BANANA OAT COOKIES
Bananas are high in potassium (great for muscle and blood vessel function), fiber (a handy home remedy for the occasional bout of doggy diarrhea or constipation) and magnesium (important for energy transport and protein building in the body). Bananas also have lots of pyridoxine (Vitamin B6), which helps metabolize proteins and regulates blood cell function. They also contain Vitamin C, an antioxidant that protects cells from damage and helps build cartilage. Bananas are interesting because they are said to add natural acidophilus bacteria to the bowels, although probably in only small amounts.
Bananas are one of the nutritious fruits that will make a good treat for the dog.
Oats are one of the least allergenic of grains. It is a warming grain that calms the nervous and reproductive systems, strengthens the pancreas, spleen and immune system, as well as the heart muscle. Oats are high in protein, and are equal to meat, milk and egg protein. Many Vets feel that the protein in oats is very hypoallergenic (less likely to cause an allergic reaction) and therefore an ideal nutrient to be included in a diet formulated for pets suspected of having a food sensitivities or allergies.
BANANA OAT COOKIES
(ONLY 2 ingredients with options)
2 – 3 large ripened bananas – mashed
2 cups of quick cooking oats
1 tbsp. chia, flax or sesame seeds – optional
1 tsp. ginger – optional
1 tsp. cinnamon – optional
Preheat oven to 180° C (350° F) and line a cookie tray with parchment paper.
In a medium size bowl, mix the bananas and cooking oats together.
*Since the size of bananas varies, you may need to add a little extra oatmeal to get a consistency where your cookie dough will hold together.
If using optional seeds and spices, add to the mixture and mix through thoroughly.
Drop small teaspoon size portions onto the cookie tray.
You can either leave portions as they drop onto the cookie tray or flatten them slightly with your fingers, to make small round cookies (I made some of each).
Bake for 15 – 20 minutes (Ovens vary).
Remove tray from oven and allow cookies to rest on the tray for 5 – 10 minutes.
Place cookies to wire cooling rack to cool completely.
Yield: 32 small cookies (soft texture).
Storage, Refrigeration and Freezing instructions:
Store in zip lock bags or air tight containers in your refrigerator.
Allow to come to room temperature before feeding.
Home-baked dog treats contain no preservatives, so they can mold or spoil the same as home-baked people cookies/cakes do. Other variables, ingredients/moisture content of the treat and climate conditions will also determine the storage time.
Refrigeration will prolong the life of home-made dog treats.
Freeze for up to 3 months – Always allow treats to thaw completely before feeding.
Feed these BANANA OAT COOKIES only as a treat.
Treats should not make up more than 10% of your pet’s diet.
As with any treat, always provide fresh water after feeding.
Be sure to check the recipe for any known foods or ingredients your pet may be allergic to. If in doubt, check with your Vet.