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Fit For Life Challenge 2009 Print E-mail
In January, the hospital kicked off its second annual Fit For Life Weight Loss Challenge, a structured support program aimed at helping clients facilitate an improvement in their pets’ overall physical condition. The goal is for each participant to significantly improve his or her body condition over the course of the four-month challenge through a closely monitored diet and exercise program. Last year, 2 of our 3 participants reached their body condition goals.  This year, we have 2 canine participants and 4 feline participants.  Please stop by the office and check out their accomplishments on our Fit For Life Challenge bulletin board.

Why has the staff at Columbia Animal Hospital sounded this call to action?  Many pets today are seriously overweight.  This is a form of malnutrition and has consequences.  Aside from lack of energy and difficulty with movement, overweight and obese pets are at a significantly increased risk of such health issues as arthritis, diabetes and liver disease.  These diseases are uncomfortable for the animal, can be costly to treat, and contribute greatly to shortened life spans for our furry companions.  Monitoring pets’ portions and instituting healthy lifestyle habits can reduce a pet’s risk of becoming overweight, thus minimizing their risk for developing obesity related conditions.  The same things that can improve our health can be applied to our pets.

Participants for the Columbia Animal Hospital Fit For Life Challenge are chosen based on several factors, including age and overall health.  In addition to bi-weekly recheck appointments with Dr. Flaum to monitor progress, each challenger receives specially formulated prescription food compliments of Nestle-Purina and the Iams Company.  Basic obedience classes for our canine challengers make exercising easier and more enjoyable for everyone.  Of course, each dog is dressed for success in new leash and collar sets provided by the Waterloo Feed Store.  Cats receive several new toys to peak their interest in physical activity.  Each pet that reaches his or her personal fitness goals will receive 6 months of parasite preventive, courtesy of Novartis Animal Health and Pfizer.  

It is never too late to start your favorite furry friend down the road to a longer, healthier, more active life today.  Speak with Dr. Flaum about exercise and dietary recommendations for your individual pet.  For more information about the Fit For Life Challenge, contact us at 281-7161.