Tag Archives: dog treats

Dog Care, General Care

Responsible Dog Ownership: Treats

September is Responsible Dog Ownership Month! Although there are many facets of responsible dog ownership, we’re going to focus on Fido’s favorite: treats! Treats are great for bonding, and for just getting that tail going. However, there are some things to keep in mind. A Georgetown, IN vet discusses giving Fido treats in this article.

Meats

Most kinds of meat are fine, but there are a few caveats here. First and foremost, always remove the skin, bones, and fat. Don’t give Fido anything super greasy, or anything with a lot of spices. Organ meats, such as liver and kidney, should also be limited, as too much can lead to Vitamin A toxicity and/or bone issues.

Fruits/Veggies

Fruits and veggies may not be Fido’s favorite thing, but most pups do enjoy something a bit crunchy now and then. Sweet potato jerky is an easy one to make. Just slice off some thin strips and cook them on low for several hours. Other safe options include peas, bananas, apple slices, carrots, blueberries, and watermelons.

Unsafe Foods

It’s important to be aware of what isn’t safe for your canine companion. Some dangerous foods include chocolate; avocado; alcohol; nuts; grapes, currants, and raisins; meat on the bone; pitted fruits; and anything that contains xylitol and/or a lot of salt, sugar, or fat. Garlic and onions are also best avoided. Ask your vet for more information.

Portions

This is where many loving and well-meaning pet owners go a bit overboard. That’s understandable: Fido is very, very good at getting us to hand over yummy tidbits! Treats should only make up about ten percent of your furry friend’s daily caloric intake.

Homemade Goodies

You can definitely try your hand at making your furry pal’s treats. This can actually be beneficial, as you can ensure the quality of your pup’s food, and can customize Fido’s snacks to suit his tastes or needs. There are plenty of recipes online. Just stick with ingredients that you know are safe.

Store-Bought Treats

Fido probably won’t turn his cute nose up at store-bought snacks. Just stick with ones that use only whole, healthy ingredients. Avoid products with ingredient labels that read like science projects. Also, pick treats that are appropriate for Fido’s age, size, weight, and health.

Do you have questions about your dog’s diet or care? Contact us, your Georgetown, IN animal clinic!

Cat Care, Dog Care, General Care

Summer Treats For Pets

Summertime is in full swing! Ice cream is a very popular seasonal snack at this time of year. Of course, it isn’t safe to share with your furry friend: it has way too much fat and sugar. However, your animal companion can still enjoy a cold snack on those scorching hot days. Here, a Georgetown, IN vet lists some summer treats you can offer your four-legged buddy.

Dogs

Fido has a pretty healthy appetite, so it’s probably safe to say that he won’t turn his cute nose up at many snacks. Plain, cooked meat, fish, or chicken without the skin, bones, or fat, is always a good bet. Your pooch can also have some doggy ice cream, small amounts of cooked eggs, or a little cheese. You can also make your canine companion some homemade goodies, such as doggy ice cream or pupsicles. Put kibble or broken dog treats in an ice cube tray, and pour some sodium-free broth over them.

Cats

Who says kitties can’t have summer snacks? Fluffy may enjoy a chilled bowl of canned tuna, or some plain deli meat. You can also dribble tuna juice over ice shavings to make your furball a kittie slushie. Cats can also have some sodium-free broth. If you want to make something for your feline pal, try mixing tuna with some fat-free yogurt and a little parsley. Divide into small portions, and freeze overnight. You can also keep some squeezable snacks in the fridge for her.

Rabbits

Floppy definitely has a sweet tooth! This is a perfect time to indulge it a bit. Bunnies may enjoy gnawing on some frozen strawberries, blueberries, or pieces of seedless melons. Cucumbers are also a good option, as they have a high water content. Just don’t go too crazy with sweet foods. Too much sugar is just as bad for rabbits as it is for us!

Tips

No matter what type of pet you have, be sure to stick with safe foods. While the lists of do’s and don’ts are different for every animal, there are some things, such as garlic, chocolate, avocado, alcohol, and fatty foods, that are bad for all of them. Grapes, currants, and raisins are also unsafe for dogs and cats. Ask your vet for more information.

Do you need to bring your pet in for an exam? Contact us, your Georgetown, IN animal clinic, anytime.