Is Your Pet at a Healthy Weight? Let’s Talk Pet Obesity

By Lakeshore Road Animal Hospital

October 8th is National Pet Obesity Awareness Day, and at Lakeshore Road Animal Hospital, we’re raising awareness about a growing health issue that affects more pets than you might think. Over 50% of dogs and cats in North America are overweight or obese—and many pet owners don’t even realize it.

Why Does Pet Obesity Matter?

A few extra pounds might seem harmless (or even cute), but they can have serious health consequences. Extra weight puts pets at risk for conditions like:

• Diabetes
• Arthritis and joint pain
• Heart disease
• Breathing issues
• Shorter lifespan

Even a small amount of excess weight can have a big impact on your pet’s health and comfort.

Is Your Pet Overweight?

It’s not always easy to tell just by looking. Some signs your pet may be overweight include:

• Trouble feeling their ribs under a layer of fat
• No visible waist when viewed from above
• Difficulty walking, running, or playing
• Excessive panting after mild activity

Our veterinary team can perform a simple Body Condition Score (BCS) assessment during your pet’s next visit to determine if their weight is within a healthy range.

How We Can Help

If your pet needs to shed a few pounds, don’t worry—we’re here to help. We can create a safe, personalized weight loss plan that includes:

• Nutritional guidance and portion control
• Weight management diets
• Safe exercise routines
• Regular weigh-ins and support

Small changes can lead to big improvements in your pet’s health and quality of life.

Let’s Keep Pets Happy and Healthy

This National Pet Obesity Awareness Day, take a moment to assess your pet’s weight—and reach out if you have concerns. At Lakeshore Road Animal Hospital, we’re committed to helping your pet live a long, active, and healthy life.