I hear it every day - “It’s the winter. My dog always gains weight now because I can’t walk them as much. They will lose it when it gets warmer.” However, most of our dogs do not lose significant weight seasonally. Most of our pets keep the weight that they gain and, in fact, slowly gain weight as time goes on. According to the recent findings by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP), more than 45 percent of dogs and 58 percent of cats are overweight or obese. We are literally killing our pets with kindness.
There are some health diseases that may cause weight gain, but generally, the same rules apply to our pets as to us humans. Our overweight pets need to eat fewer calories and get more exercise. Extra pet food, extra treats, and table scraps can cause lasting damage to your pet’s internal organs, bones, and joints. Some of this damage can be permanent, even with weight loss.
Excess weight on your pet can take the same toll as it does on a human body. Some of the conditions that can occur as a result of obesity are:
Exercise Intolerance
Decreased stamina
Breathing Difficulties
Heat Intolerance
High Blood Pressure
Diabetes
Liver Disease or Dysfunction
Arthritis
Increased surgical/anesthetic risk
Lowered Immune System Function
Increased risk of developing malignant tumors and other cancers
Decreased Life Span
To check for excess weight on your pet, get them in a standing position. Their ribs and spine should be easily felt, but not seen and there should be a tucked in, or slight hourglass shape, to the waist. Please talk to any of our veterinarians at the Berwick Animal Clinic about your pet’s body condition, and we would be happy to recommend a diet plan if necessary.
We offer both preventative care services (much like your visits to the dentist), along with dental x-rays and tooth extractions. Good oral hygiene is the best thing that you can do to ensure a longer life, with less health concerns, for your pet. Call us to schedule a dental exam or service.
xLaboratory services are a vital part of the diagnostic process when it comes to veterinarian care. This is because in many cases it is not possible to be able to give a firm diagnosis without undertaking additional tests to confirm the root of the problem. If you have any questions or concerns your vet will be happy to speak to you.
xThis is the most effective way to assist in having your companion returned if they go missing. The microchip (about the size of a grain of rice) is placed under the skin between the shoulder blades. When scanned, it provides information that assists in reuniting you with your furry friend!
xCongratulations on the newest member of your household - we can’t wait to meet them! Call us today to schedule an initial visit – our team will conduct a thorough physical exam, in addition to discussing nutrition, training, and medical care. We’ll be more than happy to answer any other questions you may have, as well
xLaser therapy is a holistic, non-invasive treatment that reduces inflammation, decreases pain, and accelerates healing for a variety of conditions. It is useful as a post-surgical treatment, for acute conditions such as sprains, strains, and wounds, and chronic conditions such as degenerative joint disease and osteoarthritis.
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