Take them a meal

Dogs deserve a meal train too.

I grew up with dogs. I think every child should have a dog, and every parent should teach children that dogs should be treated with love. Dogs are such a gift, and if given the chance, they can teach us so much about life. Anyone who has ever had a dog knows that dogs have souls. They have feelings and personalities, just like little toddlers that have 4 legs and fur who can't verbalize what they're feeling.

My neighbor has two sweet dogs, one of which, little Zoe, knows she can get belly rubs and kisses from me anytime we're outside at the same time. Our back yards connect, so I am always on the lookout for her little wiggly self that waits not-so-patiently for me to see her and walk over.

Just the other night, Zoe was outside doing her business, and unbeknownst to her parents, there were two rather large coyotes roaming the neighborhood. Her shrieks had her dad running to her rescue just in time. Amazingly enough, she escaped what could have been a terrible tragedy that many little dogs face. She didn't escape without some minor injuries, but she's on the mend after a day at the vet's office.

As moms, we know when It's time to take someone a meal. In fact, there are websites now that make It easy for us to sign up for a date and time when someone Is In need. Surgeries, Illnesses, funerals, or the arrival of a baby are all good reasons to take someone a meal, or even a little dessert--something to just brighten their day or help with a heavy load.

Soooo, why would I not do the same for my little furry neighbor (actually she calls me "Aunt Theresa", so technically she's my fur niece)? I had a recipe for a little doggie cake, and I had made it for my own pups last year to celebrate Penny's 9th year with our family. Simple ingredients, but baked in a mini bundt pan from Dollar Tree makes it a little more special.

Since there was no "meal train" to sign up for, I checked in with her mom to see if I could visit and bring her a little treat. Of course her brother Finn would benefit too--he's been by her side and I wouldn't want him to feel left out. So, it was time to pull out the recipe for a delicious, healthy little cake they could both enjoy. I'm sharing it here so next time you need to do something special for a furry friend or relative, this just might come in handy.

Love your dogs.

Doggie Cake Recipe:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and grease a mini bundt pan (or something similar).

Combine:

1 egg

1/3 cup honey

1/4 cup peanut butter

1/4 cup vegetable oil

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1 cup shredded carrots

1 cup whole wheat or all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking soda

Spoon batter into pan and bake for 30-40 minutes until toothpick comes out clean. Let cool and serve! Tip: If you're making it for a friend, be sure to make a double batch so your own fur children don't feel left out. They'll love it!

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