mypetfriends.co.uk

In light of this what can be done to reduce a dog’s weight? The simple solution is to reduce energy input by feeding them less, or giving them healthier food; and increase energy expenditure by taking them for extra or longer walks to burn off more calories. But now the world's first anti-obesity drug for dogs has been launched offering to cut pets' weight by more than half a stone in a month.

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The drug developers Janssen-Cilag claim Yarvitan can reduce the chance of a dog developing arthritis and can increase the life expectancy of an obese dog by 18 months. Yarvitan costs £50 for an eight-week course of treatment, and must be prescribed by a vet. Although only for dogs, the developers are also developing one for cats.

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A Birmingham vet told My Pet Friends that “the drug is great at reducing the weight of a dog who has found it hard to lose weight using other methods. It works quickly and gives a good kick start to their diet.”

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It is recommended that other methods are utilized first, and many vets offer advice about how owners can reduce the weight of their pets through diet and exercise. An overweight pet will have a shorter life expectancy, are more prone to injury and have more stress on their heart, lungs, liver, kidneys and joints. Making maintaining a healthy weight for pets all the more important for pet owners.

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If you are concerned about your pets weight, your local vet will be able to provide you with helpful advice or you can call the Purina Petcare Team who run a free helpline staffed by vets (see www.purina.co.uk for more information).