New year’s resolutions are always about improving ourselves, and often about getting in shape. Our pets can actually be good motivators for us to stay active and get fit. Unfortunately, about 80% of the American population does not get regular exercise and over 50% of the population is now considered obese.

The rise of obesity in Americans correlates with obesity in the pet population, especially since many overweight owners are not taking the time to exercise their pets. Additionally, many pet owners cannot accurately judge their pet’s Body Condition Score (BCS). The BCS is a chart from 1 to 9 in dogs and cats with lower numbers indicating an underweight pet, numbers 4 and 5 indicating ideal weight and anything from 6-9 indicating an overweight pet.  Numbers on a scale cannot be relied upon in the pet world and that is why a body condition score is much more reliable than exact pounds.  A study showed over 70% of owners in a study rated their pet’s body condition score (BCS) as much lower than it was when compared to a Veterinarian who objectively measured the pet’s BCS. This means that most Americans have no idea that their pets are overweight.

There are graphics that illustrate these BCS charts for dogs and cats but you can also use the Knuckle test as a simpler way to understand your pet’s body condition.  Basically, if your pet is too thin, then the ribs will be visible and will feel like the top of your knuckles when your hand makes a fist. A pet who has an ideal body condition will feel like your knuckles when your hand is flat, palm down.  An overweight pet’s ribs will feel like your knuckles when felt from the palm aspect of your open hand.

There are many different reasons for a pet to be overweight other than being under-exercised and overfed with dog food and/or human foods. Regular exercise and cutting calories and treats are always a good way to start  but if you are not being successful at decreasing your pet’s weight to an ideal body condition then you should partner with your Veterinarian who can help you with more specific recommendations based on your specific pet’s situation. Overweight pets, like people, are more likely to have chronic disease such as diabetes, arthritis and other underlying chronic conditions. For example, hypothyroidism can be common and there is an easy 15-minute blood test for diagnosis. Treatment is simple and your pet will show new life and usually a better coat. Arthritis may also keep your pet from wanting or being able to exercise. Fortunately, we can control pain and use prescription diets that are formulated for weight loss and have joint supplements included in them.  Some breeds are especially prone to becoming obese including, but not limited to, Bulldogs, Pugs, Dachshunds, Chihuahuas, Beagles, Labs, and almost all house cats.

Unless you’re preparing for a specific event such as running a marathon or playing a specific sport, 30 minutes of walking a day is recommended by the National Academy of Sports Medicine for a healthier lifestyle with a multitude of benefits comparable to spending two to three hours in a gym three times a week. Bringing your pet with you on these walks will help both of you stay healthy and work toward New Year’s Resolutions for you and your pet.

We want to wish you the best in the new year! Please feel free to contact us if you would like a consultation with Dr. Wendt.

It’s an exciting time of year with the holidays around the corner. One of the best things about this time  is that we get to take some time off to decompress and travel with our families. Sometimes, our pets even get to come with us on planes (if they’re small enough). For those of you who have pets that need to travel in crates, we thought it might be helpful to share some of our favorite safety tips for travelling with pets.

1. Label your pet’s crate properly.
   Make sure your pet’s crate says “LIVE ANIMAL” on it so personnel can be sure to handle with care. Also, be sure to include your contact information and a picture of your pet should your pet get lost. This could help easily reunite the two of you. We would even recommend including information like your dog’s weight, and any distinguishable features that might help someone identify them, like the color of their collar or a spot on their eye.

2. Try to avoid connecting flights.
   This prevents unnecessary worrying that your pet may be left behind, lost, or mishandled turning layovers. If you can fly direct, we recommend you do so for your furry friend’s safety and your peace of mind.

3. Get a USDA- approved crate.
   The crate you buy should have enough room for your pet to stand and turn around in. Also, consider lining the crate with a bed and/or newspaper to absorb any potential accidents during travelling. Make sure you securely close the crate, but do not lock it. You want personnel to be able to open it in case of emergency.

4. Provide your dog with food, water and a leash.
   It’s always a good idea to tape a small bag of food to the top of your pet’s crate in case of a layover so airline personnel can feed them. We also recommend you provide your pet with water during the flight. A good way to do this is to freeze a bowl of water and put it in their crate. This will help prevent any spilling during boarding, but will give the water sufficient time to melt for drinking on the plane. We also suggest you include a leash in the crate as well, so if your dog needs to be taken out for a potty break, airline personnel can do so. Just make sure the leash is bundled up and not loose in the crate which can be a choking hazard.