Overweight rescue

[DozeyTwonk]

Hi looking for advice on dogs losing weight and pet insurance. We are thinking of taking on a rather chubby 5 year old springer. Just wonders how long it would take home to slim down with 2 hour walk off lead and very strict diet. Also would we have to declare this for insurance?

[Wolfiefan]

If it isn’t used to long walks then start more gently. Is there any reason you need to do it quickly? I would cut down food but not severely. (Plus you may need treats with a new rescue!)

[missbattenburg]

It is not needed for insurance purposes so take your time and bring his weight down slowly. Strict diet is unlikely to be needed (unless medical reasons), just an appropriate amount of high quality food and plenty of fresh air and exercise. As wolfie says, build up the amount of exercise in case he's not used to it.

[DozeyTwonk]

Thanks. Yes you are right and I'm not sure why I want rapid weight loss (probably thinking about myself!). We are going to take him in a walk and see how we get in with him. We've just lost our best boy so missing doggy company desperately. He seems like a lovely dog so fingers crossed!

[Wolfiefan]

Good luck.

[DogInATent]

Build up the exercise, and rather than be strict about the diet for rapid weightloss, just be aware of how much is being fed so that you can adjust that amount accordingly. Use a scoop/cup for dry food so you've got a measure to work to.

Our rescue staffy was a little overweight and the vet gave us a target weight just over 2kg less than the starting weight. We're just a bit above that now and it didn't take a huge adjustment in what we were feeding her.

Regular weigh-ins give you feedback on how you're doing.

[DozeyTwonk]

That's good to know - my weight loss is so rubbish that I can't imagine doing it for a dog. Maybe we can lose the kilos together!

[Nesssie]

Mix in low calorie food such as carrots to bulk out his meals