Exploits of a Vegan Wannabe

Happy Meatless Monday.

In July I shared  that I had found a new vegan dog food by Halo pet foods. Here is a link to the original post. In the past I had given quite a bit of  thought to switching Chloe to a vegan diet but frankly, was nervous. I don’t know anything about canine nutrition. What if she doesn’t get everything she needs? But it really felt like a conundrum because I do believe that the healthiest diet is dairy and meat free.

I love Chloe so much, why would I give her food that is filled with foods I am no longer willing to eat? Halo had just launched their new line of vegan dog food so we decided to give it a try. It is free of corn, wheat and wheat gluten. It does not contain any artificial colors, flavors or preservatives and is positively packed with whole foods.

Chloe tried both the dry kibble and the canned food. They are packed with blueberries, chick peas, beets, spinach, and all the things you would find in the kitchen of someone with a vibrant diet. She loved them both.  I know this sounds funny but since she has been on her new vegan dog food, she has asked to be fed a half  hour earlier than usual for both breakfast and dinner. She has never, ever  done this in three years. “Listen ladies, I want the veggies right now.”

Forgive me because I know this is a food focused blog, but I would be remiss if I didn’t mention how healthy her stool has become. If you are the parent of a dog or cat…you know this matters to you and so it should. Poop happens, you want it to be healthy.  Halo vegan dog food is  $14.99 for a four pound bag,  which I have found is the average price for a premium, all natural pet food. It is made from whole foods, not chemicals and that is worth it to me.

Chloe only weighs nine pounds but somehow manages to carry the enormous weight or our love and admiration with her everywhere she goes. I want to keep her strong and healthy for as long as I am able so I can continue to adore and cherish her. She makes it so darn easy. I think the best way to do that is through food. Thank you Halo.

Just for some added fun on this Meatless Monday I am sharing a recipe for vegan dog treats to try at home. You could also add seaweed, for a fish flavor and Nutritional Yeast to make them kitty friendly.

Vegan Carrot, Date, and Oatmeal Treats

by: Corinne Alexaki from Peta.org

Ingredients
1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
1/2 cup instant unsweetened oatmeal
2 tsp. baking powder
1 cup finely chopped or grated raw carrots
2 Tbsp. pitted and finely chopped dates
1/2 cup natural unsalted peanut butter
1/2 cup filtered water

Make It Happen

• Preheat the oven to 325°F.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, oatmeal, and baking powder. Make a well in the center.
• Place and mix the carrots and dates in a separate bowl with the peanut butter and water.
• Add the peanut butter mix to the well in the flour mix and stir until combined.
• Flatten the dough on a lightly floured surface until it is approximately 1/4-inch thick. Use a cookie cutter to cut the treats.
• Arrange on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 14 to16 minutes, or until dry.
• Let cool for 30 minutes before serving.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Makes 40 servings

Kale Trail Update

Yesterday we finished out first seven miler of the season. I saw five turtles sunbathing on a log as we ran past the river. It was a relaxing run despite my struggles near the end. The air in the woods was warm and crisp. Being there felt like a luxury, so when my body  felt momentarily miserable and my mind tried to give up, I quickly reminded myself that I could be working or doing laundry. I would rather be running.

We are now running over fifteen miles a week over three days, with Sunday as our long run. I feel strong most days but my confidence comes in waves.  We have booked our condo in St. Petersburg, Florida which sealed the deal. We are so running in this half marathon.

Have a delicious day.

Tags: compassionate eating, Halo, Halo Pets, Halo vegan dog food, Kale Trail, Kale Trail update, Meatless Monday recipe, plant based diet, vegan dog food, vegan dog treat recipe, vegan dog treats, vegan wannabe