Natural Dog Weight Loss

Hello everyone, it's Dr. Nicole Rous here. Today, we're diving into a concern that has been plaguing a significant number of our four-legged family members—obesity. A staggering 40% of dogs in Australia are overweight. Carrying extra weight isn't just a cosmetic issue; it's a ticking time bomb of health complications for your fur baby. If this resonates with you, then keep reading.

The Harsh Reality

Carrying extra kilos may seem innocuous, but in the long run, it can spell serious trouble for your dog. Overweight dogs are at a heightened risk for a host of health issues like diabetes, joint problems, and cardiovascular diseases. The extra weight is not just a burden on their body but also a strain on their overall well-being, leading to reduced mobility and even behavioural issues. The situation becomes more complex when you consider that many commercial dog foods are laden with artificial additives and high-caloric ingredients that contribute to the weight problem. Ignoring this issue could lead to a declining quality of life for your pet and even shorten their lifespan.

The Cornerstone of Good Health

Before we dive into our nutrient-packed recipe, it's essential to mention that the cornerstone of good health is a fresh food diet. This not only includes nutrient-rich meals but also habits like chewing raw meaty bones and brushing your dog's teeth. Speaking of dental care, have you tried Shy Tiger's Natural Dog Toothpaste? It's a fantastic product that complements a holistic approach to your pet's well-being.

All-Natural Weight Loss: The Way Forward

Now, onto the good stuff. The solution lies in your own kitchen. I'm thrilled to share with you one of my favourite weight-loss recipes for dogs, composed entirely of natural and fresh ingredients. This meal is not only delicious but also nutritious, providing all the essential elements your dog needs to shed those extra kilos healthily.

Ingredients:

• 500g kangaroo meat (finely chopped or minced)
• 500g chicken necks (ideally, turkey necks)
• 75g beef liver
• 75g beef kidney
• 25g finely chopped capsicum (red pepper)
• 25g smashed and chopped blueberries
• 25g cooked and chopped spinach
• 25g cooked and chopped mushrooms
• 50g cooked pumpkin (or sweet potato)
• One boiled egg (chopped)
• 7.5g cod liver oil
• 5g kelp powder
• 10g cinnamon
• 50g hemp seeds

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat: Begin by mincing or finely chopping the kangaroo meat and chicken necks. If you're opting for turkey necks, these will be larger.

2. Organ Delights: Add in the beef liver and kidney, nature's multivitamins for your pet.

3. Veggie Mix: Stir in the finely chopped capsicum, blueberries, cooked spinach, cooked mushrooms, and cooked pumpkin or sweet potato.

4. Egg & Supplements: Incorporate the chopped boiled egg, cod liver oil, kelp powder, and cinnamon into the mix.

5. The Finishing Touch: To round out the meal, sprinkle in the hemp seeds.

6. Mix It All Together: Thoroughly mix all the ingredients. You can either finely grind the meal for consistency or leave it as is if your dog enjoys the texture.

Feeding Guidelines

For a dog weighing about 25 kilos who's aiming for meaningful weight loss, we recommend feeding approximately 400 grams of this meal per day. If you're looking to maintain your dog's healthy weight with this nutritious recipe, you can offer up to 700 grams per day. The best part? Our recommendation is that you feed once per day. This aligns with natural feeding rhythms and can aid in digestion and weight loss.

Switching your dog to this all-natural, nutrient-packed meal is more than a diet change; it's a lifestyle adjustment aimed at long-term health and happiness. Plus, it fits perfectly with Shy Tiger's commitment to natural and holistic pet health. Trust me, your dog will be wagging its tail in gratitude.

Until next time, be well and treasure each moment with your furry companions.

Warm regards, Dr. Nicole Rous of Mont Albert Veterinary Surgery and Shy Tiger