Embracing the Holiday Cheer with Our Furry Friends

The holiday season brings forth joy, laughter, and cherished traditions, including the joyous feast that often extends well beyond the main celebration. As we indulge in the delicious remnants of our holiday meals, the question often arises: how can we include our beloved canine companions safely in this festive feasting?

My dogs eat (almost) anything.  Or, I should clarify, are allowed to try almost anything.  They will still turn their noses up at some things.  I am a big believer in “everything in moderation“.  This means that I will allow them to eat small amounts of most things, but it also means that if I know I am planning to feed some of the leftovers to the dogs I will likely be more cautious of the herbs, spices and seasonings that I use when cooking. 

Understanding Dogs and Leftovers: Tailoring Feasts for Fido’s Wellness

Our loyal pups hold a special place in our hearts, and it’s crucial to understand their unique dietary needs. While many leftovers can be safe and enjoyable for dogs, some foods might pose risks to their health. Opt for dog-friendly holiday leftovers like lean meats (without cooked bones), plain vegetables, and certain fruits, steering clear of ingredients like raisins, onions, and chocolates that can be harmful to our furry friends.

It’s important to be aware of the seasonings, spices and other ingredients used in the cooking process.  The amount of salt, butter and spices used in preparing human food may be harmful to our dogs.  Likewise, it is imperative that we check labels and ingredients carefully to ensure that foods do not contain xylitol, which can be deadly to our beloved pups. 

Safety Measures: Tips to Ensure Canine Wellness During Feasting

To ensure a dog-safe holiday feast, moderation is key. Control portion sizes and avoid heavily seasoned or fatty foods that might upset your pup’s tummy. Always remove bones and be cautious with spices and rich sauces.

With the festive atmosphere, maintaining a watchful eye on our dogs during and after indulging in leftovers helps us catch any adverse reactions early.  Appetizers and snacks left on tables can be a tempting treat, as can that turkey or ham resting on the counter.  Be vigilant, and think outside the box.  For example, you may want to use the microwave to store the turkey carcass while dinner is being served.  Likewise, that bowl of chocolate-covered raisins that you always leave on the coffee table for guests to snack on could be placed on a higher table, out of reach of any canine guests.  

Dog-Friendly Leftover Recipes: From Leftovers to Tail-Wagging Treats

Transforming holiday leftovers into delightful dog-friendly meals is both creative and rewarding. Consider crafting homemade treats from leftover meats and vegetables, or create a balanced meal by mixing dog-safe leftovers with their regular food. These efforts not only ensure your dog’s safety but also add a touch of holiday cheer to their meals.

In our house, once we started cooking and baking for our dogs our food waste went significantly down.  We have changed the way we cook a little bit, or more realistically the way we plan large meals, to ensure that anything that may be given to the dogs is safe and healthy. 

Here are some ideas on how to safely use leftovers:

• Consider making your dog a tasting plate, or using some of the leftovers on a lick mat or in a stuffed food toy.  Your dog would love some turkey (without skin or bones), mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes, carrots, peas or even a few raw or frozen cranberries!  Stay away from the stuffing if it contains onions. 
• Not sure what to do with the leftover turkey?  Turn it into dog treats!  See these posts for examples of easy healthy recipes your dog will love: Festive Turkey Cranberry Dog Training Treats Recipe, Festive Flavours: How to Make Dog-Safe Festive Turkey Meatballs or Training Rewards: Irresistible Turkey Carrot Dog Treats Your Dog Will Love
• Make a frozen treat!  Add some meat and veggies to an ice cube tray or silicone mold, add water or dog-safe broth and freeze! 
• Re-purpose some of the leftovers to use in homemade dog food or food toppers. 
• Ensure food is stored safely and appropriately in to maintain freshness, freezing in air-tight, appropriately sized portions as necessary.  Make sure to remove any bones or unsafe parts to avoid choking hazards or health complications.
• Use the bones to make yummy and healthy bone broth!  See The Ultimate Guide: Making Nutrient-Rich Homemade Dog Bone Broth
• Before introducing new foods or leftovers into your dog’s diet, consulting a veterinarian may be necessary. Vets offer tailored advice considering your dog’s specific needs, potential allergies, or health conditions. This professional guidance ensures you’re making informed and safe choices regarding your dog’s dietary additions.

Ensuring Wellness: Monitoring Dogs Post-Feasting for Optimal Health

After sharing leftovers, observe your dog for any signs of discomfort or adverse reactions. Be attentive to changes in behaviour, unusual lethargy, or digestive issues. This post-meal monitoring is crucial for promptly addressing any concerns and maintaining your dog’s well-being.

Safely Including Dogs in Holiday Celebrations: Setting Boundaries and Educating Guests

While our intention is to include our dogs in the holiday merriment, it’s vital to establish clear guidelines for feeding them leftovers. Educate guests about dog-safe foods and politely discourage them from offering treats without your consent. This ensures a consistent and safe feeding plan for your furry companion.

Another reason that it’s important to educate your guests is that everyone needs to be cognizant of the amount the dogs are getting.  My family is very dog savvy and will always ask if they are uncertain if an item is safe for dogs (or allowed, as some family members feed their dogs’ minimal human food).  The danger in our family is over-feeding and upset tummies due to too much rich food.  We always remind our families to not feed the dogs too much and ask that they be aware of what others may be giving them too. 

Storage and Handling: Ensuring Leftovers are Dog-Ready

When storing leftovers intended for dogs, label them clearly to differentiate them from human food. Practice proper storage techniques to avoid spoilage or contamination, ensuring these treats stay fresh and safe for your pup’s consumption. This simple step avoids any accidental mix-ups and maintains the integrity of the leftovers.

Seeking Professional Guidance: Consulting Vets for Tailored Advice

Each dog is unique, and some might have dietary restrictions or health conditions that require specialized attention. Before introducing new foods or leftovers, consult your veterinarian for personalized advice. Their expertise ensures you’re making informed decisions regarding your dog’s diet.

Conclusion: Celebrating a Safe and Joyous Holiday Feast with Our Furry Friends

The holiday season is a time for celebration, togetherness, and sharing love, even with our four-legged family members. By incorporating these guidelines and tips for a dog-safe holiday feast with leftovers, we ensure that our dogs partake in the merriment safely. Here’s to a festive season filled with joy, good food, and the companionship of our beloved dogs.

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