Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and of course - food. While we all know that turkey is a staple of the Thanksgiving feast, many people may not know if it's safe for their dog to eat. In this blog post, we'll answer the question "Can dogs eat turkey?" and provide some tips on how to safely feed your pup this holiday dish. So, can dogs eat turkey? To know the answer, keep reading!
Can Dogs Eat Turkey?
Yes, dogs can safely eat turkey as long as it is cooked properly and without any added seasonings or spices. Turkey is a popular meat for commercial dog food. It's rich in protein and other nutrients like phosphorous that are essential for your dog's health. Turkey is also relatively lean, so it's a good choice if you're looking to keep your dog at a healthy weight. However, you need to be careful.
The Dangers of Turkey for Dogs
While a small amount of turkey is unlikely to cause any serious problems, there are some things to be aware of. First, turkey skin and fat can cause digestive upset in some dogs. Not only that, but it's also important to make sure that any turkey you feed your dog is cooked thoroughly. Raw or undercooked turkey can contain bacteria that can make your dog sick.
The biggest problem with turkey for dogs, however, is the seasoning. Most turkeys are seasoned with spices that are delicious to us, like butter, onion, garlic, herbs, and oils, but all of which can be harmful to dogs. Many of these spices can cause an upset stomach or even poison in some cases. If you do feed your dog turkey, make sure it is plain and unseasoned.
In addition, the bones in the turkey can splinter and cause serious injuries if your dog tries to chew on them, and are especially fragile when cooked. If your dog swallows a turkey bone, it could potentially cause damage to its stomach or intestines. The sharp edges of the bone could cut through the lining of the digestive tract, leading to pain, infection, and potentially even death. If you think your dog has swallowed a turkey bone, it's important to take them to the vet immediately.
Don't matter how much we care, though, we know dogs are scavengers, and sooner or later they may end up eating something they shouldn't, like a piece of onion, chocolate, or other substance that may be toxic to them. In these moments, it's important to have a vomit inducer by your side. We recommend Stat! Syringe. This product is designed to quickly administer the proper dose of hydrogen peroxide 3% to safely induce vomiting in dogs. This syringe can help save your dog's life in an emergency situation.
How to Give Turkey to My Dog
If you decide to feed your dog turkey this Thanksgiving, there are a few things you need to know. First, cook the turkey plain with no seasonings. Second, remove any bones from the meat before giving them to your dog. Third, remove the skin from the turkey. Finally, only give your dog small quantities of turkey meat at a time. By following these simple guidelines, you can safely include your dog in the Thanksgiving feast!
Conclusion
So, can dogs eat turkey? The answer is yes, but it’s important to be mindful of the potential risks associated with feeding your pup too much turkey. As always, if you have any questions or concerns about what’s best for your pet, consult with your veterinarian. Thanks for reading and happy Thanksgiving!