Summer is here and with it comes so many fun outdoor activities. It’s important to be aware of overheating while your pet is exposed to hot weather for an extended amount of time. “Smooshed face” breeds such as pugs and French bulldogs, as well as breeds with thick coats are highly susceptible to heatstrokes. If you’re wondering how to keep your dog cool for the Summer then look no further! Here are 5 tasty Summer treats that you can make at home:
1. Peanut Butter & Fruit Popsicles
Ingredients:
- 1 cup berries (strawberries, blueberries or raspberries)
- ¼ cup water
- A few tablespoons of peanut butter (that doesn’t contain xylitol)
Directions:
- Wash and clean fruit
- Mix fruit and water in a blender
- Place fruit puree in an ice cube tray or silicone mold, filling ¾ of the way
- Add a small amount of peanut butter to each mold
- Freeze
2. Fruit & Yogurt Popsicles
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fruit (berries, apple, melon, banana, pineapple)
- 1 cup Greek or plain yogurt
Directions:
- Clean and prep fruit – dice fruit into small pieces
- Place diced fruit into ice cube trays or silicone mold
- Fill mold with yogurt
- Freeze
3. Cantaloupe Ice Cream
Ingredients:
- 2 cups frozen, diced cantaloupe
- 2 tbsp plain yogurt
Directions:
- Clean, dice and freeze cantaloupe
- Blend cantaloupe and yogurt together
- Serve frozen
- Optional: top with some of your dogs’ kibble!
4. Frozen Banana Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 banana
- 1 ½ cups watermelon
- 1 cup pineapple
Directions:
- Puree watermelon and pineapple
- Slice banana
- Place banana into silicone mold or ice cube tray
- Fill mold to top with the watermelon/pineapple puree
- Freeze
5. Frozen Kong Toys
Kong toys filled with your dog’s favorite treat, like peanut butter, are a perfect way to keep your dog entertained. You can even freeze them overnight for the perfect frozen treat.
Always give your dog treats in moderation, and keep in mind that introducing a new food to your pet can cause an upset stomach. If you are unaware which foods your dog should or shouldn’t have, then consult with your veterinarian before introducing a new food. We hope you and your furry friends have a healthy and happy Summer season!
