Monthly Vetinary Advice

It’s that time of year again where we all make our New Years resolutions! Every year the majority of us vow to get fit and lose some weight, now is a good time to look at your pet’s weight too.

Our pets are suffering from an obesity epidemic. The latest studies show that at least a third of dogs and a quarter of cats are clinically overweight. Obesity is one of the most common medical diseases seen by vets. As with humans, obesity in our pets can cause serious health problems such as:

• Diabetes • Heart disease • Respiratory distress • High blood pressure • Cancers • Joint pain

Follow some of our simple steps to see if your pet may be overweight: • When looking at your dog from above, there should be a slight narrowing at the waist, a lot of our overweight pets have more of a barrel-like appearance. • When stroking your dog’s chest you should be able to feel each rib easily, although you don’t want them to be visibly prominent. • Bring your pet to the clinic for a free weIght check with a nurse. Although prevention is better than cure it is never too late to do something about your pet’s weight. • The best place to start is to write down a feeding log for your pet, be honest and include any chew sticks or scraps you give them. • Check the manufacturers recommendations for the food you’re feeding (remember to feed for the weight they should be rather than the weight they are). • Take into account how many treats you may be giving you pet, this number may increase when you’re training them or leaving them with someone while you’re away. So make sure you factor this into the calories your pet should be consuming each day. • No human food or scraps from the table – as cute as those puppy dog eyes are you’re not doing your pet any favours by overindulging them. • As with all weight control, regular exercise is important, an increase in activity must be done gradually and every animal’s abilities are different.

Exercise doesn’t have to just be long walks and lots of running, encouraging playing and games is a great way for your pet to lose weight and have lots of stimulation. All of our pets are different so it is recommended you seek professional advice before starting any diet with your pet. Your practice will be happy to help you with any weight loss queries you have including any effects, medications or medical conditions may have. At Beck Veterinary Practice we offer free weight clinics with our qualified nurses please just pop in or give us a call to arrange an appointment. Happy New Year From everyone at Beck Veterinary Practice!

DON’T HAVE A CHUBBY COLLIE OR A FAT FELINE!