4 Tips for Pet-Proofing Your Home for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time for gathering, indulging in festive foods, and enjoying the company of family and friends—pets included! But with all the holiday excitement, it’s essential to ensure our homes are safe and comfortable for our furry companions. From potentially hazardous foods to festive decor that might tempt curious pets, here are five simple yet effective tips for pet-proofing your home this Thanksgiving.

1. Keep Unsafe Foods Out of Reach

Thanksgiving is known for its delicious dishes, but many traditional holiday foods aren’t safe for pets. Here’s a quick list of common items to keep out of paw’s reach:

• Turkey Bones: Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or digestive blockages.
• Onions and Garlic: Found in many stuffing recipes, these are toxic to pets.
• Chocolate and Sweets: Desserts, especially those with chocolate or artificial sweeteners like xylitol, can be harmful.
• Alcohol and Caffeinated Beverages: Both are dangerous to pets and should be kept away from curious noses.

Tip: Create a designated food area away from pets, and remind guests not to feed them scraps. Keep leftovers securely stored and trash cans covered to avoid any after-dinner scavenging.

2. Decorate Mindfully

Thanksgiving decorations can brighten up your home, but they may also pose risks to pets.

• Candles: Open flames can be enticing to curious pets but can lead to burns or accidental fires if tipped over. Consider using flameless candles for a safer ambiance.
• Festive Plants: While plants like chrysanthemums, amaryllis, and some types of lilies add a fall vibe, they can be toxic if ingested. Opt for pet-safe plants or faux alternatives.
• Table Settings and Small Decor Items: Little decorative pieces, like mini pumpkins or corn husks, can become choking hazards for pets who like to chew. Place these decorations out of reach or choose non-toxic, larger decor options.

Tip: Use pet-friendly, non-toxic decorations wherever possible, and keep small or breakable items away from your pet’s reach.

3. Set Up a Safe Space for Your Pet

With new faces, loud conversations, and an abundance of new smells, Thanksgiving can be overwhelming for pets.

• Designate a Quiet Area: Set up a quiet space in a separate room where your pet can relax if they feel overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle.
• Provide Comfort Items: Add a cozy bed, favorite toys, and maybe even a treat or two to make the area inviting. Having a designated retreat can help them feel safe and reduce anxiety.

Tip: Remind guests (especially children) to respect your pet’s space if they retreat to their quiet area.

4. Supervise Doorways and Exits

With guests coming and going, there’s an increased risk of your pet slipping out of an open door.

• Use Baby Gates or Barriers: If possible, set up a gate or barrier around entry points to make it harder for pets to dart outside.
• Communicate with Guests: Let your guests know you have pets and ask them to be mindful when entering and exiting your home.
• Check IDs and Microchips: Before Thanksgiving, ensure your pet has up-to-date ID tags and, if microchipped, confirm that your contact information is current. This is an added safety measure in case they do manage to slip out.

Tip: If you have a particularly anxious pet, consider keeping them in their safe space until most guests have arrived, reducing the chances of them running out in the commotion.

Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate with family, friends, and, of course, our pets. By following these pet-proofing tips, you can ensure your holiday festivities are safe, fun, and comfortable for everyone in your home. From keeping harmful foods and decor out of reach to setting up a quiet space, a few precautions can make Thanksgiving enjoyable for both you and your pet.

Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃