Just like us Fido loves the fall season because the foods taste so good. Whether you're feeding Fido from the table or from their bowl there are a few things us 'hoomans' need to keep in mind.
Pumpkins are rich in carotenoids, beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, fiber, zinc, iron, vitamin A, and potassium.
Pumpkin can help to keep Fido regular, and reverse the effects of both constipation as well as diarrhea. Keep in mind too much vitamin A can be toxic- a good rule of thumb is 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight to keep Fido's digestive track on the right track.
Note: Pumpkin may not help Fido with diarrhea or constipation if there is an underlying medical condition, always consult your with your vet.
****If your Fido has a health condition, such as diabetes, please talk to your vet before feeding them pumpkin****
Pumpkin can also help Fido lose a few of those holiday pounds. It is a great low-fat treat that leaves Fido feeling full due to its being high in fiber.
All You Need
Canned pumpkin is just as packed with nutrients as fresh pumpkin. Canned pumpkin is a puree so it is easy to mix with food, give as a treat, or use it as an ingredient when making treats.
Note: When buying canned pumpkin, double check the label to make sure you are getting 100% pumpkin and not pumpkin pie mix. You can also use fresh pumpkin, but it is important to cook and puree it first.
Halloween & Thanksgiving Pumpkin Safety For Dogs
Pumpkin safety for Fido is crucial during the Halloween and fall season, when pumpkins are everywhere. While feeding Fido canned or cooked pumpkin is great, there is a big difference between cooked & pureed “food-friendly” pumpkin, and decorative raw pumpkins or Jack-o-Lanterns. Keep these safety tips in mind
- Never feed/allow Fido to eat the stem or leaves of a pumpkin, which are covered in little, sharp hairs that will irritate Fido digestive track.
- Fido should never eat the shell of a pumpkin or gourd. Many decorative pumpkins and gourds are coated with materials, such as glue, glitter or shellac that can be toxic to Fido.
- Fido should not eat raw pumpkin seeds, or the innards of a raw pumpkins. Keep your pumpkin carvings clear of the floor to prevent Fido from picking up the extras.
- Once Halloween is over, ditch the carved pumpkins ASAP. They can become dangerous as they deteriorate and grow mold.