Pet’s safety is paramount at holiday dinners

#MiddleburyCT #HolidayDinners #Pet’sSafety

DEAR PAW’S CORNER: Last year, I caught my uncle and aunt feeding our King Charles Spaniel, Doogie, food from their plates after Thanksgiving dinner and pouring wine into a dish for him. As you know, holiday feasts have rich, fatty foods with ingredients that are bad for dogs, like onion, garlic, avocado and chocolate. Fortunately, Doogie only suffered a bit of indigestion. This year, I added a list of rules to the Thanksgiving invitation, including: Do not feed the dog; do not leave plates where Doogie can reach them; do not give alcohol to the dog; do not let Doogie out of his kennel.

My uncle and aunt posted the list on Facebook and said the rules are the reason they will not come this year. They’re trying to shame me for protecting my dog. Some of our other relatives commented on the post and said they might not come because of the rules, either. What would you do? – Carole & Chuck in Marietta, Georgia

DEAR CAROLE & CHUCK: I’m no master of etiquette, but I can speak on this issue: The welfare of your pet comes first.

Dogs will not turn down yummy food, especially if it’s bad for them. Dogs don’t know alcohol is bad for them. Many dogs don’t know how to handle the stress of a sudden crowd of strangers in the house. Dogs will react badly to inconsiderate handling. Dogs will take advantage of your distraction to reach abandoned plates and countertops laden with deliciousness.

Your rules about Doogie are reasonable. You can respond to the post calmly with your side of the story, and let the other relatives decide for themselves what to do. Best of luck.

Do you have a story about pets and the holidays? Tell us at ask@pawscorner.com.
© 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

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