When it comes to Thanksgiving, the turkey takes center stage. But did you know that your dog can join in on the feast too? Inside that turkey, you’ll find something your furry friend will absolutely love. So, before you toss out the giblets and neck, let’s explore how you can safely incorporate them into a new Thanksgiving tradition for your pup.
Safely Feeding the Thanksgiving Turkey Neck to Your Dog
The turkey neck is a treasure trove of benefits for your canine companion. Made up of small, lightweight bones, it’s easy for most dogs to crunch into tiny, digestible pieces. Not only is it rich in calcium and cartilage, which is excellent for their joints, but it also acts as a natural toothbrush, helping to keep their pearly whites clean.
However, it’s crucial to supervise your dog while they enjoy this treat, especially if they’re not accustomed to raw bones. The neck’s shape can pose a choking hazard if swallowed whole. To ensure their safety, you can hold one end while they chew, preventing any mishaps. Alternatively, freezing the neck overnight adds an extra layer of caution. As they slowly tear away frozen pieces, they can savor their Thanksgiving breakfast.
But remember: cooked bones are dangerous. This includes boiled, steamed, or any other type of cooked bone, including those sold as treats. Cooking alters the bone’s structure, making it hard and splintery, posing a potential threat to your furry friend. So avoid cooking the turkey neck before feeding it to your dog, and refrain from giving them any leftover cooked bones. Instead, opt for boneless white meat that has been properly prepared.
How to Feed Turkey Giblets to Your Dog
Inside that little bag you find inside your turkey, you’ll discover the liver, heart, and gizzard – all safe and nutritious for your dog to enjoy. If your pup has already indulged in the turkey neck, you can feed them the giblets alongside it. However, keep in mind that organ meat is rich and can cause loose stools if overfed, especially for dogs who are not accustomed to raw food.
If your dog isn’t a fan of organ meat, a quick sear in a pan can make it more enticing without the need for fully cooking it. Remember, too much organ meat can still upset their tummy, so moderation is key. If your dog weighs under 20 pounds, the giblets from the turkey will be too much for a single meal. In this case, it’s best to mix small pieces into their regular food.
Don’t Let Those Giblets Go to Waste!
Before the raw food movement gained popularity, many people, like my mom, would discard the giblets every Thanksgiving. But now we know that they’re a hidden gem of nutrition. Organ meat is packed with vitamins and essential for a balanced raw diet, not just for us, but for our furry friends too.
If you have friends or family who don’t use the giblets, consider asking if you can have them. They truly are the best part of the turkey, and your dog will certainly agree!
Ekilove is here to help you and your furry friend have a memorable Thanksgiving feast. So, this year, let them indulge in the deliciousness of turkey neck and giblets. Just remember to prioritize their safety and well-being as you share in this special holiday tradition together.
