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News and Information TODAY'S TIP: Remember that when you adopt a puppy or adult dog, you're saving the life of one dog, while making room for another in an already crowded shelter -- giving one more dog a chance for adoption. 1 Oct 2006 Our Pets Are Living Large … Too Large. No matter to whom you talk, if you bring up body weight in a conversation, most people will avoid the topic all together because for the majority, we weigh more than what we would like. Nearly 1/3 of all adults in the Unites States are considered obese. As alarming as that is, for the majority of us, simply eating a better balanced diet and incorporating at least 30 minutes of exercise or more to our daily lifestyle will help us be in better shape. But what about our pets? Let’s face it; we all love to spoil out pets and make them happy. However, feeding them things like table scraps and other treats along with providing very little if any exercise puts them at even greater risk for obesity. That’s right!! Our pets can be obese, and they can suffer from many weight-related health conditions such as osteoarthritis and heart disease. Sadly over 40% of our beloved pets today are considered overweight. That means 6 out of 10 pets are 20 to 25 percent over ideal body weight. In human terms, that’s comparable to a man weighing 216 to 225 pounds when he should weigh 180 pounds. So, what can you do? First get informed as to your pet’s current health condition. Use the Body Score Chart below to first determine where your pet’s weight may fall. Ideally you want your pet to fall within the score of 4 to 5. CLICK HERE to view CAT Body Score Chart. CLICK HERE to view DOG Body Score Chart. Even if your pet is not considered overweight by the chart, every pet would benefit from a 30 minute walk at least once, if not twice a day. Next, stop feeding your pet table food and treats. Instead, offer them carrots, broccoli, or veterinary approved low calorie treats. Because all pets are different, visit your veterinarian to find a more accurate fitness program that best matches your pet’s lifestyle. All in all the healthier we can keep our pets, the longer their lives will be. Who knows? You may even benefit from helping your pet lead a healthier lifestyle as well. Jason Anderson, D.V.M., is lead veterinarian at Marshall Animal Hospital. Located at 4510 Elysian Fields Hwy., Marshall, TX, 75672. Directly across from Marshall Pottery. (903) 935 – PETS. 24 Aug 2006 IS BRUSHING EVEN NECESSARY? Dr. Jay's Sept '06 article We pledge and guarantee that we will always do our very best to serve you and provide your pets with the care they deserve. Marshall Animal Hospital 4510 Elysian Fields Hwy. Marshall, TX 75672 Tel. 903-935-3082    Fax 903-935-3719

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