December 4th is National Cookie Day! This is one occasion we know our canine patients would be excited about. Fido certainly does love treats! If you like cooking, you may want to try making your pet’s snacks. A Raleigh, NC veterinarian offers a few recipes below.
Turkey Woofers
Want to use up some of that post-holiday turkey? Mix plain, cooked meat, without the skin, bones, or fat, with cheese and egg. You can also add baby food and/or peas, carrots, sweet potatoes, or any other dog-safe veggies. Use a food processor to mix it. Divide into small portions and cook at 375F for 15-20 minutes.
Muttloaf
This is one option you and Fido can both enjoy! Combine minced turkey or beef with egg, bread crumbs, tomato paste, parmesan cheese, carrots, peas, and parsley. (Note: do not include garlic or onions, as these are not safe for dogs.) Shape it into a loaf, and cook at 400F for a half hour.
Poultry Yums
You’ll need some plain, canned chicken for these. Combine it with bacon bits, shredded cheese, whole-wheat flour, and sodium-free broth. You can also add any baby food that contains only dog-safe ingredients. Divide into small portions, and cook at 350F for 15 mins.
Doggy Eggnog
Eggnog is one of those things people tend to love or hate. This version, however, usually gets a tail wag of approval. Combine plain yogurt with an egg and sodium-free broth. Use a blender or food processor to make it frothy, and pop a dog biscuit on top. Voila!
PB Treats
Combine pureed pumpkin with some natural peanut butter. Be sure to choose a peanut butter without xylitol. Next, add two large eggs and some whole-wheat flour. Mix into a batter consistency: you can add more flour or some water to thin out or thicken the mix. Cook at 400F for about 15 minutes.
Tips
These are just a few options. You’ll find many other dog treat recipes online. Fido is no doubt willing to try them all! Just don’t go overboard: treats should only make up about 5 percent of his daily caloric intake. Also, only include things that are safe for dogs. Some things to avoid include grapes, currants, or raisins; garlic or onions; macadamia nuts; avocado; chocolate; or caffeine. Ask your vet for more information. Happy Holidays! Please contact us, your Raleigh, NC animal clinic, today!