There are times when it’s transcendent to be a dog — or a human caring for one. For my dogs and me, the day I learned about coconut peanut butter was one such time.

In myconstant quest to discover new things to keep my dogs amused — especially during those times when I must leave them alone for more than acouple ofhours — peanut butter usually figures into the equation. Like all dogs (and most humans),mine adore this creamy treat, so slathering the inside of a Kong or Busy Buddy chew toy goes a long way toward alleviating the guilt all Dogsters feel at leaving our dogs home alone.

To keep this tastytreat virtuous and healthy, I take care to use a brand that contains only organic peanuts — to reduce the risk of aflatoxins, which adversely affect canine and humanwellness — plus no added salt or sugar.

Peanut butter never seems to get old. But after a while, a good thing —even a great thing — could stand a little improvement. And how better to improve on peanut butter than with an equally irresistible ingredient: Coconut?

I recently learned about coconut butter, aka coconut manna, an irresistible blend of ground coconut meat and coconut oil. There are fewbad days a spoonful of it can’t improve. Butthere’s more tothis delicacy than just mouthwatering good taste (although, as any dog would tell you,that’s nothing to sneeze at).

We’ve seen the many health benefits of coconut oil for dogs and humans. Among other things, it promotes brain health, which makes itespecially important for senior dogs’ wellness.

I’m always seeking new ways to introduce hedonistically healthy habits into my dogs’ and my own routine, yetit never occurred to me to mix coconut butter and peanut butter for a truly orgiastic taste experience. Happily, Tropical Traditions, whose organic coconut oil is a favorite of my dog Sheba, thought of this clever combination, and offers coconut peanut butter, a blend of peanuts, coconutflesh, and coconut oil.

Now, all thehealth benefits of coconut oil, plus thepure pleasure of peanut butter,may be enjoyed while dogs are whiling away hours in your absence. In fact, in the company of atough chew toyschmeared with coconut peanut butter, dogs may even forget you’re gone.

That’s a win-win scenario if I evertasted one.Bone appetit!

Dogsters, what extra special treats make your dogs forget you’re gone? Please share trade secretsin the comments.