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Let's Talk Turkey and Pet Safety

It can be difficult, if not all but impossible, to say "No" to those pleading puppy-dog eyes staring you down at the Thanksgiving day table. But, you must be strong. All that delicious, rich, and fatty food, can make your pet sick.

Here's some tips to help you and your pet play it safe this Thanksgiving holiday.

1. Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise. Take your dog for a long walk early in the day as well as after the big holiday feast.

2. Educate your dinner guests. Let your guests know the house rules--don't feed your pets from the table, what, if any foods, your pets are allowed to have, etc.

3. Secure the trash. Left-overs from the trash (such as roasting bags, string, pop-up timers) can be hazardous to your pet.

4. Do not give your pet potentially poisonous and hard to digest foods like turkey skin, turkey bones, grapes, raisins, onions, chocolate, onions, sugar substitute sweeteners like Xylitol.

5. Keep emergency contact information handy. Have the phone numbers of your veterinarian, the nearest emergency clinic, and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center National Hotline: 888-426-4435 readily accessible.

So, share a nice juicy piece of white meat turkey with your pet if you must. And enjoy a wonderful, safe Thanksgiving with your family, friends and pets.