My Friendly Pets

In the entry from yesterday, I talked about overweight dogs and how they get that way…yes, a large part of it is our fault. But the great part is that we can also be the help our dogs need to take off some of that excess weight. As with humans and a pre-diet physical, prior to starting any weight loss program for your dog, you should speak to the vet. It is necessary to insure that the dog does not suffer from a thyroid condition which can be determined from a simple blood test. Once you’ve been given the o.k. by the vet, starting your dog on a healthier lifestyle is quite simple.

First, weigh the dog to know where you’re starting. Then cut down your dog’s total food servings by 1/3. People might think this is drastic, but according to the vets at PetCenter. com, dogs don’t have to eat everyday, so by merely cutting back on 1/3 of your dog’s daily intake, you won’t be starving him/her…so let go of the guilt. Make sure that the 1/3 cut back includes everything, even treats. If you are giving the dog less meal food, but increasing or maintaining the same level of treats, you will see very little to no change in your dog. Remember the point is to reduce the dog’s overall caloric intake. After about two weeks, weigh your dog again. Even a couple of pounds lost will indicate that you are going in the right direction. If there is no loss in weight or a gain, it is suggested that you cut another 1/3 of the total food intake daily.

Again, your dog will not starve and when they start to lose that unwanted weight, they will feel better and probably want to be more active. Increasing the exercise for your dog will help with his/her battle of the bulge!! (It can be good for you too). Taking your dog for a daily walk and increasing the walk incrementally, either on a daily or weekly basis will help tremendously.

The final point which can either make or break the weight loss plan for your dog is the consistency and commitment of this plan by all members of the household. It doesn’t help the dog, if there are people in the house willing to sneak him treats because they feel bad for the dog or reward him with food after a period of exercise…it defeats the whole purpose!!! So make sure everyone is on board with the plan and make them part of it. Household members can take turns taking the dog for a walk or as a family, plan to walk together.

Soon you’ll have a dog that is trim, lean and healthy. A normal weight dog will help to insure that your beloved pet is with you as long as possible. But don’t just do it for you, do it for them!

For a cute read, check out fellow blogger, Lynn Little as the Home Zookeeper.