Thanksgiving Treats: Delicious Recipes for Pets

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and of course, feasting! But while we’re busy enjoying turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie, our pets may feel left out. Many traditional Thanksgiving foods are not safe for pets, so this holiday season, why not create some Thanksgiving pet treats tailored just for them? From dog-safe ingredients to festive flavors, these homemade pet treats are healthy, delicious, and sure to make your pets feel like part of the celebration.
1. Turkey and Sweet Potato Bites

Nothing says Thanksgiving quite like turkey! Turkey is a great source of lean protein, and when paired with sweet potatoes, it becomes a nutrient-packed treat that’s easy for pets to digest. Sweet potatoes are loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making these bites both tasty and nutritious.
Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked, shredded turkey (unseasoned and without skin)
• 1/2 cup mashed sweet potato
• 1/2 cup oat flour (or ground oats)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix the shredded turkey and mashed sweet potato in a bowl.
3. Gradually add oat flour until you reach a dough-like consistency.
4. Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls or press into shapes with a cookie cutter.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Let the treats cool completely before serving.
These healthy pet treats for Thanksgiving can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

2. Pumpkin & Apple “Pup”kin Pies

Pumpkin is a fantastic ingredient for pets, especially dogs, as it’s rich in fiber, which supports healthy digestion. Apples add a touch of natural sweetness, along with vitamins A and C. This recipe mimics a mini pumpkin pie, creating a festive treat for pets that’s perfect for Thanksgiving!
Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin (unsweetened, pure pumpkin—not pie filling)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 egg
• 1 cup whole wheat flour or oat flour
Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the canned pumpkin, applesauce, and egg until smooth.
3. Gradually add the flour, stirring until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into small circles or use a muffin tin to shape the dough into mini pie shells.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pies are firm.
6. Let the “pup”kin pies cool completely before serving.
These pet-friendly holiday recipes are also safe for cats if you leave out the flour and instead use a small amount of pumpkin and applesauce alone as a filling.

3. Cranberry Carrot Cookies

Cranberries are a great Thanksgiving food, but be cautious with cranberry sauces as they often contain sugar or artificial sweeteners that can be harmful to pets. In this Thanksgiving pet treat recipe, we use fresh cranberries to give your pet a safe taste of the season. Carrots add a satisfying crunch and plenty of beta-carotene.
Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated carrot
• 1/2 cup oat flour
• 1 egg
Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the cranberries, grated carrot, and egg.
3. Gradually add oat flour until the mixture holds together.
4. Roll out the mixture and cut into small cookie shapes, or simply drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until firm.
6. Allow to cool before serving.
These homemade pet treats are full of color, flavor, and nutrients. Store in the fridge and use within a week to keep them fresh.

4. Dog-Friendly Mashed Potatoes

Traditional mashed potatoes are often loaded with butter, cream, and salt, making them unsuitable for dogs. However, this simple dog-safe version allows your pup to enjoy the creamy goodness without any of the harmful additives. It’s a great addition to your dog-safe Thanksgiving food lineup!
Ingredients:

• 1 medium potato, peeled and boiled
• 1/4 cup unsweetened, plain yogurt (or low-sodium chicken broth)
Instructions:

1. Mash the boiled potato until smooth.
2. Stir in yogurt or chicken broth to reach a creamy consistency.
3. Serve in small portions as a side dish.
Avoid adding garlic, onions, butter, or any seasoning to keep this dish pet-safe. Remember to serve it in moderation as an occasional treat.

Tips for a Pet-Safe Thanksgiving Feast

While it’s tempting to give your pet a bit of everything, many Thanksgiving staples contain ingredients that can be harmful to animals. Here are some guidelines for ensuring a safe holiday:
• Avoid Bones: Turkey bones can splinter and pose a choking hazard. Stick to cooked, unseasoned turkey meat.
• Skip the Sweets: Desserts like pumpkin pie, chocolate, and anything containing xylitol should be kept away from pets.
• Limit Seasonings: Onions, garlic, excessive salt, and rich gravies are common in Thanksgiving dishes, but they aren’t safe for pets.
Conclusion

Making homemade pet treats not only ensures your pet can safely enjoy the holiday feast, but it also lets you include them in the family celebration in a meaningful way. With these healthy pet treats for Thanksgiving, your pets can enjoy a variety of flavors and textures without risking their health.