Published: May 30, 2008 10:14 pm         

Biggest Loser Pet Contest to begin Monday

NIMITZ — If your pet needs an added incentive to get in shape for the summer, New River Animal Hospital might have just the prize package that will get Fido and Fluffy up and moving.

Dr. Connie Hyler-Both and her staff will host a biggest loser pet contest with weigh-ins for dogs Monday and for cats Tuesday. Canines and felines will be confronted with the dreaded scales from 6 to 7 p.m. each day.

“We wanted to do something that would promote better health for our pets,” said Hyler-Both, who has become concerned about the increase in the number of overweight and obese pets. “About 40 percent of the animals in the United States are overweight, and about 25 percent are obese.”

Carrying around an excess amount of weight has been shown to shorten the lives of cats and dogs as much as two years, she said.

“Just as with humans, obesity contributes to diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and other joint problems, liver disease and other ailments.”

Although she counsels pet owners about these health concerns, not many take her advice to heart.

“We thought the biggest loser pet contest would not only generate participation, but would give us an opportunity to let pet owners see the difference some lifestyle changes can make for their animals.”

Owners will be given ample information about the rules of the contest, including specifics about the diet and exercise program and the necessity for weigh-ins. Each owner will be expected to sign a contract that includes all the pertinent information.

“This will help give all contestants an equal chance,” Hyler-Both said. “In order for this to be fair, we need all the participants to follow the rules and keep up with the weigh-ins when they are scheduled.”

Weight loss will be determined by the percentage of weight lost, so animals of all sizes have an even shot at the grand prize, she said.

“We have the software to design an individual plan for each animal. We can also calculate the percentages of weight loss, so a Chihuahua will have the same chance as a Great Dane.”

On the first visit, the vet will assess whether each animal qualifies as being overweight.

“Sometimes, owners just don’t know what their cat or dog should look like. They think the animal is just big-boned,” Hyler-Both said. “Hopefully, as they see the pictures and see the difference as their pet loses weight, it will inspire them to keep their pet at a healthy weight.”

Animals will not be given any weight management drugs. They will, however, be required to follow an eating plan designed for them using Purina OM food.

The grand prize is a basket of items worth more than $200. Second-place winners in the dog and cat categories will receive a $50 gas card.

The contest will last for three months, and the winners will be announced Sept. 2.

For more information, call 466-0251.

— E-mail: bdavis@register-herald.com