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Just as with humans exercise is one half of the weight loss equation.  If your pet is not used to regular exercise, suffers from arthritis, heart or respiratory disease, is very overweight or over 8 years of age it may be best to consult your veterinarian before doing any exercise however, so that you do not do more harm than good.  Provided your pet has a clean bill of health it is important to do regular exercise rather than having 2-3 large walks a week.  Start with 10-15 minutes walking on lead to maintain a steady pace and gradually build up by 5-10 minutes a week to 30 minutes per day.

If your dog shows any signs of lameness or stiffness during or after the exercise then it is best to consult your regular veterinarian before doing more.  While your pet is overweight it is best to avoid high impact exercise such as running, jumping and chasing balls or sticks as these can overload the joints and cause arthritis.

Thankyou to Holly and her family for providing this photo

Cats are of course a little more difficult to exercise, but with a little ingenuity you can also get your feline exercised.  Some cats will chase the coloured light of a laser pointer, or a feather tied to some fishing line.  Others will chase and play with ping pong balls.  If all else fails make them work for their food.  Instead of feeding dry food from a bowl use a treat ball, so your cat has to roll it around in order to get some biscuits out.  Alternatively put several bowls around the house and let your cat walk around the house to find its food.

 

The important part of the exercise plan is to do it regularly and stay committed, so that in no time at all you will have a sleek and trim pet with loads of energy rather then a couch potatoe.