By Nicole Abrego
Summertime is going strong here in beachy Encinitas! After a day of fun in the sun, what better way to cool off your pet than with some DIY summer treats. Check out these 5 cool summer treats that you can make for your pet:
Yogurt Pops Dog Treats:
What you’ll need:
- 32 oz of either plan or vanilla yogurt
- 1 banana
- 3 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon honey
With just four ingredients, this treat is incredibly easy to make and is great for both your pup AND you to enjoy! Just be sure to check the label of the peanut butter to ensure that it’s free of xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
For full recipe and instructions, go here.
PB&J Freezies Dog Treats:
What you’ll need:
- 12 (ish) strawberries
- 3-4 spoonfuls peanut butter
- ¼ cup cold water
- Ice cube tray
This fruity treat is a “cooler” take on the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich. The strawberries provide a light dose of vitamins and peanut butter adds some protein and nutty taste to this fruity treat. The best part is that this treat is easy to make and both your pup and you can enjoy!
For full recipe and instructions, go here.
Catsicles Cat Treats:
What you’ll need:
- 15 8-ounce plastic cups
- 1 5.5-ounce can of your cat’s favorite wet food (smooth, not chunky, works best)
- Catnip and/or soft cat treats (optional)
- One small square of Saran Wrap
Using your cat’s favorite wet food and some plastic cups, you can make this easy frozen treat that your feline friend is sure to enjoy and will help cool them off in the summer heat. You can also add catnip or cat treats to the catsicle to make it an extra special treat!
For full recipe and instructions, go here.
Frozen Tuna Kitty Treats
What you’ll need:
- Ice cube tray
- Can of water-packed tuna (you can also use canned salmon)
- ½ cup water
- Mixing bowl
- Ziploc bag
With some canned tuna (or salmon), mixing bowl, and ice cube tray, this frozen treat is sure to please your precious kitty and keep cooled off during the sizzling summer heat. Just remember not to drain the water from the canned fish, since the water helps the treat freeze.
For full recipe and instructions, go here.
Ice!
The easiest chilly treat to give to your pet! Just drop a couple of ice cubes into your pet’s water bowl or give them an ice cube to lick and you’re good to go. Easy-peasey!
The summer season is a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors. Just be sure to keep the safety of your pet in mind when venturing out into the heat.
Here are some helpful tips to keep your pets cool this summer:
- Provide pets with plenty of clean cold water and shaded areas away from the sun.
- Walk dogs during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening.
- Don’t over-exercise your pet, allow plenty of breaks during walks.
- NEVER leave pets alone in a locked car, temps could rise to dangerous levels in minutes and is illegal in most states.
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Know the symptoms of overheating such as lethargy, heavy panting, dizziness, vomiting, or seizures. Seek veterinary attention immediately if you suspect your pet may be suffering from heat stroke.
*Remember that treats should only be given to pets in moderation. Each pet is different and may have different dietary needs. If you have any questions about pet nutrition, you can schedule an appointment here or contact us today.
The Drake Center for Veterinary Care is an AAHA-accredited animal hospital located in Encinitas, CA. The Drake Center loves being a source of information for all pet owners across the country however if you have any questions regarding pet care and do not live in Encinitas, CA or surrounding cities, we encourage you to contact your local veterinarian.