• Turkey (Plain & Unseasoned): Offer small, cooked pieces of turkey breast (without skin or bones) as a lean, high-protein treat.
• Pumpkin: A great source of fiber and great for dogs and cats! A spoonful can be a tasty, healthy addition to their meal.
• Sweet Potatoes: Another delicious treat full of vitamins A, B6, and C!
• Green Beans: Steamed green beans (plain) are a low-calorie treat high in fiber and nutrients.

Mix these pet-safe ingredients together for a little Thanksgiving “feast bowl,” and your pet will be licking their chops! Just make sure to keep portions small to avoid any tummy upset.

2. Include Pets in the Family Photos

Thanksgiving is a time to make memories, and your pet deserves to be part of them! Dress them up in a cute Thanksgiving-themed bandana, bow tie, or sweater (if they’re comfortable with it) and bring them into the family photos!

3. Share Some Gratitude with a Special “Thankful For You” Activity

Show your pet how grateful you are for them by spending a little extra quality time together. Here are some fun ideas for making them feel extra appreciated:

• Longer Walks: If you have a dog, take them for an extended walk in the cool fall weather, exploring new trails or parks if possible.
• Interactive Play: Cats will appreciate a few extra minutes of playtime with their favorite toys or a brand-new wand or laser pointer.
• Cuddle Time: Some pets prefer snuggles over exercise, so set aside some quiet time to give them belly rubs, ear scratches, or snuggle up on the couch together.

Simply showing them a little extra love can make their Thanksgiving just as special as yours.

4. Set Up a Cozy “Thanksgiving Spot” for Them

Thanksgiving gatherings can get loud and overwhelming for pets, so consider creating a cozy, quiet space where they can retreat if they need a break. Set up a little “Thanksgiving corner” for them, complete with their bed, a favorite blanket, and maybe a new toy or treat. This spot can help them feel safe and comfortable, especially if they’re sensitive to noise or if you have visitors who might make them a bit nervous.

5. Teach or Reinforce a Fun Trick

Thanksgiving is a time of celebration, and one way to make it memorable is by teaching your pet a new trick or reinforcing an old one! If your pet knows a few commands, you could teach them seasonal ones like:

• “Turkey”: Have your pet stand on their hind legs or spin in a circle.
• “Thank You”: Teach them to paw or “shake” as a way to say thanks.
• “Find It”: Hide treats around the room or under cups and encourage them to sniff them out.

Training can provide mental stimulation for pets and is a fun way to bond while keeping them engaged.

6. Share Thanksgiving with Your Community

For pet owners who want to give back, consider celebrating Thanksgiving by donating to an animal shelter or pet-related charity. You could:

• Donate pet food, treats, or toys in honor of your pet.
• Volunteer with a local shelter (many welcome extra hands during the holiday season).
• Make a small donation to a charity that supports pets in need.

This way, you’re not only making Thanksgiving special for your own pet but for other animals in your community as well.

7. Keep Your Pet Safe This Thanksgiving

While it’s fun to spoil our pets during the holidays, it’s also essential to keep them safe. Avoid giving them fatty or seasoned human foods, chocolate, onions, and bones from the Thanksgiving meal, as these can be harmful or toxic. Always supervise your pet around food and holiday decorations, and remember to provide plenty of fresh water, especially if you’re hosting a gathering.

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, love, and togetherness—and our pets are a huge part of that. By including them in the festivities, you’re showing them how much they mean to you and making lasting memories with your beloved companion. With these creative ideas, you can ensure your pet enjoys a Thanksgiving celebration that’s filled with joy, comfort, and delicious treats—just like the rest of the family.

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your furry friends! 🦃🐾