As Pancake Day approaches, there's an opportunity to savour the simple joys of homemade pancakes, not just for yourself but for your four-legged friend too. In this blog, we'll highlight which ingredients are safe and which aren’t for our canine companions, allowing your pet to join in the fun too. We’ll even share a delightful pancake recipe that includes the natural goodness of our dog-friendly Natural Peanut Butter. Yum! Ok, let’s get cracking.
Ensure Your Ingredients Are Pet Friendly
Baking for your pet’s is a great way to get creative and treat them, but it’s important to ensure your ingredients aren’t doing more harm than good. Safe and beneficial ingredients for your pet include:
Bananas
Bananas are a great source of potassium, vitamins, and dietary fibre for pets. They're a tasty addition to the pancake recipe and can aid in digestion.
Blueberries
Packed with antioxidants, blueberries can contribute to your dog's overall health. They're a delicious way to add a burst of flavour and nutritional benefits to the pancakes.
Strawberries
Strawberries contain essential vitamins, antioxidants, and fibre. They make a sweet and healthy addition to your pet's pancake, adding both flavour and nutritional value.
Eggs
Eggs are a fantastic source of protein and essential amino acids. They contribute to your dog's muscle development and overall well-being.
Peanut Butter
Our natural peanut butter adds a delightful flavour while being a healthy, high-protein treat. It is free from palm oil and xylitol, whilst being rich in healthy fats and nutrients, making it a safe and enjoyable option for your pet.
Plain White Flour
While not a superfood, plain white flour serves as a safe base for the pancake batter. It helps create a desirable texture while being easily digestible for dogs.
Salmon Oil
Whilst the thought of this to us humans might not be appealing, your dog will love their pancakes drizzled in this liquid gold. Unlike maple syrup, this golden liquid is a rich source of omega, 3, 6 & 9, helping to support your pet’s heart, brain and joint health all in one easy supplement.
Ingredients That Are Not Safe for Dogs
Chocolate
Chocolate contains theobromine, a substance that is toxic to dogs. Even in small amounts, it can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, increased heart rate, and in severe cases, it can be fatal. Avoid any chocolate-containing products when preparing treats for your dog.
Xylitol
Commonly found in sugar-free products, xylitol is extremely dangerous for dogs. It can cause a rapid release of insulin, leading to hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), seizures, and liver failure. Always check labels to ensure xylitol is not present in any ingredients.
Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs, even in small quantities. It's essential to avoid these ingredients altogether.
Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic, whether raw, cooked, or powdered, can damage a dog's red blood cells, leading to anaemia. Avoid using these ingredients in your pet's food.
Nuts (Macadamia, Walnuts)
Certain nuts, like macadamias and walnuts, can be toxic to dogs. They may cause weakness, tremors, and other neurological symptoms. Stick to pet-safe nuts, like plain, unsalted peanuts.
By being mindful of the ingredients you use, you can create a delicious and safe treat for your pet. Stick to dog-friendly options, and you'll ensure a happy and healthy Pancake Day celebration together.
Recipe: Peanut Butter and Banana Delight for Your Pet
Ingredients:
1 ripe banana1 tsp Pets Purest Natural Peanut Butter
1 large egg
100g plain white flour
1 tsp vegetable oil
100ml water
Instructions:
- Peel the banana and mash it in a medium bowl using a fork.
- Add the egg and whisk until well combined.
- Incorporate the flour and peanut butter, whisking again until a thick paste forms.
- Slowly add water, whisking to create a batter with a smooth consistency.
- Add vegetable oil and heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
- Once the pan is hot, spoon in a generous amount of mixture, spreading it slightly with the back of the spoon to form a rough circle.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges begin to bubble, then use a spatula to flip the pancake. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden on both sides. You can cook approximately two pancakes at a time.
- Remove the pancakes and set them aside. Repeat until all the batter is used.
- Allow the pancakes to cool fully before serving them to your dog. For an extra treat, top them with a dollop of peanut butter or blueberries for extra antioxidants!
Serve and Enjoy!
This Pancake Day, create special moments with your four-legged friend by sharing a delightful and pet-friendly pancake experience. With the mindful choice of ingredients, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable treat for your beloved pet. Celebrate the joy of simple pleasures together, one pancake at a time!
