Growing Obesity in American Pets
Most U.S. citizens fail to recognize just how big of a problem pet obesity is for the dogs and cats of America. Most people have observed an overweight dog or cat and quickly dismissed the potential health risks with a quick laugh or "fat" joke. But dogs and cats, just like humans face serious health risks when they their extra body fat pushes them into the overweight or obese category.
One study estimates that approximately 44% of canines in the U.S. would qualify as overweight or obese. 44% translates into 33 million dogs. That further translates into nearly half of the U.S. dog population facing serious health risks due to being overweight including liver problems, joint, bone & ligament damage, diabetes, heart problems, high blood pressure, respiratory problems and more, including death.
With America's obsession with "man's best friend" one can't help but wonder why we are not taking better care of our furry friends? But the truth is attending to our dog's perceived needs is part of the problem. Because many people love their dogs they want to reward them and how do we reward a creature who has very little interest in possessions? We feed them. And often, we feed them a lot. Expensive treats, expensive foods, table scraps, leftovers, why do you think it's called a "doggy bag"? We feed our dogs often and we feed them well without offering them sufficient opportunity to exercise.
Leading the causes of preventable death in dogs and cats is obesity. Canines and felines are just as vulnerable to the physical risks of obesity as humans. 25% of obese dogs suffer from serious joint & ligament complications. Many are affected by diabetes as it is diabetes is one of the most common diseases found in overweight dogs. And like people, high blood pressure exists as a very serious concern for overweight dogs and their owners.
Taking into account all of the health risks associated with overweight and obese pets, how does one help an obese pet or prevent their pet from becoming obese? For pets that have already crossed that line into obesity, many owners with additional dollars are tempted to look into the quick fix methods like pet liposuction or pet obesity pills. But like with people, these practices can sometimes create additional problems.
As is the case with humans, a good old fashioned change of diet and the addition of an exercise routine is often the best way to turn your overweight doggy friend into a healthy doggy friend. Many pet food companies offer a "low fat" pet food that is good for dogs. Additionally, you can make healthful dog treats right at home. The Amy Stevens' Cooking4Canines recipe book is full of dog treat recipes that are delicious and nutritious.
Of course when dealing with pet obesity it is important to exercise with your pet. Your dog needs regular exercise just as much as you do. Taking your dog for a walk each day can do wonders for you and your dog. Or if you're are looking for a new and exciting way to exercise with your pet, Doga Yoga is an option. Dog Yoga, or Doga as it's often called, is a fun way for you and your dog to exercise together right in the comfort of your own home.
As more and more pets cross that line into obesity it is essential that we show our pets just how much we really do love them by making sure they eat properly and exercise daily.
One study estimates that approximately 44% of canines in the U.S. would qualify as overweight or obese. 44% translates into 33 million dogs. That further translates into nearly half of the U.S. dog population facing serious health risks due to being overweight including liver problems, joint, bone & ligament damage, diabetes, heart problems, high blood pressure, respiratory problems and more, including death.
With America's obsession with "man's best friend" one can't help but wonder why we are not taking better care of our furry friends? But the truth is attending to our dog's perceived needs is part of the problem. Because many people love their dogs they want to reward them and how do we reward a creature who has very little interest in possessions? We feed them. And often, we feed them a lot. Expensive treats, expensive foods, table scraps, leftovers, why do you think it's called a "doggy bag"? We feed our dogs often and we feed them well without offering them sufficient opportunity to exercise.
Leading the causes of preventable death in dogs and cats is obesity. Canines and felines are just as vulnerable to the physical risks of obesity as humans. 25% of obese dogs suffer from serious joint & ligament complications. Many are affected by diabetes as it is diabetes is one of the most common diseases found in overweight dogs. And like people, high blood pressure exists as a very serious concern for overweight dogs and their owners.
Taking into account all of the health risks associated with overweight and obese pets, how does one help an obese pet or prevent their pet from becoming obese? For pets that have already crossed that line into obesity, many owners with additional dollars are tempted to look into the quick fix methods like pet liposuction or pet obesity pills. But like with people, these practices can sometimes create additional problems.
As is the case with humans, a good old fashioned change of diet and the addition of an exercise routine is often the best way to turn your overweight doggy friend into a healthy doggy friend. Many pet food companies offer a "low fat" pet food that is good for dogs. Additionally, you can make healthful dog treats right at home. The Amy Stevens' Cooking4Canines recipe book is full of dog treat recipes that are delicious and nutritious.
Of course when dealing with pet obesity it is important to exercise with your pet. Your dog needs regular exercise just as much as you do. Taking your dog for a walk each day can do wonders for you and your dog. Or if you're are looking for a new and exciting way to exercise with your pet, Doga Yoga is an option. Dog Yoga, or Doga as it's often called, is a fun way for you and your dog to exercise together right in the comfort of your own home.
As more and more pets cross that line into obesity it is essential that we show our pets just how much we really do love them by making sure they eat properly and exercise daily.
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