Weight Loss Tips for Your Pet

It's a new year and time to make those annual resolutions. Most people have goals to lose weight and develop a healthier lifestyle. Have you evaluated your pets and their health needs? Did they pack on a few extra pounds this last year that they need to lose? Besides the fact of looking trim and moving around well, pets who are at a healthy weight will likely have less health problems. This goes for all types of animals–dogs, cats, birds, hamsters, reptiles, bunnies, and more.

In our 30 plus years of being in business, we have seen our fair share of overweight and obese pets. And want to know the number one cause of obesity? Poor diet. That's right! By simply changing your pet's diet you can help prolong the life of your loved one. Take birds, for instance. A proper diet is everything for a bird in captivity. If they aren't fed the right foods, they can develop all sorts of health problems related to obesity. By simply keeping them on a strict diet of pellets mixed with nuts, fruit, and veggies, you are creating a healthy lifestyle for your bird. This means no bread, seeds (they are too high in fat for captive birds), or Twinkies (yes, clients have actually fed them to their birds), to name a few.

Let's talk about dogs. If you have a dog, you probably know they love table scraps. Whatever you do, don't feed them stuff from the table–no matter how tempting those begging eyes look. Here's a rule of thumb: if you eat it, they likely shouldn't. Now there are some exceptions. Some veggies can be a healthy treat for your dog. Carrots make great treats! The best thing to feed your dog is what your veterinarian recommends. Usually this is a kibble diet with the occasional healthy dog treat. Make sure not to overfeed or underfeed your dog. Usually the amount to feed your dog is based on their breed and weight. Ask your vet about how much you should be feeding your dog. In addition to a good diet, dogs need exercise

Depending on the breed, dogs should get 20-30 minutes of exercise each day. Some breeds, such as border collies, need more physical activity every day, but the average dog just needs to get out and walk. And if you're exercising your dog on a daily basis, you are also getting exercise. It's a win-win!

Cats also need to be on a proper diet as well. We want to remind you they need to eat meat protein. We had a client in the past who was a vegetarian and fed their cat strictly broccoli and rice. Please do not do this! They will end up being underweight and malnourished. If you stick by the diet our vets recommend for cats, they will be healthy and happy. Be also aware of feline obesity. Don't feed your cat more than they need.

Let's face it. Your pet's weight depends on you and what you feed it. As a pet owner, you are responsible for taking control of their health. A good diet is simple: feed them what they are supposed to eat, and don't feed them what they shouldn't.

Giving Rabbits as Gifts for Easter

Have a "hoppy" Easter!

Easter is a popular time for people to give rabbits and chicks as pets. Despite what some people may think, rabbits require a good amount of care and attention. Many end up at the shelter because their owners are unable to give them with what they need. Around this time of year, shelters receive quite a few rabbits. If you are thinking about getting a rabbit, make sure to do your research. They require a lot of work.

So what exactly do rabbits need?

A rabbit's diet is extremely important. It should always have an unlimited amount of hay and fresh water daily. Fresh, dark leafy greens and fruit can also be given, and a small amount of rabbit pellets can be added to its daily diet. 

Rabbits are herbivores and will feed continuously, so they need to always have food and water available. They also eat their feces to get further nutrients. If they aren't defecating or eating their feces, make sure to call us. There could be an issue with their digestive system and this can be a serious issue.

Rabbits need to be handled carefully and may need to be supervised when children hold them. They don't naturally like to be held, and may try to bite or scratch a child.

This Easter, remember to do your research before giving rabbits as gifts to your children. Be prepared to pick up the slack if you do. Rabbits are great pets and don't deserve to be in shelters.