Our furry family members are not immune to fluctuations in their weight. Spoiling them with one too many treats (no judgment – we totally understand us pet parents ourselves!) or an undiagnosed health condition are just some of the reasons why they may weigh too much or too little. Fortunately, we can help you get your pet to a healthier weight in a safe and effective way. Call us at 807-939-2616 for more details.
How do I know if my pet is overweight or underweight?
Because of the differences in species and breeds, there really isn’t a general “look” of what constitutes as a healthy weight in pets. For example, some dog breeds like Greyhounds are naturally thin with their ribs being more visible while others are naturally heavy. An in clinic checkup where the patient is weighed and measured is the best way to know for sure. That being said, a good rule of thumb is to observe your pet’s midsection. Their waist should be defined, and not the same width as their hips. You should also be able to feel the last row of their ribs without a thick layer of fat getting in the way. Also, behaviour cues like getting out of breath too easily or lethargy can be signs your pet is carrying too much or too little weight.
How can you help my pet lose or gain weight?
We will create a treatment plan that can safely get your pet to their ideal weight based on their breed, age and other factors. We will make recommendations on types of food to feed your pet, feeding styles and schedules (i.e. timed meals instead of leaving food out at all times), appropriate exercise, supplements and more.
How long will it take for my pet to lose/gain weight?
This all depends on a case-by-case basis. Our goal is to reach goals in a safe and sustainable manner. We don’t want patients to be losing more than 1 to 2% of their body weight each week. Depending on your pet’s start weight, it can take anywhere from 6 to 8 months to start seeing results.
