It is that gorgeous time of the year again where Thanksgiving is upon us. With Thanksgiving coming a bit early this year is it hard to realize that we are actually in October! Thanksgiving is a time for family and of course that will include the family pets.
There are a few precautions to take around this holiday. First and foremost is diet..or lack of it. It is a time to enjoy a festive feast and for many families that will include turkey, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie. It is best to resist sharing any of this with your pets. Not only is most of too rich for the digestive system of dogs and cats but the addition of any food that your pet does not normally consume can upset their tummies. You can purchase special foods for your pet at this time. Try turkey flavor cat food and there is even a cranberry dessert especially for dogs. These are foods that your pet can enjoy as a special treat and are formulated especially for them.
The other thing that is special about Thanksgiving is the gathering of families. This may mean a bit of upheaval for your pet. If the occasion is to be celebrated at your home there are a couple of steps you can take to keep things less hectic. If you have a cat that does not feel comfortable around a group of people and prefers to hide under the bed, it may be best to give it a quite area. Perhaps put her litter box, food and water into a bedroom for the day and close the door. This will allow your cat a bit of privacy and be less stress for her.
Many dogs welcome guests and after a few minutes of greeting rituals will settle down. Make sure if there are young children around that you keep them supervised at all times. If it is not convenient to supervise the dog and children, it is wise to crate your dog for a time out, just to avoid potential accidents.
If you will be visiting your family the best idea for most cats is to be left at home for the day. They will enjoy stretching out on the couch in the peace and quiet. Many dogs do enjoy travelling. Keep them safe in the care with a dog seat belt or crate. Remember to stop for a washroom break for them too if the journey is a long one. Your dog should have an identification tag on its collar just in case they wander off and become disoriented in a strange neighborhood.
This is also a great time for the family to get out and enjoy the fall weather. If you are planning a hike, take along a water cannister for your dog. If you are carrying a water bottle for yourself it is very convenient to pack a collapsible water dish. These dishes are available in most pet shops and are made of a heavy vinyl. They can be easily tucked into a jacket pocket. When your dog becomes thirsty just fill the collapsible bowl for a drink. It can then be emptied and dried and tucked away.
Some dogs learn how to carry a dog backpack. This can be a fun way for your dog to transport his own equipment – bowl, leash, scoop bags etc. Check the guidelines for the amount of weight that a dog can comfortably carry. Make sure you train your dog to wear the backpack prior to your hike and only add items to it, as your dog becomes comfortable.
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. Enjoy your blessings.
