Keeping pets safe and calm this Thanksgiving
by Wendi Piscia | November 11th, 2025 | 11:05 am
Thanksgiving is a time to gather, reflect and give thanks for the people and pets who bring joy to our lives. At Napa Humane, we’re especially grateful for the animals who remind us every day what unconditional love looks like.
Thanksgiving can be a heartwarming and festive day for humans. But for our furry companions, it can be overwhelming, stressful and even dangerous.
Between the delicious smells, crowded kitchens, unfamiliar guests and tempting leftovers, pets can easily find themselves in situations that jeopardize both their physical and emotional well-being. With just a little preparation and awareness, we can make sure our dogs, cats and rabbits stay safe and comfortable during the holiday celebrations.
Guests and stressed-out pets
Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or a cozy dinner, remember that holiday excitement can be overwhelming for animals. Even the most social pets may struggle with the noise, new faces or disrupted routines.
Before guests arrive, consider how your pet typically responds to commotion. Do they greet everyone at the door or do they retreat to a quiet corner? Either way, it’s helpful to set up a designated safe space for your pet, complete with their bed, favorite toys, and maybe even some calming music. This is especially helpful for nervous animals or pets who aren’t used to children, especially since children often struggle to read animal body language.
If your pet isn’t already crate trained, introducing the crate as a calm, cozy space ahead of time can make the holiday less stressful. For dogs who are already crate trained, their crate can become a secure den where they feel protected. For other pets, a closed bedroom with cozy bedding and a steady routine can work just as well.
The kitchen is not a pet playground
It might seem obvious, but pets do not belong in the kitchen during holiday meal prep. Hot stovetops, sharp knives and heavy serving trays pose very real risks to curious paws and wagging tails. Dogs underfoot can cause trip hazards while cats jumping onto counters could end up with burns or other injuries.
To prevent accidents and avoid stolen snacks, keep pets behind a baby gate or in a separate room while cooking and serving food.
“Just a bite” can be dangerous
Thanksgiving is synonymous with indulgence, but many common holiday foods are dangerous for pets. Turkey skin is high in fat, which can trigger pancreatitis in dogs and cats. Pancreatitis is a painful and potentially life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas, often caused by fatty foods. According to the American Kennel Club, even a small amount of rich food can cause serious digestive upset.
Cooked turkey bones are another major concern. Unlike raw bones, cooked bones can splinter easily and cause choking, internal blockages or tears in the digestive tract. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) strongly advises against giving pets any cooked bones.
Even seemingly harmless side dishes can be risky. Onions, garlic, raisins and certain artificial sweeteners like xylitol are toxic to pets, and many desserts contain ingredients that can cause illness.
Resist the urge to offer “just a bite” from the table. Instead, prepare a small plate of pet-safe treats in advance, so your furry friend can join the feast safely.
Identification is everything
With guests coming and going and doors opening more frequently, the risk of pets slipping out unnoticed goes up. Make sure your pet is wearing a collar with an up-to-date ID tag, and double-check that your microchip information is current.
Microchips are one of the most effective tools for reuniting lost pets with their families. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, dogs with microchips are more than twice as likely to be returned home, and chipped cats are more than 20 times as likely. If your pet isn’t chipped yet or you’re unsure if your contact information is correct, Napa Humane can help.
Traveling or boarding? Plan preventive care now
If your holiday plans involve boarding your pet or traveling together, plan early to avoid last-minute stress. Most boarding facilities require proof of up-to-date vaccinations, including bordetella (kennel cough) and in some cases canine influenza. Scheduling preventive care ahead of time ensures your pet is protected and eligible for boarding. Visit napahumane.org for information about our Preventive Care Clinic.
If you’ll be bringing your pet along on your trip, remember that travel can be stressful. Make sure they are properly secured in the car, have access to fresh water and are allowed at your destination. For anxious travelers, speak with your veterinarian about possible calming options or behavior supports.
Gratitude for the whole family
This Thanksgiving, let’s extend our gratitude beyond the dinner table and into the lives of the animals who love us unconditionally. A little planning goes a long way in making sure your pet’s holiday is as joyful and stress-free as yours.
If you’re thankful for the love and companionship of your pet, show it by keeping them safe, calm and comfortable during the holiday season.
From all of us at Napa Humane, we wish you and your furry family members a warm and peaceful Thanksgiving.
The topics discussed in this feature are part of a larger conversation about animal welfare in Napa County. Want to learn more? Explore the entire series at https://bit.ly/NVRNapaHumane
