3 Homemade Healthy Pet Treats Recipes for You

Pet source: 3 Homemade Healthy Pet Treats Recipes for You

Despite the fact that there are numerous brands of dog food sold commercially, the sad reality is that most of them are chemically processed, are filled with junk and fillers and are void of the nutrients that your pet needs in order to stay healthy. Did you know that there are numerous pet treats that you can prepare from home, that are not only very healthy for your dog, but that will save you money too in the long run? In fact, your pet will find most of these treats so tasty that you will stop buying commercial pet food altogether.
1. Chicken Jerky
This is a great dog treat if you want an alternative to the jerky sold at the store. This particular jerky will be quite chewy, ensuring that your pet is preoccupied for quite some time. Also, the amount of proteins present in this treat will help in building your pet’s muscle structure.
Ingredients:
4 chicken breasts
Method:
• Preheat your oven to 200F.
• Trim any fat off the pieces of chicken. Then cut them into inch thick strips which you will then arrange on a baking tray. Bake the strips of 2 hours.
• Check the chicken to ensure all the strips have dried out completely. If not, bake them for another half an hour. Allow them to cool before serving them to your pet. The rest of it can be stored in a container in a fridge for up to 10 days.

2. Vegetable and Meat Balls
These are a healthy treat that emit such a rich aroma that you would be hard-pressed trying to get your pet out of the kitchen as you prepare them.
Ingredients:
2 jars of 170g of beef and vegetable food
3 cup of milk
1 cup of water
1 cup of wheat flour
Method:
• Preheat oven to 300F.
• Use a large mixing bowl to mix all the ingredients together.
• Use a serving spoon to scoop out the mixture onto a baking sheet.
• Bake for 20 minutes.
• Before serving them to your dog, allow them to cool completely. This treat can be stored for up to 4 days in the fridge.

3. Fruit Mix for Dogs
A little bit of desert for your pet every now and then will do no harm. Despite it being a sweet treat, it does have a good dose of vitamins and proteins to still remain healthy.
Ingredients:
1 cup plain yoghurt
1 cup of diced blueberries
1 cup diced strawberries
1 cup applesauce
Method:
• Place all the ingredients into a blender and mix them well to form a thick smooth paste. Ensure that all the fruits have been blended properly.
• Serve them to your pet in small quantities.
• The rest can be stored in the fridge for up to one week.
Tip: Use only half of each of the ingredients if you only have one pet, or want a special treat for that day only.

Each of the recipes mentioned above take little time to prepare, are healthy and organic and will not cost you much. Give your pet a healthy chance by deciding to feed him/her healthy homemade treats.

Rising Veterinary Costs: What You Can Do About It

The costs of dog health care are rising rapidly. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the costs of veterinary medicine rose a whopping 79 percent between the 2000 and 2010. Furthermore, according to the National Pet Owner’s Survey, the costs of veterinary care rose 9.78 percent in only two years between 2009 and 2011. Unfortunately, it is becoming increasingly expensive to have a dog and take good care of him or her.
As a member of the family, dogs have become almost like children to those who love them. When your “fur baby” is sick, you’re willing to pay almost anything to for medical care as long as they’ll feel better. However, the sobering reality of the veterinary bill that comes later can be shocking. While many dog owners have taken out pet insurance policies to help cover their veterinary bills, especially emergency procedures and catastrophic illnesses like cancerous tumors, these policies will usually only cover about 90 percent of the total veterinary costs at best. This can leave one owning thousands, or even tens of thousands, in veterinary bills!
Preventative care has become the best answer to lowering veterinary costs for many responsible dog owners. Of course, preventative care also keeps your dog healthier and happier and increases their lifespan. Here are some preventative care tips that will help you lower your veterinary bill and keep your beloved dog with you longer:
Keep Your Dog’s Teeth Clean

Infection in the mouth can quickly spread to the rest of your dog’s body and cause a variety of problems, from kidney infections to severe gastritis. Dog treats marketed as “tartar control” do not get remove all the plaque. To remove this, it is best to buy a dog toothbrush and dog toothpaste (human toothpaste is poisonous to dogs) and brush your dog’s teeth at least every other day.
Regular Daily Exercise
Exercise is just as important to dog health care as to human health care! To keep your dog’s cardiovascular system in good shape, and keep their joints limbered up, be sure to exercise your dog every day. Even on rainy days, or days you just don’t feel like going to the park, try to at least take a short walk or run in your neighborhood.
Groom Your Dog Regularly


Trimming your dog’s toenails and brushing regularly will help prevent infections and injury. It also gives you the frequent opportunity to immediately notice any trouble, such as an ear infection or a skin rash, before it advances. This way, you can seek immediate medical attention before the problem gets out of hand.
Do Not Feed Your Dog Corn and Soy
Many dog illnesses can be traced to poor diet. Unfortunately, many dog foods on the market, including some expensive brands, contain corn and soy. Not only will these ingredients cause your dog’s health to deteriorate quickly, in most cases, these ingredients are genetically modified versions which are even worse for your dog’s health. Older dogs often start to have health problems like skin allergies, hip dysplasia, arthritis, and kidney issues. Switching to a higher quality food that does not contain corn or soy, or “meat byproducts,” will often improve your dog’s health immensely.
Conclusion
Preventative care is a good solution to combating escalating dog health care costs. It will also help keep your dog living longer and having a higher quality of life in their middle and senior years.

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Common myths surrounding dog nutrition since decades

Whether you are looking for a best prescription diet for your dog or you just want to know the difference between raw and dry food, being able to differentiate between fact and fiction goes a long way.

Keeping that in mind, here are some of the most common myths that have surrounded dog nutrition since decades:
1. The best dog foods are often sold by the veterinarians
The vets’ sell premium and top-of-the-line nutrition, yet the ingredients of these products tell a different story. These brands and many other similar products usually contain poultry by-products, mainly consisting of the leftovers and the meat deemed unfit for consumption. These products may include anything from the feet, beak, developing eggs to intestines, everything except the healthy meat. At the premium price, what you actually get is a low-quality and cheap protein source that is not even as digestible as clean chicken meal. These ingredients tell all about the low-quality food and are no different from the products available at discount value in dog food stores.
2. Dry food helps to clean the teeth of your dog

This is quite common perception among many of us. However, this is not the case. Dogs have very sharp teeth, which are not flat. These teeth are made to chew, bite and tear into the raw meat. Therefore, when a dog eats dry food or kibble, it swallows them completely or crushes it underneath teeth. Kibble does not reach around the gums or the lower parts of teeth, which is where dental infections start.
3.There should be different diet for different stages of dog’s life

This myth is promoted due to it being the part of marketing strategies of several companies. Manufacturers develop several formulas to get more shelf space. Though this is true that kittens and pups need more food than adults do, yet they do not need special formulas in accordance with their age. All you need is a high quality and varied diet for your young dog.
4.Table leftovers and “human” food is bad for the health of your dog

The majority of veterinarians encourage dog owners to feed people food to their pets. Healthy leftovers are an excellent substitute to the regular fare; however, you would like to stick with these two rules:
1) “People food” must be healthy. It could be meat or steamed and chopped fruits, veggies, baked sweet potatoes, oatmeal, or rice. Make sure not to feed junk food to your pet.
2) If you give them a little bit of your food, make sure to reduce the quantity of pet food, so that they do not put on extra pounds.
5. Due to the risk of salmonella and E. coli, feeding raw food is dangerous

Gastrointestinal tract of dogs are very different from humans. While human digestive tract is about 25 to 28 meters with stomach acid ph between 1.5 and 2.5, dogs have shorter digestive tract of about 10 to 13 feet with acidity less than 1ph. The food consequently moves through the system in time that is less than half of what it would take it to move through a human being’s digestive system. The high acidity of pets’ digestive system kills most of bacteria. Even if the raw food is contaminated, the high acidity levels make sure that bacteria do not enter into the bloodstream.
6. Changing the formula or pet food brands is difficult on dog’s digestive system

A healthy dog can eat different foods without any problem if the food is high in quality. Veterinarians are aware that variety in pet food is of utmost importance for several reasons; one of them is to avoid sensitivity to a specific food type.
Give your dog a healthy diet to add several years to his life. Spend less by making wise and informed choices. It does not require much effort or money. With little knowledge and the will to provide your dog with a healthy body, you can feed him with the food he deserves.
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7 Reasons why I prefer raw food over any other food for my dog

No food choice for your dog can really compare to the species appropriate raw food. Just like wolves, who are their ancestors, dogs are biologically designed to thrive on raw meat, raw bones and raw organs. Wolves and dogs have approximately the same DNA, which means that they have the same digestive tract and require the same raw diet to reach a state of optimal health. With that said, here are some of the reasons why raw food is the best food you can give to your loyal four-legged friend:
1.Raw food is the purest form of healthy nutrition you can give to your dog

Raw food diet is the purest and most healthy nutrition you can give to your dog. Raw foods are rich in nutrients and living enzymes that cannot be found in any other dog diets. Commercial kibble diets and even the homemade preparations certainly involve some form of cooking, which destroys most of the nutrients and essential enzymes. Additives and chemicals in many commercial dog foods have a detrimental effect on our pet’s body over time.
2.Many medical issues can be corrected

The benefits of a raw food diet are amazing. Dogs with medical problems, skin disorders, allergies, digestive problems and other illnesses can find relief when they are put on a raw food diet. In addition, the chances of recovery from a serious illness are more when the dog is fed with raw food on consistent basis. Feeding your dog with raw food can prolong their life and reduce the frequency and intensity of diseases that are likely to happen to your dog.
3.Dog’s physical appearance and odor is improved

The sky is the limit when it comes to finding ways to feed your dog with nutritional raw food. With the use of raw food, the dog’s fur gets thick and smooth. Color pigments present on the dog’s coat can also be improved with the help of raw food diet. Dogs put on this diet tend to lose that peculiar dog smell that is problematic for many dog owners, for the reason that the overall health of their skin and fur is improved.
4.Raw food is generally good for the eyes of your dog

Eyes of a dog that has started to feed on raw food suddenly become clear and lose the dullness they carried with them for years. Their irises get crisper and the color is intensified.
5.Raw food is good for the dental health of the dog

Another wonderful benefit of feeding your dog with raw food is better dental health. Dogs eating raw have fresh breath and clean and white teeth. The act of crushing the bone or chewing the flesh stimulates their gum line and scrapes their teeth. Commercial kibble food is crushed between the teeth and collapses within the upper layers of the teeth. Consequently, it is stuck in between the teeth and under the gums, which is often the source of bad breath.
6.Switching to raw food can eliminate food allergies in dogs

Food allergies in dogs can be eliminated by switching to a raw food diet. Raw food is much easier for the dog’s body to digest. High quality protein present in the flesh drastically reduces the exposure to the allergens, which ultimately keeps the dog away from all the food allergies.
7.Switching to a raw food diet results in improved digestive system
Digestive problems such as EPI, IBD and other digestive imbalances can be helped considerably by switching to a raw food diet. Many medical conditions can be significantly relieved when the dog is given the chance to detoxify itself on a raw food diet. Although it is not possible to eliminate the condition, raw food diet can strengthen the dog’s body and give him maximum possible relief.
Feeding your dog with raw food is not as daunting as you might think and it isn’t as time-taking as it might seem. In fact, you will be spending far less on raw food compared to what you would spend on buying bags of commercial kibble. With that said, raw food diet is the best choice for all dogs regardless of their age, race, size and medical problems. Raw meat is exactly what the dogs are biologically designed to eat. If you have a dog that looks dull and unhealthy, provide him with a raw food diet to change his life forever.
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Savory Homemade Dog Treats- That Will Make Your Doggy Go Bonkers

To your dog, food is love- affirmation, reinforcement and security. Additionally, just like you do, they love food treats as well. These treats are sometimes referred to as "high value" treats by trainers- foods that are especially meaty, pungent or sweet. These delectable feasts enable your message to get through them especially clear and loud. Plus, it is super fun, treating your canine friends something they are insane about- the doggie equivalent of taking the children out for ice cream or doughnuts.

So want to please your pooch with the irresistibly yummy dog treats? Try these great snack options that your dog will not only drool over, but will also be healthy for him!

. Healthy And Sumptuous Pumpkin Balls: Did you know dogs love to chow down on pumpkin? Well, yes that is true! They find them very sweet delicious and they are also a great snack for dogs. These can be easily prepared at home and they are also filled with vitamin A, fiber, iron, potassium and beta carotene.
For the recipe, mix 1/2 cup canned pumpkin, 4 tablespoons of molasses, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and 4 tablespoons of water together in a bowl. Now add 2 cups of whole wheat flour, 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the mixture and stir until dough softens. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Now scoop out small spoonfuls of dough and roll into balls. Now set the balls onto the greased cookie sheet and bake them for approximately 30 minutes until the dough is hardened.

. Delectable Homemade Dog Biscuits: These yummy edibles can be customized to cater to your dogs palette. To make it more flavorful you can also add in eggs, chicken broth, bacon bits, oats and liver powder.
For the recipe, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Dissolve 1 teaspoon of chicken bouillon granules or chicken broth in 1/2 cup of hot water and add 2 1/2 cups of whole wheat flour, 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 egg. Now knead dough for 3 minutes to form small balls. Roll dough until 1 inch thick and cut into bone shapes with a cutter. Cook for 35 minutes and treat your friend.

. Frozen Homemade Banana Yogurt Dog Treats: This is an ideal refreshment to cool your pooch down after a strenuous play session.
Mash 1 medium ripe banana. Now combine 31 ounces of vanilla yogurt and mashed banana. Mix it well until smooth. Now pour this mixture into cupcake liners and place them in the refrigerator to cool.

. Apple Crunch Pupcakes: Want to give your pooch a fruity treat? Try this one! Your dog will surely adore it.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix 3 cups of water, 1/4 cup of applesauce (unsweetened), 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 medium egg and 1/8 teaspoon of vanilla together in a bowl. Now add 4 cups of whole wheat flour, 1 cup of dried unsweetened apple chips and 1 tablespoon of baking powder to the mixture. Mix it well and pour into lightly greased muffin pans. Bake for approximately 1 hour.

Your dogs tastebuds will thank you for this goodness. Whether the lucky pooch belongs to you or a known person, these dog treats will definitely make them your loyal lover for life.

Show Your Dog Some Love with Dog Biscuits

Since time immemorial, dogs have been man’s best friend, pet and companion. It is due to this intimate relationship man has been having with dogs that somehow has made him (man) be much nicer to dogs than to any other domestic animals. Dogs are useful in the sense that they can be used for hunting, as guides for security, for sports and most importantly, as man’s best companions in places where solace is needed. For dogs to be healthy, it is imperative that they are treated just like human beings. They need a proper balanced diet, regular screening, and frequent cleaning. To carry out all this requires determination, conveniently, for the lovers of dogs; it’s more of a responsibility than a duty.

Dog biscuits

A dog biscuit can be compared to the normal human biscuit only that in dog’s case, the biscuit is incorporated with dietary supplement for dogs and other essential supplements for canines. Mostly, dog biscuits are dry and hard, designed to resemble a bone. Dog experts claim that the harder the biscuit is, the more beneficial it is to the dog’s teeth. Additionally, its hard texture also helps in cleaning dog’s teeth. Dog biscuits come in different flavors it is therefore important to choose one that will be more nutritious to your dog. Furthermore, dog biscuits can be baked home or bought from pets stores.

Simple dog treats

Dog biscuits are only supplements. There exist a myriad of dog treat recipe that are rather easy to make but more nutritious and delicious to dogs. For example:

1. Vegetables-dogs have a thing for green vegetables just like human beings. However, extreme caution should be taken when serving dogs vegetables so as not to accidentally serve them with an unhealthy treat. Most importantly, be acquainted with food poisonous to dogs, this will greatly help you keep them from your dog.

2. Hot dogs-turkey or reduced fat kosher hot dogs are also dogs favorite meal. Always slice them in small pieces before serving them to dogs. However, note that most hot dogs are high in fat and should therefore be served in moderation.

3. Chicken-as delicious as it is, chicken meals are also liked by our furry friends. Plain cooked chicken breasts without bones are both a luxurious and nutritious treat for the dogs.

Dog biscuits variety

· Pumpkin dog biscuits- pumpkin dog biscuits are easy to make since the ingredients are readily available. On nutritious side, pumpkins are more useful to dogs as they contain components that helps clean the digestive tract of the dogs. In addition, pumpkins also boost dog’s immunity helping them stay healthy.

· Peanut butter dog biscuits- peanut butter can be mixed with oatmeal or bacon to make it more delicious. Regardless of what you mix peanut butter with, matter of fact is its more yummy and nutritious to dogs. On the lighter note, peanut butter also provides dogs with the important fat they require.

· Banana dog biscuit- basically, one requires wheat flour, honey, baking soda, banana squash, a cup of vegetables and any other thing you may wish to add.

Regardless of what dog biscuit you choose to treat your dog with, always ensure that it’s baked with more than two ingredients. For those who like doing things on your own, this may be another adventure for you. All you need is a recipe book for dog biscuit and time and you will be set to go. Finally, make it a habit to take your dog for regular screening as this will help you spot any ailment before they spread further giving you chance to treat them on time.