It’s a great time to takea good look at our pets. The maintenance of a good body score is very important for health and longevity of our furry friends, cat or dog.Winter has a way of really affecting body scores. The pets are in a warm house environment and are not as active as the rest of the year so they are likely gaining weight. And the pets that are outside are likely having a tough time maintaining body scores because of burning calories to create body heat.
Either condition requires that the calorie intake to be managed for perfect condition to be maintained.
The first thing we need to do is to feel the dog or cat around the chest area. The fur is very thick this time of the year and if you haven’t felt your pet you may be shocked either way over conditioned or under conditioned. The assessment should give you directions, increase food intake, decrease food intake, stay the same, or increase exercise or both. One should always measure the food source with a measuring cup for weight control.
Below is a visual chart to help better understand where your pet may fall in rating within the body condition system.
Exercise is great for all of us! Lets start a healthier year.
Our staff members would be happy to answer any questions you may have about your pets weight and body condition as well as tips and tricks for helping your pet maintain the perfect body score including food recommendations and exercise regimes.
Please don't hesitate to ask!
Helpful Links:
Below is the link directly to the above visual aid on the Purina website.
http://purina.com/dogs/health/BodyCondition.aspx
Alexandria Veterinary Clinic PetCare Center
Phone: 320-762-8112
710 Third Ave. West
Alexandria, MN 56308
Toll Free: 800-642-6263
Fax: 320-762-8044To learn more about the many services we offer, click here
Home
Services | Doctors | Staff
Laser Surgery | Links | Four Paws
Newsletter | Location | Tour
Contact Us
©2011 Alexandria Veterinary Clinic PetCare Center
