TREATS | PET GAZETTE | 29
BONDING WITH PETS
THROUGH TREATS
Giving pets treats can lead to various outcomes, but one important one that is often
overlooked is how well it can grow the bond between pets and their owners
T
reats are generally
considered a good tool for
reward-based training, a
nutritional filler to diversify a
companion’s diet, or a tasty
but healthy alternative to
other options. However, one outcome that can
be gained through the act of giving a pet treats
can be the bond it creates between an owner
and their pet.
Preparing and/or giving food is widely seen
as an act of love and good, tasty treats can
reinforce the relationship between pet and
their pet parents. As pet owners give their pets
treats to encourage favourable behaviour or
learn new skills, the pet will eventually and
understandably associate treats with positive
experiences and begin to see the person
administering such treats in an affirmative
way. Learning that good things come from
interacting with this person who is their pet
parent, trust will be built and consequently, so
will an increased closeness.
Treats can also be used as a distraction or
reassuring method for pets who are stressed or
fearful. Whether they have active ingredients to
aid in calming a pet’s mood or it is simply one
of their favourite nibbles to draw their attention
away from the chaos, associating a tasty
munch with a soothing environment will again,
strengthen the connection with a pet owner
and transform the act into a mentally ‘safe
place’ for the pet.
The connection with owners and their pets
has also led to more looking for treats with
beneficial qualities. It has now gone beyond
dental hygiene and development; treats can
now be low-calorie, hypoallergenic and “clean”,
mirroring the diets of their owners and bringing
them closer together in their preferences.
Have a look at some of the treats available to
the pet market.
FORTHGLADE LAUNCHES NEW MINI TREATS
Devonian dog lover Forthglade is well known for making is popular
100 percent natural dinners for dogs. However, its grain-free hand-
baked treats have also become a huge hit and this month sees the
launch of a brand new mini treats range, which is ideal for smaller
breeds or rewarding on the go.
Mini Love Treats and Mini Training Treats are available in a 50g size
resealable bag, RRP £1.50. The Mini Love Treats contain succulent
chicken, sweet strawberry and carob (a pet-friendly alternative to
chocolate), whilst the Training Treats include tempting cheese, apples
and blueberries. Both recipes contain health-promoting antioxidants
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including linseed and seaweed, plus vitamins, minerals and
prebiotics. The mini treats, which will be available in cases of nine, sit
alongside Forthglade’s wider range of functional treats available in
150g bags, retailing at £2.99 each. These include Calming treats with
chicken and beneficial botanicals, Fresh Breath treats with turkey, a
blend of peppermint, parsley and rosemary and also Joints & Bones
with salmon, green lipped mussels, glucosamine and chondroitin.
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.forthglade.com
October 2018