Weight Management for Pets

Weight management is more than just a weight loss regiment. It is an essential service to ensure your pet is healthy and has a wonderful quality of life. It's not easy to maintain a healthy weight, so that's why we are here to help you every step of the way. Contact us at 204-728-0033 to learn more!

What are the risks associated with obesity in dogs and cats?

Obesity is not a laughing matter, especially when even just 5 pounds above the ideal body weight can put your dog or cat at risk for certain medical conditions. Some of the common disorders associated with obesity include:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Heart disease
• Osteoarthritis and faster degeneration of affected joints
• High blood pressure
• Many types of cancer

How do I know if my dog or cat's weight is healthy?

Rather than basing your pet's health on their weight, it is better to use a body condition score. Every breed is different and as such, differs in body shape and size. The body condition score allows your veterinarian to score them, with score of 1 being underweight and a score of 9 being overweight. The veterinarian determines the score by feeling along their spine, ribs, abdomen, and legs to determine the amount of body fat. If your pet is underweight or overweight, then we will curate the perfect diet plan to get them back at a healthy weight.

How can I support my dog or cat with their weight loss?

The first step to managing your pet's weight is to consult a veterinarian. We can tailor a specific weight management program for the patient and ensure they lose weight in a healthy manner without lacking any vital nutrients. The weight loss plan may include:

• Exercise
• Nutritious foods
• Feeding schedules
• Managing portion sizes
• Reducing or removing high caloric foods and treats