The Humane Society of Santa Clara Valley reminds people celebrating Thanksgiving and the winter holidays that pets need to pass on festive foods that pose risks to their health and safety.
The fat in turkey and ham or rich side dishes can cause a life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas in animals. Turkey bones can shatter and puncture an animal's mouth or stomach; even a bone-free turkey carcass is dangerous because it can harbor bacteria and may contain string, clips or scraps of aluminum foil used in cooking.
Desserts are also dangerous to dogs and cats because they are often high in fat. Chocolate contains a stimulant called theobromine, which can damage a dog's heart and nervous system. One ounce of baker's chocolate, for example, can kill a 10-pound dog.
Many pet-food and specialty stores carry holiday snacks and treats designed especially for dogs and cats, which the Humane Society recommends as healthy alternatives to "handouts."
This article appeared in the Los Gatos Weekly-Times, November 20, 1996.
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