At Pawsitive Strides Veterinary Rehabilitation and Therapy in Des Moines, IA, we specialize in helping your pet regain and maintain mobility after surgery, injury, or illness. We offer the services of a rehab facility along with integrative services like acupuncture and chiropractic.
One of the services we’re proud to offer is our weight management program. Maintaining a healthy weight is difficult for some pets due to injury, poor metabolism, or nutrition. Our trained veterinary staff works with you to develop a plan to help your pet reach and maintain a healthy weight. Read on for more information regarding pet obesity. A “veterinarian near me” is here to help.
In North America, obesity is the most common preventable disease in dogs. The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention reports that more than 50% of dogs are overweight.
Using body weight as a guide, dogs are considered overweight when they weigh 10-20% above their ideal body weight. They are considered obese when they weigh more than 20% above their ideal body weight.
Cause Of Obesity - Obesity is caused by routinely consuming more calories than calories used. While increasing exercise is helpful: 80% of weight loss is caused by reduction in daily calories intake.
● Overeating
● Consuming extra treats or table food
● Aging
● Breed type
● Injury or illness
Negative Effects Of Obesity In Pets - Studies show that overweight dogs live shorter lives- about two years less than their normal-weight counterparts.
● Osteoarthritis, cruciate ligament injuries, strains, sprains, and decreased mobility.
● Luxating patella (knee dislocation) due to cartilage damage
● Diabetes and other metabolic & endocrine disorders
● Respiratory disease
● High blood pressure
● Kidney disease
● Chronic inflammation
● Certain cancers
Signs Your Pet May Be Gaining Weight
Since we see our pets every day, and being covered in fur, it can be difficult to notice weight gain. Here are a few ways to tell.
● Loss of a defined waist or neck
● A collar that needs to be loosened
● Slow movement
● Shortness of breath
● Abnormal behavior
The sooner you address a weight problem, the easier it will be to manage.
How to Help Your Pet Lose Weight
Maintaining a well-balanced diet is one of the most important things you can do to help your pet. Talk to a vet on our team about a nutrition plan. It may be wise to invest in various toys and encourage your pet to exercise every day. Don’t feed them human food and use portion control. Cut back on treats or replace them with healthier options.
Get Pet Nutrition and Exercise Advice from a Veterinarian
If you’re worried about your pet’s weight or mobility, we at Pawsitive Strides Veterinary Rehabilitation and Therapy are happy to help. We can offer nutrition counseling and a supervised exercise program that can have your pet running around in no time. Call our office at
(515) 575-9655 or visit our Des Moines, IA, facility for more information.