WINNIPEG, Manitoba, April 17, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Fort Garry Veterinary Hospital, located in Winnipeg, Manitoba, treats pet obesity. Obesity among household pets is a growing problem in the United States. Approximately 53 percent of adult dogs and 55 percent of adult felines are considered obese by their veterinarians. Obesity has similar effects on pets as it does humans. Obese pets see increases in arthritis, high blood pressure, and some cancers. In general, obesity can shorten a pet's life by as much as two years.
According to Dr. Pushpinder Mander of Fort Garry Veterinary Hospital, the reasons behind pet obesity are quite simple. "Just like in humans, obesity occurs when the individual takes in more calories than they expend in activity. Our pets are living an increasingly sedentary lifestyle. Of course, they no longer have to hunt and scavenge for food to survive, but the ready supply of nourishment combined with decreased activity plays a significant role in weight gain. Indoor, neutered pets are at the greatest risk for obesity," stated Dr. Mander.
Veterinarians use a simple body condition score chart to diagnose pet obesity in dogs and cats. Using a scale that rates pets from one to five, with a rating of one being emaciated and five being obese, veterinarians conduct a physical examination of the animal examining its spine, abdomen and ribs. A pet at a healthy weight should have ribs that are palpable without excess fat and the abdomen should be tucked up when viewed from the side. When the ribs, spine and abdomen are covered in fat, the animal may be rated as stout or obese. When the animal's ribs and spine are easily visible, the animal would be rated as thin or emaciated depending on the degree of visibility.
Dr. Pushpinder Mander urges clients to discuss their pet's weight during every office visit. "Obesity can sneak up on your pet without you seeing it coming. The best plan of attack is to keep your pets active. Play with them. Take them for walks. Make sure they get plenty of exercise. You may also be overfeeding your pet," stated Dr. Mander. "Discuss feeding practices with your veterinarian to ensure your animal is getting the right kind of food for its age and weight as well as the correct quantity. Also, refrain from giving your pet table food. They may love to share your food, but in the end, it's incredibly bad for their health."
Fort Garry Veterinary Hospital offers treatment for pet obesity as part of a comprehensive wellness visit. To make an appointment, contact the hospital at 204-452-9010. Located at 1444 Pembina Highway, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T 2C3, the clinic is open Monday through Saturday with extended hours on Tuesday and Thursday. For more information on hours and services, visit them online at http://fortgarryvethospital.ca/.
http://www.cnn.com/2012/02/03/living/overweight-pets/