I’ve always rolled my eyes at those froufrou cookies and frosted bakery-style treats for pets that cost more than their for-human-consumption counterparts. Please.
As if a cat or dog gets excited by a doughnut. But maybe they do if it tastes really good. After some surfing around the Internet, I discovered that most of the pricey “gourmet” snacks for cats and dogs are so-named because, in fact, they are made of better-quality, more healthful ingredients than the “junk food” available at the supermarket. At Full Petential, the Doggie Sushi ($5.45 for a 6.4-ounce package; they make it for cats, too) contains no byproducts or other fillers, no artificial colors or flavors. The “delectable fish-wrapped, soft chicken breast treat” contains omega fatty acids for the heart, skin and coat (see the ingredients and nutritional analysis here). For your favorite feline, they make Tasty Teasers ($2.82 for a 1.78-ounce package). These low-allergen chicken and potato morsels are high in protein and free of filler. You can even order free samples of the company’s product line (shipping not included). Zuke’s, of Durango, Colo., sells American-made natural dog and cat treats that are free of wheat, corn, soy, byproducts, artificial colors and artificial preservatives. Check out the complete Woof Index, where you’ll find Jerky Naturals ($5.29 for 6 ounces; pictured), a semi-moist treat in meat or fish flavors with ingredients such as fresh blueberries, ground flax seed, apples and carrots. The Meow Index is smaller, with goodies such as salmon or chicken flavored Cat Hip Action ($4.20 for 3 ounces). There are many vendors online competing for your money in this niche market, but how many offer carob- and peanut-butter-flavored Betty Cocker Brownies for dogs? Bone Appetit Bakery recommends them for small breeds and dogs with skin allergies (50 cents each). Check out the entire selection of dog and cat treats and see if you don’t get hungry yourself.




















