Full of fresh green goodness, this smoothie recipe for your dog, has a little twist in the form of added nuts and seeds.
Almonds are rich in vitamin E and Magnesium and Pumpkin seeds are a good source of zinc and selenium. As an alternative to almonds, a brazil nut can be added, but avoid using macadamia or any salted nuts.
At this time of year there is no shortage of seasonal greens, but the following are favourites of mine. Choose a few leaves from the following or add one or two to your dogs usual veggie blend.
Parsley, Basil, Little Gem or Coz lettuce, Wild Garlic, Dandelion leaves, Watercress, Cleavers, Spinach, Chard, Spring Greens, Asparagus stalks.
Many of these are easy to grow at home or can be foraged for and when freshly picked are even more nutritious.
You will need
A selection of Summer greens (approximately 2 cups full)
2 whole, un-blanched Almonds
5 Pumpkin seeds
Splash of water or make a tea from a Hedgerow Hounds herbal blend, Greens, Seeds & Superfoods or Natures Bounty as an example.
How to Make:
Place your selected leaves and any veggies into a smoothie maker or blender and add enough water or your herb tea to blend into a thick puree consistency.
Keep in the fridge and use within 2 days or freeze in individual moulds for later use
If your dog is new to eating vegetables, then start off with small amounts and gradually increase over a week or two. Steamed or pulped, (low GI and low starch) vegetables can make up around 10%-15% of your dogs meals and are a nice addition to any diet.
Caroline Hearn – Hedgerow Hounds