Summer Treats for your Dog

As we are in the middle of the summer in the Sandhills of North Carolina, we cannot help but notice temperatures continuing to heat up. Now is a great time to think about making summer treats for your dog.

The team at Cumberland Animal Hospital has gathered some cool treats that are tasty, healthy, and fun for your dog.

HOMEMADE FROZEN PUPSICLES

Making a “pupsicle” begins with filling small paper cups or an ice tray with your dog’s favorite treats or snacks. Simply add a small bone in the center (the “stick”) and freeze. The finished product looks like a popsicle — one that your dog will love! The variations of this easy-to-prepare summer treat are endless. Here are some of our team of Veterinarians’ favorites:

Chicken stock and parsley – Use low-sodium chicken stock mixed with water and chopped fresh parsley leaves; add a small dog bone and freeze for 6 hours. Your dog will love the taste, and parsley is actually a naturally breath freshener.

Greek yogurt and mint – Use a low-fat version of plain yogurt, and add some fresh mint leaves to create a refreshing snack for your dog.

Peanut butter and bananas – You will need about 4 bananas and 1/2 cup peanut butter.  Peel and slice bananas and then freeze them.  Put frozen bananas in the food processor, blend until into an ice cream consistency.  Add peanut butter and mix well. (make sure your peanut butter is xylitol free!) 

OTHER COOL TREATS FOR YOUR DOG

In addition to pupsicles, you can make any number of creative summer treats for your dog. Here are Cumberland Animal Hospital’s top choices:

Toy cake – Fill a cake mold with water (or chicken broth), and add in your dog’s favorite toys. Freeze well. Your dog will have a cool treat that will entertain them for hours.

Frozen kong – Many dogs love these toys. Try adding water, chicken broth, wet dog food, fruit, or peanut butter to the inside and freeze. Your dog will enjoy spending hours getting to the cool treat inside.

Fruit drops – Dip fresh fruit in soy or low-fat greek yogurt, then freeze. These bites will definitely keep your small dog happy and cool, without adding too many calories.

For best results, allow 6 hours for most recipes to freeze well — hopefully your pet is patient!

REMEMBER HEALTHY & SAFETY 

As with any treat, it is important to remember to take into account the extra calories in your dog’s daily intake. You may need to adjust his or her regular meals, so as not to overdo it and maintain a healthy weight. Contact us to discuss your dog’s nutritional requirements if you have any questions.

Due to the possibility of toxicity, the following fruits should not be given to dogs:

•   Grapes
•   Raisins
•   Peaches
•   Plums
•   Persimmons

In Fayetteville, North Carolina, we understand how important it can be to keep your pets happy, healthy and cool during the dog days of summer.  We encourage you to contact us at the Cumberland Animal Hospital. It’s your job to keep your dog healthy and safe.  If you have any questions or additional ideas that you use to keep your pets cool, please contact us at 910-822-3337.  Cumberland Animal Hospital’s veterinarians in Fayetteville, NC are always available to assist you. Call 910-822-3337 to schedule an appointment or ask any questions.