I am not a veterinarian so always check with your vet first.

This is the Magic Meatball Recipe I feed my foster dogs that need weight on, or those who have been sick and are not eating well. It is not a long-term meal but it is meant to be a supplement to help your dog eat, gain weight or both.

Use high-fat ground beef (20%).

10 lbs. cheap hamburger (high fat content)

12 egg yolks (keep the whites for something else - can freeze)

1 large box Total cereal

2 pkg. brown gravy mix (like McCormick, Frenchs, etc.)

1/2 cup corn oil

1/2 cup molasses

1 Tbsp. salt

1/2 cup wheat germ

Put the Total cereal in a big container (I use a Tupperware cake holder) and sprinkle it with hot water so it softens. Let sit for 5 minutes. Then add everything else and mix well with your hands. Form into 1 cup balls and put in zip lock bags. Throw in the freezer. Take 2 out each morning to thaw for the next day. Give one AM and one PM. The dog must also be eating at least 3 cups of high-quality kibble. Give meatballs raw. You can give it as a treat after he eats the kibble. If he won’t eat it, split it into 5 fingers and slide them down his throat. This really works for weight gain, but don’t use it too long or it will cause diarrhea.

* Always check with your veterinarian before changing any diet.