Overweight Dog Help

Canine obesity is a real problem in today’s society – it has reached epidemic proportions and is causing significant health concerns in our companion animals. It is essential for a dog owner to recognize the signs of weight gain and obesity and be prepared to take action to get it under control. This is an area where we at the clinic level can help. Monitoring weight is part of the annual visit, but you can also bring your dog to the clinic at any time to have a weigh in (just like weight watchers). If you have concerns, we are available to discuss options to help you keep your dog at a healthy weight.

Why worry if your dog is overweight?

Obesity related health problems are authentic and can include the following:

• Laboured breathing
• Exercise intolerance
• Heart disease
• Reduced life expectancy
• Greater risk of heat stroke
• Ruptured crucial ligaments
• Difficulty managing osteoarthritis

How do you know your dog is overweight?

Routine weight checkups are one way to keep an eye on your dog’s potential weight gain. A charting method is known as Body Condition Scoring (BCS) is also used to monitor weight closely. There are two scoring methods, one is using a score between 1 and 5 or 1 and 9 depending upon the charting system being used. On both charts, the idea is the same:

• 1 = an overly thin dog
• 5 or 9 = morbidly obese
• 3 or 5 is ideal weight

BCS is charted into your dog’s medical history along with their weight – this allows us to monitor weight loss or gains accurately.

Why is weight loss and nutritional counselling a good idea?

A weight loss and nutrition consultation are designed to target your dog’s individual needs. The consultation consists of a weight check, Body Condition Score (BCS) findings and discussions on how diet and exercise play a part in keeping your dog at a healthy weight. We can arrange a consultation to discuss your concerns and help you get your dog’s waistline under control.