We've Already Started The Process Of Transitioning Willa To Homemade Meals

Sweet Willa joined our family 2 days ago and we've already started the process of transitioning her to the same homemade meals Coco, Sophie, and Lobo eat. It's a gradual process and one that we've been through several times. It takes about 2 weeks. We don't rush it. Their tummies need time to adjust and it's uncertain if they will have a food allergy, food sensitivity, or something that doesn't settle well.

It's a big step going from all dry kibble to a variety of proteins, grains, fruits, and vegetables. So far, we've added protein and whole grain rice to her kibble. We'll slowly cut back on the kibble and add more protein and whole grain rice. In a few days we'll introduce her to fruits and vegetables. If all goes well, it won't be long until we can throw what's left of her dry kibble away.

We're taking the same approach with Willa's treats, but not as gradual.  She arrived with 1/2 a bag of store bought treats. We didn't want to give her our original Bodacious Peanut Butter Treats because there's a lot of peanut butter is those crunchy gems. Instead, we gave her bits of chicken and one or two of her bagged treats.

Willa was the inspiration behind our new dog treat recipe for this week. It's a peanut butter free treat loaded with fresh mashed bananas and diced strawberries. All of our kids, including Willa, loved 'em! They all gave a paws up!

If you'd like the recipe for my Bodacious Strawberry Banana Dog Treats, I posted it here.

Although the process of transitioning Willa from store bought to homemade will take a couple of weeks, Lisa and I have a great deal of pride with every step. We can already tell the difference in her demeanor when it's mealtime. Her first meal was all kibble. She ate it, but it took forever. She didn't seem interested in it.

Imagine eating the same thing every single day for weeks and months. 

Once we added protein and whole grain rice, she gobbled with gusto, but there was a twist. She spit out the dry kibble. When every bit of rice and protein was gone, then she'd crunch on the kibble.

I'm looking forward to the days ahead when she experiences new food. Tastes. Textures. We're hoping she doesn't have any food allergies or sensitivities, but if she does, we'll cross that bridge when we get there.

I'll keep you posted!