The following bi-weekly column is written and sponsored by Bark + Boarding, which provides a heart-centered and safe environment for your pets. Conveniently located at 5818-C Seminary Road in Bailey’s Crossroads, Bark & Boarding offers doggy daycare, boarding, grooming, walking and training services, plus in-home pet care.
by Chelsea Pennington, Bark + Boarding Writer and Animal Enthusiast
For us humans, the coming of fall means sweet treats like pumpkin spice everything and Halloween candy. But our pets shouldn’t miss out on the fun! We’ve rounded up a couple fall treats for your furry friends that are tasty and healthy.
Pumpkin Apple Dog Treats
Nothing says fall like going to an apple orchard or pumpkin patch. Try this recipe that uses both of these favorite fall flavors. Not only will your dog love the taste, it’s also good for them. Pumpkin can be used to settle an upset stomach, and apples are a good source of fiber and vitamins A and C.
Ingredients:
4-4.5 cups oats plus additional
1 medium apple
1 egg
1 cup canned pumpkin
Cookie cutter in the shape of your choice
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400ºF.
- Grind oats in a food processor or blender. Transfer to mixing bowl.
- Core apple, being sure to remove all of the seeds. Grate apple, and add to bowl with oatmeal.
- Add egg and canned pumpkin to bowl and mix well. The mixture will be thick and slightly sticky.
- On a surface dusted with oats roll the dough out to approximately 1/2″ thick. Cut with cookie cutter and transfer to a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden and crispy. Cool to room temperature and store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Of course, dogs shouldn’t be the only ones to enjoy some homemade treats. Try out this simple and healthy recipe for your cat as well!
Salmon Cat Treats
These treats use only three ingredients and are super easy to make, while also being packed full of protein to keep your kitty full, healthy and happy.
Ingredients:
10 oz canned salmon, undrained (can substitute canned chicken or tuna)
1 egg beaten
2 cups whole wheat flour
Cookie cutters in the shape of your choice!
Instructions:
- Heat oven to 350ºF. Pulse 10 oz. canned salmon (undrained) in a food processor or chop as finely as possible.
- In a stand mixer, combine salmon, 1 egg (beaten) and 2 cups whole wheat flour until dough forms. If dough is too dry, add up to 1/3 cup water. If dough is too wet or sticky, add a bit more flour. Dough should be tacky but not sticky.
- Roll out dough on a floured surface until about 1/4 inch thick. Use the cookie cutter to create shapes like pumpkins and leaves, if you want to keep them fall themed.
- Place treats on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350ºF for about 20 minutes. When they’re slightly browned and crunchy, they’re done.
- Allow to cool before serving. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
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