WEEKLY RECIPE: Fresh Turkey With Blueberries Dog Food

 

Hey, see you again! 

Welcome to Spunkyjunky's weekly pet recipes. We love sharing nutritious and delicious dog recipes with you! 

In the past two weeks, we shared how to make dog snacks, and today we will do something different - a big meal. 

The big meal is called "Fresh Turkey with Blueberry Dog Food." 

This recipe combines the lean protein of turkey with antioxidant-rich blueberries and other wholesome ingredients to provide your dog with a balanced, tasty meal. 

Explore this secret recipe and make some nutritious treats for your beloved pooch!

 

Ingredients

 

● 1/3 turkey 

● 1/2 butternut squash 

● 3 tbsp oats 

● small handful of lentils 

● half a spinach 

● a small handful of blueberries 

● 1/3 teaspoon salt 

● a little salmon oil

 

Instructions

 

1. Prepare the turkey: Remove all skin, bones, and excess fat. Use the slow cooker to cook the turkey thoroughly. After the turkey is cooked and cooled, shred it. 

2. Prepare the squash: Peel and dice the butternut squash. Steam or boil the butternut squash until tender. Mash when softened and set aside to cool. 

3. Make topping: Cook oats and lentils according to package directions. Once cooked, drain excess water and set aside to cool. Wash and chop the spinach leaves and cook until half cooked. 

4. Mix: Combine the shredded turkey, cooked butternut squash, oats and lentils, and chopped spinach. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. 

5. Add the blueberries: Gently stir in the clean blueberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed. 

6. Add the dressing: Season with 1/3 teaspoon salt and drizzle with salmon oil. 

7. Completion: Stir well and place the food to cool before serving.

 

Tips:

● Cook the turkey: Make sure the turkey is cooked thoroughly to eliminate any risk of bacterial contamination. 

● Consistency and Texture: Dogs have different preferences for the texture of their food. You can puree or mash the ingredients together if your dog prefers a smoother texture. You can make the stock slightly thicker if your dog likes more texture. 

● Salmon Oil Benefits: Added salmon oil provides omega-3 fatty acids, providing several health benefits for dogs. However, it is important to follow the recommended dosage and not exceed it. 

● Wash the blueberries: Please wash each blueberry to ensure it is clean to prevent pests and pesticide residues from harming the dog's health.

 

Storage

● Refrigeration

1. After preparing dog food, allow it to cool completely before storing it.

2. Transfer food to an airtight container or divide it into meal-sized portions.

3. Place the container in the refrigerator to store dog food for short-term use, usually 3-4 days. 

● Freezing

If you want to store dog food for a long time, you can freeze it. Freezing helps preserve freshness and prevents bacterial growth. Follow the steps below to freeze: 

a. Allow dog food to cool completely before freezing. 

b. Divide dog food into meal-sized portions. 

c. Place each portion into a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. 

d. Ensure containers or bags are properly sealed to maintain food quality. 

e. Label the container or bag with the freeze date for easy reference. 

f. Store dog food in the refrigerator for 2-3 months. 

● Thawing

When you're ready to eat a portion of frozen dog food, thaw it properly to ensure it's safe. 

● Safety Precautions

1. Always practice proper food handling and hygiene when preparing, storing, and serving homemade dog food.

2. Wash your hands thoroughly and clean all utensils, containers, and surfaces to prevent contamination.

3. Discard any uneaten portions at room temperature for more than a few hours to avoid the risk of bacterial growth.

 

Allergen Information

While this recipe is made with ingredients generally considered safe for most dogs, it is important to know your dog's specific allergies or sensitivities. Here are some allergen information and advice: 

● Turkey Allergies: If your dog has a known allergy to turkey, consider substituting beef or fish for turkey.

● Blueberry Allergies: If your dog has a known allergy to blueberry, consider substituting strawberry or raspberry.

 

FAQ about Fresh Turkey With Blueberries Dog Food

1. Can dogs eat turkey?

Yes, dogs can eat turkey. However, it's important to ensure it is boneless, skinless, and cooked thoroughly without any seasonings or additives that could be harmful to dogs.

2. Can dogs eat blueberries?

Yes, dogs can eat blueberries. Blueberries are a safe and healthy treat for dogs, packed with antioxidants and beneficial nutrients. Just remember to feed them in moderation.

3. Can dogs eat oats?

Yes, dogs can eat oats. Oats are a nutritious grain that can be beneficial for dogs. They can be included in their diet in moderate amounts.

4. Is turkey better than chicken for dogs with allergies?

Yes, turkey is a great protein source for dogs allergic to chicken or beef, as it is a hypoallergenic protein source.

5. Are blueberries good for dogs?

Yes, blueberries are generally easy for dogs to digest. They are a good source of dietary fiber and can contribute to healthy digestion in dogs. 

 

 

Final Thoughts

Congratulations on creating a nutritious and delicious "Fresh Turkey Blueberry Dog Food" batch! Show them your love by serving homemade meals with healthy ingredients. 

Remember that preparing homemade food for your dog allows you to customize their meals, ensuring they get the nutrients they need while avoiding any potential allergens or additives in commercial pet foods. However, it's important to consult your veterinarian to ensure the recipe meets your dog's specific dietary needs. 

We hope this recipe inspires you to explore more homemade options, and be sure to check out our blog for various exciting recipes and helpful tips to keep your dog happy and healthy.