Include Your Pets in Healthy Weight Resolutions this Year

Nearly half of all Americans make New Year's resolutions and of those, almost 40 percent are related to weight loss. This year, spice up that routine and include pets in a weight management program to ensure they're at a healthy, optimum weight. One type of tool veterinarians use to rate the body condition of dogs and cats is a scale one to nine, with a healthy pet being in the four to five range. When a pet is at a healthy weight, a pet parent should be able to feel the ribs, but not see them. To educate pet parents on what this healthy weight is for their pet and raise funds for animal groups across the country, Unleashed by Petco is hosting their "Pounds for Pounds" weigh-in challenge sponsored by Blue Buffalo.

Pet parents are invited to bring their dog or cat to any Unleashed by Petco location to be weighed using a special in-store pet scale. Store associates will track the number of pounds weighed from January 4-26, 2014 and once a store reaches 5,000 pounds, it will donate $500 to a local animal group of their choice; with 103 stores, that's over $51,000 of potential funds nationwide. Unleashed by Petco's associates will also offer advice on weight management and nutrition to participating pets, such as:

• Before starting a weight loss program, visit a veterinarian to find out a pet's ideal weight. Major weight fluctuations could indicate there may be an underlying health issue.
• Pet parents are usually unaware that their pets' food portion sizes are too large so portion control is key. When feeding pets, create markings on the cup or scoop, especially if children are feeding pets so everyone knows the correct serving size.
• Break down meals into two to four small portions throughout the day to trick pets into feeling like they're eating more.
• Serve high protein and low fat food to keep pets full, and remember treats should be no more than 10 percent of caloric intake.
• Pets should exercise at least 30 minutes a day. Although walks can be good for both pet and pet parents, home exercise techniques are great for days when lengthy walks outdoors are not an option. Coaching dogs to do doggy push-ups by asking them to "sit", "lay down" and "sit" again can keep them just as active. Inviting another pet parent and their pet for some play time in the backyard is another great option for keeping pets active.
• Keep an eye on pets' behavior when on a weight loss program. If they feel hungry, it can result in abnormal eating habits, such as digging in trashcans or eating backyard plants. Behavior awareness will help pet parents evaluate the program and make necessary changes.

For details about the Pounds for Pounds challenge, please contact the nearest store or visit www.unleashedbypetco.com.