Over 50% of dogs and cats in the U.S. are overweight according to the latest nationwide veterinarian survey conducted by the Association for Pet Obesity (APOP). Pet obesity rates continued to increase in 2012 with the number of overweight cats reaching an all-time high.
Doylestown Veterinary Hospital participated in the national study by sharing weight and nutritional information obtained from a sampling of clients seen on October 10, 2012. Pet parents were asked to rate their pet’s body condition on a scale of 1-4, with 1 being very thin, and 4 being very overweight. The medical staff then also collected measurements and rated the body condition of the pets seen that day. Nationally, the study found 52.5% of dogs and 58.3% of cats were considered overweight or obese by their veterinarian.
“The results at Doylestown Veterinary Hospital mirror the national statistics. 50% of the pets seen are overweight or obese, yet only 17% of the pet parents identified their pets as being overweight,” said Dr. Laura Weis.
The obesity crisis affects over 80 million dogs and cats. According to Dr. Weis, the first step toward reversing pet obesity is helping pet parents recognize how pets at a healthy weight should look. Yearly exams include recording the weight of your pet and discussing their body condition score, nutrition and activity level.
Holiday House Pet Resort Doggie Daycare presents the 2nd Annual Pawsitively Fit Camp Week April 22nd through 26th. Starting today and every day through camp week, our blog will focus on the health and wellness of our dogs and cats with important posts covering pet obesity issues, nutrition and healthy treats, and ways to keep your pet active.
Tomorrow: How Obesity Affects the Life of Your Pet
