Simple Summer Snacks You Can Make for Your Pet
Staying cool in the summer is essential to protecting pets from the dangers of heat exhaustion. While you should provide them with plenty of shade, fresh drinking water, and shelter from the heat, you can also offer them cool, homemade treats to provide a chill from the inside.
Avoid Poisonous Ingredients
Before you start creating fun concoctions for your pet, be sure to avoid foods that are toxic to pets. Some common ingredients that are safe for humans, but toxic to pets include:
- The artificial sweetener, xylitol
- Chocolate
- Raisins and grapes
- Coconut and coconut oil
- Yeast dough
Be sure to check the labels on your ingredients – especially, xylitol – when making treats for your pets.
When in doubt, you can always just plop a few ice cubes in your pet’s water bowl to encourage them to stay hydrated.
4 Summer Treat Recipies for Your Pets
Remember that all pet treats – even homemade ones – are best enjoyed in moderation!
1. Peanut Butter Fruit Pops
Blend a cup of washed berries (strawberries and/or blueberries) with 1/4 cup of water. Divide fruit puree into an icecube tray and a small dab of peanut butter to each square. Freeze.
2. Fruit and Yogurt Pops
Wash and dice one cup of fruit (no grapes!) into small pieces. Place pieces in an icecube tray and top with plain, Greek yogurt. Freeze.
3. Frozen Banana Bites
Blend 1 1/2 cups of watermelon with 1 cup of pineapple. Slice one banana and place segments into an icecube tray. Fill squares with the prepared fruit puree and freeze.
4. Brothsicles
If you are short on time, this is a quick and easy treat you can make that your pet will absolutely love. Simply grab an empty icecube tray or other mold and fill each section almost to the top with low-sodium chicken or beef broth. Freeze and let your pet enjoy the cubes on their own or add a few to their water bowl.
Learn More About Having a Safe and Fun Summer With Your Pet!
To learn more about how you can keep your pet healthy, happy, and safe this summer, we welcome you to schedule a wellness and preventative care appointment with our veterinarian at Pacific Animal Hospital of Redondo Beach.
We’ll ensure your pet’s vaccinations are current, talk with you about microchipping your pet, and help you choose the best parasite protection for all the pets in your home.
