Pet Obesity Awareness Day, observed annually on the second Wednesday of October, serves as a crucial reminder of the health risks associated with overweight pets. This day, established by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) in 2007, aims to educate pet owners about the dangers of excess weight in animals and promote healthier lifestyles for our furry companions. In honor of this year’s celebration, observed on October 9th, 2024, we’re digging into my 4 top tips to keep pet obesity at bay.
The History of Pet Obesity Awareness Day
Dr. Ernie Ward, a veterinarian and founder of APOP, initiated Pet Obesity Awareness Day to address the alarming increase in overweight pets he observed in his practice. The day was created to raise awareness about the health implications of pet obesity and encourage pet owners to take proactive steps in maintaining their pets’ ideal weight.
Since its inception, Pet Obesity Awareness Day has grown into a significant event in the veterinary calendar, with clinics, animal welfare organizations, and pet food companies participating in educational campaigns and offering resources to help pet owners manage their pets’ weight.
Obesity First
In a recent publication, Dr. Ward shared the following words of wisdom for veterinary professionals:
“It’s time veterinary healthcare professionals begin treating obesity first. As veterinary obesity science progresses and newer treatments become available, this shift in clinical priorities will become even more critical. Treating obesity first, or at least not abandoning it, is essential to improving our animal patients’ quality of life and longevity. Join me in advocating for “Obesity First” in veterinary medicine.”
We encourage you, pet parents, to do the same: prioritize your pet’s quality of life and longevity by keeping a mindful eye on their weight and supporting them in achieving greater overall health and wellbeing.
Recent Statistics in the US
According to the latest survey conducted by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention in 2022:
- 61% of cats and 59% of dogs are estimated to be overweight or have obesity.
The prevalence of overweight and obese pets has remained relatively stable since 2015, indicating a persistent problem. These statistics highlight the ongoing challenge of pet obesity in the United States and underscore the importance of continued awareness and education efforts.
4 Top Tips to Keep Pet Obesity at Bay
1. Regular Veterinary Check-ups
Schedule routine visits with your veterinarian to monitor your pet’s weight and overall health. Your vet can provide personalized advice on diet and exercise tailored to your pet’s specific needs. These check-ups also allow for early detection of weight-related health issues.
2. Measure Meals Precisely
Avoid free-feeding and, instead, measure your pet’s food portions accurately. Follow the recommended feeding guidelines on pet food packaging or consult your veterinarian for personalized recommendations. This helps prevent overfeeding and promotes portion control.
3. Provide Regular Exercise
Engage your pet in daily physical activity. For dogs, this might include brisk walks, hiking, fetch, or swimming. For cats, interactive play sessions with toys like laser pointers or feather wands can be effective. The type and duration of exercise should be appropriate for your pet’s age, breed, and health status.
If you have trouble staying on top of your pet’s fitness needs, – many pet parents do – count on Shoreline Happy Paws. We offer dog walking, dog hiking, and cat sitting services, all of which offer movement and exercise that is tailored to your individual pet’s needs.
4. Choose High-Quality Nutrition
Opt for pet foods with real meat as the primary ingredient. Consult with your veterinarian to select the best food for your pet’s nutritional needs. High-quality nutrition can help maintain a healthy weight and overall well-being.
Preventing obesity is often easier than treating it. If you’re concerned about your pet’s weight, don’t hesitate to consult with your veterinarian. They can provide guidance on creating a weight management plan to meet your pet’s individual needs.
Is Your Pet Overweight?
The Connecticut Humane Society emphasizes the importance of portion control and avoiding table scraps. They recommend using low-calorie treats for training and breaking treats into smaller pieces to reduce calorie intake while still rewarding your pet. See the infographic above for more tips from CT Humane.
It is crucial for pet owners to recognize the signs of obesity in their pets. These include:
- A visibly rounder shape
- Inability to easily feel ribs
- Difficulty moving
- Increased lethargy
If you notice any of these signs, consult your veterinarian promptly. Early intervention is key to managing and reversing obesity in pets.
Pet Obesity Awareness Day serves as a vital reminder of our responsibility to maintain our pets’ health through proper diet and exercise. By implementing these tips and staying informed about the risks of pet obesity, we can help our furry friends lead longer, healthier lives. By working together – pet parents, veterinarians, and your broader pet care team including a dog walker or pet sitter, we can combat the pet obesity epidemic and ensure a healthier future for our beloved companions.
We are accepting new dog walking and dog hiking clients! New Shoreline Happy Paws clients can create an account. We will be in touch to further discuss your needs and set you, your family, and your pet(s) up for success. Existing clients may book dog walking and pet sitting services by logging in to your client profile.
Shoreline Happy Paws serves the following areas of the Connecticut Shoreline:
- Old Saybrook
- Essex, Ivoryton & Centerbrook
- Deep River
- Chester
- Westbrook
- Clinton
- Old Lyme
- East Lyme
- Niantic
Certain Parts and Certain Service Hours in:
- Lyme and Madison
- Waterford, New London, Groton
- Uncasville, Gales Ferry, Mystic, Noank