Fall is here!
And all through October you’re seeing pumpkins.
While throwing together some of those favorite pumpkin pie recipes, or making plans for your pumpkin carving, here’s some food for thought….
Pumpkins are not just for carving, they are said to be a kind of superfood with great health benefits.
Great health benefits for both you and your pet.
Yes, pumpkin is very safe for pets. Although whenever adding anything new to your pets diet it is always best to introduce it in small amounts.
To also check with your veterinarian as to how much would be good for your pet, and if it’s beneficial with any condition your pet may currently have. A good balanced diet is key to good health, too much of anything is never good.
** NEVER give Halloween pumpkin that was left out as it may contain mold and or bacteria.
** Always give fresh cooked pumpkin or canned organic (with no sugar, spice, or additives) Canned is always easier with less mess, but not canned pumpkin pie filling as it may have added sweeteners.
Pumpkins are a great source of vitamins and fiber added to your pets diet.
Aside from adding moisture to a dry diet…
Pumpkin is rich in vitamin A.
Great for healthy vision.
Vitamin C, for source of antioxidants and supporting the immune system.
Beta Carotene that can help aid in the prevention of disease and infection.
A great source of fiber helping in many ways….
*Good for the digestive system, keeping your pet regular. Helping with both constipation and diarrhea.
*To help remedy diarrhea, you can also add a little yogurt to give it a boost. ????
*Extra fiber can also help with your pets diet if needing to lose weight. Making them feel a little more full.
Zinc for healthy skin and coat.
Potassium is said to be good for electrolytes, muscular contraction, and overall muscular function.
Did you know that ground pumpkin seeds are a natural remedy for parasites??!!
Cucurbitin, an amino acid found in pumpkin seeds is known to help with the deworming of tapeworms and roundworms in dogs and cats.
Pulling seeds from the pumpkin can be very sticky. Dry them in the oven so they can easily be placed in a coffee grinder. Raw, no salt or additives. Give 1-2 teaspoons of ground pumpkin seed per day until stools are clean. For small dogs 1/4 teaspoon per 10 lbs.
Always give roasted and unsalted.
And make sure to store your pumpkin seeds properly in a sealed bag and refrigerate, as they can go bad and become toxic.
If choosing to give whole seeds they must be given one at a time, or just a few in one sitting.
The oil in pumpkin seeds can also help aid in urinary tract health
How to introduce pumpkin to your dog or cat…..
Some pets may like the taste, others may not. Try adding a spoonful or two to their regular meals, or mixed with canned food. You might even be able to buy canned pet food that has pumpkin in it. Or if you’re good at baking…. Try adding it to biscuits or dog treats.
Peanut butter pumpkin dog treats….
https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/133123/peanut-butter-and-pumpkin-dog-treats/
Pumpkin Ginger Dog Biscuits….
https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/pumpkin-ginger-dog-biscuits/
And just to keep things fun and festive, here are some great ideas to either spook up your front door, or just get a little critter creative with your pumpkin this Halloween…