She started getting chunky around her mid-section. Then I noticed a good size fat roll behind her collar. I knew I had to do something when I saw her waddling, not walking, down the stairs.
The impossible has happened - my trim, in shape, always on-the-go herding dog has gained weight. The question is: How much?
Today I loaded her in the backseat of my car and took her down to the vet clinic for a weight check. Like any lady, she didn't want to step on the doggy sized scale in the front office. I pushed her hefty body with my leg and forced her to sit on the scale. She did so with shame. I almost couldn't believe the number that popped up. 58 pounds. 58!!!! That's a 10 pound gain since we moved to the desert. Canine obesity is a growing problem in the U.S. and apparently I'm a big contributor.
I know exactly how she got fat and the reason is twofold: 1. Dumpster Diving. The trash is right at Pep level and she never hesitates to dive right in. Peanut butter jars, butter wrappers, yogurt containers... nothing is NOT a treat. 2. Family members who dispense treats on an hourly basis. They deny it, but I know what they're doing.
And, I hate to admit, this one's my fault - I don't take her on enough walks. We used to walk everyday. Now she's lucky if I can make it a couple times a week. Bro and Bro's GF have done some legwork with her, but they don't go everyday. I figured her daily play session with the Critter were enough. Totally wrong.
We must meet this problem head on! Which is why I've posted signs around the house (The actual sign is posted above). I hope I don't embarrass my dear puppy, but she has to be stopped! I resolve to monitor her eating habits more closely and take her on as many walks as possible. It's my job to save her.
Pep's fighting weight is 48.5 pounds - Wish us luck!
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