VETERINARY MEDICINE: LIVER TREAT FOR DOGS.

VETERINARY MEDICINE: LIVER TREAT FOR DOGS. Dogs require protein to build the body and repair damaged cells thus they are an essential part of the diet.Protein can be sourced from plants and animals to be incorporated in dog meals. Protein sources that are of animal origin are beef, mutton, chicken,turkey ,liver,gizzard tongue,and eggs,while plant based protein will include beans and soy.The proportion of the protein varies with source and the inclusion in diet will depend on this amount.The use of protein in the body cannot be overemphasized,however the inclusion of this in diet must be proportional to dietary requirement,health status and age of dog. Protein make and repair cells,turn food to energy,create certain enzymes,hormones and antibodies.The metabolism of protein results in amino acids that are needed for proper body functioning and cell function maintenance. Liver is a protein source for dogs can be incorporated in diet at a rate of once or twice a week.Liver provides protein,fat and vitamin A.It is also a source of copper,iron,niacin,phosphorus and zinc. Liver treats are restricted to 1/2 servings per week because its very high in vitamin A,so as not to risk the possibilities of hypervitaminosis . Liver recipes may include boiled,fried,baked or steamed and stewed options.The liver to be used as treats must possess these qualities so that its nutritional value is harnessed.The liver must be clean,with no holes or nodules. It must not be brittle,discolored or have any odor.The liver must not have flukes,or worms and must not be turgid.It must not be filled with blood,jaundiced or doughy. Liver can be a supplement to a meal or as a healthy snack or a main meal.A liver recipe that is quick and easy is the fried liver treat,prepared as follows; 1) Get liver; wash and dice. 2)boil for some 2 minutes,then fry the liver cubes. This can be served with pasta/rice or just serve as liver cuts. The liver can also be boiled until very tender and pounded this can be incorporated in meals or used as stewing delicacy.Liver treats not only serve nutritional benefits but can be used as therapy in anemic patients,where liver extracts are of immense benefits. When next you are having a liver dish, toss fido his share he will love it.