The Best Springtime Fruits and Veggies for Pets

As spring warms us up, many of us are looking forward to gardening and farmers’ markets because of the bright, fresh, and healthy fruits and veggies available. But did you know that our pets can enjoy some of nature’s spring bounty as well? In moderation, fresh produce can make an excellent addition to our pets’ diets. Check out which seasonal produce is best for pets and what health benefits they offer.

Spring Vegetables for Pets

Vegetables are rich in fiber and rich in vitamins and minerals. Check out these four spring veggies your four-legged friends will love:

• Carrots: A superfood and deservedly so! Carrots are full of beta-carotene, which aids eyesight. They’re low in calories and easy to digest. Serve raw or lightly steamed.
• Spinach: This leafy green is full of iron and calcium – two super healthy nutrients for your pup. Serve cooked and in moderation, however, as too much calcium can be taxing on the kidneys in some pets.
• Cucumber: These watery wonders are low in calories and great for a light snack on those hot spring days to help pets stay cool and hydrated.
• Bell Peppers: These hearty, vitamin C packed additions are pet safe as long as there are no seeds.

While these veggies can be healthy additions to your pet’s diet, be sure to introduce them slowly and in limited quantities so as not to upset your pet’s stomach. If you want vegetables to be more than 10% of your pet’s diet, be sure to consult your vet first or have a vet create a personalized nutrition plan.

Spring Fruits for Pets

Fruit can also be given to your pet as a snack for fiber, nutrients, and hydration. These three fruits will have your pet saying yes please!

• Strawberries: Rich in antioxidants and fiber, strawberries are perfect for your pet’s springtime snack. They’re low in calories and can help with hydration too. Just be sure to cut them into smaller pieces to avoid choking hazards.
• Blueberries: These tiny blue powerhouses are packed with vitamins C and K, along with antioxidants. They’re excellent for cognitive health and are small enough to serve whole as a refreshing treat for your pet.
• Raspberries: Low in calories and high in fiber and antioxidants, raspberries are a great treat for pets in spring. You can find raspberries in our Woof U Be Mine cookies!

As with vegetables, fruit should be given in moderation and with approval from your vet. An extra consideration is that even though fruit is a healthy option as a snack, it can be high in sugar. Certain pets, like those with diabetes, should opt for more limited quantities or veggies instead.

Why Choosing In-season Produce Promotes Sustainability

Choosing in-season produce is a simple yet powerful way to support sustainability

Choosing in-season produce is a simple yet powerful way to support sustainability. When we eat what’s in season, we’re reducing the need for energy-intensive transportation and greenhouse farming, which helps cut down on carbon emissions. Plus, seasonal produce is often grown locally, supporting small-scale farmers and reducing the strain on our ecosystems.

By embracing nature’s natural harvest cycles, we’re not only getting the freshest, most nutrient-rich foods for our pets, but also making a positive impact on the planet and its biodiversity.

When we produce our wholesome dog treats, we do so using produce that is locally available and in season, like our Pumpkin Treats for dogs. Because they are naturally preserved through dehydration, the benefits of pumpkin can now be enjoyed by pups year-round without any artificial preservatives.