Britains fattest pets set to battle it out in weight-loss championships

Tuesday, 18th November 2008

Written by Francesca Cookney

We all like to look our best for the party season and with the festivities very nearly upon us, even Britain's pets are going on a slimming spree.

Animal charity PDSA has set up Pet Fit Club after statistics showed that around 30 per cent of the UK's dogs are overweight or even obese. "PDSA is extremely concerned about the rising numbers of obese pets," said the charity's Senior Veterinary Surgeon, Sean Wensley.

"The aim of PDSA Pet Fit Club is to encourage owners to think about the food and exercise they are giving their pets to ensure they are healthy."

Many pet owners reportedly admit to spoiling their animals, not least at Christmas, and "don't realise they are actually killing their pets with kindness," said Dr Wensley. Seven dogs and one cat have been selected to partake in a 100-day diet and fitness regime with the chance to be crowned the Pet Fit Club champion while the owner will be awarded a 'pet-friendly' holiday in Wales.

Bruce Brine's cat, Tinks, weighed over 11kg when he first adopted him six years ago. He has been given a personal fitness plan and diet to help Tinks achieve his goal weight. The eight animals have a combined weight of 191 kg and must lose a combined total of 74kg – the equivalent weight to David Beckham – in order to be considered healthy.

Please add your comment here. Your Name *: Email (private) *: Town : Country :

Quick Links