GREENSBORO, N.C. — I don't know if you're aware, but Pumpkin Spice has taken over the world. While it started with the Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte, better known as the PSL, it has morphed into a franchise all its own. You now have pumpkin spice cereal, breakfast bars, cookies, donuts, and even bacon!
It's not surprising there are pumpkin spice-flavored treats for your pet. Buy them if you like, but if you're thinking you're giving your dog a fall treat, you should just give them pumpkin, and not add the spice.
"Pumpkin first and foremost is going to be great in dietary fiber. That's an area where again it's good for digestive health. It's also rich in Vitamin A Vitamin E, and potassium. The spices can get into a bit more of a tricky spot. So that's where if you do too much cinnamon, for example, you can cause problems in your pets. I tend to focus more on the pumpkin to keep it steamed, keep it natural. Our pets are not little people. That's the big takeaway here," said Dr. Danielle Bernal, Wellness Pet Company.
Bernal says you can add a tablespoon or two on top of the kibble for a fall treat at mealtime.
When it comes to treats, whether it's PSL-flavored biscuits, or whatever, don't over-treat your pet.
"The alarming thing is we're now looking at around 59% of our dogs are overweight, 61% of our cats. so that's almost two out of every three pets. We need to do the right thing as pet parents by keeping them healthy. and so much of that is keeping them in good body condition," said Bernal.