Happy Thanksgiving! Raise your hand if you’re gearing up to host a big crowd. While you know what is safe for your pet to eat, we often see an increase in food-related veterinary visits around the holidays. Why? Because even though you’re a pro, guests often unknowingly feed pets un-approved foods.

With the hustle and bustle of having a big crew at your house, it can happen! Make sure you let your family know what scraps from their plate are and aren’t okay for your pet to eat. We’ve prepared our top 6 tips to help you get Turkey Day ready!

#1 The elephant in the room…turkey

It’s no secret that pets like turkey. It’s okay for them to have a few pieces, but before you offer any to your pet, make sure it’s completely cooked. Just like you, undercooked meat can cause digestive problems for your pet. Also watch out for bones. Even small bones, if ingested, can cause big problems.

#2 Green light the green beans

Green beans are a great option if you’re looking for a special treat for your pet. Just make sure they don’t have any onions, garlic, leeks, or chives hiding out.

#3 A hidden harm: onions, leeks, garlic and chives

Many of your guests probably don’t know that all parts of onion plants and plants in the onion family are toxic to pets. Make sure nobody is feeding your pet something that may include these toxic ingredients. Sorry Fido - this means no stuffing!

#4 Ehhhht to eggs (raw ones that is)

Raw eggs can contain Salmonella and E. Coli. You won’t be having a very festive day if your pet starts experiencing symptoms from eating a raw egg… Also, make sure you avoid feeding any raw doughs that contain egg.

#5 Acorns, they look pretty but they’re not good for your pet

Acorns contain tannins which are toxic to pets and can cause blockages. If you’ve got small children around, keep decorative acorns high out of reach to prevent any accidental feedings.

#6 Keep an eye on the dessert table

Most of your guests probably know that chocolate is toxic to pets, but they might not know that popular Thanksgiving dessert ingredients such as raisins and currants are also highly toxic.

Consider putting up a small sign on the buffet with a picture of your pet and a list of things that they can and can’t have to make sure your guests don’t mistakenly feed them something harmful.

Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!