Growing Obesity in American Pets
Most U.S. citizens fail to recognize just how big of a problem pet obesity is for the dogs and cats of America. Most people have observed an overweight dog or cat and quickly dismissed the potential health risks with a quick laugh or "fat" joke. But dogs and cats, just like humans face serious health risks when they their extra body fat pushes them into the overweight or obese category.
It is estimated that 44% of dogs in the United States are overweight or obese. That's 33 million dogs that would qualify as overweight or obese. That's nearly half of the U.S. dog population that runs the risk of a variety of health factors including diabetes, joint, bone and ligament damage, respiratory problems, liver problems, heart disease, high blood pressure and more, including premature death.
It is no secret that America seems to have a certain obsession with their furry friends and because of such, one must wonder why it is we are not taking better care of "man's best friend"? But really the truth is in many cases we may be taking "too good" of care of our dogs. When people love their dogs as much as many do we want to reward our dogs and how do we reward a dog? We give them foodand often we give them a lot! Expensive & fattening treats, table scraps, leftovers, why do you think we call it a "doggy bag"? We feed our dogs well and often we fail to give them the exercise they need to work off all of these rich treats!
Obesity in dogs and cats continues to lead the causes of preventable death in dogs and cats. Dogs and cats are just as susceptible to the physical ailments of obesity as humans with 25% of overweight dogs suffering from serious joint problems and diabetes being one of the most common complications found in overweight canines. But like humans hypertension (high blood pressure) remains a very serious problem overweight dogs are forced to deal with.
Taking into account all of the health risks associated with overweight and obese pets, how does one help an obese pet or prevent their pet from becoming obese? For pets that have already crossed that line into obesity, many owners with additional dollars are tempted to look into the quick fix methods like pet liposuction or pet obesity pills. But like with people, these practices can sometimes create additional problems.
Like humans, pets benefit from the same good old fashioned change of diet. Additionally, like in humans the introduction of an exercise routine is very advantageous. Many pet food companies produce "low fat" pet food that will aid in weight loss for your dog. You can also create healthy dog treats for your dog right at home. The Amy Stevens' Cooking4Canines offers a variety of recipes that are healthful and delicious.
It is essential to make sure you regularly provide opportunity for your pet to exercise to prevent obesity in your pet or to help your pet get into better shape. Of course you and your pet may enjoy the traditional walk, but a new pet exercise approach has been peaking interest; Dog Yoga! Doga is a fun new way for you and your dog to workout and burn calories together right at home.
As the obese pet population continues to rise it is important for us to truly show our dogs and cats just how much we love them by helping them eat properly and receive regular exercise.
It is estimated that 44% of dogs in the United States are overweight or obese. That's 33 million dogs that would qualify as overweight or obese. That's nearly half of the U.S. dog population that runs the risk of a variety of health factors including diabetes, joint, bone and ligament damage, respiratory problems, liver problems, heart disease, high blood pressure and more, including premature death.
It is no secret that America seems to have a certain obsession with their furry friends and because of such, one must wonder why it is we are not taking better care of "man's best friend"? But really the truth is in many cases we may be taking "too good" of care of our dogs. When people love their dogs as much as many do we want to reward our dogs and how do we reward a dog? We give them foodand often we give them a lot! Expensive & fattening treats, table scraps, leftovers, why do you think we call it a "doggy bag"? We feed our dogs well and often we fail to give them the exercise they need to work off all of these rich treats!
Obesity in dogs and cats continues to lead the causes of preventable death in dogs and cats. Dogs and cats are just as susceptible to the physical ailments of obesity as humans with 25% of overweight dogs suffering from serious joint problems and diabetes being one of the most common complications found in overweight canines. But like humans hypertension (high blood pressure) remains a very serious problem overweight dogs are forced to deal with.
Taking into account all of the health risks associated with overweight and obese pets, how does one help an obese pet or prevent their pet from becoming obese? For pets that have already crossed that line into obesity, many owners with additional dollars are tempted to look into the quick fix methods like pet liposuction or pet obesity pills. But like with people, these practices can sometimes create additional problems.
Like humans, pets benefit from the same good old fashioned change of diet. Additionally, like in humans the introduction of an exercise routine is very advantageous. Many pet food companies produce "low fat" pet food that will aid in weight loss for your dog. You can also create healthy dog treats for your dog right at home. The Amy Stevens' Cooking4Canines offers a variety of recipes that are healthful and delicious.
It is essential to make sure you regularly provide opportunity for your pet to exercise to prevent obesity in your pet or to help your pet get into better shape. Of course you and your pet may enjoy the traditional walk, but a new pet exercise approach has been peaking interest; Dog Yoga! Doga is a fun new way for you and your dog to workout and burn calories together right at home.
As the obese pet population continues to rise it is important for us to truly show our dogs and cats just how much we love them by helping them eat properly and receive regular exercise.
About the Author:
Want to learn more about cooking for dogs or about the fun and new Doga exercise program? Check out the Yoga4Dogs website today!
.jpg)
.jpg)
0 comments:
Post a Comment