KIRKSVILLE, Mo. – It’s very important for dog owners to keep their furry friends healthy and physically active.
The American Veterinary Medical Association reports over 40% of Americans own a dog.
April is Canine Fitness Month and like humans, many dogs suffer from a sedentary lifestyle from owners not providing them with proper amount of exercise.
Doctors say something as small as a 15-minute walk a day can make a big difference.
“Of course, the number one is obesity,” said Veterinarian and Owner of Kirksville Small Animal Hospital Randy Miller. “50% of the dogs in America are overweight and 30% are considered obese, but beyond obesity you can get a whole mess of mental illnesses too. Anxiety, aggression, even depression.”
On top of sore joints, extra weight on dogs can lead to difficulty breathing, a higher risk of cancer, canine diabetes and other diseases.
