Due to harsh state regulations and not wanting to deal with creative difference of opinion problems with cake baking and decorating, I am looking into pet treats. Does anyone know if the regulations would be similar to food meant for human consumption???

States regulate animal feed and inspect the premesis just like human food, although not as strict. I have posted this before... make sure all of the requirements are met and you are sure of your recipes. I would have the recipe analized. Some states require an FDA type nutritional label which requires lab analysis. If your product makes a dog sick, a dog-crazy pet owner like me would be not be nice about it. My father's business was a gourmet horse feed geared to athletic horses. He was once sued over the death of a horse. Two years later after an autopsy, feed analysis, and lawyer fees, he was innocent. My point is to make sure you are above reproach by having all licenses, and approved recipes. I don't know where you live, but our state started with the state dept of agriculture.

Notice all dog food and treats have a nutritional label, even most of the home baked ones in boutiques. Also, animals can have known allergies and sensitivities which can be avoided with nutritional analysis.

Thanks scp1127...Labeling and analysis would not be an issue. I really would need to know if it is legal to bake in your home kitchen. I am in Georgia which does not have a cottage law. I adore and rescue retired racing greyhounds. Believe me, I have learned about allergies and sensitive tummies the hard way. I just know they wouldn't complain if the color of the treat doesn't match their dress exactly. ;o)

or, should I say, match their collar exactly... Ha!

You sound like the right person for the job! Check with your Dept of Agriculture. My dad got his analysis from Virginia Tech Vet School, but you have a vet school at the University of Georgia. The FDA could do the analysis and they are very inexpensive. The vet school would probably look over your recipes and make suggestions too. Good luck in your endeavor. I don\\'t think it will be hard to get licensed, just watch out for those crazy pet owners like me! Kidding.