Surface Creek Veterinary Center - September 2024

Furry Fitness Is your dog or cat looking a little pudgy? Or downright fat? HELP YOUR PET SHED EXTRA POUNDS

questions about whether a reduced- calorie product will fulfill your pet’s nutritional needs. One benefit of these

If so, you’re not alone. An estimated 59% of pet dogs and 63% of domestic cats are overweight, according to the Purina Institute. This isn’t just an issue of appearance. Obese dogs and cats face a higher risk of diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure, and they also tend to live shorter lives. Here are a few gentle measures to help your pet trim down. Exercise, Exercise, Exercise Increase the length of your dog’s daily walk by 10% per week, or throw a ball for your pet a few more times each day. If your dog seems too stressed by increased exercise, ease up and check with your vet for advice. For your cat, consider frequently changing the location of the food bowl. Toss your kitty’s kibbles down a hallway or across a room to make them forage for them. Look for a kibble-dispensing toy that requires your cat to work to extract its meal. And set aside time to play using feather toys, laser pointers, or balls. Cut Calories Switching to a low-calorie pet food can be helpful. Your vet can help you determine the right number of calories for your pet. Most manufacturers offer at least one choice of low-calorie kibble. Check with your vet if you have

products is that your pet can usually eat the same volume of food as usual. Reducing your pet’s rations of regular pet food is another

option. Accurate measurements are critical — no heaping cupfuls or overflowing scoops. Reduce Treats

Many pet owners enjoy dishing out treats to their fur babies, but calories from these tidbits add up fast. Consider limiting treats to 10% of your pet’s calorie intake. For dogs, try setting aside part of your pet’s regular daily rations to use as treats throughout the day. Substituting veggies like green beans or carrots can satisfy some dogs. Moderate amounts of plain canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) can serve as a vitamin- and fiber-rich alternative to peanut butter as a treat.

Clients Spreading the Word

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UnNtiloFtiucrether Due to a staffing shortage, SCVC will be closed on the first and third Saturday of the month. We will continue to be open on the second and fourth Saturdays. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

• At the time of scheduling a

Derek Udy Carol Nations Alison Smith Kathy Browning Doug & Julie Beall Randy Charlesworth Mike Knehs

Misty Habers Kim Kratochvil Tara Sayers Toby McPartland Teri & Jim Roark

dental or surgery appointment, a $250 deposit will be required. This deposit will be applied to the procedure bill. If you need to cancel the appointment, and you give us at least a 24-hour notice, the deposit will be refunded.

Barbara Deal Hilary Watts

• Due to the increasing cost of

credit card processing, there is now a 3% service charge added to all clinic services and products. If paying with cash, check, or PIN debit, there is no charge.

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