Can Big Dogs Eat Turkey Bones :- Every Thanksgiving, a vivid memory resurfaces: the year Haley devoured an entire turkey breast carcass. Yes, you read that right – the entire thing! It was perhaps her first foray into the world of kitchen trash can exploration. Amidst the holiday frenzy, I had neglected to properly dispose of the bones, and Haley seized the opportunity.
Returning home to find the overturned trash can was startling, but the sight of a solitary turkey bone on the floor sent me into a panic. Haley had devoured the entire carcass, leaving only that solitary bone behind.
My anger at myself for the oversight quickly morphed into concern. I knew all too well that cooked bones, especially those from chicken or turkey, are a no-go for dogs. Cooked bones become brittle and can splinter easily, posing a choking hazard or worse – potentially puncturing the digestive tract.
Given the holiday, our vet’s office was closed, prompting a frantic phone consultation with an emergency vet. Here’s the advice they imparted:
Can Dogs Eat Turkey?
Whether dogs can safely indulge in turkey largely depends on how it’s prepared. Turkey itself is not inherently toxic to dogs and is actually a common ingredient in many commercial dog foods. It’s packed with beneficial nutrients like protein, riboflavin, and phosphorous, making it a wholesome addition to a homemade dog food diet under the supervision of a veterinarian.
However, the turkey we typically enjoy on Thanksgiving isn’t exactly dog-friendly. We often season it with ingredients like salt, pepper, herbs, and spices, and may even stuff it with onions, garlic, apples, carrots, and other flavorful additions. While these components enhance the taste for us, they can be harmful to our furry friends. Onions, for instance, are toxic to dogs, and even non-toxic ingredients can cause digestive upset or pancreatitis.
To ensure your dog’s safety and well-being, it’s best to avoid feeding them seasoned or stuffed turkey, and stick to plain, unseasoned portions if you choose to share this treat with them. As always, consulting with your veterinarian before making dietary changes for your dog is recommended.
Can Big Dogs Eat Turkey Bones Things To Do If Your Dog Has Eaten A Turkey Bone
Stay calm, take a deep breath, and don’t panic. Discovering that your dog has consumed a turkey bone during the holiday festivities can be alarming, but it’s essential to approach the situation with a clear mind and take the appropriate steps to ensure your pet’s well-being.
First and foremost, resist the urge to attempt removing the bone yourself. Trying to intervene without professional guidance can potentially worsen the situation or cause further injury to your dog.
Instead, contact your veterinarian immediately and seek their guidance. Describe the situation in detail and follow their instructions closely. They will provide you with expert advice tailored to your dog’s specific needs.
If your dog is exhibiting any signs of discomfort or pain, such as vomiting or diarrhea, it’s crucial to prioritize their hydration. Offer them plenty of fresh water to drink, even if they seem reluctant at first. Dehydration can exacerbate the situation, so ensuring they stay hydrated is vital.
Your veterinarian may recommend bringing your dog in for a physical examination and, if necessary, x-rays to assess the extent of any potential internal injuries. Following their recommendations and seeking prompt veterinary care is essential for your dog’s health and well-being.
Remember, while it’s natural to feel concerned, taking swift and appropriate action in response to your dog consuming a turkey bone is key to ensuring the best possible outcome. Trust in your veterinarian’s expertise and guidance to navigate this situation effectively.
Can Big Dogs Eat Turkey Bones Why Bones Are Bad
Let’s not mince words: giving your dog bones, especially cooked ones, is a risky business. Cooked bones have a tendency to splinter, posing a serious threat to your dog’s digestive tract. Poultry, fish, rib, and pork bones are particularly hazardous due to their propensity to splinter easily.
Even beef bones, though harder, can shatter and puncture the intestinal tract, potentially leading to emergency surgery. Large or oddly shaped bones like T-bones can also pose a choking hazard if they become lodged in the esophagus or elsewhere in the intestinal tract.
But wait, there’s more! Here are five additional compelling reasons to steer clear of bones for your furry friend:
- Bones can cause painful mouth or tongue injuries, sometimes resulting in bleeding.
- Round bones can become wedged around your dog’s lower jaw, necessitating a trip to the vet for removal.
- Bone fragments that pierce the stomach or intestines can lead to severe bacterial infections that are challenging to treat and may prove fatal.
- Bones and bone fragments can cause constipation in dogs.
- Sharp bone fragments may cause pain and bleeding from the rectum as your dog passes them.
Given these risks, it’s best to err on the side of caution and opt for safer alternatives for your dog’s chewing pleasure.
What If I Don’t Want to Share Turkey With My Dog?
You don’t have to feel obligated to share turkey with your dog on Thanksgiving or any other day. Many dog owners prefer to prevent their dogs from begging at the table or consuming human food from their plates. However, if you decide to treat your dog to some turkey, there are safe ways to do so while ensuring your dog’s health and safety.
If you want to include your dog in the Thanksgiving festivities without worrying about violating human food rules, there are alternative options. You can offer your dog a turkey drumstick-shaped chew toy, a turkey-shaped treat dispensing toy, turkey tendon dog chews, or even a special plate of Thanksgiving Dinner canned dog food. These options allow your dog to enjoy the spirit of the holiday without risking their health or behavior. It’s also essential to communicate your preferences to your dinner guests to avoid any accidental feeding of human food to your dog.
