Warns of overweight pets

The arrival of a very overweight cat at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home has prompted advice on moderation and exercise.

The Battersea Dogs & Cats Home in Brands Hatch were alarmed by the arrival of Nicky the cat in June 2011. The eleven year old weighed in at nearly 10kg, almost twice his ideal weight and equivalent to that of a King Charles Spaniel. His weight problem was so severe that he could not wash himself and had to be cleaned by the cattery staff.

Overweight pets are a growing problem. It has been estimated that half of all pet dogs in the UK could be overweight by 2013 and the owner of a Border Collie was prosecuted for animal welfare offences in May 2009 after failing to safeguard his pet’s health by improving his diet. The obesity rate for cats is currently one in four, but this figure is rising fast.

Happily, Nicky responded well to Battersea’s care over a 147 day period and has now found a new home. His new owner, Carmel Ballantyne, explains: “He’s been running up and down the stairs and jumping onto window sills, and is definitely shifting the weight. He is on an obesity management diet and really loves his food, but is enjoying it in moderation.”

Sharon Weller, Cattery Animal Welfare and Rehoming Assistant, says: “Older cats still love exploring and playing games, so this is just what Nicky needs to slim down. It’s really important that owners encourage their pets to stay active and we are all really happy that Nicky has found his perfect home.”

As with humans, excess weight can be hazardous to an animal’s long-term health. Owners with overweight or obese pets are advised to consult a vet about exercise regimes and moderating their pets’ diet. .

Veterinary profession backs call for dog law overhaul

A new petition has been launched by leading animal charities, the veterinary profession and trade unions to call on the Government to deliver on its assurances and overhaul dog laws, and bring forward new legislation in the Queen’s Speech.

A total of twenty organisations, including the British Veterinary Association and leading charities such as the RSPCA and Dogs Trust, have launched the petition, which would instigate a House of Commons debate if more than 100,000 sign.

Despite last year’s Defra consultation on dangerous dogs, the Government’s assurances to discuss the topic have yet to be carried out. The petition asks that the Government bring forward a Bill in the Queen’s Speech next year which will consolidate and update dog control legislation.

It is hoped a new Bill would have a greater preventative effect by focussing on owner responsibility, and giving greater flexibility and discretion to enforcers and the courts, and enhance dog welfare.

The petition can be found at http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/2263.