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The Do’s & Don’ts of Feeding Horses and Dogs Fruits & Veggies!

by Heather Carter April 05, 2022

The Do’s & Don’ts of Feeding Horses and Dogs Fruits & Veggies!

Now that we are entering that time of year when fruits and vegetables are around every corner it can be tempting to give your four-legged friends some special, healthy treats! But unfortunately, while some people foods are perfectly safe for our pets, some can be very unhealthy or downright dangerous, so it is important to know which fruits and vegetables are safe for our pets to eat!

Good Fruits/Veggies For Horses

*Before feeding your horse anything new always check with your trusted veterinarian first! *

It is important to make sure that you are providing treats that your horse can safely eat. This can mean removing all cores, stones, or pits and cutting hard or round fruits and vegetables into smaller pieces that are easier for your horse to munch on!

  • Pumpkin
  • Carrots
  • Apples (Without the core)
  • Watermelon
  • Grapes, Raisins
  • Green Beans
  • Apricots (Without the stone)
  • Pears (Without the core)
  • Mango
  • Oranges
  • Melons (Without the rind)
  • Celery
  • Strawberries
  • Bananas
  • Snow Peas

Remember to prep and wash all produce in clean water before feeding to your horse! Always cut up snacks into bite-sized pieces to avoid choking and don’t overfeed them! We know that it can be hard to turn down those big sparkling eyes that beg for another bite but feeding treats in moderation is key to a balanced diet- and a healthy horse!

And for some extra fun during the warmer months, put some of these fruit options in the freezer. Your horse will love the added benefit of cooling them down while they enjoy their special treat!

Dangerous Fruits/Veggies For Horses -AVOID THESE!

Ranging from discomfort to severe health issues and poisoning, these fruits and veggies should be avoided:

  • Acorns
  • Garlic, Onions, Shallots
  • Avocados
  • Nightshades including- Tomatoes, Chili Peppers, Eggplants, Potatoes, etc.
  • Fruit Seeds & Pits
  • Cruciferous Vegetables including- Broccoli, Brussel Sprouts, Cauliflower, Kale, Cabbage, etc.
  • Rhubarb

Contact your veterinarian if you believe your horse has consumed anything on this list or if they are acting in any way that causes you concern. Do your research and make sure what you are feeding your horse has your horse’s best interests in mind. Just because someone else decides to feed their horse a specific food does not mean that it is best for your horse! Your horse is your responsibility and keeping them healthy and happy is a full-time job, but it is worth it!

Good Fruits/Veggies For Dogs

*Before feeding your dog anything new always check with your trusted veterinarian first! *

  • Apples/Pears (No seeds)
  • Bananas
  • Blueberries, Raspberries, Strawberries (In Moderation)
  • Cantaloupe, Watermelon
  • Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes
  • Cucumbers
  • Mangos (No Pits)
  • Oranges
  • Peaches (No Pits)
  • Pineapple
  • Pumpkin
  • Brussels Sprouts, Celery, Lettuce
  • Carrots, Green Beans
  • Peas, Spinach
  • Coconut (No Husk)

Giving our dogs fruits and vegetables can help give them the vitamins and nutrients that they are lacking but always remember that treats and snacks should not make up any more than 10% of your dog’s diet. Keeping their diet balanced will ensure their health and happiness for a long time coming!

Dangerous Fruits/Veggies For Dogs -AVOID THESE!

Ranging from discomfort to severe health issues and poisoning, these fruits and veggies should be avoided:

  • Grapes, Raisins (Extremely Dangerous!)
  • Any Fruit Pits, Seeds
  • Avocado
  • Cherries
  • Tomatoes
  • Asparagus
  • Mushrooms
  • Onions
  • Lemons, Limes
  • Plums
  • Grapefruit

Introducing any new food to your dog can have unexpected results, including allergic reactions, so always take it slow and watch for any signs of discomfort. If you are unsure or worried about feeding a new food to your dog wait to talk to your veterinarian!




Heather Carter

Author



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