As people begin to prepare their Thanksgiving meals, one local veterinarian says they should take precautions if they plan to feed part of that meal to their pets.
Dr. Marie Lance, director of Lance Animal Hospital in Gainesville, speaking on WDUN's Bill and Joel Morning Show, said that several foods that are common fixtures of Thanksgiving meals are not healthy for many animals.
"As always, we need to avoid onions, raisins, grapes and garlic - those don't do well for our pets," Lance said. "And no real fatty things - no ham, nothing that's cured and not the skin of the turkeys."
She said that most veterinarians will be open the day after Thanksgiving because there are often health emergencies with pets who are either fed improper foods or eat it out of garbage cans. Lance said tha plain sweet potatoes, green beans and small amounts of turkey are suitable for most animals.
"Nothing more than a handful (of turkey) for a big dog over 50 pounds," Lance said. "Maybe less than a quarter of a cup for our little guys."
Lance also said that some pets may not be used to crowds of people visiting their home. She advises that owners may want to set aside a room or area of the house that pets can stay in during the get-together away from the crowd.
If you're traveling rather than hosting a Thanksgiving event, Lance said it's important to make sure your pet is welcome at the home you're traveling to.
"Don't just surprise grandma with your hundred-pound German Shepherd, she might not appreciate that," Lance said.
Lance Animal Hospital will be closed on Thanksgiving, but will be open during regular hours Friday and Saturday. The full interview can be heard in the audio above.
