Holistic Animal Care

Keeping Your Dog Happily Vegetarian

Provided by Sister-initiate Eve Adam, Sydney, Australia (Originally in English)

As the number of vegetarians increase around the world, many people wish to show the same ethical considerations and health benefits to their companion dogs. In fact, quite a few alternatives to meat-based pet foods are now available, including commercially prepared vegetarian food. But you can also prepare fresh vegetarian meals for your dog. Recipes such as the following are very quick and easy, taking only about ten minutes to prepare.

Vegetarian Dog Food Recipe

(Serves two meals for a small-sized dog; double the quantities for a larger dog)

Ingredients:
1 cup quick-cooking oats
¼ cup soy milk powder (can substitute cooked mashed beans)
¼ cup wheat germ
2 Tablespoons brewers yeast
1 Tablespoon ground sunflower seeds
1 teaspoon ground flax seed

Directions:

Bring water to a boil. Add oats and soak for approximately 1 minute, then stir until the mixture is a soft consistency. Add remaining ingredients and mix well. Divide into two portions and serve one portion while still slightly warm. Store the remaining half in the fridge and serve for dinner - just add a little hot water and mix for your dog’s quick, easy and nutritious evening meal!

Note:
The combination of oats, wheat germ and soymilk powder/mashed beans in this recipe is a good example of combining grains and beans for a balanced amino acid intake.

Further reading and references:
http://www.vegetariandogs.com/
http://www.helpinganimals.com/animalsHome_gi_vegAnimals.asp
http://www.vegpets.com
http://www.vnv.org.au/Articles/Dogs&Cats.htm