Homemade Dog Food For The Finicky Pet

May 7, 1985|By Deborah Lawson, KNT News Service

Dogs that want special foods all the time often are those overindulged by the owner. It is unnecessary and actually deleterious to keep switching foods. Another problem is that the commercial foods designed to tempt dogs -- those with gravies, cheese and chemicals that smell like broiled meat -- generally are not as nutritionally sound as plain kibble mixed with a small amount of meat and warm water.

The Pennsylvania SPCA suggests the following natural dog food, developed by a veterinarian for finicky dogs whose owners have the time to cook for them.

One pound hamburger, 4 stalks chopped celery, 1 clove garlic, 6 chopped carrots, 1 chopped green onion, 1 cup rice (not minute), 1 cup oats (not quick), 2 cups white or yellow corn meal, and salt and pepper in moderation. Mix in a large kettle with enough water or stock to result in a moist consistency, not too soupy. Cook slowly for 45 minutes. Remove from heat, immediately add 2 raw eggs and 2 cups cottage cheese. Stir well. The food may be frozen in meal-sized portions.

This diet may not be adequate or even advisable for older pets or those with specific health problems. It probably should be supplemented by a multivitamin product.

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