Treat Trouble

Have companies tricked us into thinking bacon and other packaged treats are safe for our dogs? In short, the answer is Yes. Although delicious, bacon and bacon grease flavored

treats cause inflammation to a dog’s pancreas, the gland responsible for digestion and controlling blood sugar. When the pancreas is inflamed, it isn’t able to absorb and digest food properly. Signs of pancreatitis aren’t always obvious, belly pain, diarrhea, loss of appetite, dehydration, and vomiting symptoms are often dismissed as something less serious that will clear up on its own.

Small breeds, older dogs, and overweight pets are more prone to pancreatitis. Usually dogs will recover from mild cases, but severe cases can lead to death. If symptoms last more than one to two days, it is recommended to get your dog to a Vet.

Your Veterinarian will usually try to narrow down what caused the trigger. Was it a new packaged treat? Did you feed your pooch your leftover bacon and eggs brunch? Maybe a

reaction to a prescription? Vets will usually recommend no food or water for the first 24 hours to give the pancreas a rest. After that, flush the system with lots of water to keep from getting dehydrated. Drugs may be given to ease the pain and help with nausea and vomiting and your dog will be eating bland, prescription food for several days to come.

When things start to get back to normal, keep your pup on a low-fat diet. Even after a bout with illness, your dog may still give you those begging puppy dog eyes as you eat your dinner or snacks. Don’t give in! Keep in mind though, that fatty treats and table scraps aren’t

the only cause of dog pancreatitis. Over-eating, a raid of the garbage or ingesting something foreign from their regular diet can also put your pooch into a painful pancreatic situation; so make sure to give proper portions to your dog and keep your garbage cans are secure.

Remember, in addition to toxins like bacon fat, pre-packaged dog treats are filled with other carcinogenic ingredients like BHA, sugar, and artificial colors and flavors. It takes no time at all to prepare simple, wholesome treats for your furry best friend while making a healthy dinner for your family. Here are a few recipes with 5 ingredients or less. “Bone Appetite! “

Chicken & Rice Treats

1 cup diced chicken

Half cup cooked rice

3 tablespoons rice flour

1 tablespoon parsley

1 egg

Spoon into silicone molds or roll into small balls and bake. Cool completely before feeding to your dog.Store in fridge.

Five ingredients, 20-30 minute cook time at 350F.

Sweet Potato Fries

1 sweet potato

1 tbsp coconut oil

Dash of cinnamon to taste

Dash of turmeric to taste

Wash and peel sweet potato then cut into long, skinny fry shapes. Mix together with oil and

spices and spread on baking sheet. Bake halfway through and flip. Cool completely before feeding to your dog.

Four ingredients, 30 minute cook time at 425F.

Peanut Butter Treats

2 cups flour

1/2 cup peanut butter

2 eggs.

Mix ingredients together until combined. Add water until wet enough to roll out as dough. Cut with your favorite cookie cutter or into squares with a knife.

3 ingredients + water, 20 minute cook time at 350F