Thursday, November 6, 2008

A Few Walks a Day... Keep the Vet & Pounds Away!

If your pet has the habit of hanging around the dinner table begging for a snack, it’s up to you to put an end to the behavior. Though it may be hard to ignore the adorable little face pleading for his share of your meal, be strong.

Table treats are one of the largest contributors to pet obesity, and can also pose a threat to your pet’s health, since many foods that are healthy for humans can be dangerous and even poisonous for pets. If your pet doesn’t stop this kind of behavior within a few weeks, be patient. Eventually, he’ll give up.

In today’s society, obesity is so prevalent in people; it’s not hard to believe that being overweight is a problem that now concerns pets, too. It is estimated that 48% of all pets in America are obese, and it’s no surprise that pets that are obese many times have obese owners. More and more pets are being put on diet and exercise routines to prevent life-threatening diseases caused by obesity such as osteoarthritis, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, and certain forms of cancer.

" We have to be sensitive to pets who have become accustomed to associating 'treats' with love and affection, and find other ways to show our love towards them. Many people who 'comfort eat' also inadvertently train their pets to do the same, with very unhealthy consequences, believing that they will be depriving their pets by withholding treats and junk food. Nothing could be further from the truth! Instead of offering that tidbit, caress your pet - you will both feel much better for it!"

- Michele Carelse,
Clinical Psychologist

Pets become overweight for the same reasons humans do-- high caloric intake and not enough exercise. Combined with other systemic imbalances that may be attributed to additives and preservatives found in modern pet food, it’s highly likely that your pet may be at risk for developing serious health conditions.

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Important points to consider that can help maintain your pet’s weight within a healthy range include rationing portion sizes, limiting treats, and making sure he or she is getting enough exercise.

Depending on your pet’s breed, weight, and age, your vet will recommend an estimated amount of calories that it should consume daily for healthy weight maintenance. To determine if your pet is overweight, a veterinarian will evaluate your pet’s build and overall appearance, rather than just the numbers on the scale.

If your pet is overweight, reducing calorie intake is the first step. Your vet will also recommend exercise. Ideally, most pets should exercise for about an hour every day (just like humans), which includes walking and playing. Based on the same factors as proper caloric intake—breed, weight, and age— with a little help from your vet, you can adjust physical activity accordingly.

If you have a dog, walks should be at least 20 minutes long, and even longer if your pet is overweight. Walk at a quick pace so both of you can enjoy the health benefits! If there’s a park or beach nearby where they are allowed, take them for a little jog, throw a ball, Frisbee, or stick and teach them to retrieve it. Many dogs love to play fetch! If the temperature is too hot, make sure to make walk early in the morning or in the evening since dogs to avoid dehydration.

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If you have a cat, depending on his lifestyle, he may enjoy playing indoors or outdoors. Combined with a healthy diet and provided he is active for what adds up to approximately an hour each day, kitty will maintain a healthy weight, too! Make sure your pet drinks plenty of fresh water-- especially after eating and playing-- and that food and water bowls are kept clean.

Natural remedies are not only for humans; herbal and homeopathic remedies can be used to help pets obtain optimal health as well! Milk thistle can help your pet’s liver function at its best, which is important since the liver has the task of metabolizing fat. Dandelion is also an excellent liver and gallbladder tonic, which also helps keep blood pressure within the healthy range.

With a little help from nature and some effort on your behalf, you can get your pet back in tip-top shape! This is something that will not only benefit your furry pal, but you as well – with increased health for yourself, and less veterinarian bills in the long run.

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