Winter Seasonal Flavor: Cranberry Ginger Bread!

We wanted to get in a Christmas-y and Wintery spirit. Karyn was busy in the kitchen cooking up something special that we haven't done before. She came up with.... Cranberry GingerBread! Ta-da!
We love the way it smells, our dogs love the way that it tastes and it even looks so pretty, with all those little ruby red pieces.

The base of this treat is whole wheat flour, organic fat free milk and an organic range free egg. The milk and egg quality speak for themselves. Eggs are great sources of protein, riboflavin and selenium. There are benefits to the whole wheat flour too! Whole wheat flour uses the whole grain and contains bran and wheat germ which is a great source of minerals, B vitamins, phytochemicals to enhance the immune system. The whole grains can also promote healthier cardiovascular systems and reduced risks of cancer and diabetes.
Our pups don't have a problem with gluten, but if yours does, we would love to make this flavor for you using something gluten free!

Ginger is one of the ingredients that makes this treat spicy and delicious! As long as it is in small quantities, ginger is very good for dogs. It is anti viral, anti toxic and anti fungal. WOW! "Ginger is known to promote gastrointestinal peristalsis and relieve stomach ache. In addition, ginger is high in antioxidants, it has the effect of reducing the risk of heart disease and cancer. Ginger can help treat allergies as an antihistamine." Ginger is also known to help the symptoms of motion sickness and lower cholesterol. Although, "if dogs suffered from anemia or just take surgery, you’d better avoid to use ginger because ginger would stimulate circulation of the blood but these dogs should maintain a stable blood level."

Molasses is a "great source of iron, copper, manganese, potassium and magnesium." And it also give your pup some B6.

The definite star of this treat is the Cranberries, which are not only very good for people, they are very good for dogs! "The addition of cranberries to your dog’s diet also has several other benefits. Cranberries are rich in vitamins including A, B1, B2, C, and many nutrients. They are full of minerals and antioxidants. Cranberries are an excellent supplement to your dog’s diet for the promotion of urinary tract health and they are good for the owner as well. This is one treat that you can enjoy with your dog, so go grab a handful and enjoy them together."

Order a bag today at Jakksinabox@gmail.com or visit our Facebook shop to see what other flavors we’re offering.

Sources for this ingredient knowledge:
http://raisinghealthydogs.com/the-health-benefits-of-cranberries-for-dogs
http://www.dogquestions.org/dog-treats/can-dogs-eat-ginger
http://www.threedogdfw.com/all_natural_ingredients_molasses.html
http://canigivemydog.com/molasses

Spiced Pumpkin Cookies

Want a flavor of dog treat perfect for the crisp and cool weather of autumn? Try our Spiced Pumpkin cookies!

The base of this treat is whole wheat flour, organic fat free milk and a certified human organic egg. The milk and egg quality speak for themselves. Eggs are great sources of protein, riboflavin and selenium. There are benefits to the whole wheat flour too! Whole wheat flour uses the whole grain and contains bran and wheat germ which is a great source of minerals, B vitamins, phytochemicals to enhance the immune system. The whole grains can also promote healthier cardiovascular systems and reduced risks of cancer and diabetes.
Our pups don't have a problem with gluten, but if yours does, we would love to make this flavor for you using something gluten free!

Ginger is one of the ingredients that makes this treat spicy and delicious! As long as it is in small quantities, ginger is very good for dogs. It is anti viral, anti toxic and anti fungal. WOW! "Ginger is known to promote gastrointestinal peristalsis and relieve stomach ache. In addition, ginger is high in antioxidants, it has the effect of reducing the risk of heart disease and cancer. Ginger can help treat allergies as an antihistamine." Ginger is also known to help the symptoms of motion sickness and lower cholesterol. Although, "if dogs suffered from anemia or just take surgery, you’d better avoid to use ginger because ginger would stimulate circulation of the blood but these dogs should maintain a stable blood level."

Another great spice for dogs in small quantities? Cinnamon! Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties, and can stop bacteria growth, meaning that it's great for dogs who have allergies or are prone to yeast infections (hey... we have one of those dogs! ahem... Muggs!) Cinnamon can also help regulate blood sugar levels for dogs who are at risk for diabetes. Who knew?

Nothing really says fall spirit quite like a pumpkin. Pumpkin has a lot of fiber, beta carotene and vitamin A and in small quantities is good for both diarrhea and constipation. Pumpkin is often found in higher quality dog foods for its benefits to urinary health and weight loss.

We really love this treat, the smell of it baking really gets us in an Autumn-y mood. Help your dogs embrace the fall season with a freshly baked bag of Ginger Spiced Pumpkin cookies. Order a bag today at Jakksinabox@gmail.com or visit our Facebook shop to see what other flavors we’re offering.

Sources for this ingredient knowledge:
http://www.dogquestions.org/dog-treats/can-dogs-eat-ginger
http://www.cesarsway.com/dog-care/dog-nutrition/Dog-Nutrition-A-to-Z
http://www.care2.com/greenliving/top-three-health-benefits-of-pumpkin-for-dogs.html
https://www.thehonestkitchen.com/blog/is-cinnamon-safe-for-dogs/

November Special!

For the month of November we're offering fun and festive fall shapes! These include acorn, different leaves, a pumpkin and an apple! These shapes will be especially yummy for your puppy in our seasonal Spiced Ginger Pumpkin cookie.

 If you have any questions on how to order or ingredients, email us at jakksinabox@gmail.com.

Keep Your Pooches Safe on Halloween!

Halloween is always a fun night, whether you're trick or treating with your family or handing out candy at home. We always have to remember safety though! We outfit our kids with flashlights and reflectors, warnings to not eat any candy until they get home and to never go up to houses alone that are unfamiliar.But what about the safety of our Halloween dogs? I've looked at a few different websites and compiled a list of tips and reminders to make sure that the spooky festivities are enjoyable for everyone!

The ASPCA also lists all of these reasons!

From VPI (Veterinary Pet Insurance)

"1. Dangerous Pet Costumes
Your safest choice in a pet Halloween costume would be a loosely tied bandana; however, if you choose to dress up your pet, outfit your dog or cat with a simple approach. Pets can become tangled in elaborate, tight-fitting costumes with strings, ties, belts and sashes. Difficulty in mobility can lead to bodily injury, including strangulation.
Never leave a pet unattended while wearing a costume. Small (or large) parts of a costume can become chewed and ingested and can in turn potentially lead to foreign body ingestion which can be life threatening to your pet.

2. Halloween Decorations and Fire Hazards
If you like to decorate your home in the Halloween spirit, take into consideration what you're putting on display and where the decorations will be placed. Easy-to-reach decorations — or candles — can be eaten or knocked over, potentially leading to choking, foreign body ingestion, electrical shock and even burns and a household fire.
Err on the side of caution while decorating and choose pet-safe products.

3. Noise Affects Pets
Dogs and cats can become skittish and anxiety ridden on Halloween due to the incessant ringing of the doorbell, constant squeals and chatter just outside the door, and small fireworks set off in the street.
In addition, the barrage of strangers dressed in unfamiliar and scary costumes can alarm some pets, increasing their anxiety. Take extra precaution on Halloween: gauge your pet's typical reaction while greeting visitors and decide if putting up a baby gate or leaving your dog or cat in a back room of the house would keep them calmer throughout the evening.
4. Candy and Chocolate Are Toxic
Candy and chocolate are never good for dogs or cats and on Halloween there is an increased chance that Fluffy and Fido may consume treats meant for tricksters.

• Chocolate and xylitol, a sweetener found in many candies, can be extremely toxic to pets.
• Lollipops and their sticks can be choking hazards and cause a painful obstruction or foreign body ingestion that may require surgery to remove.
• Candies wrapped in plastic and other types of wrapping can also lead to chocking or cause an obstruction and upset stomach.

Easy solutions to prevent accidental toxicity or ingestion:

• Keep pet-safe treats on hand to satisfy your curious pet.
• Make sure all candies are out of your pet's reach.
• Consider leaving your pet in another part of the house where exposure to hazards is impossible.

5. Lost Pets
Halloween isn't an ideal time to let your dog or cat wander outside unattended. While there aren't any documented reports or statistics to indicate that pet abduction increases on Halloween, be mindful that a prankster or a mean-spirited individual could be inspired to mess with your pet.
Take caution and keep pets indoors with you, or escort them outside on a leash if you plan on including your pet in neighborhood festivities. Sudden noises and strange-looking costumes can also spook your pet, causing them to run away, therefore, it’s always a good idea to adorn your pet with a collar and identification tags in case you become separated."

From PetMD
"2. Don't leave pets out in the yard on Halloween.
Surprisingly, vicious pranksters have been known to tease, injure, steal, and even kill pets on Halloween night. Inexcusable? Yes! But preventable nonetheless.

3. Keep pets confined and away from the door.
Not only will your door be constantly opening and closing on Halloween, but strangers will be dressed in unusual costumes and yelling loudly for their candy. This, of course, is scary for our furry friends. Dogs are especially territorial and may become anxious and growl at innocent trick-or-treaters. Putting your dog or cat in a secure room away from the front door will also prevent them from darting outside into the night … a night when no one wants to be searching for a lost loved one.

4. Keep your outdoor cats inside several days before and several days after Halloween.
Black cats are especially at risk from pranks or other cruelty-related incidents. In fact, many shelters do not adopt out black cats during the month of October as a safety precaution.

5. Keep Halloween plants such as pumpkins and corn out of reach.
Although they are relatively nontoxic, such plants can induce gastrointestinal upset should your pets ingest them in large quantities. Intestinal blockage can even occur if large pieces are swallowed. And speaking of pumpkins …

6. Don't keep lit pumpkins around pets.
Should they get too close, they run the risk of burning themselves or knocking it over and causing a fire."

 Have a happy and safe Halloween!

October Special!

For the month of October, get your yummy treats in festive Halloween shapes! Order today in our Facebook Shop and choose "Halloween"!
 

Email us if you have any questions of special requests!

Chicken Pot Pie

It's time for a new “Back to Basics” posts about our treat flavors. Today we’re bringing you ...

The Chicken Pot Pie Cracker! 

The base of this treat is whole wheat flour and an organic range free egg. The egg quality speaks for itself. Eggs are also great sources of protein, riboflavin and selenium. There are benefits to the whole wheat flour too! Whole wheat uses the whole grain and contains bran and wheat germ which is a great source of minerals, B vitamins, phytochemicals to enhance the immune system. The whole grains can also promote healthier cardiovascular systems and reduced risks of cancer and diabetes.
Our pups don't have a problem with gluten, but if yours does, we would love to make this flavor for you using something gluten free!

 
And the ingredients that make this treat special? Chicken Broth, Carrots and Peas!


Some vets recommend using peas and carrots as meal additives for dogs to help maintain or lose weight, as well as chicken broth! Peas are a great source of B vitamin Thiamin, phosphorus and potassium. Carrots are good for your dogs teeth (As a raw treat) and are awesome source of beta carotene, vitamin A, are low in calories and high in fiber. I feel healthier just talking about this!

While writing this post, we learned this difference between chicken broth and chicken stock... and we are happy to say that we use Chicken Stock! This is a great source of sodium and protein for pups... and the love it!

                                                          Whoo-hoo!

We love this treat, especially the way it smells while it’s baking. I can only imagine how great it smells when a fresh baked bag is open. Do you have one in your pantry? Order a bag today! Jakksinabox@gmail.com or visit our Facebook shop to see what other flavors we’re offering.

Sources for this ingredient knowledge:
http://pets.webmd.com/dogs/features/people-foods-your-dog-can-eat
http://moderndogmagazine.com/articles/10-more-people-food-dogs/9241
http://www.cesarsway.com/dog-care/dog-nutrition/Dog-Approved-People-Food

Massachusetts Apple Pie

In our second installment in our “Back to Basics” posts about our treat flavors, we’re bringing you ...

                                      The Massachusetts Apple Pie Stick! 

 
Karyn was on a pie kick when this treat was invented, and she had recently learned about melting cheddar cheese on the crust of an apple pie. A great idea for humans, and a delicious idea for a dog treat.

The base of this treat is whole wheat flour, organic fat free milk and an organic range free egg. The milk and egg quality speak for themselves. Eggs are great sources of protein, riboflavin and selenium. There are benefits to the whole wheat flour too! Whole wheat uses the whole grain and contains bran and wheat germ which is a great source of minerals, B vitamins, phytochemicals to enhance the immune system. The whole grains can also promote healthier cardiovascular systems and reduced risks of cancer and diabetes.
Our pups don't have a problem with gluten, but if yours does, we would love to make this flavor for you using something gluten free!

 
And the ingredients that make this treat special? Cheddar Cheese and Applesauce!

We know that there is some debate out there of whether or not cheddar cheese is a good thing to give your pet because it is dairy. We researched and we found out that the health benefits for humans is the same for dogs! The calories and fats in cheese are well balanced and low, and it is highly digestible. Cheese also is a great source of calcium which helps dogs form a strong bone structure!

We use only natural applesauce with no additives. Apples are a great source of vitamins A, and C and fiber. If your dogs like apples, you can even give them apple slices, but beware the apple seeds because they contain cyanide which collects in the body and can cause major problems down the line.

                                                          Whoo-hoo!

We love this treat, especially the way it smells while it’s baking. I can only imagine how great it smells when a fresh baked bag is open. Do you have one in your pantry? Order a bag today! Jakksinabox@gmail.com or visit our Facebook shop to see what other flavors we’re offering.

Sources for this ingredient knowledge:
http://goldenagecheese.blogspot.com/2012/04/is-cheese-safe-for-pets.html
http://moderndogmagazine.com/articles/10-people-foods-dogs/1896

Honey Oat Sticks

For a long time now I have wanted to go back to the basics and let you know about the benefits of the  ingredients and flavors that we have chosen for our treats. This is something that we would like to do for each treat, and we're starting with....

The Honey Oat Stick 

This was the first treat we ever made. You could say that it's success with Jakks really fueled the fire to experiment with other flavors to create the treat line-up that is now "Jakks in a Box"

The base of this treat is whole wheat flour, organic fat free milk and an organic range free egg. The milk and egg quality speak for themselves, and there are benefits to the whole wheat flour too! Whole wheat uses the whole grain and contains bran and wheat germ which is a great source of minerals, B vitamins, phytochemicals to enhance the immune system. The whole grains can also promote healthier cardiovascular systems and reduced risks of cancer and diabetes.
Our pups don't have a problem with gluten, but if yours does, we would love to make this flavor for you using something gluten free!

Now to the ingredients that make this treat special! Honey and Oats!

Honey is known for being a source of flavinoids and believed to contain anti-cancer properties. It has vitamin B6, B12, C, D, E, folic acid, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium and manganese. "Honey is a good source of anti-oxidants and the live enzymes found in it make it antibacterial, antimicrobial, antiseptic and antifungal.
If you're concerned about the sugar content of honey, rest assured knowing that it is an easily digested and gradually broken down form of natural sugar unlike processed sugar. As a result, the addition of honey to a dog's day can help increase healthy levels of energy and can even energize older dogs. Honey is also an excellent digestive aid since it contains live enzymes and amylase. Amylase is an enzyme which facilitates the proper digestion of carbohydrates. Honey is also very soothing for the digestive system and can also help tonify the body."


We knew that oats are healthy for humans and pets, but even we were surprised just HOW good they were! Simply put, oats are nutritious, being naturally high in "good" nutrients and low in "bad" ones. Oats are high in protein, soluble fiber (keeps cholesterol down), iron, zinc and B vitamins. Oats are low in gluten and GMOs. "Oats are considered a nervine, an herbal compound that acts as a general nerve tonic, calming the nerves when necessary, stimulating their activity when needed. Oats are used for treating a variety of nervous disorders. Oats benefit several body organs and systems, including: skin, nervous system, stomach, spleen, lungs, and the urinary and reproductive systems." Best of all, oats act as a digestive aid to calm the intestinal tract!

Wow!

 We are so pleased to offer you a treat that has such great ingredients! Do you have any in stock to give to your pups? Order a bag today! www.jakksinabox@gmail.com

Sources for this ingredient knowledge:
Angel. "The Health Benefits of Raw Honey for Dogs. (Environmental Allergies in Dogs)" K9 Instinct. N.p., 12 Mar. 2013. Web. 29 June 2013.
Kidd, Randy, DVM, PhD. "Benefits of Oats for Dogs and Cats." Pet360. Petstyle, n.d. Web. 29 June 2013.
"Tail Waggins Bakery Ingredients." Tail Waggins Bakery Ingredients. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 June 2013.

Summer is Here!!

So much going on! It seems like every time we think we just have to get through one more event then we'll have all the time in the world to update blogs, and re-do the kitchen... we get there and then realize it's impossible! We need 30 more hours in each day to get everything done!

We had a bit of a tough week with a loss of one of our pets. It's the sad part to being a pet owner, but they bring us so much joy during their lives that it is definitely worth it. We had to say goodbye to one of our little guys Squeak. A late night visit to the vet confirmed pneumonia and heart disease, and we had to let him go. He is and will be missed.

 On a happier note, Pip is doing well, enjoying his longer playtimes outside his cage, and we are currently looking for another little boy to keep him company. We will keep you updated.

All is well in Cat and Dog world. We have determined that little Muggs is allergic to chicken as well, so are in the process of switching all the pups to lamb.

Ahh, finally Summer has arrived. Now the time for beach days, pool days, barbeques.... we LOVE IT! And with that in mind we have STAR shaped treats! So fun! These will be perfect to have as a special treat if you have people over for a BB-Q. Let your pup show their American Pride and enjoy something yummy too!

The hour is late, and Pip wants to stretch his legs for a bit, so we will see you soon!

Coming up: We're going to be highlighting each of our flavors, so stay tuned! =]

-Karyn and the Jakks in a Box Team

Long time no Woof!!

It's been a long time! But now that we have gotten all the big stuff out of the way (buying a house, getting married and a pup cancer scare) we are ready to get back to the business of dog treats!

We love baking the delicious goodies for our and your pups, so we have REALLY missed it. Karyn is really itching to put her new oven to good use. We have no big news treat wise, but were cleaning out the shed (of things that have probably been in there untouched for 5 years) and escaped attack by all the spiders that have taken up residence and got some pretty darn cute pictures of the pups (if we do say so ourselves) that we would love to share.

Stay tuned for upcoming treat news and enjoy! :)

Butchie holding up the shed wall with his butt.

Jakks swimming through the weeds that will someday be my garden.

Muggs lending a helping paw.

Hope you had a wonderful, restful Memorial Day weekend!

-The Jakks in a Box Family