To Treat or Not To Treat: The Process of Keeping Our Pets at a Healthy Weight Maintaining healthy weight for our b e l ove d p e t s i s crucial for their overall well-being a n d l o n g e v i t y. Overweight or obese pets are prone to a range of health problems, including diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and breathing difficulties. T h e r ef o r e, understanding the best ways to feed our pets and keep them at a healthy Treats can be a significant source of weight is an essential aspect of extra calories. While it’s fine to give your responsible pet ownership. pet treats, do so in moderation. Choose healthy treats, such as small pieces of First, choosing the r ight food is fruit or vegetables (if appropriate for paramount. Pet food labels can be your pet), or low-calorie commercial overwhelming, but it’s important to treats. Be mindful of the treat’s calorie understand the ingredient list and content and factor them into your pet’s nutritional content. Look for high-quality daily calorie allowance. Avoid giving pet food that lists a named meat source table scraps, as these are often high in (e.g. chicken, beef, lamb) as the primary fat and sodium, and can contribute to ingredient. Avoid foods that are primarily weight gain and digestive upset. composed of fillers like corn, wheat, and soy. The food should also be Regular exercise is just as important appropriate for your pet’s life stage for pets as it is for humans. Exercise (puppy/kitten, adult, senior) and activity helps burn calories, build muscle mass, level. Consulting with a veterinarian is and improve overall health. The type highly recommended to determine the and amount of exercise will var y best food for your individual pet’s needs. depending on your pet’s species, breed, age, and health condition. Dogs benefit Portion control is critical, too. Many pet from daily walks, runs, or playtime. Cats owners inadvertently overfeed their pets, can be encouraged to exercise through leading to weight gain. Follow the feeding interactive play with toys. Even small guidelines and the food packaging is a pets like rabbits and guinea pigs need starting point, but remember these are opportunities for physical activity. just recommendations. Monitor your pet’s weight and body condition regularly. Finally, regular veterinary checkups are You should be able to feel their ribs essential for monitoring your pet’s weight easily without excessive fat covering and overall health. Your veterinarian them. A visible waistline is also a good can assess your pet’s body condition, indicator of a healthy weight. Adjust the p r o v i d e p e r s o n a l i z e d f e e d i n g portion size accordingly to maintain an recommendations, and identify any ideal body condition. Using a measuring underlying health issues that may be cup ensures accurate portioning, rather contributing to weight problems. They than simply eyeballing it. can also help you develop a weight loss plan if your pet is overweight or obese. Scheduled feeding times are preferable to free-feeding. The latter means food By implementing all of the aboveis constantly available, making it difficult mentioned strategies, we can help to monitor intake and easily leading to our pets live longer, healthier, and overeating. Instead, offer your pet a happier lives. measured amount of food at specific times each day. If they don’t finish the food within a reasonable timeframe (e.g., By: Debbie Haight Communications Manager Prince William 15–20 minutes), remove it. This helps County Animal Services Bureau establish a routine and allows you to Dhaight1@pwcgov.org track how much your pet is consuming. 703.792.5380 12 Discover Western Prince William ■ May 2025 VIRGINIA DANCE CENTER SUMMER DANCE CAMPS! Registration is open for our 6 week session of summer dance classes for ages 3-adult! Register NOW to reserve your spot! 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