Charity warns of obese dog epidemic
30th July 2010
Animal-lovers may have to consider taking out pet insurance cover to pay for vets bills, as a charity warned more than a third of the UK's dogs are overweight.
PDSA said 35% of our canine companions are obese, which was 21% more than the number of podgy pooches in 2006.
Figures based on an assessment of almost 30,000 dogs across the country suggested that half the nation's faithful friends could be too fat by 2013, which put them at risk of ill health and early death.
The veterinary charity suggested owners could save on their pet insurance by keeping their dog sensibly fed and well-exercised.
Senior veterinary surgeon Sean Wensley said: "Overweight pets are less mobile, less willing to play and more likely to develop a number of serious health conditions.
"Ultimately, owners control their pet's diet and exercise. The good news is it's never too late to achieve positive change with their veterinary practice."
PDSA hopes to highlight the problem by relaunching its annual pet slimming competition, Pet Fit Club, which encourages owners to get their pets to lose weight.
Copyright © Press Association 2010
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