Pet Tips For The Holidays: What To Know

NASSAU COUNTY, NY — With Thanksgiving and the holiday season fast approaching, North Shore Animal League America gave tips on how to best keep pets safe.

Many Thanksgiving dinner foods can harm a four-legged friend, but NSALA said some can be safely shared with them (in moderation and if they do not have any allergies to those foods).

Food safety tips:

• Lean white turkey meat. Never give a pet dark meat, skin, fat, or bones.
• Some unseasoned/unprepared vegetables. Broccoli stalks and corn on the cobs are off the table as they are two vegetables that harm the animal.
• Steer clear of the seasoned foods, as garlic, onions, leeks, and chives, which are toxic to both dogs and cats.
• Keep pets away from desserts, especially those high in sugar and butter. Along with this, xylitol, or 'birch sugar,' is a sugar substitute and is toxic to dogs. Chocolate, raisins, currants, and more are toxic to pets. NSALA said it is always best to consult a vet with any questions.
• Keep all garbage secured to avoid pets rummaging through the trash.

Thanksgiving and winter holidays can lead to extra traveling, but that doesn't mean pets have to stay behind. NSALA gave tips on how to best travel with pets. NSALA said if a pet is healthy, good-natured, and adaptable, they should be able to travel, and that many pets do well in the car on a road trip. Even with this said, it's important to keep their personality in mind before deciding if they can withstand traveling.

Travel Tips:

• Plane travel is stressful for a pet, and unless it's unavoidable, NSALA said they don't recommend it. If plane travel is necessary, make sure to use the correct size carrier (and that they can still lie down and turn around in), and do tell airline workers that you are traveling with pet cargo.
• Visit the vet before travel to make sure they are up to date with their shots.
• Bring pets' medications, and this can include anti-anxiety pills to provide relief if their vet prescribed them.

Car Safety Tips:

• Pets should have a well-ventilated travel carrier that give them room to stand, sit, and lay down.
• Dogs can be buckled in a dog harness, one that is specifically designed for car travel.
• Cats should always be kept in carriers.
• Don't let dogs stick their heads out the window — they can get a scratched eye or facial injury.
• Do pack fresh water, treats, and food for pets with collapsible bowls. Consistency is important.
• Do make sure to stop for bathroom breaks.
• Don't leave pets in the car alone.
• To help pets become desensitized to car travel, it can be beneficial to teach cats that their carriers are a safe space. This can be done by leaving it out days before the trip and placing treats in it.

NSALA encourages pet owners to bring their pets on trips, and travel sites can include pet-friendly hotels and options, but they also recommend not bringing anxious animals. NSALA said pet owners know their pets best.

In that case, having a trusted friend or a licensed and insured pet sitter may be the best option this holiday season.

NSALA shared their wishlist for community members to contribute to, as well as shared that they have two four-legged friends ready to find their forever home for the holidays.