Palmyra Animal Hospital

The new year is a great time to make a positive change not only in your own life, but also in your pet’s life. We all love to spoil out dog and cats, but the truth is, too much of this can hurt them in the long run (no matter how much they imply the opposite!). Making just a couple changes for your pet this year will help him or her shed a few pounds – and could add years and quality to his or her life.

Here are a few tips and to keep in mind when working to help your pet lose weight in 2012:

• Talk to your vet to learn what your pet’s ideal healthy weight should be and then set a goal to work toward throughout the year.

• Monitor your pet’s diet, and as difficult as it may be, avoid feeding them table scraps or too many treats. Or, try replacing some of the fatty snacks with baby carrots.

• Increase daily exercise for your dogs. Daily walks for 30 to 60 minutes can help maintain a healthy weight and shed extra pounds.

• For indoor cats, have plenty of stimulating toys and use them often to coax your kitty into running around. Even adding 5-10 minutes a day of active playtime with a laser pointer or dangling toy can help your kitty.

• If your pet is in need of a total body makeover, restricted calorie diets are also available and can help provide a basis for successful weight loss. Ask your veterinarian about specialty diet options.

By decreasing extra calories, increasing daily physical activity, and promoting a healthier lifestyle for your pets, you will both be rewarded with fewer vet and doctor visits. Good luck!