Let's Talk About Pet Obesity

A large black dog sits on a couch next to a bowl of food, looking content and relaxed in its cozy environment.

We know how much you love your pets - and how much we love to treat them, Puppacinos, Doggy Ice Cream, Dreamies… But sometimes, all that love can add up... literally.

Pet obesity is a growing problem we’re seeing more and more in our pet community, and it’s not just about a few extra kilos. Just like in people, carrying too much weight can seriously impact your pet’s health and happiness.

But don’t worry - we’re not here to judge. We're here to help.

Is Your Pet Overweight?

You’re not alone if you’ve ever wondered, "Is my pet a little too chunky?"

It can be tricky to tell, especially when weight gain happens slowly over time. Here are a few signs your dog or cat might be overweight:

You can’t easily feel their ribs under a thin layer of fat
They’ve lost their waist or their shape looks more round than tapered
They’re panting more on walks or seem to tire quickly
You’ve noticed difficulty jumping or moving like they used to
Their collar or harness is getting snug

If any of these sound familiar, it might be time for a quick weight check. We’ll gently assess their body condition and talk you through what’s normal - and what’s not.

Why It Matters

We know those extra rolls can be cute, but unfortunately, excess weight can lead to serious health problems in pets, including:

Arthritis and joint pain
Diabetes
Heart disease
Breathing difficulties
Reduced lifespan

Our goal is to help your pet live the happiest, healthiest life possible - a healthy weight plays a huge part in that.

The Common Culprits

Pet obesity isn’t just about overfeeding. It’s often a mix of:

Too many treats (we get it—those eyes are hard to resist!)
High-calorie foods or frequent “human food” snacks
Not enough exercise
Underlying medical issues (like thyroid conditions)
Being neutered, which can lower metabolism

The good news? It’s manageable - and you don’t have to figure it out alone.

What You Can Do

Here’s how you can start helping your pet slim down safely:

Schedule a Weight Check: We’ll weigh your pet, assess their condition, and create a plan together.
Measure Their Meals: No more guessing—use measuring cups or a kitchen scale for accuracy.
Cut Back on Treats: Treats should make up no more than 10% of daily calories. We can help you choose lower-calorie options.
Get Moving: Add more playtime, walks, or enrichment games to their daily routine.
Switch to a Weight Management Diet: There are specially formulated diets that help pets feel full while cutting calories.
Track Progress: We’ll cheer you on at every weigh-in. Small changes can make a big difference!

We’re With You Every Step

At Tribe Vets we understand that managing your pet’s weight can feel overwhelming at first. But remember, you’re not alone, and every step toward a healthier weight is a step toward a longer, more comfortable life for your furry friend.

Let’s work together to help them feel their best, inside and out.