What Foods Can My Dog Have on Thanksgiving?

by Britt

Published: October 14th, 2023

Photo credit: GoodFocused / Shutterstock.com

Can you believe it is already winter, and Thanksgiving is just around the corner? As the holiday approaches, many dog owners may wonder how to include their furry family members in the festivities safely. While Thanksgiving is best known for being a time to indulge in delicious meals, we must remember that not all human foods are safe to share.

In this article, we will look at the most common Thanksgiving dinner options, ranging from turkey and ham to veggies and desserts, creating a list of holiday treats your dog can enjoy safely (excluding others).

Let’s get started on planning your dog’s ideal Thanksgiving feast…

Should I Bring My Dog to Thanksgiving Dinner?

For some families, including the pets in their holiday gatherings is a decision that is just as natural as any other member of the family. But there are a few essential questions that you should ask yourself before packing up your dog’s favorite toys and heading out on a holiday family road trip.

Who is hosting the holiday gathering? Have you asked them if dogs are welcome?
Does your dog have good manners around the table (not begging, counter surfing, or trying to steal food)?
Is there a quiet space for your dog to go if they feel overwhelmed?
Will there be other dogs there? Have they met previously, or will they be meeting for the first time in a busy/noisy setting (not advisable)?
Will all family members respect your boundaries regarding what they can/can’t give your dog?
Is your dog comfortable with large gatherings and high-energy spaces?

While we understand wanting to have your dog by your side, many dogs would be happier at home in their cozy bed or on the couch – and that’s okay! When your dinner is over and you head home, you’ll have a loving companion waiting to greet you.

What Not to Feed Dogs on Thanksgiving?

Few things will ruin the vibe of your family Thanksgiving dinner like a trip to your local emergency veterinary clinic. Unfortunately, every holiday weekend, an influx of dogs come through the doors due to toxicity and poisoning – the result of eating unsafe foods (stolen or given to them) from the Thanksgiving dinner table. Here are a few items to keep safely out of your pup’s reach:

Stuffing or Dressing

Thanksgiving dinner isn’t the same without this traditional dish, but stuffing is made with several ingredients that could make your dog sick. Onions and garlic are in almost every traditional stuffing recipe, but these members of the Allium family can be extremely dangerous if ingested. They damage red blood cell membranes, causing a decrease in the red blood cell count, which can trigger serious health complications such as kidney damage. In the most severe cases, ingesting onions and garlic can be fatal. Plus, stuffing or dressing is often made with a variety of spices that can upset your pup’s stomach!

Bread Dough

Many families will enjoy freshly baked bread and buns with their holiday dinner. But did you know that unbaked bread dough is dangerous for dogs? At this stage in the baking process, the yeast is still working its magic – emitting gas as it rises. If this happens in your dog’s stomach after ingesting the dough, the build-up of gas can cause many health problems, ranging from minor stomach upset to more serious conditions like Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV), better known as “bloat.”

Mashed Potatoes

Potatoes aren’t horrible for your dog if cooked properly without unhealthy spices or other additives. However, they aren’t the healthiest choice of seasonal snacks. But mashed potatoes introduce a few other concerning ingredients, like butter and cream, that can leave your dog feeling quite ill.

Corn on the Cob

Much like the mashed potatoes, corn itself isn’t dangerous. In fact, corn is a healthy food topper when it’s offered in moderation, packed with linoleic acid, antioxidants, protein, and good carbohydrates. The problem arises when your dog tries to eat their corn still on the cob. Corn cobs can create a choking hazard, an intestinal blockage, or a long-term gastrointestinal problem.

Pecans

Is pecan pie on your Thanksgiving dinner menu? If so, you must ensure it is set up somewhere safely outside your dog’s reach. Pecans contain juglone, a toxic compound that is also found in walnuts. While they likely aren’t going to show any ill effects if they snag a single pecan, eating several can lead to digestive problems and damage to the neurological system. Signs of pecan poisoning include nausea, vomiting, tremors, and seizures.

Candy and Chocolate

It likely comes as no surprise to see chocolate included on this list – this sweet treat is one of the better-known foods to avoid feeding your dog. But chocolate isn’t the only sweet treat you should watch out for. Too much sugar can make your dog sick, meaning all candies should be kept out of your pup’s reach.

Even more concerning than sugary sweets, however, are sugar-free treats. If you have family members who prefer desserts with sugar additives to satisfy their sweet tooth, pay careful attention to the ingredients. Xylitol is a popular artificial sweetener that is highly toxic to dogs. It can be found in sugar-free candies, gum, breath mints, baked goods, and more. If you suspect your dog has eaten something containing xylitol, immediately contact your nearest veterinarian or emergency vet clinic.

Is Ham or Turkey Toxic to Dogs?

You should avoid feeding your dog ham. A small bite isn’t going to cause serious harm (so rest assured if you’re reading this after your dog snuck a nibble before being caught), but in larger quantities, it can lead to a long list of health-related issues due to the high sodium and fat content. Salt toxicity is a very serious and potentially fatal condition that can cause dehydration, digestive problems, kidney damage, and seizures, among other issues. A high-fat diet increases your dog’s risk of obesity and pancreatitis.

Is Thanksgiving turkey okay for dogs? This isn’t as black and white as many other holiday treats. There are some parts of a turkey, when prepared properly, that are a healthy addition to your dog’s diet. However, some parts should be avoided.

Bones from a cooked turkey are very brittle and run the risk of shattering, potentially causing damage to your dog’s esophagus or intestinal tract. You should also skip feeding your dog any skin from the turkey as it is high in fat content, like ham, increasing the risk of pancreatitis. If you choose to feed your dog turkey this holiday, it’s best to cook a small portion free from the spices used in our own cooking, as they can also make our dogs sick.

Photo credit: LightField Studios / Shutterstock.com

What Can Dogs Eat on Thanksgiving?

Now that you have a solid list of foods NOT to feed your dog this holiday season let’s shift gears and look at the more positive side of the conversation… What foods can you prepare for your pup’s Thanksgiving feast? Here are a few ideas to help you create the perfect menu:

Turkey (Boneless and Skinless)

As we already discussed, turkey can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet. However, it needs to be cooked plain without any oils or spices. One of the easiest ways to do this is to pick up a separate turkey breast when shopping for your Thanksgiving feast and cook it specifically for your pup. Don't worry if it looks “bland” or uninteresting compared to your seasoned and dressed bird. To your dog, that plain turkey breast is an incredible and safe feast!

Another way to offer a festive snack is to consider baking a treat for your pup that incorporates turkey, like our Thanksgiving Turkey Dog Treats. These treats are easy to make and packed with vitamins, minerals, and other nutritional benefits.

Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin pie, as we know it, isn’t a healthy choice for your dog – but pumpkin itself is often credited as a superfood for pets. It is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and E, potassium, iron, and fiber. In fact, many veterinarians recommend feeding your dog a small serving of pure pumpkin if they are suffering from any type of digestive upset as a natural solution.

You can prepare fresh pumpkin for your dog (don’t add any oils or spices) or purchase pumpkin puree in a can – just be sure it is pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling.

This seasonal staple is often seen in dog treats during the holiday season, including commercially available treats and our favorite Thanksgiving dog treat recipes.

Here are a few pumpkin-themed recipes you may want to whip up for your pup:

Green Beans

Not only are green beans a safe snack for your pup, but they are also highly nutritious and recommended as a treat by veterinarians and animal nutritionists. If your pup loves the crunch of fresh vegetables, offer a handful of raw green beans. For those who prefer to cook up a complete holiday feast for their pup, they can be steamed, boiled, or roasted – just avoid adding oils and spices when cooking. They are a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, protein, iron, calcium, and fiber.

Sweet Potato

A favorite in our household, sweet potato is another holiday food often seen in commercial and homemade dog treats. Why? They are an incredible source of dietary fiber, supporting a healthy and optimized digestive system. Studies have even found a connection between eating sweet potatoes and a decreased risk of heart disease and some types of cancer. However, too much sweet potato could make your dog sick, so you should offer this holiday treat in moderation.

To cook dog-friendly sweet potato, it should be cooked with the skin removed. The skin is more challenging to digest, which could leave your dog’s stomach feeling “off” or even cause a dangerous blockage. The same can be said for eating it raw.

Consider boiling or roasting your dog’s sweet potato and mashing it with a spoon before serving, similar to mashed potatoes (without butter and cream). Or you can try one of these recipes for sweet potato treats that your pup is sure to love:

Puppy Apple Crisp

A classic fall flavor, apples often find their way into many of our holiday desserts. So, it only makes sense that you complete your dog’s holiday menu with a tasty apple treat. This fall fruit is a source of vitamins A and C as well as dietary fiber. They are also very effective at cleaning your dog’s teeth and freshening their breath as they chew on them.

If your dog prefers raw apple slices, be sure to remove the core and seeds first, as they can be dangerous. Anytime we slice up apples for ourselves, our dogs are right there batting their eyes for a slice. You can also incorporate apples into a baked dessert to spoil your pup for Thanksgiving this year.

Here are a few apple-flavored treat recipes you can try:

Final Thoughts: What Foods Can My Dog Have on Thanksgiving?

You can safely celebrate the Thanksgiving season with your best friend while spoiling them a little for the holiday. But to do this, you must familiarize yourself with which foods are safe for them to enjoy and which should be avoided.

Rather than feeding table scraps from the dinner table, consider preparing a dog-friendly meal with seasonal flavors like turkey, sweet potato, pumpkin, and apple. Prepare this food without any oils and spices to avoid upsetting your best friend’s stomach. Most foods can be prepared safely with minimal effort to create a Thanksgiving plate that resembles your own, or you can incorporate these flavors into a tasty baked dog treat.

Whatever you decide, enjoy making memories with your furry family members this Thanksgiving!

Britt

Britt Kascjak is a proud pet mom, sharing her heart (and her home) with her “pack” which includes her husband John, their 2 dogs – Indiana and Lucifer – and their 2 cats – Pippen and Jinx. She has been active in the animal rescue community for over 15 years, volunteering, fostering and advocating for organizations across Canada and the US. In her free time, she enjoys traveling around the country camping, hiking, and canoeing with her pets.

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What Can I Give My Dog for Pain?

We hate to see our dogs in pain. To help relieve the pain, here’s what you can give your pooch to ease the suffering. Although he may not be able to tell you himself, when your dog is in pain you will probably know it. Dogs have a natural instinct to hide their pain, but you will see subtle signs such as a change in behavior or activity level. When your dog is in pain, the only thing you want to do is help him find relief. Keep reading to learn about what you can and can’t give your dog for pain. What is the Most Common Pain Reliever for Dogs? When it comes to pain medications, there are a number of different options out there. Choosing the right medication depends on the cause of your dog’s pain and the dosage can be determined by your veterinarian. In most cases, chronic pain in dogs is caused by musculoskeletal problems like arthritis – when pain is caused by some kind of injury, your veterinarian will include pain medication as part of his treatment plan. Related: Can I Give My Dog Aleve? The most common type of pain medication used for dogs is nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs). These are over-the-counter medications which work by inhibiting the activity of an enzyme called cyclooxygenase which plays a role in producing prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are a type of lipid compound which promote fever, inflammation, and pain. The most common NSAIDs used to treat pain in dogs include Metacam, Rimadyl, Piroxicam, Novox, Deramaxx, Previcox, and Etodolac. What Are the Other Options? Though NSAIDs are a great option for pain relief, they do come with certain risks. In addition to blocking the enzymes that contribute to pain and inflammation, NSAIDs may also affect blood clotting and circulation to the kidneys. So, taking NSAIDs could resolve your dog’s pain but may put him at risk for hemorrhage or kidney problems. Related: What is the Proper Aspirin Dosage for Dogs? Other types of pain relieving medications your dog may take include opiates, steroids, nutraceuticals, and antidepressants. Opiates like Morphine, Paregoric, Buprenorphine, and Codeine are narcotic drugs that block the dog’s ability to recognize pain and, while they may work to reduce pain, these drugs are regulated by the DEA and dogs often develop a tolerance to them. Steroid drugs like Prednisone, Dexamethasone, and corticosteroids work by reducing inflammation which can contribute to pain. Nutraceuticals, or nutritional supplements, may also help with pain – particularly chronic pain. Some examples include omega-3 fatty acid supplements and glucosamine which is primarily used for joint pain. Antidepressants like Elavil and Tofranil are also sometimes used to relieve pain in dogs. Safety Tips for Giving Your Dog Pain Relieving Medications Just because these medications may be safe for dogs to take in the proper dosage doesn’t mean you don’t need to be careful. There is still a high risk for side effects with some of these medications and it is very easy to accidentally give your dog too much. You should always be on the lookout for side effects such as the following: Loss of appetiteVomitingDiarrheaUlcersConstipationMood changesRestlessnessTrouble breathingConfusionExcessive droolingWeight lossHair thinning At the first sign of trouble, you should consult your veterinarian. If your dog has taken too much of any of these pain relievers, he could develop toxicity and it is important that he get treatment as soon as possible. Never give your dog medications without your veterinarian’s approval and always follow dosing instructions very carefully.

I Can’t Afford My Dog’s Vet Bill! What Do I Do?

You’re thankful that your dog was able to recover from a life-threatening illness or accident… but the vet bill is way out of your budget. How are you going to fix this problem? You’ve been in this situation before: your dog isn’t acting like his old self, so you take him to the vet. Most times, it’s nothing serious, but when the vet makes a serious diagnosis, all you want to do is make sure your pooch gets the care he needs. Once your dog is out of the woods, or you know the course of treatment that needs to be undertaken, you can start to relax… or can you? A serious condition that requires medication or surgery, as well as repeat vet follow ups, can put a major damper on your finances. What do you do when you can’t afford a vet bill? We’ve got a couple of tips for you: Ask about a payment plan. Many veterinarians allow their patients to pay large bills in installments, so don’t be afraid to ask!Use a credit card. If you can’t pay your vet bill immediately but you know that you’ll have the money for it soon, you can put it on a credit card in the meantime. Just be sure to pay it off before interest kicks in!Take out a personal loan. Some banks offer personal loans in amounts up to $100,000 or you can find an online loan company. In many cases you won’t have to put down collateral, but you may be subject to high interest rates.A line of credit: Most likely, your bank offers a personal line of credit if you’ve been a good customer. The great thing about a line of credit is that the interest rates are much lower than a credit card or personal loan.Offer some kind of exchange. If you live in a small town or you have a personal relationship with the vet, you might be able to negotiate an exchange of goods or services in lieu of payment.Crowdsourcing websites: This option has become increasing popular over the past few years. Basically, you post your story on a site like GoFundMe, Indiegogo, and Giveforward. You can share the link to your story on social media sites and ask friends to share your story. Visitors to the site can donate as little or as much money as they can to help pay your vet bill. But don’t rely on this method to cover the totally amount – expect to get some help from friends. And don’t use it like it’s your personal bank, because that’s just bad karma.Sell, sell, sell! We wrote about a woman who was willing to sell everything she owned just to keep your beloved dog alive. In fact, she held an open-house auction where the motto was: If it isn’t nailed down, you can buy it. You don’t have to go that far, but holding a yard sale or posting a listing on Craigslist can help pay off a hefty vet bill. The worst thing you can do is to dodge a vet bill. If you simply refuse to pay a bill, your account might be turned over to collections and that leads to even more trouble. If you can’t afford to pay a bill, at least talk to the veterinarian to see whether any of the options listed above are viable. Where to Find Affordable Veterinary Care In an emergency, you may not always be able to choose where you take your dog for veterinary care. For things like booster shots and wellness visits, however, you have a choice in where to go. If you are concerned about high vet bills, take the time to look up some free or low-cost veterinary clinics in your area. If you aren’t sure where to look, ask at a local veterinarian’s office or do an online search – you can also check with your local humane society or rescue organization. If you need even more help paying for veterinary care, there are certain breed-specific veterinary care assistance programs that you might be able to find through the humane society or online. Making sure that your dog sees the vet at least once a year is incredibly important. Not only does your dog need annual vaccinations, but a routine exam will catch developing conditions when they are still in the early stages. Most importantly, the best time to start budgeting and saving for your dog’s health is while he’s still healthy.

How Do I Train My Dog to Wear a Muzzle?

Introducing a new tool to your dog can feel like uncharted territory. While some dogs will readily accept whatever is thrown their way, others will become stressed or anxious when presented with something new. Unfortunately, if you are in a position where a muzzle is necessary for the safety of your dog or others around you, forgoing a tool because your dog appears to be uninterested in it isn’t an option. So, what do you do? How do you train your dog to wear a muzzle? This guide will dig into the importance of conditioning when planning to muzzle your dog. This includes explaining what conditioning is, walking you through the process step-by-step, and sharing some helpful tips to set you up for success. What is Muzzle Conditioning? Before expecting your dog to wear their muzzle, it is recommended that you take the time to focus on muzzle training, also referred to as muzzle conditioning. This is the process of introducing the muzzle alongside positive rewards. If each time your dog sees or interacts with the muzzle, they get “good things,” it will create a positive association. Over time, they will not only tolerate the muzzle but happily accept it. Why? They recognize that wearing their muzzle means they will receive good things like verbal praise, pets, and their favorite treats. How Long Does It Take for a Dog to Get Used to a Muzzle? There is no one guaranteed timeline when working on muzzle conditioning. While some dogs will quickly take to the muzzle, adjusting in just a few days, others will take longer. Some factors that can impact this include your dog’s personality, trainability, previous experience (positive or negative) with a muzzle, and their trust/bond with you as the person introducing this tool to them. It’s important to keep in mind that the time it takes does NOT mean you are doing better or failing at your training efforts. We have three dogs, all of which have been muzzle-trained. While two of our dogs took to the muzzle relatively quickly, Lucifer’s nerves and anxiety made the process more challenging. This doesn’t mean it was impossible. With time, patience, and consistency, he is now the dog that is most comfortable in a muzzle out of the three. We just had to move at his pace.

Can Counterconditioning Help My Reactive Dog?

Caring for and managing a reactive dog can be incredibly frustrating. Your dog may be a sweet angel at home, but they suddenly evolve into a barking, growling, lunging whirlwind when out in public.Luckily, there is hope!Overcoming reactivity is a process that will not happen overnight. However, dog trainers and behaviorists have seen great success with positive reinforcement techniques like counterconditioning.This article will explore how counterconditioning works, the steps involved in the process, realistic timelines and expectations, and tips for a successful journey toward a calmer, more confident dog. Get started today!What is Counterconditioning for Dogs?Let’s start at the beginning—what exactly is counterconditioning, and why is it recommended for managing and treating reactive dogs?Counterconditioning is a behavioral modification technique that focuses on changing your dog’s emotional response to a specific stimulus.For example, some dogs feel fear and anxiety at the sight of another dog. This could be due to a lack of socialization, meaning they weren’t taught that other dogs can be friendly. It could also be a reaction to a past trauma, like having been attacked by another dog. In these situations, counterconditioning can be used to teach your dog that the sight of another dog leads to a positive experience.Why is this an effective approach for addressing reactivity? Reactivity, by definition, is an overreaction to a trigger. While this is often associated with fear or anxiety, some reactive dogs become overly excited. An overexcited dog may jump all over strangers not because they are trying to cause harm but because they are so excited to see them that they can’t control their response.If you have identified your dog’s triggers, you can use this training approach to teach them to respond in a new (and better) way.What Can Counterconditioning Be Used to Treat?Reactivity isn’t the only behavioral condition that can be treated with counterconditioning. This technique can be used to address a wide spectrum of situations in which a pet may be responding to a situation or trigger in an unwanted way.Some situations where it is commonly recommended include helping dogs overcome specific fears or phobias as well as managing or overcoming behaviors related to obsessive-compulsive disorder.Common fears that may be addressed with counterconditioning include: Fear of car ridesAnxiety when visiting the vetNoises (fireworks, thunder)Babies (especially the sound of crying)Strangers or other dogs in publicAllowing guests to enter their homePhysical triggers like cars or bicyclesDogs who dislike grooming, like brushing or having their nails trimmedIf you believe this approach may be helpful in your dog’s unique situation, we recommend speaking with a behaviorist.You can find professionals in your area by browsing the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists website list or the Animal Behavior Consultants Directory by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior.

A Xmas Miracle: Shelter Empty for the First Time in Nearly 50 Years

It was a very merry Christmas for a Pennsylvania shelter whose kennels were empty for the first time in nearly 50 years. Just two weeks ago, the shelter was packed with cats and dogs. However, the staff and volunteers have been working around the clock to make sure the animals in their care got adopted into loving homes. The Adams County SPCA is overjoyed that the shelter is empty, especially during the holidays.“This is the first time in 47 years that the Adams County SPCA is empty let alone on Christmas time, it is a true miracle!” the shelter wrote on Facebook. “To say that we are beyond excited is an understatement! The staff and volunteers have worked very hard to take care of the animals in our care and to make sure they got adopted into the right home.”The organization had a busy year, taking care of 598 animals before adopting them into furever homes. The hardworking staff and volunteers also reunited 125 stay animals with their owners this year alone.Adams County SPCA kennel technician Tanya Hays said that in the last two weeks, the shelter found homes for 20 animals, either as adoptions or strays returned to their owners.“We had to get them all spayed and neutered, vaccinated, and tested for heartworms and thick-born illnesses while also processing a lot of (adoption) applications, so the staff worked really hard,” said Hays to TODAY.“It was pretty cool. It was quite a feat,” she added.The organization took to Facebook to thank their community. “Our community stepped up once again! We thank everyone for their continued support and look forward to new adventures in 2024!”Although it may seem like people are more motivated to adopt animals during the holidays, the shelter actually discourages people from giving pets as gifts because these animals are more likely to be returned to the shelter weeks later. While the staff and volunteers celebrated everything they achieved this year, they are already ready to get back to work. “We will be pulling animals from other shelters in Pennsylvania next week in hopes of relieving some of their stress,” the shelter shared. “Right now we are going to enjoy this accomplishment!”In a follow-up post, the organization shared that it has “received an overwhelming response” from different shelters across the country and also from Canada and Mexico. Members of the public have also reached out asking them to take in abandoned animals. “Even though our hearts break for them and the situation they are in we need to help the members of our community first,” the organization said. The Adams County SPCA is only taking animals from overwhelmed shelters in Pennsylvania and animals surrendered by residents within the county as well as those living in surrounding counties. “We are going to do the best we can to help as many animals and people we can.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Once-Abused Dog Celebrates First Christmas With Vet Who Saved Him

A puppy who survived a terrible beating has celebrated his ‘first proper’ Christmas with a veterinarian nurse who provided a loving furever home for him.A whippet named Terry was only 12 weeks old when he was viciously attacked by his owner and left with severe trauma injuries after he urinated inside. The injured pup was taken to the Hull PDSA Animal Hospital in East Yorks, England, where he was treated by the veterinary nurse Rachel Coombes. During the initial exam, the hospital’s staff discovered that Terry had a bruised eye and lips. The pup was also missing three of his upper incisors, and another tooth was broken.For nurse Coombes, this was love at first sight! She told her colleagues that if Terry survived, she would adopt him, and that’s exactly what she did.Although Terry celebrated Christmas with Rachel and her son Stanley last year, this year was their ‘first proper’ Christmas together since Terry is now fully settled in with the family.“I just felt a connection as soon as he was brought in as he was in such a state we actually thought initially that he hadn’t made it,” said nurse Rachel according to Talker. “Then when we spotted gentle breathing I did say ‘if he survives this I’m going to give him home’ which is exactly what I did.”From that moment on, Terry’s life changed completely! “He hasn’t looked back since - he loves life and is having the best of life right now.” According to his new owner, Terry likes to run around the garden and enjoys going to the beach. The pooch has also formed a strong bond with Rachel’s son, Stanley, and is always by his side. “Last year, we got him around Christmas, but it was such a hectic time for him, and he was learning to settle then.” But this year, the family planned a festive celebration for Terry and did everything to make him feel special during the holiday season. Due to the suspicious nature of Terry’s injuries, RSPCA Inspector Laura Barber was asked to investigate. The inspector said that despite the severity of his injuries and his overall state, Terry had put his head on her and was so trusting. “He was in such a sad state and was really quiet and withdrawn when he was with people. He was so lovable, and it is great to see he has a home he deserves with such a lovely family.”“I know Terry will have the best first proper Christmas with his lovely new family and one he thoroughly deserves,” the inspector added. Terry’s extensive injuries were enough to build a case against his former owner. After appearing in court and admitting to causing unnecessary suffering to a dog, the person was handed a five-year ban on keeping animals. Emily Lomas, an animal care assistant at RSPCA’s Hull branch, said she was thrilled when she learned that Rachel had adopted Terry. “He was very traumatized and overwhelmed when he came to us, we had to really show him there was nothing to be scared of and that he was now safe. We took him to the socialization room, and I remember him falling asleep on my legs,” said Lomas.“We were all thrilled when he was adopted and knew he was going to a special home,” she added.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Are Bengal Cats Really That Wild? Here's What Science Has to Say.

Bengal cats are a truly stunning feline breed, in many ways. According to the International Cat Association (TICA), they hold the title of being the most popular cat breed globally, and it doesn’t really come as a surprise. Their unique and exotic appearance, their unavoidable charm, and their slender physique are certainly the reason for this prestigious title. But even though they are popular, Bengal cats are a relatively new breed in the field of domesticated cats. While most ordinary domestic cat breeds have been around for thousands of years, Bengal cats have been around for less than a century, which comes as a stark contrast. They are a hybrid breed as well, having been created in the 1960s. They came about from the crossing of the domestic cat (Felis Catus), and the Asian Leopard cats (Prionailurus Bengalensis), which are a small, spotted, wild cat species living in Asia. What makes the combination unique is the fact that these two cat species had a common ancestor about 6 million years ago, which means that the genetic differences between them are incredible. The differences are even greater than between humans and chimpanzees!The resulting breed is the Bengal cat, and it is adored for its exotic appearance. It has special spots, just like ocelots or leopards. But most folks ascribe the unique coloration and patterns of these felines to the DNA they received from their wild and distantly related ancestors. And that’s why scientific folks paid special attention to the ancestry of Bengal cats. Greg Barsh, MD, Ph.D., Faculty Investigator at HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology and Professor of Genetics at Stanford University,  himself an expert in the genetics of feline coat coloration and patterning is a key figure in the research process of Bengal ancestry. Together with his team, which is led by Chris Kaelin, Ph.D., and Kelly McGowan, MD, Ph.D., Mr. Barsh is working hard towards unraveling Bengal ancestry through the genetics of popular color traits."Cats are wonderful companions," he explains for  Phys.org, "but our interests go beyond their beautiful and exotic appearance. Like the amazing variation among different dog breeds, artificial selection can be a very powerful engine to create morphologic diversity. What's different about Bengal cats from dogs is the raw genetic material–dogs trace their heritage to wolves from tens of thousands of years ago.""In contrast, Bengal cats trace their heritage to completely different species from millions of years ago. Understanding how these distantly related genomes interact is a general question that applies to any situation when different species exchange genes, from crops to aquaculture to humans and Neandertals."And even though this is a relatively new breed, started about 60 years ago by a few cat enthusiasts, it has grown incredibly during this time. Today, there are hundreds of thousands of registered Bengal cats, which are produced by about 2,000 breeders. Chris Kaelin, the leader of the Bengal cat DNA study, said “Cat fanciers and breeders are very interested in the research, in part because they want to know more about the science behind artificial selection, and in part, because they want to know if our results can help them produce cats with rosettes, stripes, or other exotic markings.” He also added "This is a great example of citizen science–our work has been enabled by the willingness of breeders to participate, and we share our results with the community."One of the surprising discoveries that was produced from the study is that Asian Leopard DNA contributes no more than a few percent to the overall Bengal Cat DNA. In fact, it is revealed that there isn’t one or even a few Asian leopard genes that are causing the unique spotted Bengal appearance. "One of the original motivations for bringing together DNA from the two species was to select for Asian leopard DNA that would recapitulate the appearance of an exotic wild cat in a companion animal," said Kaelin. "It turns out that some of the most striking examples of selection in the breed are for traits that were already present, but very rare, in domestic cats."So, the study reveals that the Bengals are in many ways totally unique. Mixing the two very unique breeds resulted in a cat that is exotic, elegant, charming, and above all loveable. And now, the results published are providing valuable information to all the enthusiasts in love with the Bengal breed. 

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Pet Safety Tips for the Holiday Season

The holiday season is here, and you’re probably excited about everything that this festive time of year has to offer. But even though you might be focused on being with the people you love, eating delicious food, and sharing gifts, it’s important to also consider the effects the holidays can have on your pets.To help you enjoy a safe and happy holiday season with your furbabies, here’s a list of holiday safety tips for pets.

Are Essential Oils Safe for Dogs?

Essential oils have a variety of uses and can be quite beneficial. And that’s not true for human use alone, as these natural oils found their way to the world of pets as well, and can be used to help eliminate a range of issues such as skin irritations, allergies, and fleas, and to boost the overall health of your dog’s coat. But, while there are plenty of pet products that contain essential oils, many owners are wondering: are essential oils really safe for dogs? It is a good question, so let’s try and find the right answer.Essential Oils for Dogs: The BasicsWhile some essential oils can be safe for dogs, it's important to use them with caution. Dogs have a more sensitive sense of smell than humans, so strong scents can be overwhelming, even if they are of natural origin. Certain essential oils, like lavender and chamomile, are generally considered safe in small amounts and when properly diluted. That being said, it is important to know what you are buying and to find essential oils that are made for pets especially. These are likely to be properly diluted and formulated to be safe for dogs. Essential oils can have various effects on dogs, both positive and negative. Some oils, like the aforementioned lavender and chamomile, may help with relaxation and anxiety, and help your pet sleep easier. On the other side, specific oils such as tea tree, citrus, and peppermint can be harmful to dogs and should be avoided.When using essential oils around dogs, it's crucial to dilute them properly. Always dilute essential oils before using them around your dog. Most experts recommend a ratio of 1:50, meaning one drop of essential oil to 50 drops of carrier oil. Of course, you should always observe your dog's reactions. Watch for signs of distress or discomfort in your dog when you introduce a new essential oil. If you notice any adverse reactions, stop using the oil immediately.Ultimately, you should be wary of the application methods you are using. Avoid applying essential oils directly to your dog's skin. Instead, diffuse them in the air or use a diffuser. You can also add a few drops to your dog's collar or bedding if the goal is to deter parasites. Needless to say, it goes a long way to properly familiarize yourself with essential oils and how they are used in the dog world. You can go in-depth with  a book that specializes in this topic, and gain the ultimate knowledge about these helpful oils before utilizing these natural products for your pet’s well-being. 

Scientists Finally Know Why Cats Love Tuna So Much

No food is more synonymous with cats than tuna. Even the pickiest of cats can’t resist the tuna’s fishy flavor. Finally, scientists have learned why cats love tuna so much. In the study published in the journal Chemical Sense, scientists report that cats, like humans, have receptors needed to detect umami flavor. Along with sweet, sour, bitter, and salty, umami is one of the five basic tastes.Umami seems to be the cats’ favorite flavor. Considering that umami gives food a deep and savory meaty aroma, it’s no surprise that an obligate carnivore like a cat would prefer it over all other flavors.The research team also found that cats’ taste receptors bind to two chemicals found in high concentrations in tuna. These chemicals boost the umami flavor, making cats obsessed with tuna. “This is an important study that will help us better understand the preferences of our familiar pers,” says Yasuka Toda, a molecular biologist at Meiji University. According to Toda, this study could help cat food manufacturers create healthier food and more palatable medication for cats. Previous studies showed that cats have a unique palate. Cats can’t taste sugar, because their sweet receptor gene is dysfunctional. Scientists believe that felines lose the ability to taste sweeteners and carbs because they don’t need these macronutrients to survive. Cats also have fewer bitter flavor receptors than humans. This trait is commonly seen in obligated carnivores. “Since discovering that cats don’t have a functional sweet taste receptor, we did wonder what they would respond to instead,” study lead author Scott McGrane, a sensory science expert at Waltham Petcare Science Institute, told Live Science. Humans and other animals possess two genes - Tas1r1 and Tas1r3 that work together to detect umami flavor. Previous research has shown that cats express the umami-related Tas1r3 gene in their taste buds, but it was unclear whether they possess both genes needed to detect umami flavor. The research team led by McGrane discovered that cats expressed both Tas1r1 and Tas1r3 genes in their taste buds. To learn this, the scientist biopsied the tongue of a six-year-old male cat that had been euthanized for health reasons unrelated to this study. However, a closer look at the protein sequences encoded by these genes showed that they are very different from human genes. As it turned out, the main amino acids that activate umami flavor in people - glutamic and aspartic acid - were mutated in cats. “So I began thinking, maybe cats can’t taste umami,” said McGrane. But, as it turned out, amino acids don’t bind to the cat umami receptor alone. Nucleotides, which are common in meat and yeast, bind to the cat receptor and glutamic and aspartic acid then have an enhancing effect. “That’s the exact opposite of what we see in people,” explained McGrane. Cats love tuna because it contains the nucleotide inosine monophosphate. Tuna also contains large quantities of L-histidine, an essential amino acid for cats, that enhances umami flavor. “The L-histidine content of tuna is much higher than of other fish species and meat sources.”These new findings could be used for the development of tastier cat food and pharmaceuticals. Although cat food manufacturers already knew that cats prefer meaty flavors, they now have much more details about the compounds they can start working with. It’s essential for manufacturers to ensure that animals want to eat the food they formulate and find it appealing. “I think umami is as important for cats as sweet is for humans,” said Toda. Dogs, she explained, can taste both sweet and umami, which may explain why they’re not such fussy eaters. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

New Study Searches for the Secret Connection Between ‘Gifted’ Dogs

As dog parents, we all want to believe that our dog is the smartest, most incredible, most amazing dog out there. Right? But there is a select group of dogs whose talent and intelligence stand out above the rest. What makes these dogs so bright? That’s what a new study hopes to understand… Known as “Gifted Word Learner” (GWL) Dogs, these dogs display an impressive vocabulary by learning the names of dozens of their toys, with some learning as many as 125 toys by name! Interested in better understanding this phenomenon and what makes these dogs so naturally gifted, researchers at Eötvös Loránd University in Hungary set out to identify any commonalities between these pups. Their recent study, published in Scientific Reports on December 14, included 41 GWL dogs from nine countries: the US, the UK, Canada, Brazil, Norway, Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, and Hungary. They put out a call for ‘gifted’ dogs, asking owners to complete and submit a self-assessment following their detailed instructions and send the results in a video. Dogs that passed that phase were then given an online vocabulary assessment test to better assess their language skills. The owners were also given a questionnaire to provide a better understanding of each dog’s life experience. “In the questionnaire, we asked the owners about their dog’s life experience, their own experience in raising and training dogs, and about the process by which the dog came to learn the names of his/her toys,” explained Dr. Andrea Sommese, study co-author. Researchers discovered some interesting connections between the GWL dogs using all this information.

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Drug That Could Extend Lifespan of Senior Dogs Enters Clinical Trial

A new and revolutionary drug that could possibly extend the lifespan of healthy, senior dogs, is now entering a major clinical trial. It also has a first patient - an 11-year-old Whippet named Boo. Going by the codename LOY-002, this drug is designed to provide a few more years to senior dogs of most sizes. It is the product of a startup biotech company called  Loyal and is the fruit of their hard work and arduous research. Celine Halioua, the founder and CEO of Loyal, said that the company is working hard to develop several products aimed at the longevity of dogs. One of their initial projects, the LOY-001, was a drug aimed to extend the lifespan of giant and large dog breeds. In November of 2023, this project received the support of the FDA, paving the way for the company's further successes. The underlying mechanisms of aging were the first focus of the company as it developed LOY-001. The drug works by reducing IGF-1, an insulin-like growth factor that is a key biomarker hormone that drives cell growth. It is believed that this reduced the lifespan of extra-large dogs. Similarly, the LOY-002 project aims to extend the lifespan of normal-sized dogs, by improving their metabolic health and thus delaying the onset and the impact of diseases that come with old age. “LOY-002 is a slightly different mechanism [than LOY-001] for senior lifespan extension. It’s a little bit more of a reversal mechanism. It’s not going to make a 10-year-old dog a puppy, but we’ve seen a rescuing in age-related functional decline in dogs that have been treated with this drug,” said Halioua in an interview with  dvm360.The newest study for LOY-002 is expected to last 4 years, and include one thousand enrolled dogs. “It will be one of the largest veterinary clinical studies that, as far as we know, has ever been run,” added Halioua.The first ever receiver of the drug, Boo, was enrolled into the program in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, at the Animal Hospital of Dauphin County. There, an associate veterinary and STAY study investigator, Coby Rudakewiz, became a part of the program for the first time, witnessing its incredible potential. “I’m genuinely excited to be able to share what we’ve seen as a life-changing product to dogs of all sizes,” he said.“This is what it’s all about - keeping dogs feeling their best to enjoy a long life with their owners who love them.”“The launch of this study brings us one step closer to helping senior dogs have more, healthier years with their families…The scale and complexity of STAY reflect Loyal’s commitment to creating demonstrably effective and safe products,” Halioua added. “This is a massive undertaking that wouldn’t be possible without the partnership of the many veterinarians and technicians operating the study in their clinics, and the participating dogs and owners helping advance therapies for all dogs.”For the time being, the company is working hard to receive conditional approval for its revolutionary drug. This would allow them to begin offering it through veterinarians as soon as 2025. This could mean a world of difference for many senior doggos and their families. Seeing your senior doggo enjoy a few extra years without the issues common to old age is nothing short of true happiness, and would mean that the company’s hard efforts were not in vain. Ultimately, this innovative drug gives us hope for the future and makes us wonder what other ground-breaking drugs could we see in the years ahead.

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These Dog Foods Are Recalled Due to Potential Salmonella Contamination

Owners should always be careful about the food that they give to their pet – and it’s only natural that every caring owner will naturally want the best for their pet. But sometimes, even getting the best of the best is not a guarantee as accidents can happen anytime. In this case, the issue is that several popular dog food brands got potentially contaminated with salmonellla. Recently, owners had been shocked to find out that three brands of pet food were recalled - having tested positive for salmonella. And in fact, the past year saw at least seven recalls of dog food brands that were either contaminated with this nasty bacteria, or had harmful elevated levels of vitamins. And, to make matters worse, 2019 saw several dogs get seriously ill after consuming the food. And our dear four-legged friends are not the only ones at risk - handling the contaminated dog food, we too are exposed to salmonella. In 2012, up to 49 people in the United States and Canada fell ill after an outbreak of salmonella that was traced to dry dog food. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 10 persons were so ill that hospitalization was required.According to the CDC, the pesky salmonella bacteria causes “an estimated 1.3 million infections in Americans every year, resulting in 26,500 hospitalizations and 420 deaths.”As for the latest recalls, a notice from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, released on October 30th, includes the following foods: “one by Mid America Pet Food of Mount Pleasant, Texas, involving three lots of Victor Super Premium Dog Food, Select Beef Meal & Brown Rice Formula after random sampling found salmonella, which can sicken pets as well as people who come in contact with it.” Furthermore, it is stated that the food was “Sold by retailers across the U.S., the recalled products come in five-pound, 15-pound and 40-pound bags with a best-by-date of June 12, 2024, and contain one of the following three lot numbers on the back of the products: 1000016890, 1000016891, 1000016892.”The second recall involves TFP Nutrition of Nacogdoches, and their Retriever All Life Stages Mini Chunk Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food, in 50lbs bags, with best-by-dates of October 2024 and production codes of either 3277 TFP or 3278 TFP. Lastly, the third recall in the latest wave is Blue Ridge Beef of Statesville, North Carolina, which is recalling Breeders Choice dog food with the UPC code 8 54298 00193 1 due to possible salmonella contamination.In case you suspect your pet has eaten any potentially infected foods, it is important to know the  symptoms of salmonella poisoning in pets: they can be lethargic, listless, or have diarrhea that is followed by fever and vomiting. If you recognise these in your pet, don’t hesitate to contact your vet. And, if you suspect that the dog food you have is contaminated, make sure to destroy it in a way that children, animals, or people cannot get in contact with it.

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