Seasons are changing, take care of your dogs too

You have probably noticed here in Historic +Avondale +Riverside +San Marco +Ortega +Springfield, that the temperatures are changing, getting cooler. Whew! Your dogs can tell it too! They have more spring in their step, and are prone to not eat right as they go chasing after the last lizards of the season! So I recommend you keep this close as you get ready to decide what to do with your pumpkins (besides cooking the seeds).

Pumpkin can help with the following pet ailments:

1) Digestive Health: Pumpkin is a great source of fiber for our furry friends, as well as for us. Pureed pumpkin (with no added sugar or spice) can help dogs and cats with both constipation and diarrhea. Adding a tablespoon or two (in proportion to their size) to their regular meal is known to help keep them regular. It can also help dogs and cats with indigestion or upset stomachs.

2) Urinary Health: According to Veterinarians Laci and Jed Schaible, co-founders of VetLive.com, pumpkin seeds are high in essential fatty acids and antioxidants (good for overall healthy skin and fur), and the oils in pumpkins’ flesh and seeds are believed to support urinary health. They are also an excellent source of Vitamin A, beta-carotene, potassium and iron, and may even reduce the likelihood your pet will develop cancer.

3) Weight Loss:  Dogs seem to naturally love pumpkin. If you are looking to take a few pounds off of your pooch or kitty, try reducing a portion of their food and replace it with the same portion of canned pumpkin. Their tummy will feel just as full, and they might even thank you for the additional flavor.

Chopped Pumpkin

Amazing stuff just purée the pumpkin and freeze it in ice-cube trays and store in freezer  bags for when needed. It usually only takes one cube thawed and added to your dog’s meal to correct the stool problem, often associated with change in diet, traveling, or stress. If pumpkin does not solve the problem quickly take a stool sample to your vet with your dog as there is probably something more serious going on.

Raw Pumpkin Puree.

When I purée the pumpkin I add some olive oil and water to make the purée easier to make.You can add a little cinnamon some say it adds to the effect and the dogs enjoy it more, but just a little.

Pumpkin puree frozen in cubes.

If you do not have the time to make this yourself frozen pumpkin for dogs is also available commercially, I know of one place, RawPaw

So before you carve the pumpkin, remember you can use the pumpkin for your health and that of your furry friend! Don't forget to eat the pumpkin seeds!

#LizBobeck