Commitment to Care: October is National Pet Obesity Awareness Month
Is Your Pet Carrying a Few Extra Pounds? Let’s Talk About Pet Obesity
We all love spoiling our pets. Those puppy-dog eyes or sweet little meows can make it almost impossible to say no to an extra treat or a second helping of dinner. But did you know that carrying even a few extra pounds can have a big impact on your pet’s health and happiness?
Why Extra Weight Matters
Just like with people, extra weight puts stress on your pet’s body. Some of the common problems we see with overweight pets include:
- Sore joints and arthritis – making it harder for them to run, jump, or climb stairs.
- Breathing and heart issues – even short walks can feel exhausting.
- Diabetes – especially common in overweight cats.
- Less playtime, less energy – your buddy may prefer naps over play because moving around is uncomfortable.
- Shorter lifespan – overweight pets tend to live on average, two years less than pets at a healthy weight.
How We Can Help
Great News! Pet obesity is totally fixable, and we’re here to help every step of the way! When you come to see us, we can:
- Recommend the right food – sometimes switching to a prescription diet is the safest and easiest way to help your pet slim down.
- Suggest fun ways to exercise – from short daily walks to indoor games, we’ll find something that fits your pet’s lifestyle.
- Check in regularly – little victories matter, and regular weigh-ins help us track progress.
- Offer healthy treat swaps – so your pet still feels spoiled without the extra calories.
- Be patient– your pet’s weight didn’t go up overnight, so it will not go away overnight. It is ok if your pet loses 1 to 2 lbs. per month.
A Healthier, Happier Pet
Helping your pet lose weight isn’t just about numbers on a scale—it’s about giving them more energy, more comfort, and more years by your side.
If you think your pet might be carrying a little extra fluff, give us a call. We’d love to create a simple, customized plan to help them feel their very best.