Owners are 'killing pets with kindness'
Image: PDSA
A recent survey of veterinary physiotherapists, conducted by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists (CSP), highlighted the need for a change in owner attitudes when it comes to pet obesity.
The survey found that 82 per cent of members of the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy (ACPAT) felt the major cause of pet obesity is incorrect feeding.
The majority of those participating in the survey felt that the number of overweight pets they are treating has either stayed the same over the past three years, or increased. 62 per cent said they were seeing the same proportion of obese pets, whereas 37 per cent felt the numbers were increasing.
Louise Carson, chair of ACPAT, commented: "Many owners refuse to accept that their pet is overweight, which means they continue to feed their animal too much, too often."
As a result of the findings the CSP and ACPAT are calling for owners to ensure their pet follows a better diet and a more active life, before it's too late. National Pet Month, which is now well underway, has been highlighted as an opportunity for veterinary practices to raise owner awareness of particular issues, including pet obesity.
The survey findings follow the recent PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) report, which found that over 18 million of the UK's pets could die prematurely due to unsuitable diets.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
