Toxic Dog Treats: A Warning and 3 Simple, Safe Homemade Alternatives

Hello, this is Dr. Andrew Jones. In this edition of Energy Secrets, we’re going to discuss the dangers of toxic dog treats and share three easy, safe, and natural treats that you can make at home for your dog or cat.

The Danger of Toxic Jerky Treats

Recently, the FDA issued another warning about toxic jerky treats. According to a recent headline from The Huffington Post, more than 1,000 dogs have died as a result of these toxic treats. The FDA has received over 4,800 reports of pet illnesses since 2007, with the cause still unknown. Affected dogs typically show signs of kidney failure, including:

• Increased drinking
• Increased urination
• Weight loss
• Weakness

In most cases, veterinarians diagnose kidney failure as the cause of death. It is a painful and disturbing way for our pets to die, and it’s troubling that these treats are still being manufactured and sold worldwide.

Key Takeaway: Avoid Jerky Treats

The first takeaway is clear: avoid giving any jerky treats to your dog. The FDA reports that many brands are affected, with most (but not all) jerky treats originating from China. Some popular brands that have been implicated include:

• Wagon Train Jerky Treats or Tenders
• Canyon Creek Ranch Jerky Treats
• Milo’s Kitchen Home Style Dog Treats

Instead of relying on these risky commercial products, consider making your own safe, healthy treats at home. Below are three simple, nutritious recipes you can try for your dog or cat.

1. Homemade Turkey or Chicken Jerky

This simple treat only requires two ingredients: chicken or turkey breast and vegetable oil. Here’s how to make it:

• Preheat your oven to 225°F.
• Thinly slice the chicken or turkey to about ¼ inch thick.
• Lightly grease a baking sheet.
• Place the strips on the sheet and bake for approximately 3 hours. (Baking times may vary depending on your oven, but the key is to cook them for a long time at low heat.)

Once done, the meat should be very dry, with all moisture removed. If you’re unsure, just leave them in the oven a little longer. After baking, you can cut the jerky into smaller pieces, store them in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze them for long-term storage. Here’s a photo of some chicken strips turned into jerky.

2. Liver Training Treats

These liver treats are perfect for training and are easy to make with just one ingredient: beef liver. I recommend using organic calf liver, as it’s the safest and healthiest option. Here’s how to prepare them:

• Preheat the oven to 225°F.
• Line a baking pan with parchment paper.
• Cut the liver into ¼-inch strips, ensuring that the pieces are spaced out on the pan without touching.
• Bake for 2 to 3 hours, rotating the pan halfway through.

After baking, let the liver cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. For longer storage, you can freeze the treats. A helpful tip: It’s easier to cut the liver if you freeze it first. Let it thaw for a few minutes and then slice it with a sharp knife. These treats are simple, healthy, and great for your dog or cat.

3. Pumpkin Flaxseed Dog Biscuits

These homemade biscuits are packed with nutrients and are a hit with dogs. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups of pumpkin puree
• 3 eggs
• ? cup of vegetable oil
• ½ cup of water
• ½ cup of flaxseeds
• 6 cups of flour

To make the biscuits:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F.
• Mix all the ingredients together until you have a stiff dough.
• Roll out the dough to about ½ inch thick.
• Use cookie cutters or the end of a cup to cut the dough into shapes (round circles or biscuit shapes).
• Bake for about 40 minutes, until the biscuits are lightly golden and firm.

Once done, your dog will have a delicious and nutritious snack that’s free from harmful chemicals and additives.

Conclusion: Safe, Natural Treats for Your Dog or Cat

These three treats—turkey or chicken jerky, liver training treats, and pumpkin flaxseed biscuits—are easy to make, safe, and packed with nutrition. I highly encourage you to start making these treats at home and avoid buying jerky treats that may be toxic.

Thank you for watching this edition of Energy Secrets. If you’d like more tips on how to naturally care for your pets at home, click the link in the box below. I’ll send you my free books and videos on how to treat your pets with top natural remedies.