This specially formulated cardiac care casserole is designed with your dog's heart health as the top priority. Featuring omega-3 rich whitefish as the primary protein source, this gentle yet nutritious meal supports cardiovascular function while providing complete, balanced nutrition for dogs with heart concerns. The mild, flaky whitefish is easy to digest and packed with essential fatty acids that help maintain healthy heart rhythm and reduce inflammation.
Steamed zucchini adds moisture and fiber without excess sodium, while protein-rich quinoa provides sustained energy and essential amino acids. A touch of coconut oil contributes medium-chain triglycerides that are easily metabolized and support overall wellness. This low-sodium recipe is carefully balanced to reduce the workload on your dog's heart while ensuring they receive all the nutrients needed for vitality and strength.
Perfect for dogs diagnosed with heart murmurs, congestive heart failure, or those on cardiac medications, this casserole can be batch-cooked and portioned for convenient feeding throughout the week. The mild flavors are appealing even to picky eaters, and the soft texture is ideal for senior dogs or those with reduced appetite. Always consult with your veterinarian about appropriate portion sizes and dietary modifications specific to your dog's cardiac condition.
This recipe yields approximately 8 cups of finished food, making it practical for meal prep. Store portions in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze individual servings for up to 3 months. Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed to enhance aroma and palatability.
| 1.5 lbs | whitefish fillets, boneless and skinless |
| 1 cup | quinoa, uncooked, rinsed |
| 2 cups | water, for quinoa |
| 2 medium | zucchini, diced into 1/2-inch cubes |
| 1 cup | carrots, peeled and diced |
| 1 tbsp | coconut oil |
| 1 tsp | fish oil, omega-3 supplement |
| 1 cup | water, for steaming vegetables |
Rinse the quinoa thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water for about 30 seconds to remove any bitter coating.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over high heat.
Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and simmer for 15 minutes until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
While quinoa cooks, prepare a steamer basket in a large pot with 1 cup of water and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Place the diced zucchini and carrots in the steamer basket, cover, and steam for 8-10 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Remove steamed vegetables from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
In the same steamer pot (refill water if needed), place the whitefish fillets in the steamer basket and steam for 8-10 minutes until fish is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
Remove cooked fish from steamer and allow to cool for 5 minutes. Check carefully for any remaining bones and remove them.
Using a fork, flake the cooked whitefish into small, bite-sized pieces suitable for your dog's size.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, flaked whitefish, steamed vegetables, and coconut oil.
Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined and the coconut oil is evenly distributed throughout the casserole.
Allow the casserole to cool completely to room temperature, then stir in the fish oil supplement.
Portion the casserole into individual servings based on your dog's weight: approximately 1 cup per 20 lbs of body weight per day, divided into meals as recommended by your veterinarian.
Store portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.
