If you have a pet and are anything like us, you’re madly in love. You know at the end of the day  no one is happier to see you, more in tune with your mood, more pleasing to hold. (Well almost no one.)

Chapter 10 or our book is called “Pamper the Bitch” and we wax enthusiastic about all the pleasure a pet brings, we also advise against getting carried away and buying pricy presents for your little pooch or kitty (or horse, iguana, ferret…).

Here’s a recipe for treats from Bitches on a Budget.

Mini-Treats

1 ½ cups liquid (water, chicken, or beef stock)

½ cup lukewarm water

6 cups whole wheat flour

1 egg

3 tbsp honey

½ cup peanut butter (optional)

Preheat oven to 350.

Proof yeast in ½ cup warm water.

Mix together 1 ½ cup liquid, 1 egg, honey, peanut butter if using, and yeast mixture. Stir in the dry ingredients.  If you have an electric mixer with a dough hook, stir until mixture is smooth and elastic. If not, flour a big board and turn the mixture onto it and knead by hand for five-eight minutes—again, until it is smooth and elastic.

Split dough in half and shape into balls. Roll them out to about ¼-inch thickness. This is where it gets fun. Buy outrageous cookie cutters in tiny sizes and fun shapes—cats, rats, people, and, if you must, bones (how boring). Place on ungreased cookie sheets and bake approximately 15-20 minutes on each side (depending on their size). They should be golden brown but, trust us, perfection is not prized. Unlike your mother-in-law, Maxie and her friends will not be critical.

For maximum crispness, leave them in the oven (shut off, of course) overnight.