Do you like cooking? If so, you’ll probably be spending quite a bit of time in the kitchen over the next few weeks, preparing seasonal meals and treats for friends and family. Don’t forget about Fido! Why not make some of your pup’s snacks? As your Marion, IA vet, I’m here to help! Read on for some great doggy treat recipes.
Doggy Eggnog
To make Fido his own version of this seasonal classic, combine plain yogurt with an egg and some sodium-free beef or chicken broth. Mix it in a blender or food processor, and then put a doggy treat on top.
Turkey Woofers
These treats will get your pup’s tail wagging, and will also help use up those leftovers. Mix cooked, boneless turkey with egg, and cheese. Add some dog-safe cooked veggies, such as sweet potatoes, peas, or spinach. Combine everything in a food processor, and then divide into small portions. Bake at 375 for 15-20 minutes, or until hard.
Peanut Butter Bark Bites
Combine natural peanut butter with ripe banana, whole-wheat flour, and an egg. If it’s too thick, think it out with water. Divide into small portions using a cute doggy-themed cookie cutter, and then bake at 350 for about 20 minutes.
Puppy Yums
Mix canned chicken with bacon bits, organic baby food, shredded cheese, whole-wheat flour, and sodium-free beef or chicken broth. Divide into small portions and bake at 350 for about 15 minutes.
Super-Special Doggy Snacks
Combine bacon fat with an egg, cold water, and whole-wheat flour. You can also add cheese, bacon bits, or organic baby food. Cook at 375 for about 15 minutes. Don’t go overboard with these fatty treats, however!
Muttloaf
People and pets can both enjoy this version of the classic meal. Combine minced beef or turkey with egg, whole-wheat breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, tomato paste, carrots, peas, and parsley. Cook at 400 for 30 minutes.
Tips
When cooking for your pet, be sure to only use ingredients that are safe for dogs. Some good options are cooked, boneless meat, fish, or poultry; sodium-free broth; peanut butter; cheese; eggs; and bacon bits. Never give Fido anything that contains garlic, onions, scallions, or chives; grapes, currants, or raisins; chocolate; nuts; pitted fruits; alcohol; or xylitol. Ask your vet for more information.
Please contact me, your Marion, IA veterinarian, for all your dog’s veterinary care needs. I’m happy to assist!
