Summer’s just around the corner, and we all know what that means: temperatures will soon be soaring. Many of us like to reach for cold drinks and snacks when it’s really hot outside. Our canine friends are no different! In this article from Fairfield Animal Hospital, your Cypress, TX animal clinic, a local vet lists some frozen treats you can make for Fido.

Pupsicles

To make a pupsicle, you’ll just need some doggy treats, or perhaps some shredded, cooked beef or chicken. Put the snacks in paper cups, treat mold, or an ice cube tray, and then pour in some water or sodium-free beef or chicken broth. Pop them in the freezer for a few hours. Presto: instant tail wag!

Doggy Ice Cream

You can make Fido his very own ice cream! Start with a base of plain natural yogurt, and then add peanut butter, banana, pureed pumpkin, honey, and/or wheat germ. You can customize your pup’s ice cream by adding or topping it with bacon bits, shredded cheese, or bits of meat.

Lamb Roll

A frozen, pre-cooked lamb roll can also make a good doggy treat. When you want to give Fido a snack, just slice off a thin piece, and remove the wrapper.

Veggies

Many frozen fruits and veggies can make great doggy snacks. Sweet potatoes, and large whole carrots and bananas are a few good options.

Cheeseburger Bites

For this one, start by cooking some hamburger. Don’t add seasonings, as many spices and flavorings are bad for Fido. You can add a little shredded cheese if you like, but don’t go overboard with it. Drain the fat, then mix the hamburger with a little water or sodium-free beef broth. Freeze them in an ice cube tray, treat molds, or paper cups.

Safety

When cooking for Fido, use only dog-safe ingredients. Some foods to avoid include chocolate; avocados; pitted fruits; garlic, onions, and chives; grapes, currants and raisins; and anything containing xylitol. You also want to avoid giving your pet too many frozen things at once; one or two cold snacks at a time is plenty. Be mindful of sizes: some treats could present choking hazards if they are too small. Ask your vet for specific recommendations. Does your dog need vaccinations or a checkup? Call us today! Here at Fairfield Animal Hospital, your Cypress, TX animal clinic, we’re happy to help.