Getting the Skinny on Cats and Dogs
Services Contacts Staff Info Pet Links Pet News What's New? Take a Tour Senior Pages		Ask any veterinarian what the three most common problems they see are, and one of the answers will undoubtly be the dreaded “O” word: OBESITY. A recent informal poll among veterinarians reveals that 75 percent of our patients and more are overweight. And excessive weight is not a benign condition. Problems associated with obesity include hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, reduced immunity, gallstones, and skin problems. You can add surgery to the list also because an overweight pet is more likely to suffer anesthetic or procedural complications than one in optimum shape. Don’t be offended if your veterinarian tells you that your pet is overweight. Instead, work with the doctor to find a weight reduction plan that you and your pet can live with. This may involve a diet change or increased playtime with your pet. Remember, the cornerstone of weight loss is burning more calories than are taken in. There are only two ways to accomplish this–feeding less or increasing your pet’s activity level. Not surprisingly, positive results are most often noted when a combination of the two techniques is used. At Metzger Animal Hospital, our number one job is pet health. Let us help you to help your pet. With the proper diet, support, and encouragement, weight loss can be easy … and fun!