At every wellness exam/checkup, Dr. Gregory weighs your pet. She also assesses their body condition in other ways, evaluating their shape and feeling certain areas, such as around the ribs. Remember, your pet’s ideal body condition is not based on the number on the scale alone. Dr. Gregory has the knowledge and experience to understand your pet’s needs and risk factors. If your pet’s health and wellness could be improved by losing weight, her recommendations for nutrition, exercise, and more are based on your dog’s or cat’s specific needs. 

Just as with people, there is no “silver bullet” for sustainable weight loss. The fundamental fact remains that your pet can only lose weight when their activity level surpasses their calorie intake. Your pet must be able to burn off more calories than they consume. Also, what works for one of your pets may not work for the other. Here again, Dr. Gregory can recommend nutritional and lifestyle changes that balance calories consumed with calories needed for activities and normal functions throughout the day. Keep in mind that even a small reduction in weight can significantly reduce your pet’s risk of developing diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, kidney disease, and other serious health problems. 

Dr. Gregory performs a comprehensive and honest assessment of your pet’s weight. Other diagnostic services may also uncover health problems that could cause fluid retention or hormonal imbalances that contribute to obesity. Specific lifestyle changes or treatments are based on findings from these thorough evaluations. Most weight problems are due to overfeeding, so it is important to understand that this is not a reflection on your ability to care for your pet. You should not take recommendations personally.

First and foremost, your pet is our priority. These recommendations are in your pet’s best interests for long-term health and happiness. And we know you are happy when your pet is happy!