Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — While you may think the cheery season would be a good time to spoil your pet with human foods and treats, it turns out that some of those bites could backfire.

Hazards include string used to make holiday meats. And the plastic wrapped around them. The trash bin becomes tempting and can be deadly.

Additionally, our four-legged pals should not have any casseroles, stuffing, creamed spinach/peas, ham or alcoholic beverages. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) notes that fatty foods are hard for animals to digest.

THESE HOLIDAY FOODS ARE UNSAFE FOR PETS:

• •            Turkey bones, skin and gravy: The AVMA notes that even a small amount of turkey skin or gravy can cause pancreatitis in dogs.
• •            Yeast dough: While bread is not typically harmful for pets, yeast dough can lead to painful gas and dangerous bloating.
• •            Desserts that contain chocolate or Xylitol: Chocolate is toxic to dogs.  Signs of chocolate poisoning, which include vomiting, diarrhea, increased urination and restlessness, usually appear within 6-12 hours.
• •            Onions, Garlic:  contain toxins that can lead to anemia in dogs.
• •            Raisins and grapes: Both are known to be highly toxic to dogs.

THESE HOLIDAY FOODS ARE SAFE FOR PETS:

• •            Apples:   Are a safe choice but leave the core as much as possible.
• •            Green Beans:  Are a healthy option for dogs as long as they are plain, and without added ingredients like butter or spices.
• •            Pumpkin:   Pumpkin helps with digestive health and is great for a dog's skin and coat.   However, make sure it's plain cooked pumpkin and not any with spices.
• •            Carrots:   Carrots are generally safe, it is important to cut whole carrots and even carrot sticks into bite-size chunks before feeding them to your dog,
• •            Sweet potato: Another great option are sweet potatoes without any added ingredients.  A good source of dietary fiber, vitamin B6, vitamin C and beta-carotene.
• •            Turkey meat.  Small amounts are safe as a treat.

Happy Thanksgiving from Animal Services