Pet obesity is a real problem. In a 2017 clinical survey conducted by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP), 56% of dogs and 60% of cats in the U.S. were classified as clinically overweight (body condition score (BCS) 6-7 or obese (BCS 8-9)) by their veterinary healthcare professional. That means an estimated 50 million dogs and 56 million cats were too heavy, making them susceptible to weight-related disorders. At 2H4P we see the effects of pet obesity on a daily basis – ACLs rupturing, spinal discs collapsing, carpi hyperextending, painful joints, chronic inflammation, reduced exercise capacity, orthopedic diseases, skin disorders, respiratory disorders, lives shortened, and quality of life diminished. We have been accused of sounding like a broken record, “You’ve got to get the weight down.” “You’ve got to get the weight down.” “You’ve got to get the weight down.” But it’s true. Excessive weight is never good. It almost always leads to problems. It can even cause cancer! But it is treatable. Easily. We have had amazing success with helping our patients quickly and safely lose excess weight. Through a combination of diet, exercise and clear goals we’ve helped Enzo (Lab) lose 30 lbs. Roo (mix) lost 25 lbs and is still dropping. Gracie (Lab) lost 12 lbs. Frankie D. (Cocker) lost 15. Taz (Border Collie)lost 25, and Frankie L. (Doxie) lost 4 but he was only 14 to begin with! Your pets will walk, run and live better when they’re at their proper weight and we can help get them there.