| uo;s face it, we love our pets. Sometimes that love | | | | do? Well the answer is that a little weight would |
| can lead pet owners to pamper their pets just a little | | | | do no harm, but if left unchecked the weight gain |
| too much when it comes to food and treats. This | | | | could quickly put your Pit Bull into the obese |
| over indulgence has the same effects on our pets as | | | | category. Some of the common ailments brought on |
| it does on us when we over eat or snack a little too | | | | by canine obesity are heart problems, arthritis and |
| often, we get fat. If you add in not getting enough | | | | even diabetes. An overweight pet is also more |
| exercise, then it is a problem compounded. | | | | susceptible to a hip condition known as dysplasia, as |
| Yes, pets too can suffer from being obese. Statistics | | | | well as problems with the back and joints. |
| show that one in four pets weigh in the overweight | | | | By now you’re probably glancing over to your |
| or obese category. It is a problem which carries a lot | | | | Pit Bull trying to quickly gauge if your pet is within |
| of health risks to our four legged loved ones, and it is | | | | acceptable weight limits. Glancing isn’t going to |
| a problem that we as owners must handle. | | | | give you an accurate answer, but if you’d like |
| As a Pit Bull owner, I know first hand how good it | | | | to do a quick home pet obesity test, then |
| makes your pet feel to get those special treats, and | | | | here’s how to do it. |
| how hard it is to not give them when it results in | | | | First, get your Pit Bull to stand in front of you, and |
| getting the loving look that only your Pit Bull can give. | | | | look at him from above. Your Pit Bull should have the |
| I also know as a Pit Bull owner that this particular | | | | shape more of an hour glass than say, an ocean liner. |
| breed needs a lot of regular exercise. Pit Bulls are | | | | A dog with rounded out sides is certainly getting into |
| very athletic and energetic by their very nature, and | | | | the obese range. You should also be able to feel your |
| if they do not get enough exercise they are not | | | | dog’s ribs easily. Don’t press hard on |
| happy. The dog also runs the risk of being | | | | your beloved pet; we don’t want to hurt him. |
| overweight, which puts him at risk. | | | | Keep regular vet appointments for your Pit Bull, as |
| I realize that some Pit Bull owners would ask, | | | | your veterinarian will also be checking your |
| What’s the worst that a little weight could | | | | pet’s weight. |