There are many explanations for the rampant and increasing
problem of overweight pets, some of which also apply to people, some don't.
In the last From the Field column, I reported on dog - specific findings from Banfield Pet Hospital's 2017 State of Pet Health Report, which highlights a widespread trend
of overweight pets nationwide.
Though ideal weights vary within breeds, there are general
indicators of an overweight pet, including not being able to feel their ribs, seeing a pooch in their abdomen from the side, and panting and shortness of breath.
Pet parents can often have a blind spot when it comes to their pets, so it's crucial to make sure your clients are educated on the
complications of overweight pets.
I agree with Dr. Ernie Ward, seen here on Nightline, that we do have a
nation of overweight pets - but I so don't agree with everything he says.
Of special interest is the treatment of chronic pain conditions
of the overweight pet as well as healthy weight loss and management with the advice, support and encouragement of our caring doctors and staff.
The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention also found most
owners of overweight pets do not realize their pet is considered overweight.
Banfield Pet Hospital recently released its 2017 State of Pet Health Report, highlighting a widespread
trend of overweight pets nationwide.
As the
number of overweight pets in the USA has reached some 90 million according to the Association of Pet Obesity Prevention, more pet owners are burdened with high pet medical bills.
Extra pounds place an extra burden on virtually
all of an overweight pet's organ systems, as well as its joints and ligaments.
According to the British Veterinary Association (BVA), over 60 % of UK vets find a troubling number
of overweight pets.
«While the general trend
of overweight pets has remained fairly steady at around 50 %, the number of obese pets is growing.