National Pet Obesity Awareness Day
Everybody knows the best time to buy candy is the day after Halloween. If you didn’t get your fill of chocolate and sugar galore, you will when it’s discounted. However, as you know you have to watch yourself because too much of a good thing is bad for you. Although, speaking about obesity during Halloween may seem morbid, it is necessary because it is a growing epidemic. This why kids are usually allowed some candy instead of binging all of it in one night. Unfortunately, this problem is not only found in humans but with pets as well. We here at the Larchmont Animal Clinic want to bring awareness to National Pet Obesity Day as it’s a problem that most owners aren’t even aware of.
Pet Obesity
Although National Pet Obesity Awareness day passed on October 7th, it is still something that we need to talk about. This especially true because according to a 2014 National Pet Obesity survey a whopping 52.7 percent of dogs in the United States are considered obese. Even scarier 9 out of 10 owners of overweight pets believe their pet is at an actual normal weight. So how can you detect if your pet is overweight? The most obvious answer is to always consult your local Veterinarian. They will determine if your pet is obese and regulate a new diet and exercise plan accordingly. There are certain things you can look out for too such as the ribs of your pet. As humans when one has their ribs showing it’s because their too skinny and could potentially be unhealthy. This does not apply to a dog. If your dogs’ ribs are not easily detectable this could mean that your pet is overweight. The same goes for a stomach that’s sagging a little too much and a broad flat back. Remember that the middle of a dog’s shoulder blades should be detectable as well.
How to Prevent Problems Linked To Obesity
Now the question is how can you make sure that obesity never becomes a problem for your pet? The best way is to always encourage exercise. Even little things such as moving your pet’s food bowl from place to place promotes a sense of adventure. Sometimes walks aren’t enough either which is why we encourage play time as well. Something as simple as tug war will make your pet move and make them jovial at the same time. I understand as owner sometimes you are very busy and can’t walk your dog. Regardless you need to make sure they are moving in some shape way or form. As the responsible pet owner that you are try to make sure they live a life disease free. All pets care about is you so try to care for them with the same amount of love.
In regards to love, the final precaution I’ll tell you about is to not give too many snacks to your pet. I know its hard. As an owner myself when I see my dog make that cute face waiting for a snack I’m guilty of giving it to him. While it’s good to reward your dog with treats don’t do it excessively. Remember too much of a good thing can be bad for you.
Contact Our Larchmont Animal Clinic in Los Angeles, CA!
lets all do our part in stopping obesity in not only human lives but our pets as well! Contact our Larchmont Animal Clinic in Los Angeles, CA to schedule an appointment, call today at 323-463-4889.