Take the Pet Fitness Challenge and Come out a Winner

6/9/2005
By: Dachshund Lover

By Laura Kiemele, Veterinarian Technician

(NC)-Recent research has shown that when pets and people exercise together, they achieve greater success and are more likely to stick with a weight-loss program. Pet owners can truly make a difference for their pets by involving them in The Pet Fitness Challenge, a joint initiative between Hill’s Pet Nutrition Canada and the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA). This summer, commit to help dogs and cats achieve a balanced life through proper food choices, exercise and visiting the veterinarian.

How to Take the Pet Fitness Challenge

  1. Weigh-In
    • Determine the pet’s current and ideal weight. Visit a Veterinarian for a complete check-up.
  2. Get Active
    • Dogs require 15 to 20 minutes of physical activity at least three times a day and cats require the same length of activity at least twice a day.
  3. Make it Regular
    • Schedule a time each morning, afternoon and evening for physical activity. Developing a routine means greater success in sticking to it and seeing results.
  4. Proper Food Choice is Key
    • Exercise alone can’t do it all which is why food choice is so important. Several products now offer “light” varieties to help a pet achieve and maintain desired weight loss. When selecting a “light” food, ensure the product meets the labelling standards outlined by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). For dry foods, a true light formula should not exceed 3,100 kcal (canine formulas) and 3,250 kcal (feline formulas) per kilogram of food. For canned foods, the formula should not exceed 900 kcal (canine formulas) and 950kcal (feline formulas) per kilogram of food. Hill’s Pet Nutrition markets a variety of foods that meet these standards, and include formulas specifically designed for both weight maintenance and weight loss.
  5. Follow the guide
    • Before feeding a pet, check the recommended serving amount listed on the package. Use this as a guide and adjust as necessary for proper weight management. Always measure the food carefully to avoid overfeeding. Be aware of snacking and never feed a pet junk food or table scraps.
  6. Encouragement goes a long way
    • Pay extra attention to the pet, encourage them with praise and playtime.
  7. Fun and Games
    • Take the time to get outside with dogs and play indoor games with cats. Play hunting is a great way to increase a cat’s level of activity.
  8. Checking In
    • Keep on track with regular visits to the veterinarian and by keeping a log. Track the progress of both the owner and the pet, and keep the weight off together.

For more information please visit www.hillspet.com, www.petfit.com and www.animalhealthcare.ca.

- News Canada (www.newscanada.com)

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