It is once again Thanksgiving dinner. The whole family is gathered around the table, extra chairs had to be found for those relatives who just let you know thirty minutes ago that they were coming, and the four-legged family member is not far off from you, also eagerly waiting for the festivities to begin. Cheerfully wagging her tail, Sammy is sitting under the table, waiting for whatever goodies may fall her way.

This is a time to be extra careful that Sammy doesn't get a mouthful of something she shouldn't. With added people around, it is easy for friends and family who are not familiar with the family rules to give Sammy something they shouldn't. Be sure that visiting relatives and friends are aware of the rules, such as Sammy not being allowed to be fed at the table, or sit on the couch.

There are more concerns than just breaking Sammy's training. There are likely treats around that if Sammy gets a hold of it could make her very sick, some could even be fatal for her. The following are the foods to be the most aware of to keep away from Sammy:

Chocolate

This common treat is very toxic to Sammy and as a reminder, she should never ingest this. Even in the smallest quantities chocolate can cause seizures and/or be fatal to your dog.

Coffee

The caffeine is harmful to Sammy and is to always be kept far away from her nosey nose.

Alcohol

Although you might laugh at seeing this on the list, you might be surprised how many people think it's funny to see their dog drunk. It is neither funny nor safe. The smallest amount can do damage to their organs and cause poisoning; not to speak of having no idea why they are walk funny and acting sillier.

Grapes and Raisins

Grapes, and therefore raisins, contain a toxin, which can cause severe damage to Sammy's liver and cause kidney failure.

Corn on the Cob

The cob will get lodged in Sammy's small intestine, with surgery being the only option to remove it. Corn, without the cob, is digestible.

Garlic, Onions and Chives

All of these are to be avoided as avidly as chocolate. In any form, raw or cooked, they can cause anemia and damage to red blood cells. A side note, these foods are even more deadly to cats.

Old 'bad' food

If its gone bad and you wouldn't eat it, why would you give it to Sammy? If it smells funny, or is growing something, it's time for the trash can, not the dog bowl.

Some more foods to avoid are yeast, sugar, fish, raw eggs, the pits of plums, peaches, avocados, cherries, apples and persimmons, milk, mushrooms, macadamia nuts, liver, hops, citrus oil extracts, candy, chewing gum, cat food and fat trimmings.

The consequences of feeding Sammy table scraps can be as 'little' as her getting a tummy ache, or as serious as causing death. If you are not sure if you can give her a bit of something from your plate, even if it's a small scrap, it is better to avoid giving her the 'treat'. You'll be doing her a favor, even if she doesn't think so.

There are some people foods that are safe to feed Sammy. Most vegetables are safe, as are most fruits. Just remember to not give her any of those listed above. Pasta can be okay if it prepared without the spices. Of course chicken and that Thanksgiving turkey in Sammy's bowl are both perfectly acceptable and will happily be gobbled down.

No two dogs are exactly alike, and every breed of dog will not react the same way to foods. In a two-dog household, one may love to have some spaghetti and tomato sauce, whereas the other will promptly throw them up on the carpet. Before introducing people food into your dog's diet, even as small treats, look up your breed and see if there are any specific food allergies. Also give your dog a very small portion of a treat first to make sure she doesn't have a poor reaction to it. Just because a food is listed as 'safe' doesn't necessary mean it will agree with Sammy's stomach.

With just a little care and special attention, Thanksgiving can be a holiday to enjoy with family, give thanks and not worry that you have made Sammy ill, which can surely break up the festivities.

Happy Thanksgiving to your family and you!