Cooking with Care: Catherine M.’s Homemade Dog Food Recipe

Virginia Beach is full of neighbors who go the extra mile for their pets, and Catherine M. from the Oceanfront is one of them. Known locally for running Cathy’s Wash & Fold with her husband since 2000, she’s also the proud dog mom of Miss Reese, a 7‑year‑old with a very particular palate and perfect annual lab results. Catherine has been cooking for Reese since puppyhood, and her recipe has become a trusted routine.

Catherine’s Core Recipe (from frozen ingredients):

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• 1½ cups beef tips

• 1½ cups chicken livers

• 1½ cups lean ground beef

• 1 cup frozen peas

• 1 cup diced carrots

Method:

1. Place all ingredients in a large pot, cover with water.

2. Bring to a boil, then simmer 1 hour until meats are fully cooked.

3. Strain out the water (broth is skipped to avoid stomach upset).

4. Refrigerate overnight in an airtight container.

5. Next day, chop into small bite‑sized pieces.

Each batch lasts five days. At serving time, Catherine warms it slightly, mixes in kibble, adds a joint‑support nutrition powder, and tops with goat milk (about 2 tablespoons, adjusted for dog size). She occasionally swaps vegetables (green beans, broccoli, sweet potato, or barley) but always checks what’s safe for dogs. Rice is used sparingly.

A few quirks from Miss Reese:

• Food must be served on a plate, never a bowl.

• She refuses bacon, white meat chicken, or anything with visible fat.

• Catherine keeps emergency notes in her purse and on her fridge so Reese is always cared for, no matter what.

Takeaway: Homemade meals can be a healthy option when done carefully, but always check with your veterinarian before making changes to your dog’s diet. Catherine’s recipe shows how much love and consistency can keep a pup thriving.

This recipe was generously shared by Catherine M. on Nextdoor, a long‑time Oceanfront neighbor.