ANIMAL COMPANIONS
Don't give Thanksgiving leftovers to your pets
Hawaiian Humane Society
| Dangerous to pets
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Dr. Dan Severson, veterinarian and director of VCA Kaneohe Animal Hospital, says giving your animal table scraps and fat can do them more harm than good. "Savory meals may also inspire enterprising pets to get up onto the table or into the garbage and help themselves to the leftovers. It's a good idea to think of Thanksgiving scraps as irresistible, put them away, out of your pets' reach, and secure the garbage.
"Turkey bones are dangerous when ingested. Meat that has been sitting at room temperature for too long can cause salmonella contamination. Both are life-threatening conditions.
"The best treat you can give your pet is his regular diet," Severson said.
"Some people don't realize that onions can cause anemia in dogs and chocolate can be fatal to them. Rum cakes and yeast dough may create gastric distress for your pet. If you want to feed your animal companions something special for the holidays, provide them with pet biscuits or treats. And remember to ask your guests not to give 'people food' to your pets."
In spite of our best efforts, pets may get into foods that can be harmful to them. Be prepared by having your veterinarian's phone number handy, as well as the phone number for a 24-hour clinic, just in case. If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, seek medical attention immediately.
During this party season, plan ahead to make it a happy holiday for your animals, too.
You can reduce your companion animal's stress by putting him into a quiet room with food and water and checking on your pet every hour or so.
"When guests are coming and going, make sure your pets are wearing identification on their collars, in case they slip out the door," said Yvette Dante, customer service manager for the Hawaiian Humane Society.
"Whether it's a microchip I.D. or a tag, identification is the key to a fast return home."
ADOPTABLES
Tag No. 10728
If you love grooming, brushing and petting a cat, Grizzly is the cat for you. This 8-month-old domestic medium-hair is white, gray and tan. Already neutered, Grizzly is ready to go to a new home today.
Tag No. 10812
This 2-year-old male rottie/lab mix is a handsome hunk who is looking for a special someone. Butch enjoys long walks and lots of playtime. He can sing for attention and catches on quickly to learning good manners.
FOUND
Tag No. 13919
This adolescent male rottweiler mix is called Tory, but he could have another name. He was found on Nov. 23 and remains unclaimed at the humane society. If you have lost this handsome black and tan, please visit the shelter to claim him.
Misc.
These particular animals already may have found new homes. Please visit to see all the pets in person. The Hawaiian Humane Society at 2700 Wai'alae Ave, is open Mondays-Fridays noon to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The incoming animals area always is open. If you've lost or found an animal, call the humane society immediately at 946-2187, ext. 285.