Show your pets love with homemade treats
National Cook For Your Pets Day is November 1.
The fastest way to a man’s heart is supposedly through his stomach. The same thing could be said for the pet companions in our life. We all know how our beloved dogs and cats love to eat. What better way to show them your love and appreciation than by making them homemade treats?
Homemade treats and meals should not be served to dogs for longer than five to seven days because they are not 100 percent nutritionally complete, according to Korinn Saker, DVM, PhD., DACVN, and Associate Professor, Nutrition with the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Even though many human foods are safe for dogs, pet owners may not be able to create complete and balanced blends that provide the amount of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals dogs need to stay healthy. Routinely feeding dogs human foods can lead to nutrient deficiencies over time.
The Dog People, a dog information resource powered by Rover.com, advises dog owners to aspire for a balance of lean protein and complex carbohydrates in homemade meals. Avoid excess sodium and fat, which can cause excessive thirst and stomach upset. If you’re using canned meats, rinse off the product to get rid of excess sodium.
One of the easiest things to put together on the spot is chicken and rice. In fact, when dogs are experiencing stomach issues, vets often suggest a temporary diet of bland, boiled chicken and rice. Lean beef or rotisserie chicken with the skin and bones removed are additional options. Many dogs like salmon or other fish as well. Vegetables, like carrots, corn and peas, also are safe for dogs. Eggs can be a great nutritional source when other proteins are unavailable.
When preparing dishes and desserts, there are some foods to avoid, according to the Canine Journal:
greasy, processed, salty foods
grapes and raisins
onions
garlic
deli meats that are high in sodium
bacon
cocoa and chocolate
milk
spicy foods
small bones
coffee
avocado
macadamia nuts
foods your dog is allergic to
Should an animal eat something it shouldn’t, vomiting is likely to occur. Lethargy and diarrhea also may indicate an animal ate something it should not eat.
Those who are unsure of what to make for an emergency meal for their pets should speak with a veterinarian about foods that are safe to serve.
There are so many recipes that are safe and healthy for your pets out there. Here are a few links to get you started:
https://greatist.com/health/homemade-dog-treats
https://www.allrecipes.com/gallery/homemade-pet-food-and-treats/
https://diyjoy.com/diy-pet-recipes-food/
Happy cooking and baking for your hungry dogs and cats! Now it’s time to get in the kitchen!
#cookforyourpetsday
Sources: National Day Calendar, Metro Creative Connection
