Spud, an eleven year old Kelpie cross from Hamersley, has won the state title of the 2008 Hill's Pet Slimmer of the Year.
According to a recent survey called "Australia's Future Fat Bomb", Australia is the fattest nation in the world and our pets may not be far behind, as it is estimated that approximately 41% of all dogs and one-third of cats are either overweight or obese. And of concern, obesity is now the most common form of malnutrition in pets.
So, in tackling this epidemic, the nation's premier pet slimmer competition, the Hill's Pet Slimmer of The Year, launched by pet food company Hill's Pet Nutrition ten years ago, raises awareness of the serious problem of pet obesity.
Spud before - 36.2kgWeighing 36.2 kilograms, eleven year old Spud had been enjoying two hot home cooked meals a day, before his loving owners realised they were not giving him a balanced diet. In fact he was substantially overweight and had developed arthritis.
"I decided to take Spud to our local veterinary hospital, as he really started to slow down and began to show signs of pain when walking. I was very concerned for our faithful companion. Spud underwent a full examination, blood tests and x-rays and we were advised his joints simply could not sustain his weight," said Spud's owner, Corrine Rowbotham.
Vetwest Carine, veterinary Nurse Yvette Hughes enrolled Spud in the Pet Slimmer Program which consisted of a lifestyle change including an exercise regime, feeding Hill's Prescription DietTM Canine r/dTM to reduce Spud's calorie intake and regular weigh ins.
Spud after - 28.8kgIn the following months with the help of veterinary nurse Yvette and dedicated owners, he shed 7.4 kilograms or an amazing 20 per cent of his body weight.
"Spud is now on his way to enjoying his twilight years in good health. I have even lost over 2 kilograms myself from all the walks and I didn't realise just how much work it was cooking for him; I now just simply give him a cup and a half of Hill's pet food morning and night," said Mrs Rowbotham.
Like many domestic dogs and cats, Spud's pre-competition diet included treats and left-over table scraps. An owners' over-generosity with food is very common, however can have harmful implications for pets.
"The best way to spoil a pet is with affection-not titbits," said Hill's veterinarian Dr Karen Johnston. "Shortened life expectancy, arthritis, heart and respiratory problems, diabetes, cancer and pancreatitis are all associated with increased weight", she added.
Spud has maintained his healthy weight since finishing the program and entering the competition in October this year. He also has a new lease on life and continues to enjoy his new active lifestyle. As a state winner, Spud has won a year's supply of nutritionally balanced Hill's pet food formulated to maintain weight.
