As the holidays approach, many people are busy picking out gifts for their loved ones. Of course, many people also have their young ones at home this year. Our canine patients are thrilled about this. Why not have the kids make something for Fido? A local vet offers some suggestions in this article.
Treats
If there’s one thing that is appropriate for dogs of all shapes, sizes, and colors, it’s snacks. Have the kids do a bit of holiday baking! This doesn’t have to be very complicated. You can make your pooch some simple dog biscuits by combining a half cup of oats, 2 cups of pureed pumpkin or sweet potato, an egg, a half cup of natural PB, and three cups of whole wheat flour. Roll the dough out, and use a cute bone-shaped cookie cutter. About 20 minutes at 350F should do it, but add more time for crunchier treats. We suspect Fido will approve.
Toys
Toys are very fun for dogs, but they are also good for our canine pals, both physically and mentally. Here’s an easy option: cut an old towel or tee shirt into thin strips. You can use a few different-colored ones if you like. Braid the strips together, and then braid those braids together. When you have a decent-sized rope toy, tie the end off in a big knot. You can also make variations of this, by incorporating things like tennis balls or different shapes.
Bedding
It’s very important for your canine buddy to sleep comfortably. You can go easy with this one, and have the kids sew and stuff a blanket. Or, if you want something a bit more involved, have them upcycle a piece of furniture. You can turn a coffee table upside down, repurpose a hard-shell suitcase, or even make a pallet bed. Paint and stain will make it look nice .Just make sure there are no sharp edges.
Treat Jar
Another option is to have the kids decorate a treat jar for Fido. You can start with any simple ceramic jar or vase. A plain cookie jar is fine. They can use paint, stencils, or other mediums to decorate it and make it look nice.
Our Advice on DIY Things Your Kids Can Make for Fido in 2024
What kind of dog treats can you make with kids?
You can make simple and healthy dog treats with kids using ingredients like oats, pumpkin or sweet potato puree, natural peanut butter, egg, and whole wheat flour. Combine these ingredients to make dough, roll it out, and use a bone-shaped cookie cutter. Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes for soft treats or longer for crunchier ones. This activity is not only fun for kids but also provides a tasty and nutritious snack for your furry friend.
What are some simple ways for your kids to make a dog bed?
Kids can easily make a dog bed by repurposing household items like blankets or old furniture. They can sew and stuff a blanket for a simple option. For a more creative project, consider upcycling a piece of furniture like a coffee table or a hard-shell suitcase into a comfy bed. Make sure to remove any sharp edges and add padding for comfort. Painting or staining the bed can also make it visually appealing. These DIY projects not only provide a cozy spot for your canine companion but also encourage creativity and bonding with your kids.
Are there any ingredients you should avoid in homemade dog treats?
When making homemade dog treats with kids, it’s important to avoid certain ingredients that could be harmful to dogs. Ingredients such as chocolate, raisins, grapes, xylitol (a sweetener), onions, garlic, and certain nuts like macadamia nuts should be avoided as they can be toxic to dogs. Stick to safe and dog-friendly ingredients like oats, pumpkin or sweet potato puree, peanut butter, and whole wheat flour to ensure the treats are both delicious and safe for your furry friend.
How do you keep kids safe while doing crafts with/for the dog?
When crafting with or for the dog, safety is paramount. Ensure children are supervised at all times to prevent accidents. Use child-safe tools and materials, avoiding sharp objects or toxic substances. Teach kids to handle ingredients like flour and peanut butter responsibly, preventing ingestion or allergic reactions. Encourage handwashing after handling pet-related items. Additionally, educate children on gentle interactions with pets to prevent accidental injuries. By prioritizing safety measures and providing guidance, crafting activities with kids for your dog can be enjoyable and risk-free for everyone involved.
Should you supervise your dog with the new homemade toys, just in case?
Yes, it’s essential to supervise your dog when introducing homemade toys, ensuring they’re safe and durable. Monitor your dog’s interactions to prevent accidental ingestion of toy components that could pose a choking hazard. Regularly inspect toys for signs of wear and tear, replacing them if they become damaged. Supervision also allows you to observe your dog’s play behavior and intervene if necessary to prevent injury. By overseeing playtime with homemade toys, you can promote both your dog’s enjoyment and safety during play sessions.
Happy Holidays! Please reach out to us, your local vet clinic in Easley, SC, if there is ever anything we can do for you. We are here to help!
