Pet Services → Obesity

→ For Questions Call: 704-660-9663

• Dietary Counsel: Guidance regarding your pet's nutritional needs for each life stage, including dietary requirements for growth, weight maintenance and performance.

• Lake Norman Veterinarian: Our expertise is here, as your neighbors we understand the dietary needs, likes and dislikes for our four legged friends.

An estimated 51.5% of dogs and cats in the United States are overweight or obese, that is approximately 89 million pets according to a 2009 study by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. Obese pets are at greater risk for developing diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, high blood pressure, respiratory disorders, and even many forms of cancer.
A recent study by Purina found that dogs fed to an ideal body weight throughout their lives had a median life span of 1.8 years longer than their littermates. And, researchers observed that the lean dogs had fewer visible signs normally associated with aging, such as graying muzzles and reduced activity at a later age.

Our 5 Step Program:

1. See a member of our staff! If your pet has not been examined by a doctor in the last year they will need an exam with a veterinarian. If we have seen your pet recently you can call for an appointment with a veterinary technician. Our staff will assess your pet's body condition and help you to get started on the road to weight loss.

2. Follow our nutrition plan! We will help you plan a nutrition and exercise plan that will work. Pets need to count calories too and with some simple math we can create a feeding plan.

3. Measure each serving! Don't just fill your pet's bowl, follow our guidelines to give your pet the proper size serving for weight loss.

4. Limit Treats! Give your pet extra love and attention rather than too many treats and table scraps. Calories in treats add up quickly.

5. Exercise, exercise, exercise! Just 20 - 30 minutes of exercise each day is enough to make your dog fit. Your exercise routine can be a simple as playing fetch or as involved as driving to the lake for a swim.

Links to Weight Loss Success!

Use the following links to help your pet reach their ideal weight:

Canine Body Condition Score Chart

Feline Body Obesity

Purina's Project-Pet-Slimdown Website - coupon for $20.00 off Purina OM and JM weight loss diets.

Association for Pet Obesity Prevention - Founded in 2005 by Dr. Ernie Ward, this site has an amazing amount of information to aid in your furry friend's weight loss!

Village Animal Hospital's Fit Pet Club