We are happy to offer a specialized Obesity and Weight Management Program for your pet. Just as in people, obesity contributes to many preventable life-threatening diseases such as diabetes mellitus, arthritis, heart disease and high blood pressure. Weight management is a very important part of maintaining the health of our pets. In fact, pets that maintained their ideal body weight throughout life are noted to live 15% longer than overweight or obese pets.
At your pet's examination, the pet's current weight and ideal body weight will be determined. Your veterinarian will then create a program unique to your pet and your pet's lifestyle. Changes usually involve a plan for calorie restriction and exercise. It is important you tell your veterinarian about all foods and treats your pet eats as well as their daily opportunities for activity. Your veterinarian will also recommend a weight recheck schedule to make sure your pet is losing weight at a safe rate and monitoring them for any problems.
With any food change, it is important that they are not made suddenly, as this may cause GI (gastrointestinal) upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. A slow transition should be made over the period of 1-4 weeks, with increasing amounts of the newer food being mixed into the older diet.
Please contact our staff or veterinarians for an in-depth evaluation of your overweight pet.
