uidance on how to maintain your pet’s weight is a fundamental part of any wellness program at Pavilion Crossing Animal Hospital in Riverview, Florida. Keeping (or getting) our four-legged patients in Wesley Chapel and the surrounding area down to a healthy weight supports their overall health and quality of life. During regular visits, Dr. Keshava Eega will guide you on everything from nutrition to physical activities that promote weight loss and management. This is most certainly a marathon and not a sprint. So, Dr. Eega will closely monitor your pet’s weight and adjust any necessary interventions.

Like with people, the number on the scale only tells part of the story regarding your pet’s healthiest weight. Dr. Eega has the knowledge and experience to assess your pet’s overall body condition during a “nose to tail” check. This examination assesses characteristics such as your dog’s or cat’s body shape and the prominence of certain parts of the body, such as their ribcage, by touch.

Simply put, the interventions that lead to weight loss must balance daily calorie intake with physical activities or exercise. So, the calories burned outpace what “goes in” or is consumed as food. It is absolutely critical to get everyone in the family involved with this process. You do not need to have family members or friends potentially or inadvertently sabotaging your pup’s or kitty’s weight loss by sneaking tasty treats or “people food.” It may also be important to convey and remember that excessive food is not love. There are healthier ways to express how much you love your pet. Take another walk in the park. Get a new toy and engage with them. Even a simple belly rub or pat during a busy day can go far and provide comfort to your best friend.

Also, many elements of human weight loss programs can be easily applied or incorporated into your pet’s weight loss plans and goals; for instance, wearable activity monitors or trackers have been made for pets and work much the same way as a Fitbit or similar devices and applications. We can also work with you to set measurable and reasonable milestones for progress toward your pet’s ultimate weight loss goals. Dr. Eega can also advise on the healthiest adjustments to your pet’s diet, as simply feeding your dog or cat less of their current dry food may not be the best answer for them nor provide the essential nutrients they need.

You want your pet to be around for a long time and to be as happy and active as possible for as long as possible. We can support a lifetime of great health by managing your pet’s weight and being a vital part of their wellness. To schedule your dog’s or cat’s wellness “check-up,” call Pavilion Crossing Animal Hospital in Riverview, FL, at (813) 374-9456 today. Be sure to ask about our affordable in-house savings plan for puppies, kittens, and adult animal companions alike.