by Tara Pederson

Today, friends, we brave a topic never before tackled by yours truly.

Some of you may know Savage Skillet carries all natural pet treats produced by Friends of the Animal Shelter, Hancock County. And not only do 100% of the proceeds go to the shelter, but we give another $1 per unit sold.

While we offer it as an easy grab and go option, and strongly support the cause those treats provide for, I also want to remind you how easy it is to make your own, homemade treats for those furry friends I know you have!

If you don’t, I strongly suggest you visit your local shelter and adopt a new best friend as soon as possible –

First, let’s talk about things your fur covered companions SHOULDN’T eat.

Dogs should avoid – Xylitol (found in candy, gum, many baked goods and some processed peanut butter)

Avocado

Alcohol

Onions and Garlic

Caffeine

Grapes and raisins

Citrus

Coconut and coconut oil

Raw meat and eggs

Macadamia nuts

Dairy products

Bacon (I know, I know….)

Cat No Nos – Alcohol.  (All of it).

Chocolate.

Caffeine (Coffee, tea, energy drinks…)

Raw eggs, meat and fish

Fat trimmings

Grapes, raisins and currants

Onions and garlic

Dairy

Bones

Dog food

Things your flying friends should avoid –

Avocado

Chocolate

Garlic, onions

Castor beans and oil

Rhubarb

Apple seeds

The Recipes:

Dog treats – Preheat your oven to 300 degrees F. Combine 2 cups whole wheat flour, 1 cup rolled oats, 1 tbsp fresh or dried parsley, ½ cup dry milk, ½ tsp salt, 2 large eggs,1 cup peanut butter, and ½ cup water – or enough to make a cohesive dough.   Grease 2 baking sheets, or line them with parchment. Roll dough to ¼ inch thick. Cut shapes with a knife or cookie cutter, and bake 40-60 minutes. (Finished biscuits will be dry and crisp throughout.)

Cool and serve to your favorites pups!

Cat treats – Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine 6 ounces undrained tuna, 1 cup all purpose flour, 1 cup cornmeal, 1 egg and 2 tbsp water.  Let the dough rest 10 minutes. Roll dough out to ¼ inch thick. Cut into shapes using a knife or cookie cutter. Place on a parchment lined baking sheet and bake 15-20 minutes.  Let cool completely and serve to your favorite felines!

Good for your feathered friends – Oatmeal treats –

Combine 1 cup oats, 1 egg, 2 tbsp honey,and spread onto a greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees F 8-10 minutes, or until set.  Cool and cut into small pieces. (Refrigerate up to 5 days)

Bon Apetit to our feathered compadres!