{"id":33119,"date":"2021-10-27T13:23:41","date_gmt":"2021-10-27T11:23:41","guid":{"rendered":"\/blog\/?p=33119"},"modified":"2021-10-27T13:23:41","modified_gmt":"2021-10-27T11:23:41","slug":"tips-to-assess-your-pets-weight-help-them-on-their-weight-loss-journey","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"\/blog\/tips-to-assess-your-pets-weight-help-them-on-their-weight-loss-journey\/","title":{"rendered":"Tips to Assess your Pet’s Weight & Help Them on Their Weight Loss Journey"},"content":{"rendered":"

Are you looking for a new exercise buddy to get you back on track now that the warmer weather is here? Dr Guy Fyvie, Veterinary Advisor at Hill\u2019s Pet Nutrition says that your pet is perfect for this role. \u201cNot only will it get both of you up and about, but if you are suffering from the winter blues and persistent lockdowns, then it will help activate your serotonin hormones and your pet will love the quality time with you.\u201d Forget going in search of a human gym buddy, and embrace your four-legged exercise buddy instead.<\/p>\n

Looking after and wanting the best for their pets is a priority for all pet parents and as October is Pet Obesity Month, a time to reflect on the importance of monitoring your pet\u2019s weight. \u201cUnfortunately, as with humans your pet\u2019s weight can be affected by lack of exercise, the food they are eating, pre-existing health conditions and even their breed,\u201d says Dr Fyvie.<\/p>\n

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Also read:<\/strong><\/em>\u00a0Top 5 Brilliantly Easy Ways to Entertain Your Dog at Home<\/a><\/p>\n

According to Dr Fyvie, even if your pet is not dramatically overweight and only carrying a few extra kilograms, it still puts them at risk of health issues and can reduce their life expectancy by up to two and a half years. Over 20 ailments have been linked to pet obesity, including diabetes, arthritis, cancer, and high blood pressure. \u201cThe extra weight may be affecting your pet\u2019s zest for life, however by making a few easy changes, your pet will soon be enjoying his life to the fullest.\u201d<\/p>\n

So how do you keep your pet in tip-top shape? Check out these tips to assess your pet’s weight and help them on their weight loss journey:<\/p>\n

Visit your vet<\/h3>\n

The first step is a visit to your vet to assess whether your pet is at the correct weight. The vet will be able to advise you if your pet needs to lose a few kilograms and what the best approach will be.<\/p>\n

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Keep a check on treats<\/h3>\n

If you’re a feeder and you have a dog who is very food motivated, then it’s very important to keep a check on treats \u2013 extra treats and human food can quickly result in additional calories and kilos. If you want to treat your pet, think of alternatives rather than food, such as a new toy, extra playtime, snuggles and games.<\/p>\n

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Encourage your pets to be more active<\/h3>\n

The best way to help your pet achieve and maintain a healthy weight is to encourage your pets to be more active. While you have been sitting at your desk for hours, your dog or cat has been eagerly waiting for you to spend some time with them.<\/p>\n

If you’re unsure of how to help your pet be more active you can try the following:<\/p>\n