The RSPCA is urging owners of overweight animals to make a New Year resolution which could help their pets live longer, healthier lives. Put them on a diet – and sign up to www.petsgetslim.co.uk.

The call comes after a shocking 65 per cent of animals seen by vets at the RSPCA’s Pets Get Slim roadshow were deemed overweight.

Pet obesity is not an issue to be taken lightly as it can affect an animal’s quality of life, lead to arthritis and cause internal illnesses like diabetes, liver disease and heart disease.

TV vet Joe Inglis (Blue Peter, Vets in Practice), who travelled with the RSPCA’s Pets Get Slim August roadshow, said: “I was expecting half of animals to be overweight, but at 65 per cent, the problem is even worse than I thought. It’s vital that pet owners concerned about their pets’ weight seek the advice of a vet. If necessary, they should put them on an appropriate diet and increase the amount of exercise they get. Support for pet owners is just a click away – all they need to do is sign up to www.petsgetslim.co.uk.”

It can be difficult when a pet is begging for treats with pleading eyes. But by using the site, pet owners can share their experiences to help motivate each other to stick to the diet. People can upload photographs and stories about their pets, share their weight-loss experiences with other owners, and be voted ‘pet slimmer of the week’.

The website also includes Joe’s helpful diet tips and exercise suggestions, such as how to keep up an animal’s diet and exercise regime during the winter months and tricky Christmas period:

· Give your pet extra attention at Christmas, not treats.
· Never give pets bones as they could choke on them.
· Remember that chocolate meant for humans is toxic to dogs and, in large quantities, can kill them.
· Keep your dog’s exercise levels up by making time for an earlier walk in the afternoon or at lunchtime before it gets dark. If your pet is getting less exercise now winter is here, don’t forget to reduce their food a little to compensate.
· Try to keep your exercise regime consistent – even if the weather isn’t. This is particularly important for older or very overweight dogs. Sudden changes can make problems such as arthritis worse.
· Spend time playing with your cat if the cold weather keeps him/her indoors.

For K9 Magazine’s Christmas Pet Guide go here 

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