Weight Monitoring

Research has shown that around 50% of dogs and cats are overweight to some degree. An overweight pet is at risk from a whole range of problems including diabetes mellitus, heart disease, skin complaints, breathing difficulties and joint problems. Obesity reduces your dog’s quality of life as well as their lifespan.

Weight gain in pets is normally the result of an increase in body fat. This is most commonly caused by a pet eating too much, especially when combined with a lack of exercise. If more energy is being gained from food that is being used, the surplus will be stored in the body as fat. However, sometimes weight gain may be due to a medical disorder which requires specific treatment. Your vet will perform a physical exam and may recommend blood tests to make sure your dog is as healthy as they can be, despite the extra weight. They will then refer your dog to our FREE weight clinics. Our Registered Vet Nurses can advise you on the optimum weight your pet should be, and how to help them lose those extra pounds.

During your dog’s first weight clinic appointment, the nurse will weigh your dog and set a target weight. This will be based on their age, breed, health and individual needs. Your dog’s new diet will then be calculated and an exercise plan will be incorporated. A photo will also be taken so we can have a before after picture of your dog’s weight.

After the first appointment, your pet will require regular weight checks so we can assess their progress and make any adjustments needed to their food. We will also discuss any concerns or queries which you may have. Usually we will see your dog on a monthly basis, and when they reach their target weight, the nurse will reassess your dog’s dietary requirements to help you maintain them at their ideal weight.

We stock a wide range of diets suitable for weight control in dogs – eg. Hills prescription diet r/d. Our nurses will assess which diet is best suited for your dog’s needs.

How do I know if my pet is overweight?

You may notice some of these changes:

Ribs can’t be felt without applying a fair amount of pressure

Sleeping more than usual

Difficulty in walking or exercising

Loss of an obvious waist

You have had to loosen your pet’s collar several times over the past year.