Help Fluffy or Fido Stay Healthy with Homemade Pet Treats

We all want the best for our beloved dog or cat, and nothing says love to our furry pals than a nice, homemade pet treat. The trouble is, giving your cat or dog “people food” isn’t always the best option, and store-bought pet treats are expensive and usually not very healthy for your pets. But you can help your pet stay happy or healthy by making their treats at home. Below are a few suggestions for pet treats that are not only tasty, but inexpensive and easy to make.

For Dogs

Hot Dogs — Bring your franks to room temperature, and cut into pieces the appropriate size for your dog. Turkey or reduced fat kosher hot dogs are best, but hot dogs are generally higher in fat, so limit your serving size.

Vegetables — While we usually think of our furry friends primarily as meat eaters, most dogs will gladly eat a green bean or carrot, fresh or frozen. To make sure you are not accidentally giving them an unhealthy treat, check out this list of foods poisonous to dogs.

Ice Cubes — Simple ice cubes are a great dog treat on a hot day, but you can also make them with chicken or beef broth, low sodium and onion free, of course. Then you can freeze them and save them for the next time he brings you your slippers.

Chicken — Plain cooked, boneless chicken breast is a special treat that will make your dog love you forever. The next time you are making a chicken dish for yourself, just set aside a small amount to cook without seasoning or oil. Allow it to cool, then cut into appropriate sizes.

For Cats

Tuna Pops — Drain the liquid from a can of tuna and pour into a plastic pill organizer with dividers and freeze. Once they’re frozen, pop them out into a bowl so your cat can lick them.

Tuna Balls —Take the tuna you just drained and add half a cup of cut turkey or chicken and two thirds of a cup of dry cat food. You can even add sliced vegetables if you want. Mix the ingredients in a bowl, roll into balls and chill in the refrigerator for half an hour. Cover in crackers or bread crumbs, and serve.

Giving your dog or cat the occasional pet treat doesn’t have to break the bank. You can make your own pet treats at home that are safe and healthy, and will make your dog or cat love you even more.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/Tina_Rencelj