This annual competition looks for South Africa’s most successful pet slimmer, a previously portly dog or cat who has reached their target weight on a veterinary supervised weight management programme.

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And if you think a bit of extra ‘padding’ helps keep your pet warm during winter, but experts say the reverse may be true, and being overweight can cause serious health problems.

“Fat doesn’t necessarily insulate well,” says veterinarian Dr Guy Fyvie, spokesman for the Hill’s Pet Slimmer programme.

“And because overweight pets have poorer circulation they are likely to feel the cold more. There is no benefit to getting fatter when it’s cold, but losing weight can give relief to stiff and sore joints. Don’t feel guilty about putting your pet on a diet, it is one of the best things you can do for their health and well-being at any time of the year.”

South African vets say that about half the animals they treat weigh more than is healthy. And because these excess kilos cause major health problems, including arthritis, diabetes, cancer and heart disease, hundreds of veterinary practices around the country are now running special pet slimmer clinics for their super-size patients.

The Hill’s Pet Slimmer programme combines regular weigh-ins and professional support with a therapeutic diet that helps overweight animals lose weight humanely; it contains a special fibre that helps the pet feel fuller for longer and prevents hunger pangs.

Successful pet slimmers are eligible to enter the national Hill’s Pet Slimmer of the Year Competition, and could win their owner a tropical island holiday. George, a Dachshund from Durban, won in 2006, by losing almost half his bodyweight (46.7%), slimming from an obese 16.5kgs to a sleek and healthy 8.8kgs.

Owner Christy Ovenstone said that before losing weight George slept all day, unable to jump on the beds or couch. “These days he can jump with ease and runs around the garden chasing birds, moles and dragonflies. He no longer limps and is full of life. He’s like a puppy again.”

It is hard to be objective about those we love, so Dr Fyvie suggests you ask your vet to check your pet’s weight and advise on a feeding plan.

For more details speak to your vet or call the toll-free Hill’s Careline on 0800 228 783. Entries for the 2007 Hill’s Pet Slimmer of the Year close on 31 August, but overweight pets can register on the Hill’s Pet Slimmer programme at any time of the year.

(Press release, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, August 2007)

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