Pet obesity workshop to be held Thursday in White Lake

Experts say that more than half of dogs and cats are obese, putting them at increased risk of serious illness and a shortened lifespan. Are your furry friends too fat? This is the title of the workshop and the question that's being asked on Thursday, October 15 as part of 'Pawsitively Healthy: An informative series for the health & wellbeing of your dog or cat,' which is being held at Pet Supplies Plus of White Lake.  

The workshop is the first in the series being conducted by Andrea Putt, DVM, of Commerce Village Veterinary Hospital in Commerce Twp. 'Are your furry friends too fat?' will focus on how pet owners can tell if their dog or cat is overweight, and what they can do to keep Fluffy or Fido fit, through good nutrition and exercise. Putt will also discuss the consequences of pet obesity which include putting pets at greater risk of heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, arthritis and other serious illnesses.
  
The store will also launch the Pound Patrol, a pet weight-loss program.  Pet owners will register their cats and dogs for Pound Patrol the night of the workshop and return with their pets for an evaluation by Putt followed by regular weigh-ins.  Pets coming closest to their pre-determined weight-loss goals will win special prizes.

"Unfortunately, the number of overweight dogs and cats is at an all-time high," Putt said. "Many pet parents don't want to deprive their dog or cat of that extra treat, or they use their pet to dispose of leftovers from mealtime. The issue of pet obesity is a serious one that can mean years off a dog's or cat's life."                                                                                              

Pawsitively Healthy workshops are being held at Pet Supplies Plus in White Lake at 6845 Highland Rd. from 7 p.m.to 8 p.m. Upcoming topics include pain in pets, kidney disease, thyroid disease and more.

Space is limited; advance registration required. Please remember to leave your pets at home.  There is a $5 donation per workshop with all proceeds going to Elizabeth Lake Animal Rescue.  To register and for more information, click here.