Watch What Treats You Feed Your Pets
Thursday, December 23, 2010 03:46 AM
Prince George, B.C.- Did you know that you could be killing your pet with kindness during the holidays?
It is so tempting to share a tidbit from the Christmas dinner table especially when you have those sad eyes staring at you.
If you give in, you could be putting your “best friend’s” life in danger.
We all know turkey bones are a no-no since they can splinter and then puncture the stomach and intestinal tract, but fatty turkey skin can cause harm too.
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas lies between stomach, liver and right kidney. It's purpose is to neutralize acid produced in the stomach as well as enzymes that facilitate digestion.
The most common cause of pancreatitis is eating fatty foods. 
Butter and gravy are the biggest culprits as well as poultry skin. In 90% of all diagnosed cases it could have been prevented.
We are the ones responsible for the feeding of our pets so it is important to protect them from foods that can make them ill or even kill them.
Signs of pancreatitis include vomiting, diarrhea, depression, loss of appetite, and severe pain when you touch the abdomen. Watch for signs of agitation or inability for your pet to get comfortable.
It cannot be emphasized enough the importance of when you notice that your pet is vomiting , drinking water and still vomiting that you have a very serious, life threatening problem on your hands.
A prompt emergency visit to the vet just might save your pets life.
There are plenty of other treats that should be taken off the “goodie” list for your pet; bones, rawhide and even pig ears can cause intestinal obstruction in dogs.
Chocolate has toxin in it that can kill a dog, cat or bird. As little as one ounce of chocolate can kill a ten pound dog! Raisins and onions are also a threat to your pet.
Pets, like dogs and cats, are very curious critters, so even the foil and plastic wrap used to wrap up left- overs will taste good coated with those yummy flavours. Make sure you dispose of the wrappings properly, not only to protect your pets, but also in such a way as not to entice wildlife once the garbage goes outdoors.
For a safe and happy holiday for your pet stick to the natural foods like fruits and vegetables. If you want a festive treat that is healthy, we offer this tried and true one:
Gourmet Dog Biscuits
-
1/4 cup (50ml) water
-
2 eggs
-
2 cups (500ml) flour
-
1 1/3 cups (325ml) shredded cheddar cheese
-
3 cloves minced garlic
-
½ cup (125ml) vegetable oil
In a small bowl whisk water and eggs together and set aside.
In a bowl of a food processor equipped with a steel blade, add flour, cheese, garlic and vegetable oil. Pulsate about 5 seconds until you get a course meal texture.
Slowly add egg and water mixture until dough forms a ball.
Divide dough into 2 balls to make it easier to work with.
Knead each dough ball for about 3 minutes on a flowered surface.
Roll dough into about 1/4 thickness and cut with cookie cutter.
Place on a baking sheet lined with foil.
Bake at 400F (200C) for about 15 minutes. Carefully remove from oven and turn biscuits over. Bake about another 10 minutes.
Cool on rack and store in a container with a loose fitting lid.
Try one yourself, you’ll like it too.
"Bone" appetite.......
Previous Story - Next Story
Email
Print
Facebook
Twitter
Digg
Del.icio.usReturn to Home
Seriously, for me to take you seriously, try something with rice, grated carrots, or raw hamburger. If you love your dog, don't ever feed him flour, although there's probably tons in dry dog food.