Thanksgiving for your Pooch: The Benefits of Pumpkin

Turkey, Stuffing and Pumpkin Pie!  It's that time of year again and we can't wait to partake in all of the delicious delights of this week's Thanksgiving holiday.

Along with the holiday gatherings, it's common for your dog to be slipped a few tasty morsels of the day's feast.  While we don't recommend feeding your dog many of the rich and indulgent foods associated with your Thanksgiving meal, there are benefits to feeding your dog some of the holiday's traditional foods...or at least a version of them.

Of the traditional items served at Thanksgiving, pumpkin pie is usually a staple.  Should you serve your dog a slice of pie with whipped cream on top?!...certainly not, but pumpkin has many nutritional benefits for your dog and many find the flavor irresistible!

Sliced Oven-Baked Pumpkin

Pumpkin is a highly nutritional and flavorful food to serve your dog.  Pumpkin is packed with essential vitamins and minerals; such as Vitamin-E, Vitamin-A, beta-carotene, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus.  It is also an excellent source of antioxidants, fiber, and fatty acids.  These qualities make it a great food option for your dog.

Because of its high fiber content and essential vitamins and minerals, pumpkin can help improve your dog's digestive system.  By adding just a tablespoon (or two for larger breeds) you can keep your dog's digestion consistently regular.  Aside from stabilizing digestion, pumpkin can also be used to combat bouts of constipation, diarrhea, as well as, ease upset stomachs.

The high content of antioxidants, fatty acids and natural oils can also aid in promoting healthy skin and fur.

Lastly, if your pooch is fighting the paunch, pumpkin is a way to reduce calories in your dog's diet.  Pumpkin is low in saturated fat, sodium and cholesterol.  By replacing a portion of your dog's kibble with some pumpkin you can better manage your dog's weight and offer some variety and flavor.

So, you may be asking how can I incorporate pumpkin into my dog's diet?

Pumpkin Puree

When feeding pumpkin to your dog be sure to only feed pumpkin from these sources:

1. Canned natural pumpkin (un-sweetened)
2. Pumpkin seeds
3. Cooked fresh pumpkin
4. Pumpkin-flavored treats containing real pumpkin (found on the ingredient display panel)

NEVER, feed your dog pumpkin from the following:

1. Pumpkin Pie filling from the can
2. A slice of pumpkin pie 
3. Carved pumpkins that have been sitting out on your porch since Halloween

We hope you take some time and treat your dog to the wonderful benefits and flavors of pumpkin this holiday season.

Happy Turkey Day!!

Love,

A & A