Easy Turkey & Veggie Dog Food Recipe

If My Dog Could Cook

 

Valentine’s Day Turkey & Veggie Dog Food RecipeLet’s face it dogs love turkey, so why not make your dog a special Valentine’s Day treat.If My Dog Could Cook has several recipes in our book that include turkey. Here is a new recipe that we are adding to our collection from skinnyms.com. So let’s get cooking. Your dog deserves only the best and canned stuff just won’t do.Ingredients:2 pounds lean ground turkey2 tablespoons raw turkey or chicken liver, finely diced or pureed2 medium carrots, coarsely chopped1 cup broccoli florets1 cup cauliflower florets1/2 zucchini, sliced2 tablespoons olive oilDirections:Add 1-1/2 cups water to a double boiler, place carrots in a steam basket over the pot and cover. Heat until boiling, reduce heat to a low boil and steam until carrots start to get tender, about 10 minutes. In the meantime, add the turkey and liver to a large skillet and cook on medium-high heat until done and there’s no more pink color. Drain off any fat and discard.Add broccoli, cauliflower, and zucchini, and continue steaming until all vegetables are tender, but not mushy, about 6-8 minutes. Allow vegetables to cool slightly then either chop in a food process or use a knife. The size of the vegetables will depend on the consistency preferred. We usually pulse about three times in the food processor and get the vegetables to a finely chopped consistency, similar to canned dog food.Add chopped vegetables to the turkey and liver, stir to combine. Add the olive oil and toss to combine with the turkey & veggie mixture. Allow to cool before dividing into freezer safe containers.NOTE: Ziploc bags are great for freezing individual meals and should be labeled with the date of preparation and name of the meal. The amount frozen for each meal will depend on the weight of your dog. Check with your vet regarding how much to feed your dog on a daily basis. Allow to defrost in the refrigerator the night before serving.Although the recipes we share are dog tested and dog approved, If My Dog Could Cook recommends consulting with your veterinarian to ensure that your dog’s diet includes all of its necessary nutrients. Do you know other fellow dog lovers that would be interested in seeing our recipes? If so have them join our community at http://ifmydogcouldcook.com Check out the new items that have been added to our store.Visit the If My Dog Could Cook Community Store. Now you can shop for fun items for your fellow dog lovers, friends and family. We add new items daily.  If My Dog Could Cook – Dog Tested – Dog Approved.

How Do You Relate To Your Dog? These Dog Facts Will Totally Surprise You

​Most dog owners probably consider themselves experts on the subject. Yet, the more that researchers study dogs, the more they uncover truths about them that that will surprise even the biggest dog lover. We came across this list by Clayton Lunch at Honest to Paws – click here to read the whole post. See how many of these 20 fascinating dog facts you already know.  They may just change the way you look at your best friends forever!

  1. Dogs aren’t just cute, they’re scientifically cute: If you’ve ever wondered why we find dogs so irresistibly adorable, it’s partly because they exhibit something called “neoteny.” That’s the retention of their baby-like characteristics, such as their big eyes and jovial demeanors, into adulthood.
  2. Dogs have an incredible sense of direction: A dog’s ability to see UV light and to “feel” the Earth’s magnetic fields means they have a great sense of direction. Some researchers have found they utilize the same ultrasound waves as bats too!
  3. A dog’s sense of smell is super powerful: It’s certainly no secret that dogs use their noses to guide them, but did you know they’re capable of sensing a spoonful of sugar in an Olympic-sized swimming pool? No wonder they can always find the treats in your house!
  4. Dogs’ noses are wet for a reason: Have you ever noticed your dog’s nose always seems wet? That’s because it secretes a layer of mucus to help them absorb incoming scents. Once absorbed, they lick their noses to sample or taste the scent.
  5. Dogs are capable of smelling human diseases: A study conducted at the Schillerhohe Hospital in Germany helped researchers learn that dogs can recognize certain organic compounds in the human body through their sense of smell. They can sniff out cancer and diabetes, for instance.
  6. Dogs have dreams: While sleeping dogs all exhibit brainwave patterns similar to those of humans, not all are created equal. In fact, research found that small dogs dream more frequently than large ones, having one every 10 minutes compared to one every hour.
  7. Dogs are smart.  But you knew that already - It’s easy to write off dogs in the intelligence department, but the American Psychological Association would beg to differ. It found dogs can be about as smart as two year olds, with the ability to perform math equations and understand up to 250 words!
  8. Dogs are incapable of feeling guilt: While it’s believed dogs can experience a range of emotions, “guilt” is not one of them. When they do something wrong, they’re not really ashamed; researchers believe we’re simply projecting the way they’re supposed to feel onto them.
  9. Dogs run hot: Not only do dogs have a higher regular body temperature—100.4 degrees Fahrenheit to our 98.6—but they also only have sweat glands on their paws. So it’s important to be careful with them out there in the summer heat!
  10. Dogs can fall in love: Claremont Graduate University professor Paul Zak conducted a study that found a dog’s brain releases oxytocin—the “love” chemical—when it interacts with both dogs and humans. It works the same way as humans when we kiss or hug someone!
Want to read the rest of the list?  click here to read the whole post Clayton Lunch at Honest to Paws.

Have you seen the new If My Dog Could Cook store?
Announcing the launch of the If My Dog Could Cook Community Store! Now you can shop for practical gift items for your fellow dog lovers, friends and family. We add new items daily.
 

Before you go - Please tell your friends about If My Dog Could Cook and don't forget to share photos of you and your dog on our Facebook and Pinterest pages.


Dog Tested – Dog Approved!


What is Your Dog Doing for Halloween?

Do you dress your dog up in a costume for Halloween? Millions of people do and some get extreme. In fact dog costumes have become a $400 million dollar industry. Halloween is just around the corner, and that can only mean one thing: Pet owners everywhere will soon be scrambling to find the perfect costume for their pooch. You can make your own and we’ll provide you with a few ideas later.  While we think it is adorable, consider your dogs comfort as well - Some dogs love wearing costumes and others don’t. Unless they are raised with things like coats and boots, they may make it hard to move.  Dogs like their freedom – so limit your creativity to a vest style costume and maybe a cap. Be sure that it is inedible and doesn’t have any small pieces that can fall off or be eaten, and it shouldn't be made with anything that could be hazardous to your pet's health, such as toxic dye or any paint. If you take your dog trick-or-treating with your family, be extra careful when crossing streets while walking at night. Have fun and be sure to bring lots of water for your canine companion. 

If you are interested in making your own dog costume, here are a few clever ideas:
https://www.craftymorning.com/the-best-homemade-dog-halloween-costumes
 
Here are some dog costume failures and very unhappy dogs – avoid these ideas at all cost
https://dogtime.com/holiday/67979-10-unhappy-dogs-in-halloween-costumes-picture-gallery?fullpage=1#/slide/1
 
Here’s a video with some common sense advice http://cdnapi.kaltura.com/index.php/extwidget/preview/partner_id/641622/uiconf_id/29033621/entry_id/1_mk759o6c/embed/dynamic
 
Please share your Halloween costume photos with IfMyDogCouldCook on Facebook or by email to info@ifmydogcouldcook.com

Announcing the launch of the If My Dog Could Cook Community Store! Now you can shop for practical gift items for your fellow dog lovers, friends and family.  We’ve started with a special Halloween section and will be adding new items daily.
Here is the link to the store:
https://if-my-dog-could-cook.myshopify.com/

Please tell your friends about If My Dog Could Cook.



5 Tips to Add Years to Your Dog’s Life

As a member of the If My Dog Could Cook community here is the latest information to keep your dog happy and healthy.

We love our dogs and know that you do too.  Wouldn’t you like to prolong your dog’s life and ensure that he or she stays healthy and active?  You’ve heard us know the value of feeding your dog the best food possible, after all, what would your dog cook if they could?  Surely only the finest will do.

Below are five tips that will help keep your dog happy and healthy for years to come.

1. Feed your dog a high quality diet.

Dogs that are fed a high quality diet have a shiny hair coat, healthy skin, and bright eyes. A good diet can help strengthen your pet’s immune system, maintain his or her intestinal health, increase mental state, keep joints and muscles healthy, and generally allow your dog to feel better and be more active. 

2. Watch the weight!

Yes – we know you have a few extra pounds and your dog probably does too – Dogs that are overweight are at risk for a myriad of health issues. Obesity is the number one nutritional disease in dogs and studies have shown that being overweight or obese can shorten a dog’s life span by as much as two years. Why? Being overweight or obese puts your pet at risk for joint disease, heart disease and diabetes, - just like humans!  So limit food consumption and get your dog outside and play – you will both have more fun.

3. Take your dog to the veterinarian regularly.

Dogs know when they are going to the vet and usually protest - However, regular veterinary care is important. A routine examination by your veterinarian can uncover health issues that you may not detect. In many cases, an early diagnosis improves the chances of successful treatment and can cost less than when the illness becomes more severe.

 4. Keep your dog smiling!

 A common problem among dogs is dental disease. Oral health issues can cause your pet pain, making it difficult them to eat. If left untreated, oral health issues may even lead to heart and kidney disease. In addition to regular dental checkups, the most effective means of caring for your pet’s mouth at home is to brush his or her teeth (yes you can do it but don’t use regular toothpaste – just plain warm water). If your pet doesn’t like toothbrushes there are other alternatives as well, including dental diets, treats, and toys. Ask your veterinarian for some recommendations.


5. Do not allow your pet outside unsupervised.

We see this too often in our neighborhood – a dog walking alone on the side of the road – no harm – -- Wrong! Allowing your dog to roam free may seem like you’re doing your pet a favor. However, pets that roam are susceptible to a number of dangers, including automobile accidents, predators like hawks, coyotes, evil people, contagious diseases, exposure to poisons, and more. Allowing your dog to roam unsupervised may anger your neighbors if your dog trespasses and relieves “themselves on their lawn or digs up their garden.

This story was adapted from a post by Lorie Huston, DVM

We hope that you enjoy these tips - please visit us at ifmydogcouldcook.com for more tips, recipes and more to keep your dog happy and healthy.


Doing It At The Dog Wash

When do you wash your dog? Does she your smell? Have a matted coat? Many dog owners choose to take their dog to the groomer to be washed and scrubbed and given the grand spa treatment – however this can be costly . We found this helpful tip from Good Housekeeping on how to clean your own dog that we would like to share with you.

1.Pick your location: sink or tub (line the bottom with a rubber mat), kiddie pool, or even on a leash in the backyard, where you can use the hose. Have treats handy to reward cooperation.

2.Brush out his fur before wetting him. A drop of baby oil can loosen sticky snarls (from, say, tree sap).

3.Next, sprinkle your dog with baking soda. The powder won’t harm his skin, and its deodorizing properties will freshen his coat — and neutralize the vinegary smell.

4.Let him shake a few times (prompt him by blowing gently in his ear), then brush his fur again.

It’s as easy as that to do a quick wash. Brushing your dog daily is good for their fur and can help keep the top coat clean.

https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/pets/advice/a18655/washing-the-dog-time-saver/

Pet Friendly Travel – To Bring Suzy Along or Not?

Summer is here – we were planning our vacation and really hate kenneling our dog.  My husband said, why don’t we take little Suzy along with us – we’ve traveled with her in the past and she handled the road trip well, I said hmm let me get back to you on that.  Thinking more on it, there had to be some hotels near where we were going in Orlando that could accommodate dogs. A quick search revealed that there are many hotel chains that welcome your dog as well as your family. Here’s our top five picks:

La Quinta

La Quinta is one of the biggest chains that welcome dogs. With more than 800 U.S. locations the hotel allows up to two dogs or cats per room at no extra charge. The rates are good, and since there are other pets they often have areas nearby where you can walk and play with your pet.

Loews Hotels and Resorts

With hotels in 18 cities in the U.S. and Canada—Lowes has a pet program called Loews Loves Pets - Fees vary by hotel, but a one-time service fee of $25 is common. Amenities (for up to two pets per room) include pet mats, food and water bowls, treats, and beds. There's even a special pet room service menu with vet-and-chef-developed recipes for cats and dogs. This might be the best spa for Suzy and they have a location in Orlando!

Best Western

With more than 1,600 hotels that accommodate pets, Best Western is a leader in pet-friendly travel, This dog friendly favorite keeps costs low and options open. You can bring up two dogs (up to 80 pounds each) in each room Western hotels charge a maximum of $20 per day, with a maximum per-week charge of $100. Some properties also charge a refundable damage deposit. It’s not a bad deal considering what kennel’s cost these days.

Fairmont Hotels and Resorts  

Fairmont loves dogs so much, pet owners can bring their own four-legged best friends along wherever they go. Policies vary by property are well detailed on the site. For example, the Fairmont in Washington, D.C., says dogs stay free and are lavished with treats handmade by the hotel's Executive Pastry Chef, while at the Battery Wharf in Boston, pets under 25 pounds cost $25 and receive a pet bed and food and water bowls. Considering the Fairmont’s reputation and rewards programs, both you and your dog can live in luxury during your stay.  Did someone say massage?

Red Roof Inn

Red Roof Inn is a friend to pets. The hotel chain has 360 pet-friendly properties The chain doesn’t charge a nightly fee or deposit for doggy guests. It’s not a fancy as the others - You won't find pet concierges or doggie room service, but you will find a welcoming community of pet lovers.

So, the decision was made. Suzy was coming along with us – the room was air-conditioned so we were able to leave her alone for a few hours (we left the TV on)  which turned out to be a much better experience for Suzy since the kennel and separation is often traumatic for all of  us and our family since our family stayed complete everyone was just a bit more peaceful and enjoyed the vacation.