A message from the Laramie Animal Shelter:

“Fall is here and that means you can enjoy that pumpkin spice latte you’ve been craving. It also means this healthy vegetable is abundant and easy to get. To share your enjoyment of the season, why not whip up some pumpkin dog treats so your furry companion can enjoy the flavors of fall at your side! Here’s a handy recipe for a healthy dog treat that has only four, count them four, ingredients. It’s a snap!

Pumpkin-Peanut Butter Bites

Ingredients:

            2 cups whole wheat flour

            1 cup pureed pumpkin (canned or fresh if you have)

            ½ cup peanut butter (use a type that’s Xylitol-free)

            Water (if needed)

Directions:

1. Set your oven to preheat at 375°F
2. Mix the pumpkin and peanut butter until smooth and evenly blended
3. Stir in the flour and mix well
4. You can add a bit of water if your dough is too stiff to combine without crumbling
5. Roll the dough onto a floured surface and cut into seasonal shapes, dog related shapes or simple squares
6. Place the treats on an ungreased baking sheet
7. Bake for 12 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Let them sit out to cool and dry thoroughly for storage

Use plain, pureed pumpkin for this recipe. Avoid “pumpkin pie filling” since it has spices and sweeteners. You could also trade in banana for a tasty treat any time of the year.

Now you can sit and sip while Fido can crunch at your side as you both enjoy the flavors of fall.”