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Pet-Friendly Onam Feast: Celebrate Kerala's Harvest Festival with Your Furry Friend

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Neha

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8 min read

10 Sep, 2024

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Onam, the vibrant harvest festival of Kerala, is a time of joy, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious feasts. The traditional Onam Sadhya, a multi-course vegetarian banquet served on a banana leaf, includes a variety of dishes with rich flavors and aromas. This year, why not share the festive spirit with your pets by creating a pet-friendly version of the Onam Sadhya? Here are some ideas to ensure your furry friend can safely enjoy the celebrations with you!


Pet-Safe Rice and Veggies  


Plain Rice or Brown Rice: Start with a base of plain, cooked rice or brown rice. Avoid adding salt, ghee, or spices to keep it safe for your pet. Brown rice is an excellent choice for its added fiber and nutrients.


Vegetable Dishes: Include pet-safe vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, green beans, pumpkin, and zucchini. These veggies can be steamed or boiled without any seasoning. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to your pet's feast.


Special Pet Versions of Onam Classics 


Olan (Pumpkin and Coconut Stew): Prepare a pet-friendly version of Olan by using coconut milk, boiled pumpkin, and green beans. Avoid using onions, garlic, or chili peppers. Lightly cook the ingredients and add a small amount of coconut milk for a creamy texture that pets will love.


Thoran (Stir-Fried Vegetables with Coconut): Make a pet-safe Thoran by stir-frying grated carrots, cabbage, or beetroot with shredded coconut in a tiny amount of coconut oil. Skip the spices, onions, and mustard seeds to ensure it’s suitable for your furry companion.



Source: Pexels.com


Pet-Friendly Snacks and Sides 


Vazhakkai Varuthathu (Banana Chips): Thinly slice ripe or raw bananas and bake them in the oven with a minimal amount of coconut oil. Make sure to avoid adding salt or spices, creating a crunchy and safe treat for your pet.


Pet-Friendly Papadam: While papadam (crispy lentil wafer) is usually deep-fried, you can make a baked version using chickpea or rice flour without salt. This will provide a light, crispy snack that dogs will enjoy.


Sweet Treats with a Pet Twist 


Payasam (Rice Pudding): Make a simple, pet-safe version of payasam by cooking rice in unsweetened coconut milk. You can add a hint of cinnamon or honey (for dogs only) for flavor but avoid sugar, jaggery, raisins, and nuts, which can be harmful to pets.


Elaneer Pudding (Tender Coconut Pudding): Blend tender coconut water and pulp into a smooth mixture. Chill it in the refrigerator for a refreshing treat that your pet can safely enjoy. Avoid adding condensed milk or sugar.


Hydration and Pet-Friendly Drinks 


Tender Coconut Water: Offer fresh, unsweetened tender coconut water to your pet as a refreshing and hydrating drink. It's natural, low in calories, and provides electrolytes that are beneficial for pets.


Pet-Friendly Buttermilk: Make a light, diluted buttermilk by mixing curd with water. Avoid adding salt, spices, or herbs like curry leaves that might not be suitable for pets.


Important Ingredients to Avoid


Onions and Garlic: Both are toxic to pets and should be avoided in all forms.


Spices and Chilies: Spicy foods can upset your pet’s stomach and cause discomfort.


Nuts and Raisins: Certain nuts (like macadamia nuts) and raisins are toxic to pets and should be kept out of their diet.


Sugar and Artificial Sweeteners: Sweets containing sugar, jaggery, or artificial sweeteners like xylitol are harmful to pets and should be avoided.


Source: Freeimages.com


Involve Your Pet in the Festivities 


Serve on a Banana Leaf: Just like a traditional Onam Sadhya, serve your pet's meal on a banana leaf. It will add a touch of authenticity and make the experience more enjoyable for both of you!


Include Your Pet in the Pookalam (Floral Rangoli): Let your pet be part of the Pookalam-making process. Use pet-safe flowers like marigolds and roses, and let them explore the beautiful designs you create.


Keep Portion Sizes in Check 


Even though it's a festive occasion, remember to keep your pet’s portion sizes in check. Overeating or eating unfamiliar foods in large quantities can lead to digestive issues. Start with small portions and monitor how your pet reacts to the new foods.


Share the Joy, Not the Spices 


While you prepare and enjoy your Sadhya, remember that pets have different dietary needs. Sharing pet-friendly dishes ensures your furry friend stays safe and healthy while being part of the celebration.


ALSO READ | A Temple Where Dogs Receive Blessings and Names: Parassini Madappura Sree Muthappan Temple

Conclusion

Onam is a time of togetherness, joy, and love. By preparing a pet-friendly feast, you can ensure your four-legged family member is included in the celebration. With some simple adjustments, you can create a special, safe, and delicious meal for your pet that mirrors your traditional Onam Sadhya. Happy Onam to you and your furry friends!

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