West Valley’s

Pet’s Biggest Loser

All-Star Animal Hospital is teaming up with West Valley Magazine to get your dogs in shape and healthy. Studies show that 20–40 percent of all pets are overweight or obese in the United States.

Obesity is not just a nuisance; it has been linked to several serious health problems. The extra body weight increases mechanical stress on joints, contributing to cartilage and bone damage leading to arthritis. These extra pounds also cause a decrease in lung expansion, which can contribute to exercise intolerance. Obese dogs are more prone to heatstroke due to increased insulation from excess fat and decreased ventilation.
You can tell if your dog is overweight if it is difficult to feel its ribs or spine and have difficulty seeing it’s waist.

During a six-month program that kicks off in January, you and your dog will participate in visits to dog parks in the west valley, hikes with your dog, obedience training, shopping with your dog in a pet friendly enviornment at Park West, a cook-out at Lake Pleasant where you and your pet can take a dip in the lake, agility/Frisbee competitions, water play days and watch a baseball game together at Goodyear Ballpark, among many more.

Opening the event will be an induction at All-Star Animal Hospital, where there will be giveaways from local sponsors, before the dogs enter into a full-on grooming experience. All-Star Animal Hospital will keep track of your dog's weight and measurements, holding weigh-in events once a month.

To participate in this event with your pet, the entry fee is $75 a month for the six-month program. Food and treats will be provided throughout the program, along with full physical exams and labwork, to ensure your pet is healthy. Please contact Dr. Kara Ericksen at All-Star Animal Hospital at 623-546-0202 if you are interested in leading your furry friend to a fit and healthy lifestyle.

Click here to participate