As Thanksgiving approaches, you’re probably busy thinking about which dishes you’re going to make and how many family members are coming over. However, it’s important to keep in mind that your dog is also going to be around and you may not be able to give him your full, undivided attention. This leaves more of a chance for your pup to sneak food off the table while you’re not looking.

Check out these American Kennel Club tips to help keep your four-legged friend safe during Thanksgiving.

- Leave food out of sight. Make sure to keep an eye on your dinner table and put all leftovers away. Any lingering food can tempt your dog to hop up and devour it off the table.

- Don’t assume that bones are safe. You may want to share bones off your plate with your pup, but it’s best to avoid doing so. Turkey bones, for example, pose a serious choking hazard for your dog and can lead to an emergency trip to the veterinarian.

- Take out the garbage. Make sure that the garbage left over from your meals goes straight outside to avoid the risk of your dog going through it. Dispose of turkey carcasses and bones, as well as anything used to wrap or tie the meat, such as strings, bags and packaging. Put all of this garbage in a tightly secured trash bag and place it in a closed trash container outdoors.

- Avoid feeding your pup table scraps. It’s tempting to feed your dog table scraps when he gives you his best begging look, but it’s best to avoid doing so. Foods such as stuffing, pies and cookies are inappropriate for dogs and will most likely make them sick. Be sure to remind your guests not to feed your dog from the table.

- Create a comfortable environment. Not every dog is comfortable being around large groups of people. To keep everyone, including your dog, comfortable and safe, you may want to keep him in his crate or confined to a room that won’t be used by your guests.

- Watch your pets around festive decorations. Special holiday displays or candles are attractive to pets as well as people. Pine cones, needles and various decorations can cause intestinal blockages or even perforate an animal’s intestine.

---

For more tips on dog ownership, visit the AKC at www.akc.org