CONTACT: Lisa Norwood, 210.207.6665, 210.501.3277
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SAN ANTONIO (November 18, 2022) – Thanksgiving is coming up, and this year might be a bit more festive than years past. Given the possibility of larger family gatherings, residents are encouraged to plan ahead when including their pets in the festivities. Here are some simple tips from the City of San Antonio Animal Care Services to keep pets and their loved ones safe this Thanksgiving:
- Not sure how your pet will react to increased activity? Create a safe and comfortable place for your pet to relax. Be sure to bring plenty of fresh food, water, and toys.
- Unfamiliar faces and increased activity can confuse or scare your pet. Be on the lookout for any tense or aggressive behavior. This uncertainty is another great reason to give your pet a safe and secure place to spend Thanksgiving!
- Turkey bones are a choking hazard, and holiday treats of any kind should be kept away from your pet. Chocolate, turkey meat, onions, garlic and raisins are all dangerous for our pets. Candies and gummies containing the artificial sweetener Xylitol may also be toxic to pets.
- Don’t give your pet food on the table and keep an eye out for trash cans. The rich foods that we usually eat during the holidays can be hard on your pet’s stomach and can lead to intestinal upset and diarrhea.
- Alcohol should never be given to a pet, even a sip or two can be fatal.
- Play with your dog or cat at least twice a day for a good period. A tired animal is less likely to do something “out of bounds.” Use baby gates to cut off access to restricted areas, including the kitchen and dining room.
- Make sure your pet has some form of identification if they get lost, such as an engraved tag with your contact number and city-required microchip ID.
- If your dog is staying with a friend, pet sitter, or boarding house over the holidays, plan well in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
Do you think your pet may have ingested something toxic? Visit or call the nearest pet emergency clinic. Pet owners can use the Animal Care Services veterinary search tool at saacs.info/vetcare to find local providers. The ASPCA Pet Poison Control Center is also open during the holidays and can be reached at 1-888-426-4435. There may be consultation fees for services.
