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As tempting as it is to feed your favorite old dog leftovers, you are really doing him a disservice. Veterinary medicine has advanced so much that even big dogs are living to be 12 to 15 years old. However, they will still suffer from the ailments of old age. You can ease their discomfort by keeping that old pet’s weight down.
Fat Pets are Like Fat People
If you think fat people have health problems, then why would you think a fat pet wouldn’t? If fat people have difficulty carrying their own body weight, then fat pets will, too. By keeping your dog’s weight normal into old age, its quality of life will be better. It will be able to take that daily walk with you for much longer. It will be able to get up and down stairs easier. If you see your pet struggling to move, do a reality check on its weight.
Pets can also have heart disease, cholesterol problems and cancer. Weight affects all of these. If you’re not sure how to control an older, slower pet’s weight, consult your vet.
Pet Food Is Better
Although you may think you’re cooking is healthy, pet food is better for pets. It is formulated to give the animal the proper vitamins, minerals and calories that it needs for optimum health. Unless the vet tells you to add certain people foods to your dog’s diet, always feed it dog food.
Avoid the occasional people food treat because you may not realize just how often you’re giving it. As a rule of thumb, no people food. Feed according to the instructions on the pet food container, and exercise you pet.
