"An Afternoon Tea-Bone Party"


      Afternoon tea has, until now, been enjoyed by those of us who like to entertain at home in a rather refined and genteel manner or go out and socialize over a cup of tea and scones. But, our four-legged friends have also found that this sophisticated soiree can be fun for them, too. And what better way than to host an “Afternoon Tea-Bone Party!” Getting together with the “brood” and enjoying refreshments is a wonderful expression of “puppy love.” 
      First, you must choose the appropriate dress for the occasion. While a casual afternoon tea might only call for a “light coat,” a more formal event would dictate “black tie and tails” for the gents and that special “litter black dress” with a pearl "choker" for the ladies.  The “mane” objective, however, is to be groomed impeccably so as to shine like a pedigree. 
      Next, the table scape is critical. Setting your afternoon tea buffet with the most dapper of doggie decor is a must for a successful get-together. Starting with the table cover, it should make your guests stop and “paws” to admire it. Then, the latest in fashionable fire hydrants and surrounding greenery will create just the right centerpiece. Accessorizing it with a bone or two will make it all the more charming. And place settings set on a “domesticated” mat will complete the look. 
      Finally, the menu. You will want to offer your guests an assortment of “treats” to enjoy along with a selection of drinks. For your human friends, there are a variety of teas available to brew. Among them are Orange Pekoe-neese®, Earl Grey-Hound®, Jasmin-iature Poodle®, Lapsang Sou-Chow Chow®, Formo-Samoyed® and Pedi-Green® Tea. However, for your canine companions, only a cup of fresh, cold water will do. As for the sweet treats, the possibilities are endless. Some favorites include Canine Crumpets, Bowser Biscottis and Tail-Waggin’ Tea Bones. The recipes for all of these “purebredibles” can be found below. 
      When entertaining your four-footed friends, you must remember to never serve any food containing caffeine. That includes tea, coffee and hot chocolate (or chocolate of any kind). There are other foods that are poisonous to your puppy pals as well. They include: 

                  • Alcoholic beverages 
                  • Apple Seeds 
                  • Apricot Pits 
                  • Avocados 
                  • Cherry Pits 
                  • Candy (chocolate or any containing the sweetener Xylitol) 
                  • Grapes 
                  • Hops (used in home beer brewing) 
                  • Macadamia Nuts 
                  • Moldy Foods 
                  • Mushroom Plants 
                  • Mustard Seeds 
                  • Onions and Onion Powder 
                  • Peach Pits 
                  • Potato Leaves and Stems 
                  • Raisins 
                  • Rhubarb Leaves 
                  • Salt 
                  • Tomato leaves and stems 
                  • Walnuts 
                  • Yeast Dough 

      And always remember to host your “Afternoon Tea-Bone Party” in a smoke-free environment. 
      So call up the canines, ring up the runts and welcome the waggers for a "fur star" afternoon of lip smacking fun!   Bone Appetit! 

Photos: © Lighthouse Literary, Inc. 


                             Canine Crumpets