Did you know that recent statistics show that 59% of dogs and 39% of cats in the UK are overweight? At Abbeycroft Veterinary Surgery we want to do something about this.
We have always had a successful record in pet weight management and as a result in 2015 we were selected as one of only a handful of vets in the UK for accreditation to a new initiative called the ‘Accredited Weight Management Centre’ conceived and sponsored by Royal Canin.
The approval process took 3 months during which time our staff underwent advanced training and assessment in pet body condition scoring and nutrition.
Why is obesity bad for my pet?
Pet obesity can not only impact on your pet’s ability to perform normal everyday behaviours but can also cause serious health problems, such as:
- Increased risk of developing metabolic disorders such as diabetes
- Increased strain on joints leading to conditions such as osteoarthritis
- Increased risk of developing heart disease
- Decreased life expectancy
How do I tell if my pet is overweight?
For cats and dogs there are a few simple checks you can do:
- You should be able to see and feel the outline of your pet’s ribs
- Your pet’s waist should be clearly visible when viewed from above
- Your pet’s belly shouldn’t be sagging
If you are at all concerned that your pet may be overweight then our Weight Management Centre could be the best course of action for your pet.
What to expect from the Weight Management Centre
If your pet is deemed to be overweight or obese they can be enrolled onto the Weight Management Programme. This involves:
- Initial assessment consultation which will take a minimum of 30 minutes. During this appointment, your pet will be weighed, photographed and measurements taken. This then helps our staff to assign a body condition score on a scale of 1-9. A bespoke plan will then be established.
- Fortnightly assessments, for weight and measurements
- Continued support and education including strategies for diet and exercise
For more information about the programme or how it could benefit your pet please contact us on 01606 40332.
