| A PDSA survey of nearly 1500 dogs found a quarter were significantly overweight. It hopes these shocking statistics will encourage people to help their pets by enlisting them in the PDSA Pet Fit Club.
The charity is looking for eight pets across the UK to shape-up and take on the weight-loss challenge.
The larger-than-life pets will follow a 100-day diet and fitness programme, which will be regularly monitored by their local PDSA PetAid hospital.
The pet with the most significant weight loss will be crowned PDSA Pet Fit Club champion, the owner receiving a “pet-friendly” break with Coastal Cottages of Pembrokeshire.
TV presenter and part-time PDSA vet Steve Leonard is on the judging panel and is concerned at the rise in pet obesity.
“Our aim with PDSA Pet Fit Club is to educate owners about pet diet and fitness and demonstrate that safe weight loss is possible for pets.
“The healthier a pet is, the better their quality of life — it’s as simple as that.”
Pets not selected for PDSA Pet Fit Club will receive a special leaflet featuring pet diet and fitness advice.
PDSA senior vet Elaine Pendlebury added, “Many well-intentioned pet owners spoil their pets with treats and overfeed them, not realising that they are effectively killing them with kindness.
“Combine this with a lack of exercise and the result is too many obese pets, many of which will face a lifetime of health problems.
“Last year’s entrants did exceptionally well and I am really looking forward to giving our new PDSA Pet Fit Club challengers the support and advice they need to kick start a healthier lifestyle.” |
