Come Thanksgiving, most people look forward to eating turkey and enjoying the holiday feast. As you prepare your turkey, you’ll find a bag of giblets inside the cavity. While these turkey parts are prized for making gravy, your dog will also gladly gobble them up. But are turkey giblets actually good for dogs? Let’s take a closer look at the nutrition packed inside these underrated turkey bits.
What are Turkey Giblets?
Turkey giblets refer to the internal organs of the turkey typically including
- Liver
- Heart
- Gizzards
- Kidneys
- Neck
These nutrient-dense parts provide flavor for stock and gravy. While not the most appetizing for humans, dogs go crazy for them!
Nutritional Benefits of Turkey Giblets
Turkey giblets offer a powerhouse of nutrition for dogs
Protein
All the giblets supply high-quality protein. Protein provides amino acids that support strong muscles, immune function, tissues and more.
Vitamins and Minerals
Giblets contain a variety of vitamins and minerals. This includes vitamin A, B vitamins, iron zinc, copper and phosphorus. These support energy metabolism, blood health, vision, skin and coat health.
Fat
Giblets provide healthy fats that supply energy. The fat also promotes absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Glucosamine
Giblets like the heart and gizzard are high in glucosamine. This compound supports healthy joints.
Variety
Giblets add variety to a dog’s diet and provide nutrient diversity. This helps create a balanced homemade diet.
As you can see, turkey giblets pack a nutritional punch! Let’s look at how to feed them safely.
Feeding Turkey Giblets to Dogs
Follow these tips for safely feeding your dog turkey giblets:
-
Avoid raw giblets which may harbor bacteria. Cook thoroughly before feeding.
-
Remove any bones first to prevent choking hazards or intestinal damage. The neck contains bones.
-
Chop giblets into bite-size pieces for small dogs. This makes them easier to chew and digest.
-
Introduce new foods slowly to avoid digestive upset.
-
Limit giblets to occasional treats, not daily meals. Too much organ meat can cause diarrhea.
-
Watch for signs of food intolerance like vomiting or diarrhea. Discontinue feeding if these occur.
-
Refrigerate promptly and use within 3 days for maximum freshness. Discard moldy giblets.
Cooking Methods for Turkey Giblets
Here are safe cooking methods for preparing turkey giblets:
-
Boiling: Simmer giblets for 10-15 minutes.
-
Steaming: Steam in a basket for 10-15 minutes.
-
Sautéing: Cook in olive oil over medium high heat.
-
Roasting: Roast at 350°F for 20-30 minutes.
-
Grinding: Use cooked giblets in a meat grinder for inclusion in dog food.
-
Dehydrating: Dry at 125°F for up to 24 hours for chewy treats.
Always monitor temperature when cooking and cook thoroughly to 160°F. Let cool before feeding your dog.
Which Turkey Parts Should You Avoid?
Some turkey parts are unsafe for dogs:
-
Bones from the neck, legs, wings and carcass pose a choking and blockage risk.
-
Skin is high in fat and seasonings that may cause pancreatitis.
-
Onions or garlic used for seasoning can damage red blood cells.
Stick to meat, hearts, livers and gizzards. Avoid bones, skin and seasoned parts.
Make Your Own Turkey Dog Food
To make nutritious homemade turkey dog food, use:
-
Ground turkey meat
-
Cooked, chopped giblets
-
Shredded carrots
-
Cooked spinach or kale
-
Brown rice
-
Olive oil
Mix together and store portions in the refrigerator or freezer. Adjust recipes based on your dog’s size and needs.
Other Safety Tips
Avoid overfeeding to prevent weight gain or diarrhea. Overly fatty meals like turkey skin can also cause pancreatitis which requires vet treatment.
Store cooked giblets in the fridge for 3-4 days maximum. Discard if you see mold or smell spoilage. Defrost frozen giblets in the fridge before feeding.
Prevent bacteria contamination by washing hands and prep tools after handling raw giblets. Keep pets away during prep.
So are turkey giblets good for dogs? In moderation, absolutely! Turkey giblets provide dense nutrition to complement your dog’s regular diet. Follow these tips for safely preparing and serving giblets to your pooch.
Prepare and Clean the Giblets
Wash the turkey giblets under cold running water to remove any dirt or residue. Remove excess fat and separate the organs if they are still connected. Be cautious of any bones or cartilage that may be present, as they should be removed to prevent choking hazards.
How To Cook Turkey Giblets For Dogs
If you’re a devoted pet parent who loves to spoil your furry friend with wholesome and nutritious meals, then cooking turkey giblets for dogs is something you need to know. Turkey giblets are the edible internal organs of the turkey, including the heart, liver, gizzards, and neck. These nutrient-rich organs can be a valuable addition to your dog’s diet, providing them with essential vitamins and minerals.
Before diving into the cooking process, keep in mind that turkey giblets should always be cooked thoroughly before serving them to your dog. This helps eliminate any potential harmful bacteria and make them easier to digest. Now let’s get into the step-by-step guide on how to cook turkey giblets for your four-legged pal:
Are turkey organs good for dogs?
FAQ
Are turkey giblets safe for dogs?
How do you cook turkey giblets for dogs?
Is giblet good for dogs?
Is it better to feed dogs raw or cooked turkey necks?