The Australian summertime is a cause for concern for pet owners with manywondering about the best way to keep their pets cool and comfortable.

While some families have the room for doggie splash pools, others do not, andso sometimes it’s necessary to be a little creative. Here are a few simplerecipes to try, which will help your pooch stay cool in summer and have themlicking their chops for more.

Frozen Veggie Cubes

If you struggle to get your dog to eat veggies, or even if you just want toadd some variety to their daily meals, try these. Carrot and pumpkin are greatoptions as they are low in calories and good for their digestive health.

You can either make these up as individual ice cubes and sprinkle on theirusual dinner for some fun or freeze them into a silicone muffin tray and popthem out for your pooch to lick and enjoy as a treat in between meals.

Ingredients:

  • Carrots and pumpkin, peeled and cubed (as much or a little as you wish to make at a time)

Method:

  1. Steam the cubed pumpkin and carrot until soft
  2. Place in a blender and blend until smooth, or if preferred you can mash or leave in small chunks
  3. Pour into ice cube tray if blended smooth or add some water and spoon into a muffin tray for large ice blocks and freeze for eight hours.

Frozen Chicken Ice Blocks

There are not many dogs who will turn down a bit of chicken. Transform thispopular treat into a quick, easy, and affordable frozen delight.

Ingredients:

  • Two chicken breasts, diced and chopped
  • Water

Method:

  1. Divide chicken pieces into silicone muffin pans
  2. Pour water to fill each hole ¾ full
  3. Freeze for eight hours.
  4. Serve, and watch your dog lick away until they get to their chicken treats!

Frozen Kibble Ice Blocks

Simple, simple, simple!

Ingredients:

  • Your dogs favourite kibble (dry food biscuits)
  • Water

Method:

  1. Sprinkle a few bits of the kibble into the bottoms of the silicone muffin pans
  2. Pour water to fill each hole ¾ full
  3. Freeze for eight hours.
  4. Serve! For another fun variation, you can cut up their favorite treats like liver treats or Schmackos and sprinkle those in the bottom instead.

Remember, everything in moderation, and check with your vet first if your doghas any food allergies or special diets. The great thing about these ideas andrecipes is that they can be adapted to suit your pets needs, simply byutilising their usual foods and making them into a fun summertime treat.

This article was provided by Australian Pet Care Association (APCA). You canbecome a member by visiting the APCA website or [email protected].

Tagged: APCA

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