It can be tempting to share a juicy slice of turkey with your meat-loving pup, especially around Thanksgiving. But can dogs eat turkey safely? Read on to learn why it's usually not in your dog's best interest to share your turkey meat and why dogs and turkey bones are a dangerous mix.
You may have noticed that turkey is a common ingredient in dog treats and dog food. Skinless, unseasoned white turkey meat that's been properly cooked is actually fine for dogs to consume in small amounts. Ground turkey, as long as it's plain and has no additives, is also perfectly healthy for dogs.
The problem with feeding turkey to dogs isn't the meat itself. According to the American Kennel Club, here's why you shouldn't share turkey with your pooch:
While there's no question that dogs love to chew and eat bones, doing so can actually be harmful to your pup, according to the AKC. Small poultry bones, including turkey and chicken bones, are especially dangerous. Gnawing on bones can cause:
Some of these injuries, like intestinal blockage, may require emergency surgery to correct.
Even with your best efforts to prevent it, there's a chance that at some point your dog will get hold of some forbidden turkey meat or a bone and gulp it down before you can stop them. If this happens, it's important not to panic. Don't try to snatch the food away from your pup, especially if they're prone to aggressive food behavior. If you suspect your dog may have eaten a bone, call your veterinarian for advice, suggests the AKC. They can talk you through how to reduce your dog's risk of injury.
Keep a close eye on your pet. Contact your vet right away if your dog is having difficulty or pain when attempting to defecate a few days after ingesting a bone as fragments may be causing (rectal) irritation. Other signs to seek veterinary care would include the following:
If you want your dog to enjoy the taste of turkey safely, without the risk of bones or unhealthy additives, give your pup a dog treat made with turkey. You'll make them just as happy, and you'll have peace of mind knowing their health isn't in danger.
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