Happy Pet Obesity Awareness Day! Although a plump pup is usually thought to be cute, when it comes to health, it's better to keep your canine lean.
Pet obesity is an important issue that most people are not aware of. In 2018, the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) estimated that approximately 56% of dogs and 60% of cats in the United States are obese. This is due to an imbalance of energy intake and exercise.
“Pet owners think their obese dog or cat is a normal weight, making confronting obesity difficult. No one wants to think their pet is overweight, and overcoming denial is our first battle.” ~ Dr. Ernie Ward, veterinarian and founder of APOP
One instance of obesity in pets is shown in Lu-Seal, a chihuahua who was abandoned at 9 years old and twice the size she should've been (16 pounds). Lu-Seal could barely walk. Thankfully, she was adopted into her forever home through Humane Animal Rescue and is now living a happy, healthy 8-pound life.
Sadly, not all cases of pet obesity end as happy as Lu-Seal's did. Just like Lu-Seal, many pets are abandoned by their owners when they become overweight, and it is too late to save them when they are eventually found. This is due to the many problems which pet obesity causes, which include diabetes, osteoarthritis, high blood pressure, heart and respiratory disease, and more.
See below to tell if your dog is overweight:
First, check with your pet's vet to make sure that excess weight is not caused by an underlying disease or health problem. Before changing your dog's food, talk to your vet about the best options.
Here are some tips to keep your dog a healthy weight:
Limit eats between meals. It is very likely that training treats are contributing to your pet's obesity. Keep track of how many treats your pup is eating and buy low-calorie snacks.
Establish a routine. If you are leaving food for your dog to chow down on all day, create a meal schedule. For example, put food down for 15-20 minutes, and save the leftovers for another meal.
Measure meals. Using a measuring cup, keep track of how much you are feeding your dog and how much your dog is eating.
Move around! Ask your vet about an appropriate exercise regime. Some of the best exercises for a heavy hound include swimming (builds muscle and burns fat without hurting joints), walking (low-impact), and fetch (fun, quick sprints will help raise your pup's fitness level).
The first step to helping your pet is admitting the problem. Consult your vet to ensure a healthy life for your pup!
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