close modal

Request a Reservation

Dog Fun

04/01/2015

TREATS!

Nothing brightens up your dog’s face or perks up his ears more than this one word! Treats to your dog…

healthy treats for your dog

Nothing brightens up your dog’s face or perks up his ears more than this one word! Treats to your dog are just like treats for us: something special that provides enjoyment and pleasure!

Grocery Store Convenience

Its kind-of like buying candy for kids… we head straight to the dog food isle of the grocery store to find a yummy treat for our dog. And, just like candy, sometimes these packaged treats can be high in fat, sugar, preservatives, and calories and have very little, if any, nutritional value. But dogs LOVE treats…and we love giving them their treats! It’s a happy, bonding ritual, so it can’t be all bad!

Why Consider Alternatives?

Unlike kids, dogs are open to many different kinds of “treats”. They don’t really care what it is, so much as that you’re just giving them something! Think about replacing store bought treats with healthy fruits and vegetables. It could be one of the best things you’ve ever done for your dog! It will help keep his weight in check, and provide additional nutrients to keep him strong and healthy.

The Right treats!

Some dog-friendly and easily available treats are baby carrots, apples (no seeds), cooked or dehydrated sweet potatoes, air popped pop-corn, pineapple (great frozen!), peas (yep, sometimes they like them!), watermelon, strawberries, bananas, cantaloupe, and fresh green beans. Giving them a spoonful of pumpkin, peanut butter, or plain yogurt is like an ice cream treat to us! Keep in mind that some people food is not good for your dog and may even be toxic. Do your homework, and if you are unsure, ask your vet.

If you’re grilling, broiling, or baking meat for your family’s dinner, it’s perfectly safe to give your dog a very small piece of unseasoned lean beef, salmon or chicken. They’ll think they hit the motherload!

Dehydrated Treats

Consider purchasing a food dehydrator. Dehydrated fruits and vegetables will not affect the vitamin and mineral content and will make storing easier. Nearly all fruits and vegetables can be dehydrated. Because the dehydrating process makes food intensely flavorful, you may want to indulge in a few “treats” yourself!

As with anything, moderation is key. Most veterinarians advise that “extra” foods or treats should not comprise more than 10% of your dog’s diet. It would be best to try one new food at a time until you’re sure that it is well tolerated by your dog’s digestive system.

Pet Lovers

10/30/2023

Should you Rename your Rescue?

Back in 2020, we published a blog titled, “Naming Your Dog”. The blog suggested lots of fun ideas for naming…

Dog Fun

05/22/2017

16 Safety & Training Tips for Taking your Dog to Outdoor Events this Summer

We were on vacation one year and enjoying dinner on the deck of this beautiful restaurant when a couple came…

Dog Grooming Blog

01/08/2018

Have you ever heard of Plucking Dog Ears?

Are you familiar with “plucking” a dog’s ears? If you have a larger or smooth-coated breed, you may not know…