Because of the upward trend in COVID-19 cases, many traditional Thanksgiving gatherings across the country will be reduced to smaller guest lists. With many states asking for no more than three households being represented in a single home, some of us might have not necessarily reduced the turkey sizes. And as much as our “repawters” would love to fill in the empty chairs at the table and enjoy a savory meal, it might not be the best thing for their tiny tummies.

In this edition of “Sophisticated Pets,” our “repawters” went to the sources at Trupanion, a leader in medical insurance for dogs and cats, for advice on what provides great sustenance and joy versus a trip to the emergency room. It turns out some Thanksgiving foods can be toxic to your pet! So watch the table scraps and extra treats because they can add up quickly. The experts at Trupanion say just a 5 ounce serving of dark meat turkey for your small dog can be the caloric equivalent of an entire 8-inch pumpkin pie for you!

Our “repawters” have reluctantly gathered this list of foods and ingredients that are potentially toxic for dogs and cats:

-Butter and other fats
-Garlic, Chives, Onions, Scallions
-Raisins, Currents, Grapes
-Candied sweet potatoes or yams

1) Turkey

A small amount of lean, light meat is okay but make sure to keep the skin, fat, and any dark meat far from your furry friend. Most importantly, make sure that your dog does not sneak any cooked bones as they can cause choking or if ingested, damage your pet’s digestive system.

2) Stuffing

Stuffing often contains onions, chives, garlic, and/or scallions. Those ingredients are toxic to pets, plus, with the added butter, stuffing is likely a fatty treat that your pet does not need.

3) Mashed Potatoes
Bland mashed potatoes are okay. But as with stuffing, any mashed potatoes prepared with garlic, onions, scallions, or chives should definitely be kept away from pets.

4) Pumpkin Pie, Apple Pie and Pecan Pie! 

It’s best not to purposely feed pie to your four-legged friend. Instead consider one of the many dog-friendly versions that gives your pup a taste of pumpkin pie without all of the sugary sweetness. We pre-purchased an amazing slice from Treats Unleashed. You can always grab some leftovers on Friday!

If you have a puppy, kitten or multi-pet household, avoid these food groups throughout the holiday season. As much as they beg for them, you’ll all sleep better if you take our advice! Now leave the gobble gobble to the humans!