The American Kennel Club is warning pet owners that Thanksgiving tends to coincide with an uptick in vet visits, due to dogs being fed unsafe human food.

"It may be tempting to offer up the turkey bones to include your dog in your family’s celebratory feast. But, because they can potentially cause damage to your pet’s digestive tract, the American Veterinary Medical Association recommends keeping them out of reach. However, though turkey bones are off the table, there’s no need for your pet to feel left out," said the Kennel Club in a press release.

To help pet owners navigate the holidays, the organization has released a list of safe and harmful food for dogs.

Safe Food

  • Sweet potatoes (with no added ingredients) 
  • Potatoes (with no added ingredients)
  • Apples 
  • Turkey meat (no bones, no skin)
  • Green beans
  • Plain peas
  • Pumpkin

Unsafe Food

  • Turkey bones, skin, and gravy
  • Stuffing
  • Casseroles
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Creamed peas
  • Chocolate, cookies, pies, and sweets
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Raisins and grapes
  • Onions, scallions, and garlic
  • Ham
  • Yeast dough
  • Fatty foods
  • Foods containing spices

The American Kennel Club also suggests keeping trash out of reach, and say if a pet should get into something they should not have - or there is an emergency- seek help right away through the Pet Poison Helpline or local vet.

You can read more on why these food items are healthy, or unhealthy for your pet, here.