What do you enjoy most about the holidays? So many answers come to mind, whether it's exchanging presents, enjoying elaborate light displays, or gathering with loved ones to celebrate. We imagine for many people, and their furry companions, holiday treats rank near the top of any list.

Winter holidays can be fun for pets, too, and at Care-A-Lot Pet Supply we have everything you need to ensure your dog or cat remains happy and healthy through the season of giving. Food plays an important role this time of year, and it’s important to keep an eye on your pet so they don’t accidentally ingest something toxic to their systems. 

Some of the holiday classic treats can really set anybody in the mood of the season. Nothing screams The holidays like a big meal and sweets! However its important to remeber that chocolate, turkey bones, and desserts with artificial sweeteners can cause stomach upset or pose choking hazards. Food scraps from the dinner are discouraged as well, no matter how loudly your pets may whine or beg. However, there’s no reason for them to feel left out during Christmas dinner. Prepare a few tasty, pet-safe treats filled with the flavors of the season to serve at mealtime.

This special “holiday dinner” treat is easy to make and safe for dogs. You can prepare it to serve immediately or freeze in a Messy Mutts Silicone Dog Treat Maker for later.

Ingredients

• 1 sweet potato

• 1/2 lb ground turkey

• 3/4 cup peas

• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese

• 1 KONG Liver Snack

Spoon out sweet potato from its skin and mash, then discard the skin. Mix the ground turkey, peas and cheese. Stuff your pet's KONG with the mixture and insert one KONG Liver Snack. 

We haven’t forgotten dessert, either. We recommend Nummy Tum Tum 100% Organic Pumpkin because it is specially formulated for pets and it makes great treats, like these pumpkin dog biscuits:

Ingredients

• 2 eggs

• 1/2 cup Nummy Tum-Tum Pumpkin

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons dry milk

• 2 1/2 cups brown rice flour or whole wheat flour

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Blend eggs and pumpkin together. Add salt, dry milk, and flour to the pumpkin. Add water if needed. Dough should be dry and stiff. Use your hands to work and mix the dough. Roll out to 1/2-inch thickness. Cut out biscuits. Place an inch apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 20 minutes on each side.

This organic pumpkin may also be enjoyed on its own, scooped in a bowl and topped with a dollop of plain yogurt as a mock pumpkin pie.

If your pet needs a new KONG treat dispenser, Care-A-Lot Pet Supply has an extensive line available at our four stores in Moyock and Hampton Roads, and for order online. Look for seasonal treats and other great stocking stuffers while you shop, too. If you need assistance, we also offer online customer service.

We hope you and your pets have a safe and happy holiday season, and best wishes for 2022!