Today is National Pet Obesity Awareness Day
15 Oct 2009
More than half of America ’s pets are overweight. ”Pudgy pooches and fat cats are now the norm,” states Dr. Ernie Ward, founder and President of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP). “This is the first generation of pets that will not live as long as their parents. Even worse, the majority of today’s overweight pets will endure painful and expensive medical conditions – all of which can be avoided.”
Majority of today’s overweight pets will endure painful and expensive medical conditions that are easily preventable in the first place. This is the first generation of pets that will not live as long as their parents.
Cause
Excess carbohydrate is the main culprit to the obesity epidemic. Pets living in the modern world consume high carbohydrate and sugar treats that change their brain chemistry. It encourages them to crave these foods even more.
Cure
Almost everyone seek for a magic pill that will lose excess weight overnight. The most cheapest, safest and easiest cure is right there in front of us: eat less, eat healthier and exercise. Opt to let your pet snack on a high-protein alternative food instead of a highly processed carbohydrate-based diet. Make sure to give your pet its daily dose of exercise. Pet owners can also benefit with the daily walks with their pets. Your best workout buddy is your dog. They are more than wiling to go out for a walk and stretch their limbs.
Currently APOP estimates 50% of dogs and cats in the United States are overweight or obese (84 million). 44% of our canine companions are overweight or obese (33 million) and a staggering 57% of our cats are too heavy (51 million). Pet Obesity Prevention will hold its third annual National Pet Obesity Awareness Day today, October 14th to raise awareness. Hundred of vets will gather data on the waistline of our nation’s pets.
Health Risks associated with Obesity in Pets
1. Osteoarthritis
2. High blood pressure
3. Type 2 diabetes (cats)
4. Insulin resistance (dogs)
5. Kidney disease
6. Cancer
7. High cholesterol
8. Respiratory disease
9. Skin disease
10. Increased surgical complications
About APOP and Dr. Ward
The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention is an independent organization not associated with any veterinary pharmaceutical, pet food, or other veterinary industry organization. Dr. Ernie Ward is a licensed veterinarian, certified personal trainer, and USA Triathlon accredited coach. He and APOP help people and pets lose weight and sustain a healthy lifestyle by creating parallel weight loss and lifestyle programs.
Contact
Dr. Ernie Ward
910-579-5550
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