Thanksgiving is a time to pause and reflect on the good things in life. For many of us, our pups top that list. Their wagging tails and loving eyes make every day feel special, so why not show them a little extra gratitude during the holiday? Here are some wonderful ways to ensure your furry friend feels like part of the family celebration.
Treat Your Pup to a Doggy Feast
Start by giving your dog a special Thanksgiving meal of their own. While we enjoy turkey with all the trimmings, your pup can join in with a simpler, dog-friendly plate. Offer plain turkey (no seasonings), mashed sweet potatoes, green beans, and a spoonful of pumpkin puree (pure and unsweetened). When you present this thoughtful dish in their favorite bowl, your furry friend will know they’re an important part of the day. And who can resist those thankful puppy eyes gazing back at you?
To make the meal extra special, and keep them entertained, you can also stuff a Kong toy or similar treat-dispensing toy with some of these goodies. Layer in mashed sweet potatoes, a bit of turkey, and pumpkin puree, and then freeze it for a long-lasting, tasty challenge. This way, your pup enjoys a festive feast that’s as fun as it is flavorful!
Take a Family Walk Together
Whether it’s before or after the feast, there is nothing like a family stroll through your neighborhood or local park. Once the big meal is over, there’s no better way to shake off that post-dinner slump than a walk with the whole family, including your four-legged friend. A brisk walk not only aids digestion but also offers your pup the chance to explore the scents, sights, and sounds of autumn. You can make this walk a pre-meal tradition, helping everyone work up an appetite and bond before sitting down to eat. Make it a cherished tradition; a moment to connect, laugh, and bond together. It’s a memory you’ll hold close, and your pup’s wagging tail will show their joy.
Make Them Part of the Traditions
Whether your family gathers around the television to watch the parade and football games, if your family has their own competitive games, or curls up for a movie marathon, make sure your pup is included in the fun. Set up a cozy spot with their favorite blanket and a few treats, or dress them in a festive bandana. The memories you capture will become timeless, with your furry family member front and center, right where they belong.
Create a Safe Space
While Thanksgiving is an exciting day, the hustle and bustle can be overwhelming for some people and pups alike. After all, it is a holiday and a day away from school, work, etc. To ensure they feel comfortable, create a quiet retreat where your pup can escape if things get too noisy. This space should be equipped with their bed, a favorite toy, and perhaps some calming music. It’s all about giving them the choice to relax and recharge on their own terms, ensuring a stress-free holiday for everyone, and you could join them and benefit as well.
Show Gratitude by Giving Back Together
Thanksgiving is a time for giving, and your pup can join in on the spirit of helping others. Consider making a charitable donation of food, supplies, or funds to a local animal shelter with your furry friend by your side. Many shelters also host holiday-themed events, like charity walks where well-behaved dogs are welcome. It’s a wonderful way to share gratitude and spread love to animals in need.
If your family is ready to grow, Thanksgiving can also be a beautiful time to consider adoption. Welcoming a new dog into your home is a lasting act of kindness and gratitude, creating a brighter future for an animal in need. The bond between a rescued pet and their family is truly special, and it can make the holiday even more meaningful.
BONUS: Special Desserts and Toys
Give your pup their own Thanksgiving “dessert”! While pumpkin pie isn’t on the menu, a homemade dog-safe pumpkin treat sure is. Mix pumpkin puree, oat flour, and a touch of peanut butter, then bake up some cookies shaped like leaves or turkeys. Surprise your dog with a new Thanksgiving-themed toy, like a squeaky turkey or a treat-dispensing pumpkin. While they’re occupied with their goodies, you can enjoy a second (or third) slice of pie, guilt-free.
Thanksgiving is about gratitude and togetherness, and no one shows unconditional love quite like our dogs. By taking a few thoughtful steps to include them in your holiday celebration, you’ll create lasting memories and deepen the bond you share. After all, they make every day a little brighter. So why not give thanks together?