A hot weather treat for dogs and cats
By Liz Palika
July 23, 2009
My mom is an awesome cook but I didn’t inherit that talent. Cooking is something I do to put food on the table. However, when I was researching my two treat cookbooks for pets (The Ultimate Dog Treat Cookbook and The Ultimate Cat Treat Cookbook) I discovered that I really enjoyed making treats for my dogs and cats. I guess a part of it is because they are such an appreciative audience and even ate my failures!
I made one of my dogs special treats today – a hot weather treat all three of my dogs really enjoy.
Frozen Chicken Treats for Dogs
Makes 12 individual treats.
2 cups cooked chicken; leftovers are great
1. Finely diced or shred the chicken. Smaller pieces are best.
2. Place a paper (not foil) muffin or cupcake liner in each spot in a 12 muffin tin so you can make 12 treats.
3. Place the chicken in the liners, dividing it equally.
4. Add just enough water to cover the chicken.
5. Put the muffin tin in the freezer until fully frozen; usually at least a couple of hours.
Variations: Add a pinch of grated carrot, grated zucinni, broccoli flowers, or other veggies to the chicken before you add the water.
When you give the treat to your dog do so outside, on a towel, or an easily cleaned floor as it can be messy. You can peel the paper off the treat or let your dog peel it off. The paper also easily dissolves and won’t be a problem if your dog eats it.
For cats, find some small paper liners like those used for making chocolate candies. Use tuna instead of chicken or cooked salmon, trout, or any other deboned fish that you may have as leftovers. Add just enough water to cover. The amounts will differ as the liners come in a variety of sizes. Just as with the dog treats, freeze until solid. Serve on an easily cleaned surface.
That sounds like a great (and safe) summertime treat. Just remember to avoid adding in onions as those can be somewhat toxic to dogs if eaten in large amounts.
Thanks very much for the hot (and cool!) tip!
Comment by Dr. Tony Johnson — July 23, 2009 @ 6:43 am
Welcome Dr. Tony!
Dr. Tony Johnson of the Purdue University School of Veterinary Medicine, an expert in critical and emergency care, will be joining the blogging team here. Wait for more news, bio and his first post … probably by Monday, since I’m still planning to spend most of the day in bed today.
Comment by Gina Spadafori — July 23, 2009 @ 6:50 am
Thanks for the warm welcome, Gina. I am really looking forward to letting all those stories I have pent-up inside of me out! I might drop a dress size…wait, that came out all wrong…
Comment by Dr. Tony Johnson — July 23, 2009 @ 7:17 am
we like to make ice cubes out of leftover chicken or beef broth - i bought an ice cube tray specifcally for the dogs - they love their chicken cubes!
I think adding chicken peices would make the treat even more desirable
Comment by Sarah — July 23, 2009 @ 7:42 am
I too make dog treats. My dogs love them and I know what is in them. Izzy likes the dough and has liberated it several times when my back was turned and once when my back was not turned. I have made similar frozen treats but I mix peanut butter into the liquid. Gross, but my dogs love it.
Comment by Jill — July 23, 2009 @ 8:56 am
I love the idea of making your own dog treats. I actually haven’t tried it yet myself, because every time I think about making treats I get selfish and end up with brownies or cookies instead. :)
But these would work well in kongs too probably! I’ll have to try it.
Comment by Stacy — July 23, 2009 @ 1:59 pm
I, too, welcome you, Dr. Tony Johnson!
I am anxious to read all of those “pent-up” tales.
Comment by Colorado Transplant — July 24, 2009 @ 6:42 am