Mirroring the obesity epidemic among school-aged children is an equally alarming epidemic among our pet population. Dr. Lynn Weber, assistant professor at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine’s department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences says that the rate of obesity in dogs is incredibly high and that it’s definitely the number one cause of disease and/or loss of quality of life in pets right now.

I am saddened when I see obese animals as the consequences for them is a life that is threatened by a host of medical issues such as arthritis, back problems, diabetes and heart problems.
Our pets are completely dependent on us to keep them healthy, safe and happy. Unlike humans, pets don’t choose to overeat or seek out a high-carbohydrate or sugar-laced treat when they are depressed and they would rather go for a walk or chase a ball than sit on the couch and vegetate in front of the TV.

For this very reason — our pets’ total dependence on us for their every need — there should be very few overweight pets because we are the ones who control what our pets eat and how much we give them. Giving your pets too many treats, feeding them a poor quality pet food and feeding them too large a portion literally puts their health, happiness and quality of life in jeopardy.
With the sheer number of good quality pet foods on the market and an incredible amount of good information in books, magazines and on the Internet, there is no excuse these days to not be feeding your pets nutritious food and in the proper quantity for their particular requirements.

This issue of Citizen Pet can be your starting point to educate yourself about the importance of nutrition on your pets’ overall health along with information about what constitutes a good quality pet food and how much to feed your pets. And by shopping at specialty pet supply stores for your pet food, like those advertised in Citizen Pet, you have an opportunity to tap into the vast amount of knowledge the staff at these stores can share with you about the pet foods they stock on their shelves and which ones would be a good fit for you and your pet.

Sherry
Editor, Citizen Pet