Cordova Animal Medical Center

"Fat Camp"     **please view our information for the 2011 Weight Loss Challenge**

Many of our patients are overweight- some are obese.  While it is easy to talk about weight loss, it is much harder to actually accomplish it.  It should be simple to help our pets lose weight as we are the only ones in control of purchasing the food, chosing the portions, limiting snacks etc.  Owners who are serious and disiplined enought to resist their pet's begging,  can acheive weight loss and long term control with our prescription weight loss diets (Hills R/D diet recommended).  However,   we  also know that in some households,   the above can be near impossible as pets refuse to eat a new diet,  beg incessantly,  and well meaning family members undermine your efforts.   This is why we came up with the idea of boarding for 8 wks to acclimate your pet to the new diet,  start them on a regular exercise program, and teach them to expect healthy treats.   Of course when your pet goes home,  you must continue the diet or they will regain the weight.  But, it gives them a head start,  gives your family a preview of how much better they feel with losing weight,  and is at least something proactive we can do for our obese patients.  Our first  "Fat Camp" candidate,  Fancy, was a resounding success, acheiving 6 lbs of weight loss in 8 wks (Yorkie) - see her pictures below.   8 weeks sounds like a long time,  but it just may be the ticket to saving your pet's life


 Before   Fat Camp :  her knees couldn't support her weight,  she was easily tired:  19.2 lbs


After Fat Camp:   pain free walking, active and could run now!    13 lbs

Update:     5  months post Fat Camp,  Fancy has lost another lb at home,  reaching her goal of 12 lbs!
 
                              
Fat Camp Program:     

                  -Boarding  (25% off regular boarding rates)  at our facility for 8 wks  (no early release allowed)
                  -Daily visitation allowed, but pets cannot leave the building
                  -Twice daily 20 minute exercise sessions
                  -Hill's R/D diet with portions calculated to acheive weight loss
                  -Transition to healthy pet treats (carrots and green beans for people food addicts)