According to a study 2012 by the Association For Pet Obesity Prevention, the percentage of overweight and obese dogs in the United States is 52.5%, and rising. Read about the full results of the study APOP here.
Dog obesity is caused by people, not dogs. Feeding your dog excess food isn’t love.
Overfed dogs gain weight. The formula is the same for your canine friend as it is for you. Too many calories, and no exercise equals too much fat. Calories taken in, have to be used.
An overweight or obese canine is at risk for osteoarthritis, tumors, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, breathing problems, heart disease, kidney disease, and shortened lifespan.
Once you’ve made him sick, your dog will undergo stressful medical procedures, surgeries, overnight or longer vet stays, and possible medication side-effects.
Dog Weight Loss Program
Consult your veterinarian for guidance on proper food, and how to exercise your dog. You might have to buy special prescription food that isn’t available over-the-counter. Keep in mind that an older, overweight, arthritic dog may not take too quickly to an exercise program. Be patient and gentle with him/her.
Hassle Free Way To Weigh Your Dog
Weigh yourself on your home scale. Pick up your dog and weigh the both of you. Subtract your weight from the combined weight.
Dog Weight Loss Success Stories
About.com has four canine weight loss success stories sent in by their readers: “Conquering Canine Obesity – Dog Weight Loss Stories“.
Exercising With Your Dog Slideshow, from WebMD. Twenty-two slides show you how to exercise with your dog by walking, dancing, running, swimming, and more.
Copyright 2013 Irene Pastore and Blue Moon Personal Training
Irene Pastore Fitness 