The Best DIY Summer Treats to Keep Your Pets Cool and Happy

Summer brings longer days and the perfect opportunity for outdoor activities. However, the warmer months also mean we need to pay extra attention to our pets’ comfort and hydration. Whether your dog loves a romp outside or your cat prefers a sunny spot for napping, keeping them cool and happy is essential. At Barnstone Kennels and Cattery, we understand the importance of providing refreshing, pet-safe treats during summer. These simple DIY snacks are both nutritious and cooling, perfect for the Australian heat and great for any pet, whether they’re relaxing at home or with us at Barnstone.

Frozen Peanut Butter & Banana Bites

Packed with natural sweetness and protein, Frozen Peanut Butter & Banana Bites are an easy, tasty treat your dog will love. Bananas offer essential vitamins, and peanut butter (as long as it’s xylitol-free) provides healthy fats.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana
• 2 tablespoons xylitol-free peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons plain yoghurt

Instructions:

1. Mash the ripe banana until smooth.
2. Add peanut butter and yoghurt, mixing until combined.
3. Spoon the mixture into an ice cube tray.
4. Freeze for several hours until solid.

Pineapple and Coconut Ice Cubes

Pineapple and coconut combine for a tropical, hydrating treat that’s safe for both dogs and cats. Pineapple offers vitamins and antioxidants, while coconut water is a natural electrolyte booster.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
• 1 cup coconut water

Instructions:

1. Blend the pineapple and coconut water until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into ice cube trays.
3. Freeze for a few hours or until solid.

Frozen Beef Broth Cubes

These savoury treats are a hit with dogs that prefer something meaty. Frozen Beef Broth Cubes not only satisfy their taste buds but also provide added hydration, ideal for after a run or play session.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. Mix the broth and water in a bowl.
2. Pour the mixture into an ice cube tray.
3. Freeze for several hours until firm.

Strawberry Yoghurt Pops

Strawberries are full of antioxidants and fibre, while plain yoghurt offers calcium and probiotics. This simple treat is a refreshing option for dogs and cats alike.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain Greek yoghurt
• ½ cup fresh strawberries, diced

Instructions:

1. Blend the yoghurt and strawberries until smooth.
2. Pour into an ice cube tray or small moulds.
3. Freeze for a few hours until solid.

Pumpkin & Coconut Milk Frozen Treats

If your pet enjoys the earthy sweetness of pumpkin, this Pumpkin & Coconut Milk Frozen Treat is perfect. Pumpkin aids digestion, while coconut milk provides hydration and essential nutrients.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened canned pumpkin
• 1 cup coconut milk

Instructions:

1. Blend the pumpkin and coconut milk until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into an ice cube tray.
3. Freeze for several hours until firm.

Tuna and Catnip Frozen Treats for Cats

For a cooling feline snack, try Tuna and Catnip Frozen Treats. Cats love tuna’s flavour, and catnip adds extra excitement, making this a tasty and stimulating treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 can of tuna in water
• A pinch of dried catnip

Instructions:

1. Blend tuna and catnip until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into an ice cube tray.
3. Freeze until solid.

Apple & Peanut Butter Frozen Sandwiches

Crunchy apple slices filled with peanut butter make a nutritious and hydrating snack. Apples provide vitamins, and xylitol-free peanut butter is an excellent protein source for dogs.

Ingredients:

• 2 apples, cored and sliced into rings
• Xylitol-free peanut butter

Instructions:

1. Spread a thin layer of peanut butter between two apple slices to form a sandwich.
2. Arrange the apple sandwiches on a baking sheet and freeze for a few hours.

Keeping Pets Cool at Barnstone Kennels and Cattery

These DIY treats are perfect for hot days at home, but what about when your pets are with us at Barnstone Kennels and Cattery? Our facilities ensure your pets are comfortable no matter the temperature. We understand that keeping them cool, happy, and well-cared-for is essential, which is why we provide plenty of love, attention, and treats for their enjoyment.

Book a stay with Barnstone Kennels and Cattery today, and rest assured that your pet will be cool, comfortable, and entertained while you’re away. We pride ourselves on providing the highest standard of care for your dog or cat, giving them a home away from home with all the comforts they need to beat the summer heat.