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With all these options, how do you know the right thing to feed your pet?
Best of all, it can be a lot of fun watching your pet savor a treat she really loves. Treats can cause a few problems, however, if they aren't given carefully.
Obesity is a growing problem for pets—nearly half of all the pets in the United States are overweight. Obesity can contribute to a wide range of health problems, from arthritis to diabetes and heart disease. Be aware that some snacks are packed with calories, and stick with low-cal treats or avoid treats altogether if your pet is overweight. Think of a treat like you'd think of a candy bar: one is great, but five a day is more than anyone needs!
Leftover scraps from human food are often high in calories and fat and they can easily upset your pet's stomach. Not to mention that your pooch could get used to the tastier food from the human table and become picky, refusing his or her usual diet. This could mean your pet is missing out on some of the nutrients they need to stay healthy.
If your pet eats at scheduled meal times, don't let them fill up on treats before meals. Try giving your pet treats that benefit their health. Pet stores now offer dental treats that clean teeth; cat treats that prevent hair balls; treats with added vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants; and more.
If you're longing to let your dog sample a little human food but don't want to expand their waistline, you can try giving your pet a few fresh vegetables. Dogs often love veggies like carrots, broccoli, and green beans, which are low in calories and high in vitamins and healthy fiber.
You'll have to use some care, however, since some produce that people love can be harmful to dogs. Onions can cause anemia, for example, and grapes and raisins can be toxic. Don't feed your dog any new or unusual veggies without consulting with your veterinarian.
Fresh veggies can also make good snacks for pocket pets like gerbils, hamsters, and guinea pigs.
Published 08/17/07
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Everybody loves a treat, and if you have a pet, you probably enjoy sharing special things with them. These days pet owners can visit pet bakeries, buy frozen dog desserts at the grocery store, or make homemade treats from a pet treat cookbook. 
