PDSA Warning As Pet Fit Club Starts

A ten-stone dog which is more than 100% overweight is among the Scottish contender's in a vet charity's fitness challenge.

The PDSA today launches its annual Pet Fit Club competition as veterinary professionals across the UK warn of a rise in pet obesity.

Four out of five of vets have seen an increase in pet obesity cases in the last two years, according to the latest PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report.

The same number of vets and vet nurses believe there will be more overweight pets than healthy pets in five years.

The charity warned that obesity can contribute to pets developing deadly conditions that can cut their lifespan such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes, as well as debilitating conditions including arthritis.

It is inviting owners of the UK's fattest pets to take part in the competition, which will see the animals take part in a tailored diet and exercise programme overseen by expert vets and nurses over a six-month period.

Nine-year-old chocolate Labrador Bobby from Dundee, who weighs 63kg (9st 12lbs), is one of the entrants.

Ten-year-old cat Ollie from Edinburgh who weighs 10kg (1st 8lbs), more than double his ideal weight, will also be taking part.

Nicola Martin, PDSA head of pet health and welfare, said: Over the past decade, Pet Fit Club has transformed the lives of some of the UK's most obese pets.

We have helped nearly 100 animals shed over 60 stone, so are welcoming entries again and offering our expertise.

PDSA's research has shown that pet obesity is a growing problem and that too many people are continuing to feed their pets inappropriate foods including takeaways, cake, cheese and chips, and sadly many pets aren't getting enough exercise.

Pet obesity is entirely preventable and we're trying to help owners understand that while their pets may beg for food, and giving a treat is a way of showing affection, ultimately it could be killing them with kindness.''

Dr Philippa Yam, leading animal obesity expert at the School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, said: It's clear that pet obesity continues to be a major issue due to a lack of understanding about pets' welfare needs.

PDSA's Pet Fit Club competition has successfully raised awareness of this serious but entirely preventable condition and continues to help many pets year on year.''