Does this Collar Make Me Look Fat?
Obesity is defined as an excess of body fat that is likely to result in health issues or problems with body functioning. Obesity in pets is associated with joint problems, diabetes mellitus, respiratory compromise, and possibly a decreased life span. Obesity in dogs is most commonly caused by excessive food intake in combination with lack of physical activity. According to a 2012 study by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, an estimated 52.5 percent of dogs (approximately 36.7 million) in the U.S. are considered overweight or obese. That means, one out of every two dogs in this country has a weight issue.
These facts have definitely been especially worrisome for veterinarian and author Dr.Ernie Ward of Calabash, North Carolina. In 2005, Dr. Ward founded the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (PetObesityPrevention.com) to help raise awareness on the dangers of excess weight in dogs and cats. Dr. Ward also wrote a book about his concerns with Chow Hounds: Why Our Dogs Are Getting Fatter- A Vet’s Plan to Save Their Lives.
According to Dr. Ward, dogs are overweight for the same reason people are overweight…
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