How A Furry Thief Gobbled Our Thanksgiving Turkey And Started A New Tr

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

The “tail” of how a hungry Golden Retriever’s appetite for turkey brought about a new holiday custom

Thanksgiving – otherwise known as the day where we give thanks with friends and family by eating like there is no tomorrow. Seriously, how many pieces of pumpkin pie can you eat? (Well, I guess that depends on how big is the pie is.) All in all, it’s a happy event we cherish every November (or October if you live in Canada).

And so, in the spirit of giving, I bring you a story about eating, sharing… and stealing.

The day started with its usual chaotic mess: spices all over the kitchen counter; potato peels on the floor; frantic house cleaning; last minute trips to the market. You know… the usual holiday preparations. Summer, our adorable Golden Retriever, was also happy to take part in the festivities. She served as the host and greeter, freshly scented thanks to a bath and decked out in a new Thanksgiving themed collar, specifically for the occasion.

Related:So You Think You Can Pet Sit?

By 2pm, the house was almost ready (it never is) when the family started arriving. The array of delicious smells had every mouth salivating. Mr. Turkey, the main event (or sacrifice if you are a vegetarian), was cooling on the kitchen counter.

The wine glasses were amply filled, background music playing, family deep in conversation and hors d’oeuvres – this was moment Summer had been waiting for. With one quick, almost ninja-like move (that she probably learned from the cat), she grabbed the succulent turkey from the counter, clasped it in her mouth and dragged it down the hallway to dine on her forbidden meal in solitude. What a triumphant moment! Of course, it didn’t take too long for us humans to notice and yell in unison: “THE TURKEY!” “CATCH THAT DOG!”

Related:5 Essential Dog-Friendly Thanksgiving Travel Tips

We were able to wrestle the meal from Summer, but the damage was done and the guests had seen what had happened. The awkward situation brought up some interesting questions: What do we do now? Does the 10 second rule apply in this case? Do you salvage the remainder of the turkey and eat it, or do we let the dog keep on devouring our main course? A very intense debate followed.

On one side of the dispute, the “pet people” had a good laugh. We made our “what’s a little dog hair?” jokes and pointed out that the rest of the turkey was fine for eating. Just brush off the bird, cut the area where the dog bit it and it’s good to go. For some reason, our argument didn’t sit well with the non-pet people, who weren’t keen on eating the dog’s leftovers. The vegetarians ignored us and nonchalantly went back to their hummus and crackers.

Summer was given the “bad girl” rant (between laughs) and sent with a full belly to the backyard. What was left of Mr. Turkey was laid on the kitchen counter for further inspection. If you didn’t know the story or witnessed the crime, one would think it was the victim of a lousy carving job. But the reality was that we all knew what happened, so a decision had to be made. What sounds good with mashed potatoes and veggies? Kung Pow Chicken!

In the end, the neighborhood dogs and cats enjoyed our traditional Thanksgiving bird and our local Chinese restaurant saved our dinner. A new tradition was born. Because when you think about it, the day’s menu is not the important part – it’s all about sharing and thanking old and new friends that make your life wonderful.

And with that in mind, keep your dog away from the kitchen at all times this holiday season and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Do you have any funny Thanksgiving stories that involve your pets? Please share them in the comment section below.

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

Portuguese Podengo Pequeno

The Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is an ancient, no-nonsense hunting hound from Portugal. They are multi-sensory hounds that use both their sight and scent.

Pedal Pooches Ride Snug And Comfy In Hip Dog Bike Baskets

Bicycles can be built for two - add on a dog bike basket and your pooch can tag along. These baskets offer your dog a safe and comfortable vantage point.

Dog-Powered Running: Get Fit With Canicross

Are you and your dog runners? Hook up a harness and line, and give canicross a try! Kevin Roberts goes over the basics of what you’ll need to set a pan…

Dream Job Contest: Slovenian Castle Is Looking For Dog (And Owner) Car

The winner of this contest will be living large with their dog in a real Slovenian Castle… with a salary to match the lifestyle Is your dog looking fo…

SuperZoo 2018: Dogtra Launches a Brand New Ball Launcher

Check out Dogtra''s new ball trainer and launcher--the first ever to be dual-functioning for training professional work dogs.

Bullmatian

The Bullmatian is a cross between a purebred Bulldog and Dalmatian. These dogs are friendly and charming, as well as affectionate and social.

Pumpkin Spice Pet Essentials For a Perfect Fall

It’s that time of year…the Pumpkin Spice is back and better than ever. As you sip your seasonal latte, don’t leave our furry friends out i…

Gen Y Dogma: Top 5 Christmas Etsy Picks For The Urban Pet

She’s made a list and has checked it twice – here’s what Christina is getting her mostly nice (but a little naughty) pets this Christmas. I…

5 Important Tips For Hiring a Dog Sitter

Even if you''re away for one night, your dog needs someone to look after him. Need someone to take over your pet parent duties? Time to find a dog sitter!

Boykin Spaniel

A medium sized dog, the Boykin Spaniel has made its way from a waterfowl retrieving breed to a faithful companion that fits into a number of households.

Most Likely To… Take The World’s Most Epic Yearbook Photo

Diane Wilkinson might just be the coolest principal on the face of the planet, after she and a student take ’80s-inspired yearbook photo with their pet…

Finnish Lapphund

The Finnish Lapphund combines the physical characteristics of a typical Northern dog with the temperament and personality of a herder.

Not-So-Crazy Cat Lady Leaves $300,000 to Her Kitties in Her Will

What would happen to your pets when you pass on? A couple of kitties in the Bronx, New York, won''t have to worry because their mama willed them $300,000!

Pomerat

Also known as the Pomerat Terrier, this hybrid dog was developed by crossing the feisty Pomeranian and the playful Rat Terrier.

Chorgi

From their distinct short-legged body and fluffy coat to their territoriality and independence, Chorgis are quite distinct in the world of hybrid dog breeds – and will need experienced owners.