Seville Animal Hospital

Weight Management

Thin is in!

The fact is, obesity in pets is one of the most comon health issues we see as veterinary professionals!

Meet Pete!

Fat Pete

Before

Pete is a two year old English Bulldog that was rescued. At one point he weighed 70 pounds. Pete was having problems with his hips, knees and could barely walk across the room without having to take a break. Arrangements were made with an orthopedic specialist because of the painful condition his obesity caused on his hips and joints. He was taking anti-inflammatory drugs to aid in his pain and discomfort. He also suffered chronic ear infections because the excess fat was closing off his ear canal. This two-year-old dog acted like he was eight or nine. To aid in his weight loss and reduce the risks associated with overweight animals undergoing anesthesia, Dr. Faust prescribed Hill's Prescription R/D (Reduced Diet) and an exercise regime specific to his needs and his owner's lifestyle. His diet food was carefully measured and surprisingly enough he was happy because got to eat more food than he did with his previous diet. His owner also allowed him to have an occassional low calorie treat or fresh vegetable. By his owner adhering to the feeding guide Dr. Faust recommended along with regular exercise, Pete lost 15 pounds! He is back on a normal diet now (although it is strictly measured), is no longer taking any medications, does not need orthopedic surgery and most importantly, romps and plays with his family like a happy two year old dog should.

After

Thin Pete

Weight Management

There are diseases associated with weight gain, such as hypothyroidism and Cushing's disease. Hormonal influences, genetic influences, and individual variation in metabolism and appetite could cause ananimal to become overweight. Unfortunately, the most frequent cause of obesity in pets is owner indulgence of treats and oversized portions of pet food fed daily.

Fact: Excess weight is easier to prevent than to lose. The more weight there is to carry around, the more inactive a pet becomes, and the harder it is to exercise and reduce the weight.

Diseases caused by obesity:

There maybe diseases caused by obesity in dogs and cats, but what we see more often are general medical problems made worse by obesity.

Torn ligaments - because of their disproportionate size and because they often don't have muscle tone to balance and support the extra weight.
Arthritis - is not caused by obesity but maybe worsened by the extra load on the arthritic joint.
Diabetes

Organs affected by obesity:

Just about every organ in the body maybe affected by obesity. Listed below are the ones most at risk.

Musculoskeletal System
Cardiovascular System
Respiratory System

Obesity also compromises the efficiency of a proper physical examination by your veterinarian. Body fat can muffle the heart and lungs sounds. The consistency and size of abdominal organs are difficult to palpate through intervening fat. This may prevent the veterinarian from finding early signs of disease and delay diagnosis until a disease has reached advanced stages.

If prevention is a missed opportunity then the first step toward weight reduction and improved health is a visit with your veterinarian. Metabolic problems contributing to weight gain should be corrected before changing your pet's diet or routine. Your veterinarian can provide a healthful diet and exercise plan. Distinct goals and regular weight checks are the formula for success!

Please call our hospital today if you'd like to talk about a weight loss plan for your loved pet!

Success Story

Name: Ace

Breed: Long-Haired Dachshund

Birthday: June 25, 2006

Before Hill's R/D: 24.5 pounds

After Hill's R/D: 19.6 pounds

Click here to read a NEW Weight Loss Story

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