Does your Puppy Need to Lay off the Pudding?
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media release: 7 February, 2012
Does your Puppy Need to Lay off the Pudding?
While it is sometimes acceptable for us to loosen up the belt buckles over the holiday seasons, a leading Australian vet is encouraging dog owners to remember the importance of protecting your pet from an unhealthy diet.
“Dog owners need to combine a balanced, nutritional diet with regular exercise to ensure their pets live healthy and long lives,” Dr Mark Perissinotto, head vet at VetShopAustralia.com.au, said.
Dr Mark Perissinotto said pet owners should take a personal approach to their animal’s weight loss.
“Overweight animals should be dealt with in the same way as when humans diet, by combining portion control, exercise and healthy nutritional foods.”
"The obesity epidemic is not only on the rise for humans but also pets and while you may think you are doing Fido a favour by giving him your leftover dinner, being overweight has been shown to take up to five years off an animal's life expectancy."
“One of the most important tips for pet owners to take into account is the size and energy levels of the animal.”
“It is the owner’s responsibility to measure out the daily portion of food, correct for the animal’s age, exercise level, breed and weight.”
According to Dr Mark Perissinotto, it is not only the quantity but also the quality of food that is important in your pet’s diet.
“Dog owners are faced with an enormous number of pet foods though the rule of thumb is to chose premium manufactured pet food that is well balanced, nutritious and scientifically proven to support the claims the manufacturers make,” he said.
According to VetShopAustralia.com.au, dogs and cats are considered overweight when their body weight is 15 percent above what is optimal for their breed and obese when they exceed 30 percent.
If you are concerned your animal is overweight, Dr Mark Perissinotto suggests working with your vet to devise a diet that is suitable for your pet.
“The ribs of your animal should be able to be felt underneath the skin in healthy weight categories,” he said.
“At home you can try downsizing the portion size of meals and extending the length of walks”.
ENDS
Further information
Media Contact: Jemma Lenton 07 5453 4840
Jemma.lenton@vetshoponline.com
Address: 5/42 Owen Creek RD. Forest Glen QLD
Go to the Dr Mark bio page for more information about Dr Mark Perissinotto.