Five Tips for Fun, Safe Holidays with Pets

Marty and Laura offer up five pro tips for a fun and safe holiday with pets. Sidenote, keep your eyes peeled for Marty during the National Dog Show on NBC at noon Thanksgiving Day.

Tip 1… Canned pumpkin, which may well be not entirely pumpkin, is great for dogs and cats! Give them a tablespoon in their food *before* you make the pie.

Tip 2 … Making soup stock from the turkey carcass? Save the cooked veggies for the dog’s dinner so they can join the celebration.

Tip 3 … The microwave is a GREAT food locker to keep the four-legged family out of the food when you turn your back.

Tip 4 … Save a few bucks on fun pet food toppers by looking for “windfall” apples for homemade applesauce, inquiring with your grocery store for bruised produce or checking out online delivery resources like Imperfect Foods.

Tip 5 … Make a batch of *dog* cookies with your holiday baking.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole wheat flour (regular white flour will work as well) 
• 1 cup canned pureed pumpkin (don’t use pumpkin pie filling, as it includes additional sugar, fats, and spices like cinnamon that are dangerous to your dog)
• 1/2 cup peanut butter (make sure it doesn’t contain artificial sweeteners like xylitol)

Directions

• Preheat your oven to 375°F.
• Add the pumpkin and peanut butter to a large mixing bowl and stir to combine.
• Stir in the flour until the mixture creates a dough.
• Roll out the dough about ½ inch thick on a lightly floured surface.
• Cut out fall shapes using a small cookie cutter or knife. Bonus points if you use a fall-themed cookie cutter in a pumpkin shape. 
• Place the treats about half an inch apart on an ungreased cookie sheet.
• Bake for 12 minutes.
• Let cool completely before giving to your dog to enjoy.

Bone-Appetit!

Recipe inspired by the American Kennel Club. This article contains recipe information that is considered suitable for pets. However, not all pets can tolerate different foods — it depends on their age, health history, and health conditions. It is important to consult with your veterinarian before feeding your pet any new foods or offering your pet any of the ingredients contained in this recipe.