Paws N' Pounds Plan
Impact of Obesity on Canine Health and the Human-Canine Bond
Direct Consequences
Movement Impairment
Obesity is a precursor and catalyst for developmental and degenerative joint diseases. The prolonged increase of load on the joints of dogs can lead to cruciate ligament tears, luxating patella's, and lesions on the hip joints which all serve as precursors to the development of osteoarthritis - an inflammatory joint disease that has severe implications on the animals ability to move comfortably and pain-free.
Health & Body Systems
Genetics and predisposed hereditary factors can also lead to increased risk of heart or metabolic disorders such as Diabetes, however, obese dogs are subject to an increased risk of developing Diabetes Mellitus during their life. Chronically diabetic dogs suffer from retinal degeneration, nephropathy, hepatopathy, and heart disease. Risk of developing cataracts and fatty liver disease increase with excess bodyweight.
Decreased Lifespan
The implications of obesity on the cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, metabolic, respiratory, and hepatic systems all contribute to a decreased lifespan of your pet.
An ailment in one body system can contribute to difficulties in another!
Increased Veterinary Costs
Often times, owners cannot control when/why their pet has developed health issues. However obesity has been proven to contribute to the exacerbation of predisposed or idiopathic health issues - contributing to more frequent vet visits and more expensive vet bills!
Benefits of Healthy Dog Weight
Adventure & Activity
Having an active and healthy companion comes with a variety of health and mental benefits for both humans and the animals. Physical capabilities enable the human-dog pair to partake in endless adventures in nature, which provides physical and mental stimulation to both parties. Activities such as hiking, swimming, running not only satiate the instinctive urges of canines, but have significant positive effects on human health and wellbeing
Quality of Life
Being physically healthy is one aspect of good quality of life. Other aspects that contribute to QOL include mental/affective states. Owners who do not have to stress over their animals health and wellbeing are subject to improved mental state. Owning a happy healthy dog directly correlates to reduced stress, decreased anxiety and depression, and becomes a mutually beneficial relationship!
Companionship
The bond between human and animal can be strengthened by mental peace of mind of the human, completing activities together, and proper feeding management. Providing essential needs for your dog including allowing them to be curious, feel safe, satiated, and to run off their energy will allow you and your furry best friend to keep each other company for many years to come!
Economic Stability
Poor health often results in more frequent vet visits, leading to increased costs from veterinary services, increased supplement use, medications, and other. Obese animals may drive up the amount of money spent on maintaining their feeding habits.
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