You know, it's funny but people's weight never bothers me - and indeed my own weight could do with being less than it is. But that's my business, and my decision, and I respect that fact that others make their own decisions about their own diet and weight.
However it does pain me when I see an overweight dog. Dog's lives are short enough without robbing them of any time, or putting strain on their skeletons by making them carry too much flesh. I think we often mistake over-feeding for love, and we think giving them human food show them we care. In fact one of the kindest things you can do for your dog is to keep him at an acceptable weight.
Here's news from Battersea today, who are dealing with two "dumpy dogs":
Two dogs from Battersea are hoping to shed some pounds – just in time for Easter!
While people are preparing to celebrate the end of Lent with chocolate eggs and hot crossed buns, the vets at Battersea are drawing up strict calorie controlled diets and exercise plans for these portly pooches.
Woody, a four-year-old chocolate Labrador, weighed a gargantuan 43 kilos when he was brought to Battersea’s Brands Hatch home in March, because he pulled his owner over on the lead. A medium-sized adult Lab should weigh about 30 kilos.
Joining him in the battle of the bulge is eight-year-old Border Collie Romeo who weighed 37 kilos on arrival. Romeo was brought to Battersea after his owner died and was described by the family as “quite greedy”. Border Collies are used as sheepdogs and are often very active dogs, usually weighing about 20 kilos.
Claire O’Hagan, Dog Rehoming Team Leader at Battersea, said: “Some dog owners think they are being kind by overfeeding their dogs and giving them lots of treats. But being fat has the same health repercussions for dogs as for humans: it puts tremendous strain on the heart and joints and ultimately shortens their lives. Dogs are simple souls: save treats for special occasions or as rewards during training and they’ll love you just as much.”
If you could give a rescue dog a healthy, happy home, please contact Battersea on 0843 509 4444 or visit www.battersea.org.uk.