HOMEMADE DOGGIE TREATS

I like to bake, but don't often have the opportunity to do so. So, to satisfy this urge, I will bake homemade treats for my dog. It's fun, inexpensive and you know exactly what is in them.

There are SO many books and websites out there these days that finding recipes for dog treats couldn't be easier.

I was looking for something in the spirit of the holiday and found the one listed below on healthyrecipesforpets.com . I used holiday shaped cookie cutters and used food coloring to color some non fat cream cheese as "frosting". I hope your dog likes them as much as mine did!!

**Apple Cinnamon Doggie Biscuits**

NOTE: if you substitute corn meal just subtract about 3/4 cup from flour and add Corn meal

Ingredients:
1 package apple, dried
1 teaspoon Cinnamon
1 Tablespoon parsley, freeze-dried
1 Tablespoon Garlic Powder
1 cup ice water
1/2 cup Corn Oil
5 cups flour
1/2 cup powdered milk
1 tablespoon corn oil

Preparation & Cooking
Put the apples in a food processor so that pieces are small. Combine in a bowl all of the ingredients -- can add oil or water if dough is too dry. Using a rolling pin roll out dough to about 3/16" thick (can make thinner or thicker). Using a cookie cutter -- cut into shapes -- place on cookie sheets. Bake at 350 degrees for approx 20 -25 minutes (until golden).

Happy Holidays!!!

Don't forget to call if you need boarding for the holidays... we still have some room but are filling up fast. Use our online reservation system and save $5!!!

HOLIDAYS AND PET SAFETY

As we all prepare for the upcoming holidays, it is important to remember our furry family members during the hustle and bustle of the season. As joyous as this time of year can be, it can also present hazards to our pets. I was reminded of this the other night while putting up my tree. I dropped an ornament and there was Velvet, my 71/2 year old nosey black pug, right there to check out if the little pieces on the floor were edible. I quickly scooped her up and crated her until I was finished cleaning up the mess.

It made me think of the seasonal items we bring into the home - holiday plants like Mistletoe and Pointsettia are toxic to our pets. Tis the Season for yummy treats like chocolate (my favorite!!). This is a big "no no" for pets too. Some of those delectable dishes being made for dinner may smell divine to an inquisitive nose, but can wreak havoc on the digestive system.

It's snowing today. Out comes the ice melt, antifreeze, window washer fluid. More things to worry about. It's important too to make sure our companions are kept indoors in the frigid weather and protected when they are out enjoying the winter wonderland.

The MSPCA website has a wonderful listing of Holiday Pet Safety Items and Cold Weather Tips. Take a moment to check it out so that everyone has a safe and wonderful time.

We hope we'll be seeing you soon. Best Friends is still taking reservations for the Holidays. We're booking quickly, so if you haven't called to make your reservation please do so. Or, use our online reservation system and save $5!!

Wishing everyone a most joyous Holiday Season!!!

Agni
Center Manager