Glencadia Dog Camp Notes Weight Loss for Dogs is Possible

PHILADELPHIA, PA, June 10, 2013 (Press-News.org) The dog lovers at Glencadia Dog Camp know about the importance of a healthy diet and plenty of exercise for various breeds of dogs. Now the staff members are issuing comment on a new article that details exactly why a sedentary or lonely lifestyle can be less than ideal for pups, and how a pet owner can reverse weight gain in their pets.

Just like their owners, dogs often tend to gain weight during the winter. The weather is cold and snowy, thus deterring an owner from taking their pet for a long stroll. As their owners are slowly gaining weight by snacking in front of the TV, animals often suffer as a result. A few extra pounds of winter weight may be easier for a human to drop, as they move around more outside, it can be more difficult for dogs, unless owners make a special effort to get outside with them. This is all the more difficult in a city environment like New York City, where few people have backyards.

Studies show that an extra 12 pounds on a Labrador retriever is the equivalent of a human gaining 27 pounds. When a Boston terrier goes up by three pounds on the scale, it is like a human gaining 30 pounds. Three pounds on a cat are equivalent to 45 for a human. With these figures in mind, it becomes more apparent why it is necessary to help an animal to avoid gaining any extra, no matter how minimal the number may seem. Just like with human weight gain, when animals get chunky, they are at greater risk for joint and mobility issues. They are also more likely to contract diabetes and osteoarthritis.

Fortunately, there are steps that a pet owner can take in order to ensure that their beloved dog or cat is healthy and happy. Focusing on the animal's diet is an important part of preventing weight gain. Pet parents think they are rewarding their four-legged friends with huge helpings of food or even table scraps. In reality, these extra treats can cause rapid weight gain, and bring about long-term health concerns. Love and affection is a much more ideal reward.

In order to serve a healthy meal, a pet owner must follow the feeding guidelines on the back of the bag, and talk with a veterinarian to ensure that the animal is at a healthy weight.

Some individuals find that using a measuring cup to control meal portions is another helpful strategy. This helps to ensure that the animal is getting enough to eat, but not going overboard at mealtime.

In addition to carefully portioned meals, a pet owner should make it a point to help the animal get regular exercise. Long walks, playtime at the dog park, and wrestling with a toy in the living room all help to get the dog off of the couch. Cat owners should use a laser pointer and have the animal chase it. Not only does this exercise benefit the animal, but the owner is also increasing his or her activity levels.

And take a look at your dog: can you see the outline of the ribs? Don't panic! That's probably means s/he is at a healthy weight.

The owner of Glencadia Dog Camp speaks out on an animal's need for exercise stating, "The sedentary life is no better for a dog than it is for a human. I know I'm happy when I get plenty of exercise, and the same is absolutely true for a dog."

Cutting back on treats also proves useful in jumpstarting pet weight loss. Many owners feed their animal a biscuit when they enter and leave the house, and after the pet has gone outside to use the bathroom. Even cutting the number of treats that are rewarded each day in half can make a significant difference in the animal's weight. The professionals at Glencadia Dog Camp encourage pet parents to talk with their dog or cat's vet about how they can help their animal get healthy and live longer.

ABOUT:

Glencadia Dog Camp offers pooches an active and social boarding experience. The animals enjoy running and playing on 15 acres of land, all of which is surrounded by tall fences, thus ensuring safety. Dogs sleep in a barn that has heat and cool areas for hot days, and can choose from a number of sleeping arrangements that make them feel at home. Dogs of all shapes and sizes receive personalized care and affection during their stay.