Happy belated National Pet Obesity Awareness Day! I was not aware of the fact that yesterday was a day we were supposed to be aware of obese pets. Were you aware we were supposed to be aware of fat cats and paunchy pooches yesterday? Well here, I will help you be aware of the enormity of the problem.
According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP), some 51.5% of dogs and cats (around 89 million) in the United States are overweight or obese. Not good. Risks of overweight in pets include:
- Osteoarthritis
- Insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Heart and respiratory disease
- Cranial cruciate ligament injury
- Kidney disease
- Many forms of cancer
On National Pet Obesity Awareness Day, APOP asked dog and cat owners to perform a quick check on their pets and record some simple information. Apparently it was a good idea to sign up early, because APOP would send you a kit with a measuring tape, handouts, and instructions. You can still get the necessary items by phoning 910-579-5550. Or email DrWard@PetObesityPrevention.com. The data collected can help you and APOP in the mission to keep our pets at a healthy weight. Keep in mind that you must complete the survey by October 18, so don’t wait too long!
Here’s to a fit, trim, and healthy future!
(Thanks to Dogster content editor Janine Kahn for the heads up on this big issue!)
