Thanksgiving Pet Safety Tips Issued By Suffolk Organization

SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY — With Thanksgiving on Thursday, people are gearing up to meet with their families, eat and drink to their heart's content, watch football, and do anything else they want to do with their holiday. The holiday season can pose a few risks to our furry friends.

The Suffolk County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) issued Thanksgiving safety tips for pets.

"The holiday season is fast approaching," the Suffolk SPCA stated. "As you prepare for the first family feast of the season, the Suffolk County SPCA asks that you remember your pets in the preparation of these festivities."

1) Avoid feeding your pet table scraps, as this may cause, at a minimum, weight gain, and we all want to avoid that this season. Keep turkey bones away from your pets. These dangerous treats can cause obstructions, choking and damage to the intestines. Bones can splinter on consumption and cause grave injury.

2) Pets thrive on routine. Please make sure that your holiday guests understand your pet's "house rules" when it comes to playtime, treats, jumping, getting on counters, table scraps, and the like. Help them to keep your pet mindful of its training and good manners.

3) Chocolate should be kept out of your pet's reach all the time. Dark chocolate is the most toxic and can be fatal. Onions and garlic can cause severe anemia, especially in cats. Raisins and grapes can cause significant kidney damage and result in renal failure.

4) As you prepare for the cold weather be sure to clean up antifreeze spills right away. The sweet smell of this highly poisonous substance attracts pets to it.

"We would like to wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving," the Suffolk SPCA wrote. "May you enjoy a feast of good food, family and friends."

People can report any acts of cruelty or neglect to the Suffolk County SPCA at 631 382-7722.