Baby, It’s Furry Cold Outside

 WINTER PET SAFETY TIPS

Baby, it’s cold outside! Whether you relish the fluffy flakes of a winter wonderland or bemoan the incessant shoveling, sludge and sub-zero temps, there’s no way to avoid it — winter comes around every year.

While ’tis the season for health experts to offer plenty of advice on how people can avoid winter accidents and injuries — everything from spills on the ice to heart attacks while shoveling — we mustn’t forget about our four-legged companions. Today’s Blog is dedicated to avoiding potential winter hazards and ensuring a happy, healthy and safe winter season for your pets.

An ounce of prevention

Before the full force of winter sets in, take these preventative measures:

• Bring ‘em in:The American Veterinary Medical Association suggests animals have a veterinary wellness exam before winter if they haven’t yet been examined this year. Cold weather can exacerbate conditions like arthritis.
• Double-check collars and chips:The effects of cold temperatures on a lost pet can be devastating, so make sure your pets are microchipped, with tags up-to-date and collars in good condition.

• Pet-proof indoors:Since everyone will be spending more time hunkered down inside, make sure medicines, toxic foods and chemicals are put away. Watch out for space heaters and decorations that can be knocked over and start a fire.

• Be ready for anything:Blizzards, ice storms and power outages happen. Families should have emergency kits that also include food, water and prescription medications (at least a week’s worth) for their furry friends.

WALK WISELY

While dogs still need to get out for daily exercise (and many do love to romp in the snow), care should be taken to ensure Spot stays well in harsher weather:

• Keep ‘em leashed: paws.org warns that more dogs are lost during winter than any other season. They can lose their scent trails and become disoriented, causing them to panic and run away.
• Consider a coat: The shorter-haired, thinner or sicker among our companions may need an extra layer of protection against the elements.
• Paw protection: Remove salt, snow crystals and caked-on mud immediately after returning home (checking for cracks or bleeding) and keep hair trimmed between toes to prevent build-up. A layer of Vaseline on paws can add protection before walks. Remember to wipe it off afterwards.
• Stay off the ice: Avoid walking on frozen ponds, lakes or rivers. It’s hazardous to humans as well as our best friends. An instinct to save a pet should he fall through ice can be deadly.

 INDOORS IS BEST

Dogs and cats should both be kept inside during the winter, with a warm, non-drafty place to sleep. They are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia, just like us. If you have an outdoor dog, make sure the dog has access to shelter, non-frozen water, and thick, dry bedding. Just as in summer, Pet Parents should never leave a pet alone in the car!

BE PROACTIVE ABOUT ANTIFREEZE

Antifreeze is lethal to pets, even in small amounts, and animals are attracted to its sweet taste. Clean up spills immediately and consider using products that contain propylene glycol instead of the traditional ethylene glycol. Wiping paws, limbs and bellies after a walk is a good practice to avoid antifreeze poisoning and the hazardous chemicals in salt and other deicers, too. If you use your garage as a place for winter shelter for your pet make sure you remove/place antifreeze in an area that is hard to reach or is protected from your pet.

LOOK OUT FOR UNINVITED PASSENGERS

Cats (pets with garage access or strays) are known to hide under cars, crawling into wheel wells and even snuggling up by engines to stay warm during the winter. Take a minute to look, make loud noises and knock on the hood if a feline may be hanging around a vehicle.

AVOID HOLIDAY OVERINDULGENCE

Our waistlines have a tendency to expand during the winter months, and our pets’ waistlines can, too! Monitor your pet’s weight and food intake while they are less active in winter and ask your veterinarian if you have any questions about appropriate calorie requirements for your pet.

KNOW THE WARNING SIGNS

Finally, make sure you know these warning signs of hypothermia in a pet that’s been outdoors in the cold:

• Weak pulse
• Dilated pupils or enlarged and unresponsive to changes in light
• Whining, extreme shivering or slowed movement
• Stupor or unconsciousness
• Body temperature below 95 degrees

Hypothermia can cause coma, heart problems or kidney failure, so if you are concerned that your pet might be showing signs of hypothermia consult a veterinarian right away.

Whether you have a Husky that happily frolics through snowstorms, or a princess pup who’d rather be carried across sludgy puddles in your arms, knowing the facts about winter hazards and your pet’s tolerances can make a huge difference in their well-being and safety in all types of weather. Enjoy the winter season and Merry Christmas!

To Your Pet’s Good Health,

Dr. Barry

Sources

https://www.avma.org/public/PetCare/Pages/Cold-weather-pet-safety.aspx

https://www.paws.org/library/pet-info/pet-care/cold-weather-tips/

https://www.animalhumanesociety.org/news/keeping-pets-safe-cold-weather

What to Do About Lumpy, Bumpy Lipomas

In the last 10 years we have had the pleasure of living with several senior dogs.  Each of these pets have developed lumps and bumps and each of these lumps and bumps presented differently on each pet. Our one dog had just one large bump located at the front of her chest and our lab had multiple small lumps in various places. For those that have never seen a pet with these lumps it can be very disturbing, and owners often think the worst, cancer.  Most of the lumps and bumps felt on a pet during a veterinary examination are lipomas. Lipomas are fatty tumors that are usually benign and non-cancerous. There is always a chance that any tumor is cancerous or malignant, so it is always wise to check with your Veterinarian and schedule a checkup if your pet develops a lump. 

If you feel a lump or bump, what could it be?

• Lipomas (fatty tumors in dogs)
• Sebaceous cysts (skin cysts)
• Warts
• Hematomas (blood blisters)
• Infected hair follicles
• Benign tumor
• Malignant tumor

Today I wanted to give you a few facts about Lipomas since they are the most common cause of lumps and bumps:

• Generally, occur on middle-aged animals, commonly in dogs and mostly in overweight females
• Are only occasionally found in cats and horses

Breeds of dogs that are most often affected:

• Labrador Retrievers
• Doberman Pinschers
• Miniature Schnauzers
• Poodles
• Cocker Spaniels
• Terriers
• Mixed breeds

Taking a Closer Look: Examination of Lipomas

When an animal is brought in for examination, the palpation of a lipoma will usually reveal a small, round, or oval mass that is:

• Located in the flesh under the skin, not in the muscle
• Found most often in the areas of the:
  • Chest
  • Abdomen
  • Legs
  • Armpits
  • Soft to the touch, may feel somewhat rubbery
  • Typically, not painful
  • Does not seem attached to skin
  • Does not seem attached to underlying muscles or tissues
  • Slow growing

The examination of an atypical lipoma may reveal a mass that is:

• Larger, the size of a golf-ball or even a baseball
• Growing long and wide, not round
• Solid to the touch, usually due to inflammation or fibrous tissues
• Fast growing

How to Be Sure It’s Not Cancer: Confirmation

Because palpating the mass will not rule out whether it is benign or cancerous, confirmation that it is a lipoma is necessary. This includes:

• Fine-needle aspiration
  • Invasive biopsy procedure that removes fluid from inside the mass for examination
  • A slide is then made from the collected material to view under the microscope
  • The collected material is stained, and the cells are viewed to determine if they are healthy and normal, or abnormal and possibly malignant

What to Do If It Is a Lipoma: Treatments

There are many types of treatments available to animals that are diagnosed with lipomas, including:

• Watch and wait
  • This approach is based on the typical characteristics of a lipoma, for example, benign and slow-growing
  • The premise is that if the lipoma isn’t increasing in size and if it isn’t creating health problems, it is better to be left alone
  • Watching should include training clients to routinely monitor and measure the mass at home for any noticeable physical changes
  • Surgery
    • Recommended when a lipoma:
      • Creates function and mobility problems, such as with infiltrative lipomas
      • Grows rapidly, indicating that it might be a different type of tumor, one that is often mistaken for a lipoma, such as:
        • Liposarcoma
        • Sebaceous adenoma
        • Mast cell tumor
        • Hemangiosarcoma
        • Hemangiopericytoma
        • Liposuction
          • Successful treatments have been found with smaller, encapsulated lipomas
          • Not recommended for giant lipomas or ones that contain fibrous material
          • Not recommended for infiltrative lipomas
          • Radiation therapy
            • Use follows a surgical removal in order to delay or prevent recurrence

While most of the lumps and bumps found on a pet are benign, it is always advisable to make an appointment with your veterinarian for a thorough examination and a biopsy on any masses that are noticed. Because some benign tumors look the same as malignant tumors, it is impossible to tell if a mass is non-cancerous without your Veterinarian looking, feeling, and examining it under a microscope. 

To Your Pet's Good Health,

Barry Miller DVM

Sources:

http://www.dru.org/lumpsbumps.htm
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21797873

Dr. Barry recommends "The 10% Rule for Pet Treats". Treats should only make up  about 10% of your dog's daily calories.

I must admit that I love to come home and smell something baking in the oven or see that someone is cooking in the kitchen but that excitement ends when I find out that it's not for me it's for Bear, our dog.  My son got a dog biscuit cookie cutter and recipe book in his stocking a few years ago. 

I wish I could go back in time and bake treats for all of my childhood dogs I know that they would have loved it more than the hard dog bone shaped biscuits that came in a box back in the 70's. I had one dog in particular, Jason, that loved treats. He would often wait for me after school or he would wait for me to finish football practice. On the way home there was a hotdog/hamburger joint and I would buy myself and Jason a hamburger.  We both loved it and that is such a good memory I have of my childhood. I thought I would share with you a few recipes (one for warm weather and one for any time) for pets that are healthy and delicious and will hopefully help create great memories for you and your pet.  

Recipes for Dogs

Yogurt and Banana Treats 

• 16 oz. plain Greek yogurt
• ½ cup peanut butter
• 1 chopped banana

Mix together, place in molds or mini muffin tins and freeze overnight, and serve.

Apple Cheddar Biscuits

• 2 cups barley flour
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned oatmeal
• 1/3 cup shredded cheddar
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Bone-shaped or other cookie cutters

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with a nonstick baking mat or parchment paper; set aside.

2. In a large bowl, mix together all ingredients and about 3 tablespoons water to form a dough. Roll out mixture between two sheets of plastic wrap to 1/4-inch thick; remove plastic wrap and cut out biscuits with a 3 1/2-inch bone-shaped or other cookie cutters. Reroll scraps and continue cutting out biscuits.

3. Space biscuits 1 inch apart on prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes until nicely browned and firm.

4. Transfer biscuits to a wire rack. Turn off oven and place biscuits on a wire rack in the oven overnight. Remove from oven and store in an airtight container up to 2 weeks.

No Time To Bake for Fido! No worries:

If you do not have time to bake there are healthy options that you can buy. 

LEAN TREATS

Made with bite-size pieces of skinless chicken and are low in fat, they’re veterinarian recommended.Learn more Here: Lean Treats

PRO-TREAT FREEZE DRIED TREATS

These bite-size full-flavor treats can also be used as a training tool.Learn More Here: Pro-Treat Freeze Dried Livers.

Recipes For Cats

Catsicles

• 15 8-ounce plastic cups
• 1 5.5-ounce can of your cat’s favorite wet food (smooth, not chunky, works best)
• Catnip and/or soft cat treats (optional)
• One small square of plastic wrap

1. Mix cat food and treats in a bowl in a minimum 2 parts food to 1 part treat ratio
2. Fill plastic cups with mixture about ½” high with the mixture. Put plastic wrap on top to avoid freezer burn.
3. Stack cups, flattening treat mixture into the disk, and freeze overnight.
4. Run warm water over bottom cup until it releases. Put the treat in the bowl and let stand about 5 minutes.
5. Serve.

Catnip Crumbles

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons catnip

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line baking sheet with foil.

2. In a large bowl, mix all ingredients by hand.

3. Spread mixture on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for 7 to 10 minutes.

4. Drain any excess fat and crumble. Refrigerate whatever’s left.

No time to Bake for Fluffy! No Worries

LEAN TREATS

Made with skinless chicken and are low in fat, they’re recommended by veterinarians.Learn more here: Lean Treats for Cats

I hope these recipes are enjoyed by your pets and help your homes smell delicious but more importantly I hope they bring wonderful memories to you and your pets.

To Your Pet's Good Health,

Dr. Barry

Sources:

https://henryscheinvet.com/Product?sku=022773

https://henryscheinvet.com/Product?sku=021164

https://www.littlethings.com/halloween-dog-treats/

https://henryscheinvet.com/Product?sku=031264

https://henryscheinvet.com/Product?sku=057575

https://www.petfinder.com/cats/cat-nutrition/homemade-summer-cat-treat/

http://doggydessertchef.com/2011/04/01/catnip-crumbles/

https://henryscheinvet.com/resource-center/education/case-studies/growing-role-of-technology-in-a-veterinary-practice

https://henryscheinvet.com/resource-center/blogs/animal-health/animal-health/2016/09/06/common-causes-and-signs-of-a-data-breach

https://www.henryscheinvet.com/resource-center/blogs

https://www.henryscheinvet.com/contact-us

With Spring Break just around the corner, I thought it might be helpful to discuss tips for choosing a Boarding Facility or a Pet Sitter. When faced with finding care for a pet that must be left alone for a lengthy period of time, there are many aspects to consider. The following information may help you as you contemplate your options. 

If you prefer to use a Boarding facility:

Here are11 QUESTIONS TO ASK A POTENTIAL BOARDING KENNEL before you choose to drop your pet off:

#1 HOW FAR IN ADVANCE DO I NEED TO BOOK?

Many boarding kennels, especially during holidays, are booked weeks or months in advance. Make sure you know how far in advance you need to book a stay and whether a deposit is required when booking.

#2 WHAT VACCINATIONS DO YOU REQUIRE?

Most kennels require vaccinations, but the industry is still largely unregulated so it’s best to ask. Below are the minimum vaccinations that a kennel should require. 

Canine Vaccines

• Canine Distemper
• Infectious Hepatitis
• Canine Parvovirus
• Rabies
• Bordetella

Feline Vaccines

• Feline Panleukopenia
• Feline Herpesvirus
• Feline Calicivirus  
• Rabies

If the kennel does not require vaccinations, ask them how they quarantine animals to prevent infection. Disease can be spread by contact with bodily fluids and even air. And even if your pet is vaccinated, there is always the chance it might be susceptible to disease.

#3 HOW ARE THE ANIMALS HOUSED?

• Cats and dogs should never be kept within view or hearing distance of each other. Most kennels put up barriers inside the kennel space to prevent this.
• The area should be well ventilated.
• Make sure there’s enough room for your pet to move around and enough space for them to defecate or urinate if they need to. Cats should have a litter box in their space.

#4 HOW OFTEN ARE DOGS TAKEN OUT?

Dogs should be let out a minimum of 2-3 times a day or 24 hour period.. Ask them the times they take the dogs out and for how long. If your dog is in the habit of defecating each morning, they may take longer. Ask if they’re taken out on a leash or released into an outside pen. If they’re released into an outside pen, does the employee stay with the animal or go back inside for a designated period? How big is the exercise area?

#5 DO STAFF MEMBERS PLAY WITH OR PET THE ANIMAL?

Ask specifically if there are designated times for staff to interact with your pet, how long staff members stay with them, and how they interact.

#6 CAN THEY ACCOMMODATE PETS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS?

If you have an elderly pet or one with special needs, this information is critical. If they say they can, ask them how they will accommodate your animal.

#7 WILL THEY FEED YOUR PET ITS REGULAR FOOD?

Veterinarians advise against changing your pet’s food, because it’s likely to result in digestive upset. So it is important to bring with your enough food from for your pet to dine one while you are away.

#8 DO THEY PROVIDE ADDITIONAL SERVICES?

Many boarding kennels, whether or not they’re part of a veterinary practice, offer additional services for a fee, such as brushing, washing, training, nail trimming (for dogs) or extra play time. Veterinary boarding kennels frequently offer vaccinations and other minor procedures, too. Some kennels offer playgroups your pet may enjoy.

#9 CAN I TAKE A TOUR?

If they are not willing to give you a tour when you show up unannounced, leave immediately.

#10 DOES THE KENNEL HAVE AN EMERGENCY PLAN?

Even if you don’t live in a flood-, hurricane- or tornado-prone area, fire is always an issue.

#11 ARE STAFF MEMBERS TRAINED?

If you are not using veterinary boarding, make sure the staff has received training and certification.

WARNING SIGNS OF A BAD BOARDING EXPERIENCE

Here are some warning signs that the kennel may not be a good fit for your pet.

• The building smells bad.
• Outdoor pens are small and do not have shelter from the sun.
• Your pet smells bad when you pick it up.
• The employees tell you nothing about your pet when you pick it up.

Benefits of Hiring a Pet Sitter

When pet sitters enter a home their tasks often include filling up water bowls and scooping out the litter boxes. However, most pet sitters are not just hired for their time, but also for the attention they can provide to a pet. Additional care may be offered through services such as the following:

• Walking energetic animals
• Engaging pets in their favorite play activities
• Providing bathroom walk breaks
• Following feeding schedules
• Administering health needs.

The use of a pet sitter also provides benefits that go beyond the assigned tasks. For example, a pet benefits through:

• Remaining at home, in a comfortable familiar environment
• Maintaining routine for diet, walking, exercise, and play
• Eliminating the stress that can be caused by traveling or by being boarded in a kennel
• Reduced boredom levels.

Additionally, establishing a pet sitter relationship may help owners to feel better about being away from home since they know their pet is being cared for, happy, and safe. 

Where to find a Qualified and Trustworthy Pet Sitter:
Starting the search for a pet sitter should begin by asking for recommendations from:

• Family
• Friends
• Veterinarians
• Groomers
• Dog Trainers.

Initial Communication

Begin your search for a pet sitter by gathering information on their qualifications and on the services they provide.  
Questions to Ask Prospective Pet Sitters:

• What services do they offer? For example grooming, walking, training, exercising, playing, cleaning up after a pet, taking a pet to appointments, taking a pet to the veterinarian if it gets sick, live-in services?
• Will they provide a written contract that explicitly identifies responsibilities, services, and fees charged?
• Do they carry commercial liability insurance that covers accidents and negligence? Can they provide written proof? Are they bonded? Can they provide proof?
• What training do they have for this position? For example CPR, First Aid?
• What is the backup plan established for continuing the care of your pet in case the sitter becomes ill, has car trouble, or has other difficulties that keep them from their responsibilities? How do you interview this person? What are their qualifications?
• Can they provide a list of references along with the contact information that includes client names and phone numbers?

Set Up A Meet and Greet

Once the information is gathered and references have been contacted, before making a final hiring decision it is important that you invite the pet sitter over to your home not only to talk with them in person but to have them meet the pet. During this stage of the interview additional important information can be gathered, for example:

• Watch the way they interact with your pet, do they seem at ease and focused on the pet? Does their behavior make the pet feel comfortable? Does the pet welcome their attention and touch?
• If a pet has special needs, do they ask appropriate questions about their responsibilities for its care?
• Do you feel comfortable with the sitter’s behavior in their home?

Trial Period

When the decision to hire is made,  If you can plan to schedule services that cover an extended period of time, it is recommended to first arrange for the pet sitter to provide care for a trial period over a couple of days while you are still in town. This will allow for a chance to identify any issues that must be addressed before the pet is left in the sitter’s care for a longer period, such as:

• Questions requiring further clarification
• Changes that need to be made in reference to scheduling
• Responsibilities that should be added to meet additional pet needs.

I recommend both Kennel Boarding and Pet Sitters as safe ways to love and care for your pet while you are on vacation or traveling. Taking the time to choose the right boarding facility or Pet Sitter is very important and will pay off in the long run. It is never pleasant to return home from your travels to find your pet in less than good condition and worrying about your pet while you are on holiday steals important moments of relaxing and enjoying your time.

To Your Pet’s Good Health,

Dr. Barry

Sources:

http://www.ibpsa.com/top-4-questions-vets-have-about-pet-boarding-and-daycare/

http://www.sheltermedicine.com/library/resources/facility-design-and-animal-housing

https://www.cesarsway.com/dog-behavior/housebreaking-issues/how-often-should-a-dog-urinate

https://www.henryscheinvet.com/resource-center/blogs/animal-health/animal-health/2017/05/31/safety-tips-for-taking-a-pup-to-the-dog-park

https://henryscheinvet.com/resource-center/blogs/animal-health/animal-health/2017/05/22/talking-to-clients-about-adopting-a-senior-pet

https://henryscheinvet.com/resource-center/blogs/animal-health/animal-health/2017/07/11/veterinarian-tips-pet-fire-safety

https://www.dogfoodinsider.com/prepare-your-dog-for-boarding/

https://henryscheinvet.com/resource-center/blogs/animal-health/animal-health/2016/09/06/cutting-the-cord

https://www.henryscheinvet.com/resource-center/blogs

https://www.henryscheinvet.com/resource-center/education

5 Ways to Keep Pets Safe in the Cold Winter Months

As temperatures drop, we all try to keep warm. Well, guess what? Our pets do too! Even though many pets are covered in fur, they are not immune to the cold; in fact, pets shiver to show they are cold, just like people. 

1.) Dress for the occasion: Some breeds, like Alaskan Malamutes, or Siberian Huskies have thick winter coats that help provide insulation from the cold. However, for some animals, clothing can help them stay warm in the winter, especially those that are small with little body mass, or those with short or thin fur. Sweaters and jackets made specifically for pets can be helpful, and some pets will also tolerate booties made specifically for their paws.

2.) Take it inside: Provide pets shelter from wet, drafty and cold weather. The shelter doesn’t have to be fancy, just provide a barricade from the worst of winter while the pet is outside. Low temperatures combined with wind chill makes your dog even colder than the temperature recorded. When he gets cold or wet, his body temperature drops, internal organs can shut down and your dog can be at risk of dying even though temperatures are above freezing. Access to an insulated doghouse, garage or shed when temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit helps keep your dog warm. Dogs accustomed to indoor living or temperate climates should not be left outside in freezing temperatures. 

For those neighborhood cats who might be lost or stuck outside, building an outdoor, insulated cat box is a nice way to keep them safe, warm and secure. Simple instructions on how to make outdoor cat boxes, like those found at the American Humane Society website, allow you to protect neighborhood furry friends at a low cost. Follow this link to find instructions: 

http://www.humanesociety.org/news/magazines/2010/07-08/simple_shelter_design.html?credit=web_id383254710

3.) Let it grow:  A pet’s fur may need to be kept longer and thicker during the winter months. Do not let pets outside after bathing them until the animal is completely dry. Pay attention to a pet’s feet to look out for cracks and cuts on the paw pads. Also, if you use salt on your driveways and sidewalks, I recommend a brand that is friendly to pets.

4.) Look out for winter illnesses and injuries: Frostbite, respiratory infections and consumption of toxic substances (such as de-icer and melting salt) are all dangers pets are susceptible to in the winter. If you notice your dog isn’t behaving normally or appears to be in pain, you should seek veterinary care immediately. 

We often use salt on our driveways and sidewalk to make them safer. This type of salt, however, is dangerous and toxic to pets. Animal-friendly de-icers and ice melters are available and are recommended if you have a pet that frequents the area it has been used.

Running out of car fluids like antifreeze or windshield washer fluid is common during the winter months. These chemicals, especially antifreeze, are potentially deadly to animals, according to the American Humane Society. And, to make matters worse, dogs often like the taste of antifreeze! Be sure to remind your clients to keep their pets out of the garage or away from these chemicals at all times to keep them safe.

5.) Keep them active: Dogs and some cats can get “cabin fever” too! Pets who are used to running around outside when it is warm outside might need to get more of their activity inside. Hide toys or treats for your pet to find around your house, play a modified game of catch, or have them walk or run up and down stairs. Read Dr. Barry's previous blog on Pet Boredom Busters by following this link:

 https://vetapprovedrx.pharmacy/blog/cat/behavior/post/boredom-play-safety/

Treat dispensing toys like Kongs are great tools for burning off some restless energy. Be sure to spend some time exercising their brains too; brush up on basic training or try teaching some new tricks. When exercising outside, make sure to pay attention to any signals that they may be getting too cold and make sure they have plenty of water to recover. While your time outside may have to be shorter, it can still be fun!

To Your Pet’s Good Health,

Dr. Barry

Sources:

 http://www.wikihow.com/Keep-Dogs-Warm-in-the-Winterhttp://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/antifreeze.html
http://dogcare.dailypuppy.com/undercoat-dog-3257.html

 http://www.dailypuppy.com/articles/how-to-keep-your-outside-dog-warm-in-the-winter_1333.html

http://www.humanesociety.org/news/magazines/2010/07-08/simple_shelter_design.html?credit=web_id383254710

Summer Fruits and Vegetables That are Pet Friendly

I have heard of enclosing a vegetable garden to keep wildlife from nibbling on the produce. My brother-in-law had a garden raider that would steal produce before it could be picked or while it was being picked. This garden raider had developed a strong liking for cucumbers and strawberries. Their garden thief was surprisingly their rescue dog named “Spooks”. He would meander in the garden and eat a cucumber or strawberry before they had a chance to pick them or while it was being picked he would sneak up and steal one. And then there are those of you that have plate raiders. You may have a pet that sits patiently waiting for something off of your plate to nibble on. “It’s just so difficult to ignore those pleading eyes!”  However your pet may acquire human food it is important to know which foods are pet friendly.

This helpful list features people-healthy fruits and vegetables that can also be offered as safe treats for dogs!

Fruits and Vegetables that Make Good Dog Treats

Apples

• Not only do apples provide vitamins A and C, they are also low in protein and fat which makes them good snacks for overweight, sedentary, and senior dogs
• Remember to remove the core and seeds before offering as a snack

Bananas

• High in vitamins, fiber, and potassium, yet low in cholesterol and sodium, bananas are good for dogs and most find them delicious
• Because they have a high sugar content, clients should be advised that even though their pup begs for more, bananas should only be given as a treat

Blueberries

• Beneficial in so many ways, blueberries are good for dogs
• Full of fiber and rich in antioxidants, blueberries are a healthy treat choice

Broccoli

• Raw broccoli is good for a dog, but only the stem
• The head and florets contain a toxin which can cause gastrointestinal problems
• The stem, however, contains plenty of fiber and vitamin C, and is also good for helping to maintain clean teeth

Celery

• Known to freshen breath, celery contains the nutrients the body needs to fight cancer, and support heart health
• Celery is also full of vitamins A, B, and C, and many dogs enjoy it as a treat topped with peanut butter or cream cheese
• Be careful when feeding a dog celery as it can be a choking hazard. Make sure the bites are sized appropriately and that the dog chews the celery well.

Cucumbers

• When used as a snack, cucumbers can provide a dog with vitamins B1, C, and K, and also supplements the diet with copper, magnesium, and potassium
• This vegetable is considered good for overweight dogs as it is capable of boosting energy levels and has relatively no carbohydrates, fats, or oils

Oranges

• While the taste of oranges may not appeal to all dogs, oranges are safe to use as a treat and are full of vitamin C
• Outside of the seeds, a dog can eat the entire fruit; however, you should remove the peel as it can be difficult to digest

Pears

• The skin of the pear is its healthiest part, so wash the fruit, but leave its skin intact
• It only takes a few chunks to provide a dog with beneficial vitamins C and K, copper and fiber
• IMPORTANT!  Be sure to remove the pit and pear seeds as the seeds contain small traces of cyanide which is capable of making a dog ill

Pineapple

• Once fresh pineapple is trimmed and cored it makes a really nice treat
• Full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, pineapple also contains bromelain, an enzyme that supports a dog’s ability to absorb proteins

Potatoes

• With their high iron content, potatoes are a good treat to give to dogs every once in a while
• When raw they can cause stomach distress so be advised to always cook them first
• Any time potatoes are offered as a treat, they should be plain, not topped with butter and seasonings as most people enjoy

Strawberries

• One of the most popular summer fruits, fresh strawberries are chock full of vitamins and fiber, and can be used as a treat for dogs
• Strawberries have a high sugar content and so they should be given to a pet in moderation

Sweet Potatoes

• Full of fiber, beta carotene, and vitamins B-6 and C, dogs benefit from a treat of sweet potatoes
• Before being given to a dog, their preparation should be completed in the same way as regular potatoes, cooked and unseasoned

Watermelon

• As long as the rind and seeds are removed, watermelon can be offered as a safe choice for dog treats
• Full of nutrients, with no fat or cholesterol, its high water content also provides a way to help keep a dog hydrated on hot days

TREAT RECIPES:

For your pet, sneaking a fresh picked fruit or vegetable directly from the garden may be the best treat. One of the simplest forms of dog treats using fruits and vegetables is to freeze them. Here are two recipes that your pet will enjoy:

Frozen Apple

Slice two apples, removing the seeds and the core, then chop up and throw in a blender. Add a cup of plain Greek yogurt and a splash of water, then blend, pour in an ice tray, freeze, 

Frozen Yogurt Strawberries

Fresh strawberries (with the greens cut off, of course), dipped in plain yogurt. That’s it!

Use a fork to do the dipping, then lay on parchment paper and freeze.

Remember that there is a difference between offering a dog a treat and providing their meal. Regardless of the benefit provided by eating fruits or vegetables, feeding too much may reduce your dog’s nutritional intake if the quantity of treats interferes with their natural hunger response to eat their specially balanced regular diet.

To Your Pet’s Good Health,

Dr. Barry

Sources:
http://www.akc.org/learn/dog-health/fruits-vegetables-dogs-can-and-cant-eat/

https://www.rover.com/blog/homemade-dog-treats-freezer-summer/