Today is National Pet Obesity Awareness Day and as we discussed last week, obesity is an epidemic in America with humans and their pets alike. “A correlation can actually be drawn between the human obesity epidemic and pet obesity,” says Dr. Jules Benson, BVSc MRCVS, a veterinarian at the Doylestown Animal Medical Clinic and a member of the Board of Trustees for the Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association (PVMA). “Since we’re responsible for our pets’ nutrition, it’s reasonable to believe that some of the causes of obesity are passed from owner to pet, like a sedentary lifestyle and a lack of portion control.”

One in four pets in the United States is obese, and every year owners spend thousands of dollars treating allergies, joint problems, digestive disorders and serious diseases that could improve dramatically with a few simple steps.

Steps to a Healthier Pet

1. Determine if your pet is overweight. A good way to tell if your pet is overweight is to check out the pet weight translator. Simply click the link and follow the instructions to compare your dog or cat's weight to that of an average male and female. This tool helps owners put their pet's weight in perspective.

2. Visit your Veterinarian. Your veterinarian, can best determine what your pet's ideal, healthy weight should be based on such factors as age and breed. He can also rule out any underlying medical issues.

3. Devise a Healthy Diet. Your veterinarian can help you devise a healthy diet and, “Sometimes it’s as easy as keeping a food diary,” says Dr. Ward founder of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP). “Write down everything you put in your dog or cat’s mouth for a week.” In doing so, you may become aware of just how many table scraps and extra treats you’re unknowingly doling out, contributing to the problem.

4. Exercise your Pet. When you combine exercise with proper diet and lifestyle, you extend

the years you’ll have with your four-legged friend. For tips on exercising your pet, click here.

Remember that keeping your pet trim and healthy starts at home. “Every time you reach for a goodie, stop and ask yourself, ‘Can I throw the ball, pick up the leash or scratch him behind the ears instead?’ ” says Dr. Ward. “Pets crave interaction and affection — not treats.”

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Braxton's will be attending Sproutfest this Sunday at 11am. Make sure you stop by what is sure to be a fun and exciting event brought to you by Finding Shelter Animal Rescue!

Sproutfest

Sunday, October 12 at 11:00am

175 W Valley Forge Rd, King of Prussia, PA 19406