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Thanksgiving is a special time for family, friends, and of course, food! And for many of us, pets are part of the family. While traditional Thanksgiving dishes can be harmful to pets, there are plenty of safe and healthy alternatives that allow them to join in the fun. Here’s a list of seven easy, pet-friendly Thanksgiving treats that are sure to delight your furry friends!
1. Turkey Tidbits
Turkey can be a delicious and safe treat for pets as long as it’s prepared correctly. Plain, cooked turkey breast without skin or bones is a great protein-rich snack for dogs and cats.
How to Serve
- Cut a small amount of plain, cooked turkey breast into bite-sized pieces.
- Avoid seasoning, skin, and bones, as they can be dangerous for pets.
Tip: Turkey should only be a small part of your pet’s meal to avoid any digestive upset.
2. Pumpkin Puree Pops
Pumpkin is a fall favorite that’s full of fiber and vitamins, making it a healthy treat for pets. Pure pumpkin (not the sugary pie filling) is excellent for digestion and can be served in several ways.
How to Make
- Scoop canned pumpkin into an ice cube tray or silicone mold.
- Freeze for 1-2 hours until solid.
- Serve as a cool treat your pet can enjoy over time.
Bonus: You can mix a bit of plain yogurt with the pumpkin for added creaminess.
3. Sweet Potato Chews
Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamins and fiber and can be made into chewy treats that dogs will love. Make sure you’re using plain, cooked sweet potato with no added sugar or spices.
How to Make
- Slice a sweet potato into thin rounds or long strips.
- Bake at 250°F for 2-3 hours, turning halfway through, until they are dried out and chewy.
- Let cool completely before serving.
Storage: These can be kept in an airtight container for up to a week.
4. Green Bean Crunchers
Green beans are a low-calorie, pet-safe veggie that many dogs and cats enjoy. They’re also a fun, crunchy treat that adds a bit of texture to your pet’s meal.
How to Prepare
- Place fresh, trimmed green beans on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 200°F for 2-3 hours or until they’re crisp.
- Allow them to cool and serve a few as a crunchy snack.
Tip: Green beans are especially great for pets on a low-calorie diet.
5. Apple & Carrot Munchies
Apples and carrots are tasty, low-fat snacks that many pets love. Apples are high in fiber and vitamins, while carrots provide a satisfying crunch. Be sure to remove the apple core and seeds, as they can be harmful.
How to Make
- Slice apples and carrots into bite-sized pieces.
- Serve raw or bake at a low temperature for a softer treat.
Note: Serve in moderation, as too many raw fruits and vegetables can lead to an upset stomach.
6. Doggy Thanksgiving Dinner
For a truly special treat, create a mini Thanksgiving “dinner” with pet-safe ingredients. This can be served as a small holiday meal or used to fill a Kong or other treat toy.
Ingredients
- Plain, cooked turkey (small portion, shredded)
- Mashed sweet potato (unsweetened)
- A bit of canned pumpkin
How to Prepare
- Combine the turkey, sweet potato, and pumpkin.
- Serve as a small meal, or stuff into a Kong toy for a fun challenge.
Tip: This is a great way to give your pet a taste of Thanksgiving without the risk of harmful ingredients.
7. Cranberry Dog Biscuits
Cranberries are full of antioxidants and can be a great addition to a pet-friendly treat when used sparingly. This easy biscuit recipe combines cranberry with oats for a crunchy, festive treat.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup plain, unsweetened cranberries (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup oat flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Chop the cranberries and mix with the oat flour and applesauce to form a dough.
- Roll out the dough and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes.
- Let cool completely before serving.
Storage: Store these in an airtight container for up to a week.
Safety Tips for Thanksgiving Treats
- Feed in Moderation: New foods can upset your pet’s stomach, so keep treat portions small.
- Avoid Toxic Ingredients: Foods like onions, garlic, chocolate, grapes, and anything containing xylitol (a common sugar substitute) should be kept away from pets.
- Check with Your Vet: If your pet has allergies or dietary restrictions, consult your veterinarian before introducing new treats.
Final Words
With these pet-friendly Thanksgiving treats, your furry friends can enjoy the holiday right alongside you. From turkey tidbits to pumpkin pops, these recipes are designed to be safe, healthy, and delicious. Kindly check with vet before giving these treats to pets. By including your pets in the festivities with treats that cater to their needs, you’ll create a Thanksgiving they’ll wag and purr about!
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your beloved pets!
Note: Kindly check with vet before giving these treats to pets
