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OAKVILLE BEAVER Thursday, June 25, 2009 · 12 People must help pets shed those unwanted pounds F ive pounds? Ten pounds? Maybe more? When we look in the mirror and see `extra baggage' staring back at us we often do something about it. When it's an animal with a weight problem, finding a solution is up to its owner. If you go to give your pet a hug and can't feel its ribs because of fur and flab, if its stomach is sagging, it has no waist or its back is flattened, you may have an overweight pet on your hands. It is not alone. The statistics for overweight pets in the world is alarming. A new study by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) reveals more than 57 per cent of cats and 44 per cent of dogs are estimated to be overweight or obese. The Best Friends Animal Society identified a remarkable 40 per cent of pets entering veterinarian hospitals in the United States are overweight. Cats and dogs in Britain are the fattest in Europe, with 52 per cent of dogs and 42 per cent of cats overweight. Risks associated with pet obesity are not unlike those associated with human obesity: osteoarthritis, type 2 diabetes, respiratory disorders, hyper- SINCE 1973 PET OF THE WEEK: Rudolfo is a real charmer. For more information on adoptable animals, visit www.oakvillehumane.ca THE FIRST OFFICIAL WEEKEND OF WHILE RAISING MONEY FOR: SUMMER CAR WASH tension (high blood pressure), heart disease and some forms of cancer. To help determine if your pet is at risk visit the APOP website at www.petobesityprevention.com. Compare your pet's weight with the ideal weight range chart available on the site. If your animal tops the scales it's time to see a veterinarian. Dr. Ernie Ward, APOP president indicated in a recent webcast held on The Washington Post website that "Pet obesity is now the second most common medical condition seen in veterinary practices in the U.S. It's second to periodontal disease, or poor oral health." Pet owners who are concerned about their pet's weight gain should consult with their veterinarian. Use of medication, the wrong diet (puppies and senior dogs have special needs), or an underlying problem could cause weight gain. Your veterinarian can help to diagnose the problem and recommend a healthy course of action. Modifying food and increasing exercise may be perceived as the immediate solution, but any changes to a pet's life should be incorporated slowly. Dividing your pet's daily food allowance into three meals a day can help relieve boredom and hunger. An increase in activity may help, but introduce it gradually. Too much stress on the heart of an unfit animal is not a substitute for controlling calorie intake. Keeping healthy weight is important to the lifespan of both humans and animals. To ensure that you are not putting your pet's life at risk, help it to maintain a healthy weight. To find out more information contact your veterinarian or the Oakville and District Humane Society at 905-845-1551. Increase the value of your property and enhance your curb appeal. Jewel Landscapes offers creative landscape designs for the do-it-yourselfer or for those who choose to have their design implemented by a contractor. Design services · Consultation · Site analysis, property measurements, preliminary and final master landscape plan and planting plan · Additional services include assistance with plant material selection at nursery and obtaining quotes from reputable contractors. About us Jewel Landscapes' owner is a graduate of Humber College's Landscape Design program (with Honours) and Assistant Editor of Landscape Ontario's Landscape Design newsletter. Call today to book a free consultation Sue Lamb 416-839-8061 jewellandscapes@yahoo.ca SATURDAY JUNE 27th, 9AM TO 2PM PRIZES · KIDS PLAY ZONE · BARBECUE