The month of March (when this was written) is a maverick month, and the 18th is National Pet Owner’s Independence Day. I have to tell you, though, that anyone who harbors (Not owns! You never own them. They may own you!) a pet is anything but independent. There are all kinds of pets out there, but most people have either a cat or a dog, or both.
It isn’t easy to put together vegetarian treats for carnivores, and cats and dogs are carnivores -- although dogs will accept a greater variety of edibles than will cats.
However, I want you to know that I have looked, and have found a few simple to make treats that just may appeal to the furry members of your household. I have included fish, though I don’t eat it myself. But then again, I’m not a cat, am I?
This month’s column is for our senior cat, Dennis the Menace -- a big, friendly orange tabby with sexy green eyes. Dennis departed for Rainbow Bridge this month. He was 16. He passed away in his sleep, and he is now safe in the Garden, just this side of Rainbow Bridge, waiting for us. We miss him, and don’t ever expect to stop loving him. Safe Harbor, Denny, my Love. Ya did good.
Mix all of the ingredients in a large bowl. Roll out to ¼ or ½ inch thickness. Cut into bone shapes with a dog bone cookie cutter. These come in various sizes. Place on a well-oiled cookie sheet and bake at 300F for 45 minutes. Turn off the oven and leave the biscuits in the oven to dry for 30 minutes.
Place a layer of refried beans in the bottom of a casserole dish. Mix avocados, garlic powder, lemon juice, mayonnaise, and picante sauce. Layer over the refried beans. Next put a layer of sour cream and then black olives. Garnish with cheese and green olives. You may like this one better than do your pets. For them, go easy on the picante sauce.
Cream the shortening and sugars. Add egg substitutes and molasses. Sift in the dry ingredients. Slice and dip in sugar. Bake at 350F for 10 minutes. Do not overbake.
Great for breakfast, for People, Dogs, and -- with Plenty of Margarine -- Cats.
2 cups self-rising flour
1 stick margarine
buttermilk
Gently mix the 2 cups self-rising flour and 1 stick softened margarine. Add the buttermilk until sticky and ready to knead on floured board/ Roll out and cut into 8 to 10 biscuits. Place on a greased sheet and bake at 450F for 8 to 10 minutes.