Pet Obesity

Preventable causes of illness or death

It is estimated that up to 56% of dogs in the United States are considered to be overweight or obese. Pets that weigh at least 10% above their ideal body weight are considered overweight, while those weighing 20% more than their ideal body weight is considered obese. This is a major health crisis that comes with serious health risks and ultimately leads to a decreased quality of life as well as a shortened life expectancy of 2.5 years for your beloved pet.

Did you know that obesity is one of the leading preventable causes of illness or death?

Why is obesity so prevalent?

Overeating/Overfeeding
Under exercising
Underlying cause such as medications or disease

What factors contribute to obesity?

Breed
Age
Sex and reproductive status

What are the health risks associated with obesity?

Respiratory compromise/distress
Intolerance to exercise and/or heat
Increased risk for heart disease and cancer
Hypertension
Diabetes Mellitus

Increased anesthetic risk
Compromise to immune system function
Dermatitis
Osteoarthritis
Pancreatitis
Kidney or liver dysfunction

Respiratory compromise/distress
Intolerance to exercise and/or heat
Increased risk for heart disease and cancer
Hypertension
Diabetes Mellitus
Increased anesthetic risk
Compromise to immune system function
Dermatitis
Osteoarthritis
Pancreatitis
Kidney or liver dysfunction

There is a solution and our professional health care team at Cary Street Veterinary Hospital can help!

Schedule to have your pet seen by your veterinarian for a comprehensive exam to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be the cause or be a contributing factor to your pet's body condition. At this time, you will also receive nutritional guidance to meet your pet's weight loss goals. Meet with our certified canine rehabilitation practitioner, Kim Raible, to develop a plan to facilitate weight loss with underwater treadmill therapy and clinically appropriate therapeutic exercises.

Remember that the weight loss journey is a process, and that it involves your full commitment to the weight loss plan, lifelong weight management, and lifestyle change.

Please reach out to schedule your appointment today- 804-355-9144.