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Sweet Summer Treats That Are Safe for Your Dog
There are so many great things about summer. It’s a time to enjoy hot summer days on the lake, gather together with friends and family for cookouts, get your hands dirty in the garden or catch a baseball game.
Whatever your favorite summer activity may be, summer is also a time to enjoy fresh, ripe fruits. You may be wondering which of these delicious summer treats you can share with your canine companion. Well, the truth is lots of fruits are not only safe for your dog but also offer some added health benefits. It’s important to remember that most fruits are high in sugar, so feed only as a treat!
Here is a look at 5 fruits that are safe for dogs to enjoy on a hot summer day:
Apples. You may not realize it but dried apples are used in many dry pet food formulas today. Apples are high in fiber and vitamin C and low in calories, which makes a great treat for your dog. However, do not feed your dog the seeds or core.
Blueberries. Blueberries are another fruit you may not realize is already used in pet foods. This superfruit brings a lot of health benefits to dogs, just as it does humans. Blueberries are packed full of vitamin C, high in fiber and low in fat. Consider freezing blueberries for a cool and refreshing treat!
Cantaloupe. Like the many other fruits on this list cantaloupe is packed full with nutritional value for your dog. It is an excellent source of vitamins A and C and a good source for vitamin B complex. It also contains fiber, potassium and magnesium. Just don’t give your dog the rind.
Pineapple. Surprisingly enough feeding your dog pineapple can actually help improve their digestibility and ability to absorb protein. Pineapple contains the enzyme bromelain that facilities the decomposition of protein and thus its absorption. Pineapple also contains vitamins, minerals, fructose and fiber which helps with digestion and increases the body’s immunity.
Watermelon. Just like in humans, watermelon can help dogs stay hydrated and cool. It’s loaded with fiber, potassium and Vitamins A and C. If you’re going to give your dog watermelon, consider picking up the seedless variety and remove the rind.
This is just a short refreshing list of fruits you can feel safe when feeding your dog. There are many others that are safe and offer some added nutritional value. On the other hand, there are a few fruits you should avoid giving your dog which include cherries and grapes.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns about what foods are and are not safe for your furry friend, consult with your veterinarian.
Lynzee Glass, Director of Communications
Lynzee Glass has always had a passion for agriculture. Lynzee grew up in a small southwest Missouri town on her parents’ beef cattle operation. Her true appreciate for agriculture was developed during her involvement in FFA (Future Farmers of America). Lynzee attended Missouri State University where she earned a Bachelor of Science in agricultural communications. After graduation Lynzee worked as the managing editor of Ozarks Farm and Neighbor newspaper, a regional livestock publication, where she had the opportunity to share the stories of Ozark farmers. Throughout that time, Lynzee was published over 100 times. Under her direction as managing editor, Ozarks Farm and Neighbor was award first-place in newspaper- general excellence by the Livestock Publications Council. She has also been recognized in the industry for her writing and photography skills.
Today, her role as Director of Communications gives her the opportunity to continue working in agriculture. Lynzee oversees the website, social media, event planning, marketing and advertising.
When Lynzee is not at the office she can be found volunteering within her church, serving as the marketing chair for Missouri State University Darr School of Agriculture Alumni and spending time with family and friends.