Best Bully Sticks

I've known about Best Bully Sticks for a while now since they have honored us by posting some of our recipes on their blog. I think they have a great selection with prices to match. However, we have a local co-op so I have always purchased Kirby's bully sticks there. I naively thought, "What's the difference, a pizzle is a pizzle". Well, I'm here to admit I was wrong, very wrong.

First, let me explain what a pizzle is in case you don't know. It's the penis from a bull, hence a bully stick. I don't allow Kirby to chew rawhide which doesn't digest easily so these are the closest he gets while still remaining relatively safe. He probably loves these more than any chew ever created in the history of mankind! On average he gets one every couple of weeks. The one side effect is his breath, his stinking, nasty breath. There is no point brushing his teeth and tongue in between his chewing his beloved pizzle so I have to endure his horrid breath until bedtime when the pizzle is taken away and teeth are brushed.

Callie graciously sent Kirby a package containing several bully sticks which was wonderful since our foster, Kora, could have her very own. They both loved the 10" curly bully sticks, the 12" standard bully sticks, and the 12" braided bully sticks.

Back to where I had to admit I was wrong - all bully sticks are not made equal. These have a very low odor which meant neither Kirby nor Kora had stinky breath! Hallalueah! Another benefit which I consider so important is they are100% natural free-range cattle pizzles made in the USA.  

Funny coincidence is when we were in Atlanta a few months back we purchased a package of frozen pizzles which I dehydrated. It was easy to do and they also had a low odor factor, but I just found it so gross that I had to wear gloves. I'll still make my own once in a while just cos it's cheaper even though  mine didn't come out as big as these are. Apparently raw liver I can handle, raw pizzles not so much!

As you can see, both dogs loved them which they devoured with such gusto. I dont let Kirby, or any foster, have access to chews while I am away so every evening after dinner they each stayed busy whittlin away allowing me to get some work done. I love them so much I decided to place an ongoing order and become an affiliate. Kirby and Kora give Best Bully Sticks 4 paws and a wag!

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Disclaimer: We received the bully sticks from Best Bully Sticks in exchange for a review.  Our opinion is our own based on our experience and we do recommend this product. 

Chicken Chompers

Chicken Chompers

I make these every month so I can't believe I've never posted the recipe.  In fact I only realized that fact when some of Kirby's Facebook fans requested the recipe. I went to the blog to copy the link and discovered there was no link to copy! My only excuse is since I make them all the time it just didn't occur to me to post it.

The dangerous recalls, the inexpensive cost of chicken, the fact most dogs enjoy a good chew.  There are plenty of reasons to make this your go to recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 large bag boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Rosemary, finely chopped
• Parsley, finely chopped

Preparation Instructions

1. Thaw chicken then rinse well under cool water.

2. Cut away all of the fat. Using kitchen shears, cut the breasts in half longways.

2. Lay the pieces on wax paper and lightly pound with a meat tenderizer.  You can use a rolling pin but I like how the meat tenderizer pierces the meat allowing the seasonings to seep into the meat while drying.

3. Place the pounded pieces in a medium size bowl.  I just grab some so add roughly 2 tablespoons of rosemary and 2 tablespoons of parsley to the chicken.  Over time I have learned these are Kirby's favorite combo for his chicken chompers but you can use any combination of dog safe herbs your dog may prefer. 

4. Using your hands, toss the chicken to thoroughly coat with the seasonings.

5. Place the chicken in the dehydrator on wax paper to avoid sticking.

6. Let dry on high until the top side has dried to the touch, roughly an hour.

7. Turn pieces over and discard the wax paper. Let them dehydrate until thoroughly dried which will take several hours. I like to start these early Saturday morning so they are ready by Sunday. It does take a very long time but it's healthy protein with no worry of recalls.

8. When done you can store them in an air tight container in a dark, cool place.  They can be frozen for several months but Kirby and our foster usually finish them off in about a week.

Warning: You will have a captive audience underfoot until the first one is tested! Kirby always seems to know the difference when I'm making human foods or his meals and treats.

I find it easiest to use my dehydrator but these can also be made in the oven.  Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with lightly oiled aluminum foil and use the lowest setting.

Beware of salmonella which means washing everything the raw chicken touches with hot, soapy water.

Butternut Bliss Biscuits

Butternut Bliss Biscuits

Butternut squash provides about one-third of the Daily Value of vitamin C in every cup and contains vitamins B1, B3, B6, pantothenic acid, and folate. It's a great fall side dish and a perfect ingredient to be used in casseroles. The sweetness of butternut squash also makes it an excellent ingredient for treats.

Ingredients

• 2 cups oat flour
• 1 cup cooked butternut squash
• 1/2 cup applesauce
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp sea salt

Preparation Instructions

1. In large bowl thoroughly mix all ingredients.

2. Drop by teaspoonfuls onto paper lined cookie sheet. These can be placed close together since they wont expand. Lightly sprinkle cinnamon on top of each cookie.

3. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes or until lightly browned.

4. Remove from the oven to a bakers rack and let cool.

These are great for a treat but even better as an accompaniment biscuit with your dog's meal. They are moist so store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.