Valentine's Day & Treats

No Chocolate. . .

Seasoned pet lovers know that all types of chocolate are potentially life-threatening when ingested by pets. Methylxanthines are caffeine-like stimulants that affect gastrointestinal, neurologic and cardiac function—they can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, seizures and an abnormally elevated heart rate. The high-fat content in lighter chocolates can potentially lead to life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas. Go ahead and indulge yourself this Valentine’s Day, but don’t leave chocolate out for the chowhounds to find!

Sweets are not so sweet. . .

Don’t let pets near treats sweetened with xylitol. If ingested, gum, candy and other treats that include this sweetener can result in hypoglycemia (a sudden drop in blood sugar). This can cause your pet to suffer depression, loss of coordination and seizures.

Strawberry Cubes

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup of coconut oil
• 3-4 strawberries, finely diced

Instructions: Add a few pieces of strawberries to each compartment of a silicone mold or ice cube tray. Using a pyrex measuring cup, melt the coconut oil in the microwave. This may take 30 -60 seconds. Pour the melted coconut oil over the strawberries and freeze. When frozen, pop from the mold and store in a baggie or container in the freezer. As with all treats, don't over do it and limit your pet's intake.

Dog Valentine's Cookies

Ingredients:

• 3 beef bouillon cubes- 2 cups of whole-wheat flour
• 2/3 cup of brewer's yeast- 1 cup of cornmeal
• 1 1/2 cup of boiling water
• 2 egg yolks

Instructions: Mix all the ingredients together, cut with a heart-shaped cookie cutter, pop in the oven for 20 minutes, let cool and show your dog how much you really love him!