Petology: Work with your veterinarian to manage dog obesity

SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - Marsha Panuce discussed dog obesity and ways owners can address it, as October is obesity prevention month.Panuce said a dog is obese when it is 20% over its normal weight. She said a veterinarian can tell an owner exactly how much a dog should weigh.Panuce said veterinarians differ on what they look for. Some want to see a little of a dog’s skeleton, she said. Others prefer a rounded figure.“They need to look healthy, but moreover, they need to feel healthy,” Panuce said.Panuce said owners often think first about cutting down on food. She said that is not necessarily the answer, but owners do have to change the food.Petology: What to know before adopting a pet birdPuppies need a lot of protein because they are growing, she said. Dogs need less in middle age. Senior dogs should stay steady so their bones and organs can continue to operate as they should, she said.Panuce said owners must work with a veterinarian. She said many different foods can address obesity.