So you can see why it may be difficult for me to write about love, the kitchen, and animals without actually developing a migraine. And yet, there is no greater joy than having them around, so here are some things you can cook up for your own animals "with love, from your kitchen:"

Dog Treats
■  4 Cups whole-wheat flour
■  2 Cups oatmeal
■  3/4 Cups chunky peanut butter
■  2-1/2 Cups hot water
■  Add a 1/4 cup banana chips or grated carrots
    before rolling out

Mix all ingredients (add more hot water if too sticky). Knead well and roll out to 1/4-inch thick then cut out into shapes. Grease the pan with a no-stick spray (not butter) and place evenly spaced-out.

Bake at 350 for 40 minutes.

Kitty Treats
■  1 Cup whole-wheat flour
■  1 Teaspoon catnip
■  1/3 Cup milk
■  2 Tablespoons wheat germ
■  1/3 Cup powdered milk
■  1 Tablespoon molasses
■  2 Tablespoons vegetable oil

Preheat oven to 350F. Mix dry ingredients together. Add molasses, egg, oil and milk. Roll out flat onto oiled cookie sheet and cut into small, cat bite-sized pieces.

Bake for 20 minutes. Let cool and store in tightly sealed container.