Celebrating Safely with Your Furry Family This Thanksgiving
Canadian Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and while we're gathering around the table with family, our pets are often right there with us—hoping for a taste of the feast! As the weather cools and we transition into autumn here in Ontario, it's the perfect time to talk about keeping your pets safe during the holiday and preparing them for the colder months ahead.
At Creature Comfort Pet Emporium, we've been helping pet parents navigate seasonal changes for over 20 years. This October, we want to share what we know about Thanksgiving safety and fall wellness—because when you know better, you do better.
Canadian Thanksgiving Foods: What's Safe and What's Not
Let's start with the big question: what can your pets actually enjoy from the Thanksgiving table?
Safe Thanksgiving Foods for Pets:
- Plain turkey meat (white or dark, no skin, no seasoning, no bones)
- Plain sweet potato or pumpkin (cooked, no butter, sugar, or spices)
- Green beans (plain, steamed or raw)
- Carrots (raw or cooked, no seasoning)
-
Plain cranberries (fresh, in very small amounts)
Dangerous Thanksgiving Foods to Avoid:
- Cooked Turkey bones (can splinter and cause choking or internal damage - Raw bones are safe)
- Onions (toxic to both dogs and cats, even in small amounts)
- Grapes and raisins (highly toxic, can cause kidney failure)
- Stuffing (often contains onions, garlic, and other harmful ingredients)
- Gravy and fatty foods (can trigger pancreatitis)
- Chocolate desserts (toxic to pets)
- Xylitol (artificial sweetener found in many baked goods—extremely toxic)
- Alcohol (even small amounts can be dangerous)
- Nutmeg and other baking spices (can be toxic in larger quantities)
The biggest Thanksgiving danger? Pancreatitis from fatty foods. Rich gravies, buttery mashed potatoes, and turkey skin might seem like treats, but they can lead to serious digestive upset and even emergency vet visits. We see this every year, and it's completely preventable.
Create a Pet-Friendly Thanksgiving Feast
Your pets don't have to miss out on the celebration! Here's how to include them safely:
DIY Pet-Safe Thanksgiving Plate:
- Small portion of plain, cooked turkey (no skin or bones)
- A spoonful of plain pumpkin or sweet potato
- A few steamed green beans or carrots
- Mix it with their regular food to avoid tummy upset
Even Better: Stick with What They Know
If your pet is on a raw diet with brands like Bold by Nature, Healthy Paws, or Iron Will, consider giving them their regular meal with a small Thanksgiving twist—a bit of plain turkey or pumpkin mixed in. Consistency is key to digestive health, especially during the holidays when routines get disrupted.
Fall Weather Transitions in Ontario: What Your Pet Needs
As we move from warm September days to crisp October mornings here in Ontario, your pet's body is adjusting too. The fall transition affects everything from their coat to their energy levels to their immune system.
What Changes in Autumn:
- Cooler temperatures mean pets may need more calories to maintain body heat
- Shorter days can affect mood and activity levels
- Drier air (especially indoors with heating) can impact skin and coat health
-
Seasonal allergens shift from grasses to molds and dust
Signs Your Pet is Adjusting to Fall:
- Increased shedding due to shorter daylight hours triggering their system to prepare for winter and winter coat regrowth
- Increased or decreased appetite (like humans- everyone is different!)
- More time spent indoors
- Dry, flaky skin or dull coat
Preparing Your Pet for Canadian Winter: Immune System Support
Here in Ontario, we know winter is coming—and it comes hard. October is the perfect time to start building your pet's immune system for the cold months ahead.
Why Gut Health = Immune Health
Did you know that approximately 70% of your pet's immune system is located in their gut? A healthy digestive system is your pet's first line of defense against illness, especially during seasonal transitions and stressful times like the holidays.
Baie Run Probiotics: Your Autumn Wellness Essential
We carry Baie Run Canine Omega 3 and recommend pairing it with quality probiotics like Omega Alpha Probiotic 8 Plus to support:
- Digestive health during diet changes or holiday indulgences
- Immune function as temperatures drop
- Nutrient absorption from their food
- Overall vitality through seasonal transitions
Probiotics help maintain the balance of good bacteria in your pet's gut, which is especially important if they've been on antibiotics, experienced stress, or are transitioning to a new diet. Adding a daily probiotic to your pet's routine this fall can make a real difference in how they handle the winter months.
Other Immune-Supporting Supplements Available In-Store:
- Pawtanical Full Spectrum Hemp Terpene Oil (our best-seller for stress and inflammation support)
- Omega-3 fatty acids (for skin, coat, and anti-inflammatory benefits)
- Multivitamins (to fill nutritional gaps during seasonal changes)
Autumn Nutrition: Adjusting for the Season
As the weather cools, your pet's nutritional needs may shift slightly.
For Raw Feeders: You might notice your pet eating a bit more as temperatures drop—this is normal! Their bodies are working harder to stay warm. Monitor their body condition and adjust portions as needed. Fall is also a great time to add seasonal vegetables like pumpkin (great for digestion) to their meals.
For All Pets:
- Hydration remains critical even as temperatures cool—pets still need fresh water available at all times
- Omega-3s support skin and coat health during the dry autumn and winter months
-
Digestive support helps pets handle seasonal changes and occasional dietary indiscretions (like sneaking Thanksgiving treats!)
Quick Autumn Safety Tips
Beyond Thanksgiving, here are a few other fall hazards to watch for:
- Antifreeze (extremely toxic and tastes sweet—store securely and clean up spills immediately)
- Mushrooms (wild mushrooms growing in your yard can be toxic)
- Rodent poison (more common in fall as rodents seek shelter—keep away from pets)
-
Shorter daylight hours (use reflective gear for evening walks)
Visit Us This October
We're here to help you navigate every season with your pet. Whether you need advice on transitioning to raw food, choosing the right supplements for winter prep, or just want to chat about your pet's health, we'd love to see you.
Creature Comfort Pet Emporium Store Hours:
Tuesday–Friday: 10am–6pm
Saturday: 10am–5pm
Sunday: 12pm–4pm
Tuesday–Friday: 10am–6pm
Saturday: 10am–5pm
Sunday: 12pm–4pm
Have questions about your pet's safety and wellness? Drop by the store or reach out—we're always happy to help keep your furry family members healthy and thriving.
Here's to a safe, healthy, and happy Thanksgiving with your pets!
