FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 22, 2011

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Janet Winikoff, Director of Education

(772) 388-3331 ext. 18

Make Thanksgiving celebrations safe for pets

(Vero Beach, FL) Thanksgiving may be the perfect time to feast with family and friends, but The Humane Society of Vero Beach and Indian River County (HSVB & IRC) is advising pet parents to keep those high-calorie and high-fat foods away from Fido and Fluffy.

According to the Humane Society, veterinarians often get emergency calls about sick animals immediately after Thanksgiving. Many of these animals have consumed foods containing onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, chocolate and the sugar substitute xylitol – all which can be toxic to pets. Fatty foods such as turkey skin, gravy and butter are also dangerous and can lead to pancreatitis, a potentially fatal condition.

Looking for a safe way to include your pets in the Thanksgiving festivities? HSVB & IRC veterinarian Elizabeth Bybee recommends healthier alternatives for dogs such as small cuts of raw carrot and sweet potatoes, natural peanut butter, green beans, sliced apples and plain canned pumpkin without sugar or spices. Feline family members can indulge in some fresh catnip or have a few store bought treats. Dr. Bybee also recommends that garbage bins be tightly covered so that pets can’t ingest bones or other dangerous leftovers.