Owner Bill Deller's regimen for Betty included daily two-mile runs and a switch from canned to dry dog food. But it was either that or not eat. Especially prone to obesity are spayed pets, and those living in apartments. She adds that even regular pet food can keep a pet trim. A lot of people are leaving food in their bowls all day.
Experts say pet obesity worsens as food gets tastier and busy owners grow lax.
With dogs, exercise can be increased through longer or more frequent walks. Cats are less likely to embrace such a program, but some enjoy strenuous play, and others can learn to walk on a leash. Trying to teach an old, obese cat to walk on a leash is pretty tricky. Copyright 1999 Associated Press. All rights reserved.