One of the things I like to make is dog treats for Molly (and friend's dogs too!). She's a great taste-tester (a job she loves!!). One of Molly's favorites is muttballs. They are so easy to throw together and this recipe can be adapted for anything that you may have on hand.

Molly's Muttballs

1 pound ground turkey or chicken
1 egg
1/2 cup grated/shredded cheese (I use parmesan or mild cheddar)
1/2 cup bread crumbs (or you could use quick oats)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 Tablespoon parsley flakes (if I have fresh parsley, I'll just grab a handful and chop)
1/2 cup shredded carrots (I have also used shredded zucchini or squash)

If baking, preheat oven to 350 degrees. You can also fry these on top of the stove till they are browned and cooked through, but I prefer baking... less mess and easier!

Mix all ingredients in a large bowl until blended. With a small melon scooper, scoop and roll mixture into balls and place in a mini-muffin tin that you've sprayed with cooking spray. Bake at 350 degrees for about 20-25 minutes. You can flip the muttballs half-way through the cooking time if you'd like them browned on the sides, but honestly... Molly doesn't care whether they are browned or not so I usually let them cook.

Store in a covered container in the fridge for up to 3 days (if they last that long!) or wrap well and freeze for up to 2 months (thaw before serving). This recipe makes about 36 muttballs.

---

Cooking for your furbaby can be fun... they aren't really picky if the recipe doesn't quite turn out. Some human-grade foods to avoid if you are cooking for your furbaby:

Chocolate and coffee - contains theobromine and caffeine which can be toxic and affect the heart. Can cause death.

Macadamia nuts - contains an unknown toxin that can affect the digestive and nervous system and muscles.

Moldy or spoiled food - DUH! This is a no-brainer! Would you want to eat it?!

Mushrooms - wild growing mushrooms can contain toxins which may affect multiple systems in the body, cause shock and result in death.

Onions - contains sulfoxides and disulfides which can damage red blood cells and cause anemia.

Peach and plum pits - can obstruct digestive tract.

Persimmon seeds - can cause intestinal obstruction.

Raisins - contains unknown toxins that may damage the kidneys

Salt - large quantities may lead to electrolyte imbalances.

Sugary foods - can lead to obesity, dental problems and diabetes.

Table scraps - should never make up more than 10 percent of the diet, if that.

Yeast dough - can expand and produce gas in the digestive system, cause pain and possible rupture of the stomach and intestines.

As always, if you are uncertain about any foods that are safe to feed your pet, check with your vet!!

God Bless,