Did someone say…treat?! As a rule of thumb, it’s good to keep human food away from your pet. With that being said, there are a few healthy options that make a great treat for our canine companions. Please be sure to keep these fun treats to a minimum! An Estimated 59% of Cats and 54% of Dogs in the United States are Overweight or Obese. If you do feel that your pet is having weight issues, cut back on the treats and be sure to contact us! With professional nutritional counseling and weight management services from Animal Medical Center of Wyoming, you can get the expert guidance you need to confidently answer these questions and more. Our Nutrition Specialist, Tara Lynn, is here to answer all of your questions. She offers free weight consultations with no appointment necessary!

1. Carrots — Naturally sweet and low in calories, carrots will satisfy your dog’s need to chew and help with blood clotting and energy production. They contain beneficial fiber, potassium, magnesium, manganese, and phosphorus as well as vitamins B6, B12, C, and K.
2. Seaweed — It is believed that seaweed (also called “nori”) may improve immune function, fat metabolism, and anti-tumor response. Seaweed contains protein, fiber, iron, and vitamins A and C.
3. Carob — Also known as “dog chocolate,” carob helps to eliminate toxins, improve digestion, and lower cholesterol. It also treats coughs, anemia, and the loss of bone density. Carob contains calcium, fiber, pectin, and vitamin E.
4. Sweet potatoes — An excellent source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients, sweet potatoes contain fiber and vitamins A, C, B5, and B6.
5. Blueberries — A nutrient-packed superfood, blueberries contain antioxidants, manganese, fiber, and vitamins C and E. (Tip: Blueberries should be introduced slowly, otherwise this superfood could turn into a poop)
6. Apples — Apples can help remove toxins from the intestinal tract, strengthen intestinal muscles, and remove harmful bacteria. Containing pectin and vitamins A and C, they also help to satisfy your dog’s desire to chew.

Not all food is good food for pets!

In addition to the more common toxins (like chocolate, raisins, and xylitol), avoid feeding your dog sausages, which contain sulfites and preservatives that can cause a potentially fatal thiamine deficiency. Also avoid cooked bones, because bones splinter more easily once cooked. And, steer clear of cow’s milk, because most dogs become lactose intolerant after they are weaned. If your dog loves milk, try soy milk instead, which still includes calcium and vitamin B but is free of lactose.