Dog

Beef & Pumpkin Stew

Digestive Health

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (90% lean)
  • 1 cup canned pure pumpkin (not pie filling)
  • 1/2 cup brown rice (dry)
  • 1/2 cup carrots, diced
  • 1/2 cup green beans, chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/4 cup bone meal powder
  • 1/2 tsp iodized salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain excess fat.
  2. Add water and bring to a boil. Stir in brown rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes.
  3. Add diced carrots and chopped green beans. Continue simmering for 15 minutes until vegetables are tender and rice is fully cooked.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in pure pumpkin and olive oil. Allow to cool to room temperature.
  5. Mix in bone meal powder and salt just before serving. Ensure thorough distribution.
  6. Portion into meal-sized containers and refrigerate what will be used within 3 days; freeze remaining portions.

💊 Required Supplements

Add per 1 cup of prepared food: 500mg calcium carbonate (if not using bone meal), 1/4 tsp fish oil (providing ~250mg EPA/DHA), 50 IU vitamin E, and a senior-specific multivitamin at manufacturer's recommended dose for dog's weight. Consult your veterinarian before adding any supplements.

Nutritional Analysis

1 cup (for 25lb dog)
Calories450 kcal
Protein28g (35% DM)
Fat12g (15% DM)
Carbohydrates38g (45% DM)
Fiber4g (5% DM)
Moisture72%
Calcium1.2% DM
Phosphorus0.9% DM
Ca:P Ratio1.3:1
DM = Dry Matter basis. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient sourcing and preparation methods.
This recipe provides a balanced calcium-to-phosphorus ratio ideal for senior dogs, with moderate fat content to prevent obesity. The pumpkin adds soluble fiber to aid digestion and firm stools. Protein levels support muscle maintenance without overtaxing aging kidneys. The moisture content supports hydration in dogs that may not drink enough water. This recipe meets AAFCO nutrient profiles for adult maintenance when supplemented as directed.

🧊 Safety & Storage

Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Always serve at room temperature or slightly warm. Wash hands and all utensils thoroughly after handling raw meat. Discard any food left out for more than 2 hours. Transition your dog to this new food gradually over 7-10 days by mixing increasing amounts with their current food.

⚠️ Recipe Drift Warning

Do NOT substitute pumpkin with pumpkin pie filling (contains toxic xylitol and spices). Avoid replacing beef with fattier cuts which can cause pancreatitis in seniors. Do not use onion, garlic, or excessive salt. Rice substitutes like quinoa require different cooking times and water ratios. Any ingredient changes may alter the calcium-phosphorus balance and require recalculation of supplements.

⚕️ Always consult your veterinarian before changing your pet's diet.

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