Everyone loves popsicles. Nothing is more refreshing than licking the cold, sticky confection from a stick on a hot summer’s day. Orange, purple, red, green—popsicles are as much a part of summer as backyard wading pools and water hoses.
Many foodies (those who study and know new eating trends) are saying the coolest new summer treat in the popsicle line is the Pickle Pop. That’s right! Frozen pickle juice. Bob's Pickle Pops and Van Holten's are making these icy pops simply from pickle juice frozen in a tube, except Van Holten's also adds electrolytes to their pops to help athletes who are worried about cramping. Yeah, pickle juice pops could take the place of fancy sports drinks and bars. I would try one.
But besides the kids and the athletes, there is a third group out there who deserves a special summer treat—the four-legged, furred, family members who love to be in the middle of everything and are always in line for a treat. Now there is a popsicle just for them!
My animal loving friend Kelley Reynolds shared this recipe with me for a homemade treat that gives your dog the benefit of coconut oil and fresh berries in a cool refreshing snack. Coconut oil is good for skin and coat and dogs love it.
Besides being a canine breeder and handler and equestrian instructor, Kelly teaches at Collin County Junior College. Plus, I have enjoyed some of her homemade people confections during the Christmas holidays, so I know the dogs are in for a real treat with these frozen paw pops.
When you are freezing juice or Kool-Aid popsicles for the kids this summer, make a tray of pops for the dogs. They will love them and it is so simple.
Here is all you need!
Small silicone ice mold (I ordered mine on-line in the shape of paw prints)
Jar of coconut oil in solid form
Frozen blueberries (or raspberries or both)
Instructions
- Place a frozen blueberry into each paw in the silicone mold. Set aside.
- If the coconut oil is solidified, warm gently to liquefy, but it will probably already be liquid in our Texas kitchens. Allow coconut oil to cool for a few minutes, and then carefully spoon oil into the sections of the mold.
- Place mold into the freezer. The silicone is wobbly so I put it on a cutting board.
- When coconut oil treats are solid, pop them out of the mold.
- Store coconut oil treats in a baggie in the freezer.