Holiday Treats for Your Furry Friends: Keeping Pets Happy and Healthy This Season
As the holiday season approaches, many pet owners are looking for ways to include their furry friends in the festivities. Holiday treats are a delightful way to celebrate, but it’s essential to ensure that these treats are both enjoyable and safe for our pets. Stacy Busch-Heisserer of Busch Pet Products in Cape Girardeau shares her insights on keeping pets healthy and happy during this joyous time of year.
The Importance of Keeping Pets Occupied
With the hustle and bustle of the holidays, pets can often feel overwhelmed by the increased activity in the home. "With the holidays coming up, I think a lot of people are looking for ways to keep their pets occupied and happy," Busch-Heisserer explains. To help alleviate stress and prevent unwanted behaviors, such as begging at the table, it’s crucial to provide pets with engaging alternatives.
Recommended Treats for Dogs and Cats
Busch-Heisserer emphasizes the importance of choosing the right treats for our pets. Her store offers a wide variety of options for both cats and dogs, catering to different tastes and dietary needs. One of her top recommendations for dogs is antler chews. "Deer, moose, or elk antlers are durable and won’t splinter or injure your pet," she advises. When selecting an antler, ensure it is appropriately sized for your dog to prevent any choking hazards.
Simple and Safe Treats
While store-bought treats can be a convenient option, Busch-Heisserer encourages pet owners to consider homemade alternatives. "Animals can have a lot of the same foods we do, but it’s important to avoid giving them any fat or bones from the dishes you’re cooking," she cautions. Additionally, chocolate is a definite no-no for pets, and bread should be avoided as well.
Instead, she suggests opting for jerky or freeze-dried meat, which can be a healthy and satisfying option for pets. For those interested in making their own treats, there are countless recipes available online. "The simpler, the better," she advises, noting that grain-free recipes can be easier on digestion. For those that do use wheat flour, alternatives like coconut flour can be substituted.
A Special Treat: Frozen Pumpkin
One of Busch-Heisserer’s favorite homemade treats is frozen pumpkin. "A really great treat for a cat or dog is to take small amounts of real pumpkin—make sure it’s not the pie filling—and freeze them on a cookie sheet," she explains. This method allows pet owners to store the pumpkin for later use, and it can be beneficial for pets’ digestion.
Conclusion: Celebrating the Holidays with Your Pets
As the holiday season unfolds, it’s essential to remember that our pets deserve to partake in the joy and festivities. By providing them with safe and healthy treats, we can ensure they feel included and loved during this special time of year. Whether you choose to buy treats or make them at home, the key is to keep your furry friends happy and healthy. With a little planning and creativity, you can create a joyful holiday experience for both you and your pets.