Thanksgiving can be dangerous to your pets

Thanksgiving kicks off the busy and festive holiday season.

I've got some tips on how to keep your furry family members safe as you enjoy Thanksgiving.

Resist the temptation to feed table scraps to your pet

This is a constant struggle in our house. Nanook is always nearby when Winnie is eating. And Winnie is more than happy to share. Fortunately, this usually means Nanook gets some broccoli or Cheerios, not something that might make her sick. But it is a constant struggle.

Houston veterinarian, Dr. Valerie McDaniel with Montrose Veterinary Clinic says each Thanksgiving she sees a number of her clients in her office sick from eating things they shouldn't.

"Fatty foods, chocolate, sugar free sweets, even just too much people food...all are potentially dangerous and toxic to our pets," Dr. McDaniel says. "And some pets, particularly dogs, like to get into the trash this time of year. There are just too many yummy smelling things in there. When cats and dogs eat things they shouldn't, they can get very sick with upset stomach, diarrhea, vomiting and even pancreatitis."

Dr. McDaniel also says you have to watch for dogs and cats eating non-food items like bones, candy wrappers and foil that might have to be surgically removed.

More foods that are harmful to your pets:

• Yeast dough and baking ingredients (like baking soda, baking powder and even some spices)
• Alcohol
• Caffeine
• Onions
• Garlic
• Grapes and raisins

Visit the ASPCA's website for more on people foods our pets shouldn't eat.

Remember to always keep a watchful eye on your pets:

It's also a good idea to keep some phone numbers handy: your local vet, the nearest emergency animal clinic and the ASPCA 24 hour poison control hotline 888-426-4435. Contact one of these if you think your pet has ingested something toxic or dangerous.

I hope you and your pets have a safe and happy holiday!