Posts in Category: Exercise Nutrition & Obesity

We all know how important a good diet is to our overall health and longevity. When it comes to the best information on pet nutrition, who better to look to than your own Arlington Animal Hospital? Healthy pets are what we do, and we know all about the nutritional needs of pets and how to help them thrive.

If you’ve got a chonky Chow Chow or a tubby tabby, you aren’t alone. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, an estimated 56 percent of dogs and 60 percent of cats in the United States are overweight.

We understand that, as a pet parent, you may not know what an appropriate weight is for your pet’s specific breed and age, which is one reason why regular checkups are so important. At Arlington Animal Hospital, we weigh your pet at every visit, and if necessary, we will recommend a dog weight management program that is geared toward the weight control needs of your individual dog. 

The holidays are all about giving, and our waistlines are the visual receipt. If your pants seem to be a bit tighter than last month, there’s a good reason. Chocolates, pies, cookies, boozy drinks, and fatty meats are to blame for human holiday pounds, but how can we account for weight gain in pets? It has to do with making time for regular pet exercise opportunities, every single day. 

Pets seem to have a special antenna just for the sound of cheese exiting the refrigerator. Like us, they savor sweet, salty, fatty cheeses that we bring home. And why wouldn’t they? Cheese is creamy, delicious, satisfying and unlike anything else in the world. 

Many pets sneak cheese or receive it as a treat, but just because they like it, it doesn’t mean they should eat it on a regular basis.

Delicate Balance

Pets can be incredibly intolerant of lactose and cannot properly digest the sugars found in dairy products. As a result, pets should not eat large quantities of cheese or consume it as part of their routine. Watch out for stomach upset, diarrhea or reluctance to engage in normal daily activities.

The weather is slowly shifting from hot and humid to slightly less hot and humid, and this has nature lovers excited to spend some quality time outdoors with their canine companions. Virginia is home to an extensive network of hiking trails, and the many dog friendly Arlington area trails are sure to keep you and your pooch busy this summer.

Dog Friendly Arlington Trails

Whether you and your dog are seasoned hikers or you just like to enjoy a leisurely walk in nature, there’s no shortage of options in our neck of the woods. Some of our favorites include:

• Fort Bennett Park and Palisades Trail – This well-developed trail in a city park offers 11 acres of lovely woods and open space.
• Windy Run Park – Wooded nature paths and a bubbling stream make for an enjoyable afternoon at this park (just keep your dog out of the stream, as it’s being restored due to erosion).
• Theodore Roosevelt Island – Enjoy a variety of trails and beautiful scenery in this popular 90-acre island park.
• Donaldson Run Park – This is a beautiful secluded area with a pond and paved walking paths.
• Four Mile Run Trail – This trail features over 6 miles of paved walking paths in a natural setting (watch out for bikers and inline skaters).
• Turkey Run Trail – You won’t actually see any wild turkeys along this moderately difficult trail, but gorgeous wildflowers and a lovely streamside hike are guaranteed.
• Scott’s Run Nature Preserve Trails – If you like waterfalls, you don’t want to miss this secluded trail.
• Mason Neck State Park – This family friendly park boasts trails, ponds, a playground, and a fishing area.

Lastly, don’t forget to pick up after your dog!

Heat Safety 101

In comparison to humans, dogs are at a higher risk for dehydration and heat stroke, so pet heat safety is a must when out walking or hiking:

• Take frequent water breaks in the shade, and bring along bottled water and a collapsible bowl.
• Walk in shaded or grassy areas whenever possible to avoid injuring your dog’s paw pads (hot pavement or concrete can lead to burns!).
• On the hottest days, stick to early morning or evening walks when temperatures are lower.
• Watch your dog closely; stop immediately and move to a shaded area if you notice any signs of heat distress, such as excessive panting/drooling, stumbling, bright red or pale gums, lethargy, or collapse. Call us right away.

What are your favorite dog friendly Arlington trails and parks? Post a picture to our social media page or let us know during your next wellness exam. Happy trails!