PET OBESITY

By Monday, July 10, 2017 11 No tags Permalink

Pet obesity is running rapid.

According to an article I read in Time Magazine

about one-third of dogs and cars in the United States are now overweight

This was so alarming to read.

DID YOU KNOW –

Overweight cats spiked 169% over the last ten years. while the number of  overweight dogs jumped 158%?

EDUCATE –

Believe it or not – people underestimate their pets body conditions, preventing them from taking action to manage their pet’s weight.

Like humans – preventing your pet from becoming overweight is easier than taking off the excess weight once it’s there. #dontIknow

When Harley was a puppy, I had no idea I would have to “learn” how to maintain his optimum weight.

Reading and continuous dialog is what equipped me with the knowledge on how to provide a balanced lifestyle for him.

EXERCISE –

PET OBESITY

The benefits are extraordinary!

Exercise will –

  • burn calories
  • strengthen respiratory and circulatory systems
  • keep muscles toned and joints flexible
  • relieve boredom

For these Southern Doodles, the weather has been dangerously hot. During the day, they watch humans play tennis through the window…

PET OBESITY

But in the early evening, my Dracula Doodles are out and about all over town…

PET OBESITY

FOOD –

PET OBESITY

I’m not here to “judge” anyone when it comes to dog food. I conferred with my vet, did some research, talked to people and through trial and error I selected what I knew to be best for my Boys.

Depending on the life stage your dog happens to be in will determine the proper diet.

For instance –

  • younger dogs need different components than older dogs
  • pregnant dogs require increased ingredients
  • older dogs (depending on their level of activity) may need fewer calories

Because of the extreme heat we’re experiencing these days – I’m pushing more fresh fruits and veggies because it’s natural, nutritious and adds to hydration

PET OBESITY

This week – they’re having a love affair with fresh strawberries…

PET OBESITY

They eat them in the morning with their breakfast and we’ll all chomp on a few in the afternoon.

MONITOR / REGULATE –

PET OBESITY

Be your pets life saver.  Monitor and regulate (when necessary) their weight. Before you know it you will be so familiar to seasonal changes in weight, and can adjust those special treats when necessary.

And always remember a sudden increase or decrease in weight could be contributed to a medical condition. Seek veterinarian advice immediately.

Obesity is a –

nutritional disease which os defined by an excess of body fat. Dogs that are over-nourished, lack the ability to exercise or have a tendency to retain weight are the most oat risk for becoming obese. Source: PetMD

Together, let’s do our part and –

  • share what we know
  • learn as much as we can

So our pet’s future will shine so bright, they’ll have to wear shades…

PET OBESITY

Have a pawsome week!

Be brave enough to start a conversation that matters ❤️

11 Comments
  • Monika & Sam
    July 10, 2017

    We’re currently on a blueberry crush lately while I fix breakfast. Living in one of the so-called healthiest states in the country, I was surprised at an article in the newspaper last week about how unfit and overweight the pets of Colorado are. Just like for us uprights, it’s good to leave the table with a bit a tad un-full. My hips concur when I follow that advice. 🙂

    • Cathy Bennett
      July 20, 2017

      Lately – both the Boys and I are finding it too hot to eat much. We’ve become fresh fruit nibblers throughout the day.

  • Emma
    July 10, 2017

    Good post! We find it sad how many humans and pets are overweight. We dogs, especially, make excellent workout buddies. If you need a fitness motivator, get a dog! Staying fit and the right weight is so important.

    • Cathy Bennett
      July 20, 2017

      I’m trying so hard to drop a few pounds Emma. Carrying excess weight is so tiring! Jaxson is a great workout buddy. Just limited time to get any real outdoor exercise in during this crazy summer heat. Hopefully it will cool down soon.

  • Janet Fazio
    July 10, 2017

    Love your food choice – that’s what I give my puppy too. Dogs are similar to people. You can’t outrun a bad diet. I cringe when I see someone buying what must be the equivalent to Big Macs for their dog.

    • Cathy Bennett
      July 10, 2017

      I try really really hard not to judge. I try to start a friendly conversation and sometimes we get into food discussions and sometimes we don’t. Thanks so much for stopping by. Come back again soon.

    • Cathy Bennett
      July 12, 2017

      I try really hard not to judge. but it’s hard not to want to strike up a conversation. Which brand of THK does your puppy like? I’ve just switched to the Duck and Sweet Potato -trying to stay away from poultry for a while. Thanks so much for stopping by. Going to check out your site right now. Come back again soon!

  • All Things Collie
    July 10, 2017

    Getting our dogs in shape usually has the added bonus of us in better shape too!

    • Cathy Bennett
      July 20, 2017

      Yes it does – I feel like I am forever watching what I eat!

  • Kimberly Gauthier
    July 13, 2017

    Two of my girls are overweight. I’ve been managing their weight loss through diet and exercise. For Sydney, it’s light exercise and she’s doing well. It’s wonderful seeing how as the weight drops, she becomes more active and her mobility improves.

    • Cathy Bennett
      July 20, 2017

      I’ve noticed in some of your FB photos that she’s slimming down nicely. I believe our dogs are like us humans – it should be a gradual weight loss through exercise and disciplined diet choices. You’re doing both very well!