The dog days of summer are just around the corner! When it gets really hot out, many of us like to cool off by enjoying frozen treats, like ice cream. Did you know that there are some great cold snacks you can make for your dog? A local Plano, TX vet lists some great summer snacks for Fido in this article.

Pupsicles

Make a dog-friendly version of this summertime favorite by pouring sodium-free broth into an ice cube tray or paper cups. You can add bits of cooked, plain meat; cheese; bacon bits; dog-safe fruits, such as strawberries or blueberries; dog biscuits; or even chew sticks. Freeze for a few hours, and give your pet one or two on sweltering days.

Doggy Ice Cream

Who doesn’t love ice cream on a hot day? To make doggy ice cream, start with a base of plain yogurt. You can mix it with peanut butter, pureed pumpkin, honey, ripe bananas, wheat germ, or gravy. Add various toppings, such as bacon bits or pieces of kibble, to customize Fido’s flavor.

Peanut Butter Yums

Mix ripe bananas with peanut butter, and freeze in paper cups. Hand them out for instant tail wags.

Cheeseburger Bits

Cook up some hamburger, and mix it with water and a little cheese. Freeze in an ice cube tray, or get a cute bone-shaped mold for your pup.

Slice of Heaven

Pick up a roll of precooked sausage, lamb, hamburger, or chicken. Or, just freeze a roll of gourmet dog food. On hot days, slice off a small piece for your canine buddy.

Apple Bits

Pour sodium-free chicken broth into an ice cube tray, and then add slices of apple. (Just use the flesh: the seeds and pips are dangerous for dogs.) You can also add cheddar cheese and or even bacon. Then, just pop them in the freezer for a few hours.

Tips

You can mix and match these recipes, or create your own. Just be sure to avoid ingredients that are dangerous for dogs, such as garlic, onion, and chives; avocados; grapes, currants, and raisins; pitted fruits; chocolate; raw dough or meat; and bones. Xylitol is also toxic to Fido, and is found in many processed foods. Always check labels! Do you have questions or concerns about your dog’s health or care? Call us! As your Plano, TX animal clinic, we are here to help!