It’s a fruit! No, it’s a vegetable! It’s a … pumpkin and, believe it or not, it is good to feed to your dog. Although most people think of pumpkins as vegetables, they are really a fruit born from vine plants of the genus Cucurbita, part of the gourd family.

Pumpkins are rich in carotenoids, beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, fiber, zinc, iron, vitamin A and potassium. In fact, you can tell the pumpkin is rich in the antioxidant beta-carotene, just by looking at its bright orange color.

Pumpkin is really simple to feed to your dog too. All you need is canned pumpkin. Canned pumpkin is just as packed with nutrients as fresh pumpkin, according to the Mayo Clinic website. Canned pumpkin is a puree so it is easy to mix in your dog’s food, give it to your dog as a treat or use it as an ingredient when you make dog treats, such as these Pumpkin Paw Prints. Look at the back of the label to make sure you are getting 100-percent pumpkin and not pumpkin pie mix.

Can you feed your dog pumpkin seeds? Yes, but most recommend that you first roast them and then grind them up. Do not add salt.

You do not want to feed your dog the stem or leaves, which are covered in little, sharp hairs that will irritate your dog.

See your veterinarian if you have questions concerning dogs eating pumpkin. We never know how dogs will react to new foods, so only feed a small quantity at first to see if it causes your dog stomach upset, such as gas.

Pumpkin is also the pet owner’s go-to food when it comes to

Dog diarrhea and constipation: Pumpkin has high fiber and water content, which are good for correcting and preventing constipation in dogs, plus can help bulk up your dog’s stool. Start with feeding your dog 1 or 2 tablespoons of pureed pumpkin a day, depending on your dog’s size. Pumpkin may not help your dog with diarrhea or constipation if there is an underlying medical condition. Call your veterinarian for advice if the diarrhea or constipation persists.

Helping your dog lose weight: Some dogs needs to lose weight, but their owners don’t want them to feel hungry. Pumpkin is a great low-fat dog treat that fills a dog up due to its being high in fiber. The proper amount of pumpkin to feed depends on the size of your dog and dietary needs. Consult your veterinarian for suggested amounts.

Chances are you’ve considered adoption as a way to bring a new dog into your home. While you understand the importance of adoptions, you may not know of all the benefits of adopting a rescue dog. Whether you’re looking to do a great thing for animals or you want to make sure you find the best pet, adoption is a great option. That’s just the beginning, though. You’ll be amazed at how beneficial adopting a rescue dog can be. Have a question? Get an answer from a Vet now!

You’ll Save a Life

Most dog shelters euthanize dogs. When you adopt a rescue dog, you’re saving that dog’s life. This is an incredibly rewarding experience.

The Shelter Will Have Room for Another Dog

Not only are you giving a home to one dog, but you may save the life of another by making room in the shelter. Shelters that don’t euthanize can only help so many dogs before they fill up. When you adopt, they have room for one more.

The Dog Will Be Heathier

Dogs in shelters have usually been checked out by the vet, fixed and are up-to-date on shots. This means that you’re adopting a dog you know is healthy. If there are any issues, the shelter will be upfront with you so there are no surprises.

You’ll Save Money

Adopting a dog is much more affordable than buying a dog from a pet store or breeder. While price varies from shelter to shelter, you will save money not only on the cost of the dog, but on vet care. Most rescue dogs have already been fixed, which can save hundreds.

You Won’t Support Puppy Mills

You never know what conditions a pet store dog was raised in, which means you may be supporting puppy mills. When you adopt, you’re putting one less sale into the pockets of irresponsible breeders.

You’ll Sleep Better

It feels good knowing that the pet you just brought into your life is a dog that you saved. You won’t have to question your decision the way you would if had you bought a dog. You’ll know you did the right thing.

You’ll Help Reduce the Pet Population Problem

When you buy from a pet store, you create a demand for more puppies. This means breeders will continue to breed their dogs to make more sales. When you adopt, you’re giving a home to an abandoned dog and preventing the need for additional breeding.

Many Rescued Dogs are Already Trained

Some shelters raise dogs in foster homes, which means the dog has already been exposed to house training. Dogs that have been abandoned by their owners may also be trained to live indoors. This can make owning a pet even more enjoyable.

You Can Find Puppies and Purebreds

Dog shelters have pure bred dogs and puppies. If you absolutely must have either, visit the shelters in your area and see what your options are.

Shelters Can Help You Find the Right Dog

You have no idea what the temperament of a puppy is when you’re shopping at pet stores. Pet shelters know the temperament of the dogs in the shelter and can help you find the right dog for you. This helps prevent the need to give the dog up in the future.