Halloween is just around the corner, and while you're busy stocking up on candy for the neighborhood kids, don't forget about your pets! It's important to include your pets in the festivities while ensuring their safety and well-being. Luckily, there are plenty of creative and delicious pet-safe Halloween treats you can whip up or find at your local pet store. Let's dive into some trending options that will have your four-legged friends howling for more!
Frozen Fun: Spooky Shapes and Healthy Ingredients
Frozen treats are a fantastic way to keep your pets cool and entertained, especially if you live in a warmer climate. Consider making a Candy Corn inspired treat with layers of yogurt, pumpkin puree, and banana. Blend each ingredient separately and layer the flavors to make colorful treats packed with probiotics, fiber, and essential vitamins.
Ingredients:
1 cup plain non-fat yogurt
1/2 cup organic pumpkin purée (make sure not to use pumpkin pie filling)
1–2 bananas
For a festive twist, try making a pumpkin-flavored froyo made with honey, pumpkin puree, and goat's milk. Blend all the ingredients and pipe or pour into freezer molds. This refreshing treat is a gut health booster with anti-inflammatory benefits, perfect for senior pets or pets with sensitive stomachs.
Ingredients:
1/4 cup honey
1/2 cup organic pumpkin purée
1 cup raw goat milk or plain non-fat yogurt
If you're looking for a superfood option, "Zombie Gut-sicles" is the way to go. Blend apples, leafy greens, and bone broth for a nutrient-rich treat that supports joint health and digestion. Blend all the ingredients and pipe or pour into freezer molds.
Ingredients:
Pick the flavor combo your pet will enjoy, pour it into molds, and pop it in the freezer for 4 to 5 hours until the mixture is solid. Once they're ready, surprise your furry friend with a Halloween treat they'll love!
Store-Bought Options: When Time is of the Essence
If you're short on time or prefer the convenience of pre-made treats, there are plenty of pet-safe Halloween-themed options available at pet stores. Look for treats made with natural ingredients and avoid those with artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Safety First: Keep Your Pets Away from Harmful Treats
While it's tempting to share your Halloween candy with your pets, remember that many human treats are dangerous for them. Chocolate, candy containing xylitol, and even raisins can be toxic. Keep all candy out of reach and educate your children about the importance of not sharing their treats with pets.
Beyond Treats: Other Ways to Celebrate
Halloween treats are just one way to include your pets in the festivities. Consider dressing them up in a safe and comfortable costume, taking them for a walk to admire the decorations, or even hosting a pet-friendly Halloween party with their furry friends.
Remember, the most important thing is to keep your pets safe and happy during Halloween. By choosing pet-safe treats and taking precautions to avoid potential hazards, you can ensure that everyone in your family, including your four-legged friends, has a spooktacular holiday!
Red Dog Blue Kat. (2022). 6 DIY Halloween Treats For Your Dog Or Cat. In Red Dog Blue Kat. https://www.reddogbluekat.com/post/6-diy-halloween-treats-you-can-make-for-your-dog-or-cat
Editors, B. (2023). No Tricks, All Treats: 5 Scary-Good Halloween Dog Treat Recipes. In BeChewy. https://be.chewy.com/halloween-dog-treat-recipes/
10 Easy Halloween Pet Treats. (n.d.). In https://www.petfood.express. Retrieved September 25, 2024, from https://www.petfood.express/learn/know-your-pet/diy-halloween/
