Can you feed your pets Thanksgiving scraps?

While it may be tempting to share in the season of giving with the furriest member of your family — local veterinarians say think twice.

Dr. Jeff Schumann with Northside Veterinary Clinic in Springfield said he usually sees an uptick in appointments after the holidays because pets have eaten things they shouldn’t and have gotten sick.

“The best advice is no table scraps,” he said.

But Schumann said if you’re going to feed your pet anyway, there are certain guidelines to follow.

Stay away from fatty type foods. They can cause pancreatitis, and is very similar to pancreatitis in humans.

“Can run the gamut from vomiting and diarrhea to severe pancreatitis with severe G-I pain or abdominal pain,” Schumann said.

Lean meats are okay — like boneless, skinless chicken breasts.

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Schumann said most of the time, pets are treated at the vet and sent home without issue — but grapes, raisins, onions and chocolates can cause more serious problems like seizures, blood problems and kidney issues that can sometimes result in hospitalizations.

Schumann recommends sticking to traditional pet food and treats, keeping any holiday candies out of reach and disposing of trash as soon as possible.

If your pet does get into food that it shouldn’t, you should take it to your local vet as soon as possible to be treated.

If you can’t get to one immediately, Schumann said you can withhold food from your pet until you can get to the vet — but make sure it’s getting plenty of water.

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