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Aug 25, 2007 9:10 am US/Eastern
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Dr. Mike's Pet Tip: Weight Management For Your Dog
Veterinarian Dr. Mike Hutchinson has some tips for better living for you and your pet!
HEALTHY WEIGHT MANAGEMENT FOR DOGS:Many dog owners view feeding as a reward, and taking away their dog's favorite food or treat is akin to withdrawing their love.
Actually, the opposite is true. Excess weight may threaten your dog's health and happiness. Part of loving our dogs is being responsible for their quality of life, including monitoring their weight so they will remain active, healthy and happy.
If your dog is a bit overweight, there is help: you can depend on a specially formulated weight management food to help you get your dog back in shape, and keep him in shape.
How can you tell if your dog is carrying around a few extra pounds? Do the Rib Check
• Begin by placing both thumbs on the dog's backbone. Run your fingers along the rib cage. If you can't easily feel the bony part of each rib, your dog may need to lose some weight.
• Or stand directly over your dog as he's standing and look down at him. You should see a clearly defined waist behind the ribs. If he doesn't have an "hourglass" figure, he may be carrying around extra pounds.
• Check your dog's profile as well. If you don't see a clearly defined abdomen tucked up behind his rib care, he is probably overweight.
Visit your veterinarian for help in developing a weight management plan for your dog.
For more weight management tips for your dog, visit
Purina.com/dogs/health/HealthyWeight.aspx