Obesity in pets—A growing problem.

As clinicians in the veterinary field we are seeing more and more pets that are overweight,  We are picking these up at routine visits for vaccines or other health checks, where we do a thorough  assessment of the dogs physical wellbeing.  Obesity in pets is defined as an excess of body fat, which occurs throughout the body, but most negatively affects the animals bones and joints, digestive organs, heart and lungs.  Obesity can affect animal of and age or breed, but is most common in middle aged, neutered animals.

There are a variety of causes of obesity, the most common being an imbalance between energy intake and energy expenditure.  This can arise from over feeding, feeding too many high calorie treats, or lack of exercise (which commonly affects older dogs).  Other causes could be as a result of an under active thyroid (Hypothyroidism), an overproduction of endogenous cortisol (Cushings disease) or a tumour on the pancrease causing an increase in insulin in the blood (Insulinoma).  These conditions are not very common, but would be worth investigating if your pet is not able to lose weight effectively on dietary changes alone.

Treatment for obesity obviously would be based on the primary cause. Initially a diet plan would be advised, to reduce calorie intake and also to increase exercise.   There are specific diets on the market  high in protein and fibre, and low in fat that  can be prescribed, as these stimulate metabolism and still allow the dog to feel full.  Increasing your dogs physical activity level is vital in aiding weight loss, either by brisk walks (15mins), swimming or games such as fetch.  For those pets diagnosed with Hypothyroidism, Cushings disease or Insulinoma, treatment is available and recommended to  control excess weight.

Together we can help your pets achieve their ideal weight and quality of life.

CLINIC NEWS

We are very happy to have Dr Cindi Leitch back from maternity leave.   Congratulation on the birth of your son.

Dr Mills has been  on  leave for the past month and will be back in June. Dr Mills  will be available for consultation and surgeries on Tuesdays.

Please ask reception about our new loyalty cards.  The new loyalty cards can be used for routine procedures such as spays, castrations and vaccinations ,food and over the counter sales and equates to a 5% discount.

A NEW PARASITE CONTROL TREATMENT FOR CATS HAS BEEN LAUNCHED. IT IS CALLED BROADLINE  AND IS A COMBINATION DEWORMER AS WELL AS TICK AND FLEA CONTROL. BEST OF ALL IT  CAN BE APPLIED TOPICALLY (ON THE SKIN AT THE BACK OF THE NECK) SO IS PERFECT FOR THOSE DIFFICULT TO DOSE CATS. PLEASE SPEAK TO USE FOR MORE INFORMATION.

New toys and beds in stock:

We have some new dog and cat beds in stock. If you have any specific requests please speak to Aimee.