The Purina "Life Span Study"

A plump dog is...an unhealthy dog. Of course, we all know that even a small amount of excess weight can be harmful to the health and well-being of anyone, human or pet. Obesity is the most common health threat seen in dogs, contributing to metabolic conditions that affect internal organs, including the heart, liver and thyroid. With the problems normally associated with aging, such as decreasing activity, and weight gain, it is even more important to monitor the caloric intake of your pet to avoid further complications of excess weight. This is particularly detrimental in large breed dogs, which are genetically predisposed to have a shortened life span, and serious health problems like hip dysplasia and arthritis.

The 14-year Purina Life Span study showed that dogs fed "lean" (25% less food than the littermates) had an average life span 15% longer, and were considerably healthier than their littermates. With this information, and the help of your veterinarian, you have the power to dramatically alter the course of your pet's life -- giving them a longer, healthier life!

The study found that dogs fed to achieve and maintain an "ideal" body condition lived a median of 1.8 years (7+ dog years) longer. They had lower insulin and glucose levels, and they had a median 2 year delay in the treatment of chronic disease. Treatment for Osteoarthritis, the most common chronic disease observed in this study, was delayed by an average of 3 years in the lean-fed dogs! That is really significant -- A three-year-delay in having to treat your dog with analgesics adds up to big savings, but more importantly, it gives your pet a better quality of life.

The emphasis on wellness care is evermore an important part of medicine, and starting from puppyhood with the right nutrition and healthcare is the best way to guarantee a healthy pet. Adult dogs present a different problem since the length of time a dog is overweight is a huge factor in the onset and severity of certain health conditions that can adversely affect a dog's health, and may even cause premature death. What may be surprising is that pets do not have to be "obese" to experience weight-related health problems, shortened life span, and reduced quality of life.

While avoiding obesity is the best approach to good health, it is often a problem which quickly overtakes many pets and requires altering the feeding schedule and ration. We have many options available to help you make the best choice for your pet's age and body type. Weight-loss challenges are intimidating even when trying to help your pet trim down just a few pounds -- let us help you select the right food formula to optimize your pet's health.