Tip of the Month: Thanksgiving Edition!
Thanksgiving can be risky for dogs because many holiday foods are not safe for them. If you are traveling, planning ahead for pet boarding Alpharetta, GA can also help keep your dog safe and stress low during the holiday.
If you are tempted to share your table delectables with your pup, you may want to reconsider. According to doghealth.com, some of the treats on your table may be hazardous for dogs.
What Thanksgiving foods are dangerous for dogs?
Toxic foods are foods that may be safe for people but harmful for dogs.
Several foods are edible for humans but harmful for dogs. Garlic, onions, grapes, raisins, avocados, Macadamia nuts, coffee, alcohol, and especially chocolate are all toxic when eaten in sufficient quantities. These foods should never be shared with your dog.
Holiday meals can also include rich leftovers, seasoned dishes, and cooked bones that may cause stomach upset or more serious health problems. Thanksgiving is a good time to be extra careful about what falls from the table or gets offered by guests.
The most common Thanksgiving foods to keep away from dogs include:
Garlic and onions
Grapes and raisins
Chocolate desserts
Alcohol
Coffee
Macadamia nuts
Avocados
Cooked bones
Fatty scraps and heavily seasoned foods
For more information on toxic people foods and the symptoms to watch for, visit the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (phone: 888-4ANI-HELP, or 888-426-4435). If your dog is ill after indulging in any of these foods, consult your veterinarian right away.
Why is Thanksgiving challenging for dogs?
Thanksgiving can be stressful for dogs because the day often includes visitors, open doors, dropped food, loud activity, and changes to routine.
Even well-behaved dogs can get overwhelmed when the home is busy. That is one reason some families choose Alpharetta dog boarding during Thanksgiving travel, especially when they want a more consistent environment for their dog.
Is pet boarding a good idea during Thanksgiving travel?
Yes, pet boarding can be a good idea during Thanksgiving travel if your dog stays with a trusted facility that provides supervision, structure, and a calm routine.
For families looking for pet boarding Alpharetta, GA, Atlanta Dog Trainer offers dog boarding, and it is smart to reserve holiday stays early because spots can fill quickly.
How do I prepare my dog for boarding over a holiday?
To prepare your dog for boarding over a holiday, book early, confirm care instructions, and make sure your dog’s routine is easy for staff to follow.
If your dog benefits from structure and activity before an overnight stay, some owners also explore Doggie Day School to help their dogs stay engaged through training, play, and exercise.
Here are the steps to prepare your dog for holiday boarding:
Reserve your dog’s stay in advance during busy holiday weeks
Share feeding, medication, and behavior notes clearly
Pack your dog’s regular food if requested
Keep drop-off calm and simple
Choose a facility that matches your dog’s needs and temperament
What should I pack for my dog's holiday boarding stay?
Most holiday boarding stays require the basics your dog already uses at home.
What you pack may depend on the facility, but common items include:
Your dog’s regular food
Any medications with instructions
Emergency contact information
Feeding directions
A leash and collar
Approved comfort items if the facility allows them
How can you keep your dog safe at home during Thanksgiving?
The best way to keep your dog safe at home during Thanksgiving is to manage food access, remind guests not to feed your dog, and maintain as much routine as possible.
This can help reduce food-related stomach issues, lower stress, and make holiday gatherings easier to manage. If holiday behavior issues are already a concern, Atlanta Dog Trainer also offers a range of dog training services that can help with obedience, routines, and overall behavior support before busy family events.
Thanksgiving Dog Safety and Boarding FAQs
Can dogs eat turkey on Thanksgiving?
Plain, unseasoned turkey in a very small amount may be less risky than other table foods, but turkey skin, bones, gravy, and seasoned meat should be avoided.
What should guests know before feeding a dog during Thanksgiving?
Guests should know not to feed your dog from the table, offer bones, or leave plates where a dog can reach them.
What are the signs that a dog ate something unsafe?
Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, drooling, restlessness, or unusual behavior after eating.
How far in advance should I book holiday dog boarding?
You should book holiday dog boarding as early as possible because Thanksgiving is a high-demand period, and quality boarding spots may fill quickly.
What if my dog gets anxious during holiday gatherings?
A quiet room, a steady routine, and less access to guests can help reduce stress during a busy Thanksgiving celebration.
How do I choose the best dog boarding option for Thanksgiving?
Choose a boarding option with supervised care, a clean environment, clear policies, and services that fit your dog’s temperament and routine.
Updated on March 26, 2026.