The feasting holidays are wonderful times for family and friends to come together and enjoy great food and fellowship. Safely including our pets in the feasting can be challenging yet there are some human foods that can be shared with them. The following traditional holiday foods are safe and nutritional for pets.

APPLES – contain powerful antioxidants and vitamin C. Caution: never give them the core or seeds.

BLUEBERRIES – contain powerful antioxidants and are a good source of healthy fiber, manganese, and vitamins C and E.

CARROTS AND CELERY – both are low in calories and high in fiber and vitamins. Before preparing the stuffing set aside a few bite-size pieces for your pet to enjoy.

BROCCOLI – has anti-inflammatory properties, contains healthy fiber to aid digestion; is rich in beneficial nutrients like potassium, calcium, protein, and vitamin C.

PUMPKIN – is a great source of fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants. Caution:  use only fresh pumpkin or canned 100 % pumpkin – do not them pumpkin pie filling which contains sugar and various spices.

PUMPKIN SEEDS are also a healthy treat. Pepitas, or raw pumpkin seeds, are a rich source of minerals, vitamins K, E, B and zinc.

SWEET POTATOES are rich in beta-carotene, antioxidants, and vitamins A and C.

It is important to introduce new foods slowly to your pet; start with one at a time in case your pet is allergic to it. Too many changes to a pet’s diet can cause digestive upset. Be careful about offering foods that contain sugar, salt, spices, butter and fat, or spices.

If you have concerns or questions or if your pet is exhibiting any symptoms of an allergic reaction or food poisoning please call your veterinarian or contact the following:  ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center — https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control (888) 426-4435