Thanksgiving is here—a time for gratitude, feasting, and family. And let’s be honest, who’s more family than your four-legged best friend? Here’s how you can make Thanksgiving paws-itively perfect for your furry companion!
1. Grateful Tails
Thanksgiving is all about gratitude, and there’s no shortage of reasons to be thankful for your dog:
They never judge your third helping of pie.
Their happy tail wags make every day brighter.
They’re always down for a post-dinner nap.
This year, let your pup know just how much you appreciate them. A belly rub, a long walk, or an extra treat can say, “Thanks for being the best dog ever!”
2. Feasting with Fido
While the humans are busy with turkey and stuffing, why not whip up a Thanksgiving feast for your pup? Here’s a simple recipe to make their tail wag:
Cooked, plain turkey (no skin or seasoning)
Mashed sweet potato (no butter or sugar)
Steamed green beans (unsalted)
A dollop of plain canned pumpkin
3. Foods to Avoid
Not all Thanksgiving goodies are safe for dogs. Keep these off the menu:
Onions and garlic: Common in stuffing and gravy, but toxic to dogs.
Turkey bones: They can splinter and cause serious injuries.
Desserts with chocolate or xylitol: Sweet treats for you, but dangerous for pups.
Fatty turkey skin or rich gravies: Delicious for us, tough on doggy tummies.
Set your dog up for success by keeping the table scraps limited and the trash bin secured.
4. Festive Fun for Your Pup
Make your dog feel like part of the celebration with these fun ideas:
DIY Thanksgiving Bandana: Grab some fall fabric and tie a cute bandana for your pup to wear.
Photo Shoot: Snap some festive pics with pumpkins, leaves, or your dog in a “pilgrim hat.”
Holiday Movie Night: After dinner, cuddle up with your dog and watch Homeward Bound or Beethoven.
5. Gratitude Games
After the feast, it’s game time!
Treat Treasure Hunt: Hide treats around the house and let your dog sniff them out.
Turkey Toss: Use a plush turkey toy for a spirited game of fetch.
Paw Parade: If you’ve got dog-loving friends or neighbors, organize a mini dog parade to show off those Thanksgiving outfits!
6. Giving Back
Thanksgiving is a great time to give back to dogs in need. Here’s how:
Donate supplies or food to a local shelter.
Volunteer to walk shelter dogs.
Share adoptable dogs on social media to help them find homes.
Thanksgiving is better with a wagging tail and a happy pup by your side. So, this year, make your dog part of the celebration—they’ll repay you with endless love, sloppy kisses, and a warm spot at your feet during the family meal. Here's to a Thanksgiving full of love, laughter, and lots of belly rubs! 🦃 🐾