British pets are bulging. New research from animal health charity PDSA shows that one in three dogs and one in four cats in the UK are overweight. This sadly means they not only risk dying earlier, but could have a drastically reduced quality of life. The report found a wide range of unhealthy treats are being fed to pets by indulgent owners, including fast food, crisps, biscuits, chocolate, chips, and even leftover alcohol.
To help combat this problem, the charity is launching its annual fat-fighting competition, PDSA Pet Fit Club. Since launching in 2005, the contest has transformed the lives of some of Britain’s fattest pets, many of whom wouldn't have survived had their weight issues continued. It has already helped 57 dogs, 24 cats and 3 rabbits lose a total of 295kg. That is equivalent to more than 4,400 sausages, or over 1,000 blocks of lard!
Last year’s winner was Ruby, a Jack Russell terrier from Sunderland. When she started the six-month diet and exercise programme back in May 2013, she tipped the scales at 9.1kg, making her morbidly obese and more than 50% overweight.
A former stray, Ruby’s waistline grew after she was adopted by her current owner Angela, who liked to spoil her to compensate for her tough start in life. But all the snacks and titbits led to unhealthy weight gain. “It got to the stage where she couldn’t jump on the sofa or the bed,” said Angela. “The only thing she would move for was food. But now she’s like a puppy again and loves to run on the beach. Entering Pet Fit Club is the best thing we have done for Ruby.”
Elaine Pendlebury, PDSA Senior Veterinary Surgeon, said: “Sadly, seeing morbidly obese pets is now an everyday occurrence in vet practices across the UK; it is one of the biggest welfare concerns facing the nation’s pets. It’s effectively a silent killer leading to long term health issues for pets that can cut their lifespan by up to two years.”
Do you have a pet who would benefit from a new fitness regime? You can enter your pets for the scheme at PDSA Pet Fit Club. The deadline for entries is Sunday 27 April 2014.
