Pet Popsicles and More: The Best in Summer Pet Treats
For some, the words “liver” and “treat” should never go hand in hand. However, this combo might delight and satisfy your hungry, eager pet. Homemade pet treat recipes are plentiful, but when it comes to this bounty of summer recipes, how do you know what will hit the spot?
Luckily, The Pet Experts have done the legwork for you. Sit back, relax, and watch your pet go bananas over these scrumptious summer pet treats!
Beat the Heat
Raw fruits are wonderful additions to your pet’s diet. While you should avoid grapes, raisins, and most citrus options, your pet can enjoy these peeled, cored, and de-seeded fruits:
- Apples
- Bananas
- Melon (freezing cubed watermelon and offering it on a hot day is a crowd pleaser!)
- Mangos
- Pears
- Berries
- Pineapples
- Apricots
Likewise, veggies add a great deal of nutrition. It’s best to steam them lightly to ease digestion:
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Bell peppers
- Cabbage
- Asparagus
- Cucumbers
- Green beans
- Celery
- Cauliflower
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Pumpkin
- Sweet potato
Please let us know if you have any questions about which people foods your pet can enjoy.
Up the Ante
To mix things up a bit, consider preparing frozen summer pet treats (check out these tips beforehand). Create popsicles using small disposable cups and a sturdy dog chew or nylon dog bone. Similarly, try pouring your mixture into ice cubes trays, single-serve yogurt containers, or Tupperware.
You can also add any of the aforementioned fruits or veggies to your petsicles using broth or water. Your dog may also appreciate a bite of cheese, meat, yogurt, eggs, pumpkin, or peanut butter. Check out these crowd pleasers for more inspiration:
On an especially hot, sunny day, this Ice Treat Maker is a clever option for dogs. It’s fun to freeze a favorite toy or treat in ice and watch your dog go to town on the big ice cube.
The Teeth
Before offering your pet frozen or icy treats, consider bringing him or her in for a dental check. Enamel can be compromised with repetitive chewing of ice or frozen fruits, so we want to make sure your pet has a clean bill of oral health before delving into summer pet treats.
Summer Pet Treats
A food dehydrator is another source for healthy summer pet treats. Make homemade chicken jerky or these tasty sweet potato chews for the ultimate snack. This healthy mackerel mix can also be added to your pet’s bowl to satisfy any cravings for a beach vacation.
Wrapped Up
We hope your pet enjoys these additions to his or her everyday meals. Remember, if you’re hosting a party this summer, keep your pet away from the BBQ and picnic table. Instead, keep him or her satisfied with our delicious recommendations for summer pet treats!
Our team is always here for you and your pet. Please contact us with any questions or concerns. Happy snacking!
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News & Events
New Dog or Puppy? Time For Training!
Training is an important part of any dog's life. From providing mental stimulation to exercise and proper socialization, training will help in the development of a great canine companion. Enrollment is now open for Behavior Training Classes. The cost of a 6-week session is $120. Classes will be held at Springbrook Animal Care Center, 2759 Forgue Dr., Naperville (off Route 59 at 95th). Please call (630)428-0500 to register your pet. For specific training questions only, please email: trainer@thepetexperts.com.