KNOW YOUR BREED: OBESITY
by Nomi Berger
KNOW that food does NOT equal love. IGs are a slim and fine-boned breed, weighing 10
– 15 pounds. IGs are built for speed and they are athletic dogs. It is essential to have a
nutritious diet and consistent exercise to keep them fit and healthy.
KNOW that overfeeding can lead to obesity and compromised health, including diabetes,
early organ failure, painful joints, heart disease and other unhealthy conditions.
KNOW that a PREMIUM food (primary ingredients of meat or fish, no corn/grain or
fillers) should be fed. The portion for an average IG is generally no more than ONE CUP
PER DAY to ensure that your IG maintains a healthy and consistent weight.
KNOW that snacks can still be given, but choose high quality treats and limit them to
one or two per DAY. There are several wholesome, single-ingredient treats on the
market these days. Many fresh fruits and vegetables can also be fed as nutritious
treats, just make sure to check the Humane Society's list of toxic foods http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/foods_poisonous_to_pets.html?referrer=https://search.yahoo.com/ before giving people
food to your pet.
KNOW that if your IG is already overweight, you should cut back on his food AND treat
intake and increase his exercise. If your IG is not losing those extra pounds with these
changes in place, visit your vet, as low thyroid or other health concerns, could be the
issue. Be honest with your vet as to what you are feeding, how much and how often.
KNOW that, most of all, TIGR is always available to help!
Artiles by Nomi Berger. Nomi is the best selling author of seven novels, one work of non-fiction and two volumes of poetry. She lives in Toronto, Ontario, Canada with her adopted Maltese, Mini, and volunteers her writing skills to animal rescue groups in Canada and the USA.