Jerky question

Cut it in thin strips (you'll want to trim the external fat), and lay it out on a pan (I line with foil or waxed paper).  Set the oven on maybe 200 and let it go for an hour or more.  Just keep checking until it's the texture you want.  It will be tough, real jerky not soft like the fake jerky they sell at Walmart.  Store it in the fridge though it's actually okay to keep out - I just feel kind of weird at storing meat out of the fridge.

 Can I feed her the external fat in some way or is it best to throw it out? I'm still learning about making my own treats.

I wouldn't feed her the fat -- I think of it how *I* wouldn't eat gobs of fat, neither should my dog!  Seriously, small amounts are probably OK but my rule of thumb is that if I wouldn't eat it, then it's too fatty.  Too much could either give the dog digestive problems or something serious like pancreatitis.  Again, probably not from a little fat on a pork chop, but why mess with it?  And, to me, the fat on pork is just gross!  LOL.

Just as an aside, I tried making jerky with the oven on 200 and it turned crispy so definitely watch it!  My oven needs a lower setting for this to work right.....

most dogs actually do very well on very high fat diets, up to 40% fat; they don't get the clogged-artery diseases that people get. Pancreatitis victims are usually overweight middleaged kibble fed dogs who suddenly get hold of something fatty; so regularly feeding your dog a lot of fat might be protective.

Yes.  If your dog is used to chunks of fat, feed it raw (cooked animal fat is kind of nasty and it is a little risky).  If you don't habitually give your dog raw fat, ie meat, just toss it.  Or feed it to your cat.

Agreed. Emma eats tremendous amounts of fat, and does incredibly well. She's lean, and has a nice coat. If Maze is used to eating tidbits of fatty things, give it to her. If she's used to just getting dog food, you'll probably upset her stomach.

Dogs digest and use fat very, very differently from people. It's high calorie, but it's energy for them. 

 I usually give her bits of fat and grisel (sp?) from dinner every once in a while. Maybe if I cut it in to small bits then add it nightly to her dinner for awhile.. Hmmm

Is anyone else getting hungry for pork chops?  I mean, I know you aren't Jennie - lol!  Out of us meat-eaters.  :) 

 LOL, definitely not me. This did remind me that Emma hasn't had pork in a while, though, so she'll be getting some, very soon. She's a big fan of pork.

 I am craving a pork roast now thou.. Does that count?! Lol

I'm making the jerky tonight so I'll let everyone know how it turns out.

ETA: Do I bake it or broil it? Even thou it's already in the oven.. Lol I've got it on bake right now and it's been in there for 1 1/2 hours and it's not done yet...