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If your portly pet has gained too much weight, it can lead to health problems such as diabetes, hip and back problems, respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Pet owners concerned about their dog's or cat's weight problem can lead their pet out of obesity by following the sound advice and practical ideas in
Plump Pups and Fat Cats. Animal behaviorist Steve Duno has developed a seven-point weight-loss program not unlike the ones that work for humans: the plan emphasizes eating the right foods at the right times, exercise, and directing your pet toward healthier activities than munching on kibble.
Duno's first point of order is to ask pet owners to take a hard look at their pet's poor eating habits and the role the owner plays. After all, as Duno points out, dogs and cats can't open the refrigerator themselves. By recording your pet's weekly eating and activities in a journal, you may be surprised at how many extra table scraps and snacks, and how little exercise, Fido or Fifi actually gets. Duno then helps you figure out your animal's caloric needs, based on age, weight, breed, and activity level.
Duno also explains why free-feeding (leaving the food dish out all day) can actually work against your pet's natural instincts. In place of free-feeding, which many people do while they're at work to alleviate pet boredom, he recommends adding variety to diet and exercise. Duno suggests a number of exercise options for both dogs and cats (that's right, you can get your cat to exercise). He's also designed "enrichment programs" to help you stimulate your pet's intellect and alleviate boredom, another cause of overeating.
By following the guidelines and suggested activities in Plump Pups and Fat Cats, pet owners will learn from Duno's firm but friendly manner how to take charge of their pets' lifestyles and get them back on a healthier, happier track. --Kris Law
Product Description
Get the pounds off your puppy, and the fat off your cat! Over 25% of America's dogs and cats are significantly overweight--a condition which can lead to a host of health problems including diabetes, hip and back trouble, respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. But if your favorite furry friend is portly, what can you do about it? In Plump Pups and Fat Cats , animal behaviorist Steve Duno shows you--with his revolutionary 7-point plan for pet health and weight loss. This book shows you everything you need to know to help your pet slim down: --How to safely adjust your dog or cat's diet --Fun, natural exercise programs tailored for each breed --Environmental enrichment programs to relieve boredom and increase your pet's physical and mental activity level --How to tailor your pet's lifestyle to his or her unique metabolism --Tasty, healthy treats and snacks to make at home --And much more If your canine or feline friend tends to tip the scales, take care of him like he deserves--by buying a copy of this book. You could save your best friend's life.