An Attitude of Gratitude!

We know that title sounds like a cliche, but after the past 20 months, this is as good a time as any to embrace gratitude. We've read oodles of times that being grateful will lead to a more positive outlook in our lives. Just what we need!

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to start with gratitude, regardless of the challenges you've had over the past year. Open up on Thanksgiving, and don't worry about being over the top mushy; this holiday is about more than just food; it's about spreading the love.

First and foremost, let's be thankful for our pets; they always stick by us through thick and thin. Most of the pets we know have thrived with the extra attention they received during COVID. They cuddled with us, they made us laugh, and they were our best buddies over the past 20 months. They help us get fresh air, protect our homes, and remind us to take breaks from our work. Coming home to wags and purrs is always the best part of the day.

Let's think about going a step or two further with gratitude this year. Here are some great ideas to spread the love.

Why don't you call your local shelter and see what is on their wish list? Often they need towels, blankets, toys, unopened pet food, straw, small animal cages, and fresh produce. Pick an item and donate it to your shelter.

Your veterinarian's office worked hard throughout COVID to care for our buddies, and it wasn't always easy for them to keep our pets healthy and keep us safe. Many vet offices have a fund for people that can't afford care. If your vet does, a small donation would be a fantastic way to show your appreciation. A thank you of any sort will make their day.

Spread the cheer with family and friends! Is there someone you're close with that can't make it to your Thanksgiving dinner? Schedule a short zoom with them on Thanksgiving weekend. It's no fun being alone on a holiday, so spend some time together virtually. Include your pet in the Zoom and share some of their antics. Do you have neighbors that are alone? Think about inviting them to your dinner or take them some leftovers.

Many people feed the hungry or visit senior care homes on Thanksgiving, but why not make it a habit? Go once a quarter or once a month, and spread the love to people that need it. It will be uplifting for everyone involved. You may want to work on getting your pet certified as a therapy dog or cat (Yes, cats can be certified and then make visits to nursing homes or children's hospitals). Look into it if your pet has the right, laid-back temperament.

Do you have children or grandkids? These books for kids of all ages make great gifts and will help them learn and understand gratitude.

Let's make this Thanksgiving the start of a grateful year for you, your family, and your furry friends.

Thanksgiving Treats for Cat and Dogs

Speaking of gratitude, we know many of you like to share your Thanksgiving meal with your best friend as a way to show your love and appreciation for him. However, we also know that changing your pet's food can result in tummy upset. So, it's important you only give your cat or dog a few suitable treats from your feast.

First, we want to reiterate how important it is to keep all pets away from the trash. That may mean constantly taking it out to the garage or trash bins outside, closing the door, or gating off the kitchen. Pets that have always seemed uninterested in the garbage bin may be drawn to it on holidays (so many tantalizing smells). Be sure to keep a very close eye on your buddy.

The best bet for your dog or cat is their regular meal (maybe in a smaller amount) with a few Thanksgiving treats in it. However, pick your treats carefully to avoid GI upsets. Here are a few good bets: a little bit of white meat turkey (dark has too much fat), plain potato or sweet potato (no butter, marshmallow, syrup), plain veggies like carrots, broccoli, or beans. Apples cut in small bites are great, and so is 100% pumpkin (not pie, just plain 100% pumpkin).

Do your pets beg at the table? A Kong might be the answer to that problem. Take a Kong, stuff it, and freeze it the night before your dinner. A Thanksgiving-themed Kong might include some bits of turkey meat, some kibble, a bit of yogurt, plain pumpkin, and some chopped carrots. Remove it from the freezer and give it to your pooch when you sit down to eat; that should keep him busy while your guests dine.

Did you know that cats like Kongs too? The Kong company makes cat Kongs, they are smaller and lighter, and many people put in kibble and a bit of catnip for their cats. Some cats will be interested in a frozen Kong filled with yogurt, tuna, and a bit of catnip; however, other cats won't like a cold toy. Run a test before Thanksgiving to see what your cat prefers. The Kong company makes a variety of other cat toys here.

Does your pet have sensitive teeth? Due to age or inflammation, some dogs have trouble chewing hard treats; this is a great recipe for soft treats - any dog will love them (and your cat may enjoy them too)!

Feel free to share part of your meal with your pets; there are always enough leftovers for everyone!

Thanksgiving Traditions That Include Pets

We all have traditions that we've carried over from our families, but consider adding a few that include not only your guests but your pets too. How about a morning turkey trot? Get the turkey ready and in the oven, and round up your guests (and Fido) for a quiet morning walk.

Back home, turn on the TV and watch the parade while your pets take a snooze. If the weather is good, how about a bit of backyard frisbee with the dog or an outdoor stroll in the garden with your cat in a harness?

When it's time to eat, get out your Kong treat for your pet; and you can all dig in! It's fun to ask your guests to come up with a few things they are thankful for, go around the table and see what everyone comes up with. We bet your pet will be thankful for the Kong!

Between dinner and dessert is a perfect time for another walk. If you have young children around, go on a scavenger hunt of sorts. Preprint a list of things they have to try and find on the walk. Some good choices are a bird, horse (should you have them in your neighborhood), an out-of-state license plate, a specific type of tree (maple, pine), a birdbath, a blue house, and so forth.

Another great way to entertain children (maybe while everyone is watching football) is to set up a craft table for them. It may include a Thanksgiving picture to color, use a pine cone and colored paper to make a turkey, ask them to make a pet portrait, or paint good thoughts on flat rocks you've collected.

Ensure there is a quiet spot for your pets to go if they need a break from all the holiday activities.

Happy Thanksgiving month to you and yours!

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