
|Articles|April 14, 2011
ClinQuiz: Is this pet overweight? (Sponsored by Nestlé Purina) Answer 4) C
Author(s)Ernest E. Ward Jr., DVM
ClinQuiz: Is this pet overweight? (Sponsored by Nestlé Purina)) Answer 4) C
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4) C — Correct!
This dog demonstrates all of the classic characteristics of a lean, fit, and normal-weight dog, (BCS 5). Many clients will classify this dog as thin when in reality this dog is quite normal. Based on Association for Pet Obesity Prevention and industry surveys, pet owners often misjudge their pet’s weight. Having always had overweight or obese pets, they can no longer accurately assess the normal state. Sadly, pet owners tend to classify overweight and obese pets as normal. As veterinary professionals, we must educate clients on what is a normal weight. Client awareness and education are our two main tools in the fight against pet obesity.
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