Don’t let your pet over indulge
Let your pets be part of the festivities this Christmas, give them the best festive foods they deserve and spend quality time with them.
Christmas is a time of giving and this includes, indulging the family pet – so says a survey of South African pet owners.
Seven out of ten people said they buy presents for their pets, and more than half put their pet’s gift under the tree.
Edible treats are the most popular choice, followed by toys.
Nearly four out of ten pets share their family’s Christmas lunch according to the survey.
Others said they would be feeding their dog juicy bones.
However, Doctor Guy Fyvie, veterinary advisor for Hill’s Pet Nutrition sounds a note of caution against over-indulging your pet during the holidays.
“One of the best ways to help your cat or dog enjoy a long, healthy life is to maintain its correct weight – sweets, bones and rich food are not the way to go. Rather play a game or go for a walk,” says Guy.
Research has shown that dogs at their optimum weight live longer by at least two years and are simply happier. Obese dogs that lost weight exhibited more vitality, less emotional disturbance and pain.
“Fat cats and dogs are clinically proven to be sadder, and are at an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and cancer. Don’t think you are demonstrating love for your pet when you over-feed or indulge them, you may actually be shortening their life,” says Guy.
If your pet is carrying excess kilos, make time during the holidays to consult the vet for professional advice on how to help it regain a healthier weight.
Over 300 practices around the country run special ‘pet slimmer’ clinics for their overweight patients.
If your cats and dogs could make a Christmas wish, it would probably be simply to be close to you and the people they love the best. For expert advice visit www.petslimmer.co.za or speak to your vet.
