Holiday Food Safety for Pets - What I've Learned as a Pet Sitter

The holidays are when I'm most vigilant about food safety during my pet sitting visits. Those delicious aromas and extra treats around the house can be super tempting for our four-legged friends! Here's what I keep in mind when watching over your pets:

The "Definitely Not" List

I've had my share of close calls with curious pets, so let me be clear about what's absolutely off-limits:

• Chocolate (especially those wrapped gifts under the tree!)
• Anything with artificial sweeteners (particularly xylitol)
• Cooked bones from turkey or ham
• Garlic and onions (yes, even in stuffing)
• Grapes and raisins (watch those fruitcakes!)
• Rich, buttery foods that can upset tummies

Turkey Talk

Here's something I've noticed - lots of folks think it's fine to share turkey with pets. While a tiny bit of plain, cooked turkey can be okay, I always remind my clients to skip the skin and seasoned meat. And those drippings everyone loves? Too rich for our furry friends.

Counter Surfing Alert

As a pet sitter, I've learned that even the best-behaved pets can turn into opportunistic snackers during the holidays. My pro tip? Keep counters clear and trash cans secured. You wouldn't believe how creative some pets get when they smell something tempting!

Safe Treating

Want to include your pets in the holiday feast? I keep pet-safe options on hand for my clients:

• Small pieces of plain, cooked turkey (no skin or seasoning)
• Raw or steamed carrots
• Plain green beans
• A spoonful of pure pumpkin (not the pie filling!)

Emergency Preparedness

During holiday visits, always keep your vet's number handy, along with the location of the nearest emergency vet clinic. Better safe than sorry, right?

A Quick Story

Last Christmas, I was watching a clever Lab who managed to snag a chocolate cookie when someone left it on a coffee table. Quick action and a call to the vet turned what could have been an emergency into just a cautionary tale. It reminded me why I'm extra careful during holiday pet sitting visits.

Remember: When I'm watching your pets during the holidays, my priority is keeping them safe and happy - which sometimes means being the "fun police" when it comes to holiday treats! Let's save the festive feasting for the humans and keep our pets happy with their regular food and pet-safe treats.

Need a pet sitter during the holidays?  Give me a call at (920) 385-3736 or fill out my contact form.