This is a story about my dog George.  I took George in for a check-up this past March, and I was surprised to find his weight was down 2.8 pounds!  As we become more aware of fat deposits on dogs, it is beneficial for us to monitor that weight so we know exactly what we are dealing with.  Overweight owners have overweight pets because when you snack, they snack, right?  So when we cut back, they cut back.  Fortunately for animals, they don’t do the mindless snacking that goes on for most of the human population in the winter months.  Humans pack on the winter pounds due to hormonal changes related to daylight.  These hormones control our mood and energy levels.

So now we ask ourselves, what must we do to get some results?  Here are some tips from George:

• Cut back on food intake but increase chewing satisfaction.  George would snack on small chew bones with a little peanut butter added.  We can have more fiber like celery with peanut butter or a teaspoon of peanut butter here and there during the day to help the craving, but keep the calories down.
• Snack on high protein snacks more often and leave the biscuits alone.  George was eating turkey meat bites as treats instead of heavy carb-loaded biscuits.  We really cut back George on his treats just the meat snacks about 4 times a day.
• Frequent water drinks!  Hydration is key to overall health.  Your body is made up of mostly water, so it’s important to replenish your fluids often.  Put down the soft drinks and coffee.  Add sliced fruit to your water for a flavor treat and mindfully take water breaks often.
• Frequent 10 minute bursts of energy.  George is a 12 year old border collie, so small walks for 10 minutes 6 times a day worked well-in any weather, rain, snow, cold- get the picture?   No excuses or you don’t feel like it.
• Play and run around the house a few times each day!  Find fun in the small things.  Putting groceries away can be a workout if you’re mindful about it.  Keeps the metabolism going by being creative with your every day routine!
• Get enough rest.  Adult humans need at least 8-9 hours a night for proper digestion, immune health and mental clarity.  Sleep controls the hormone leptin, which signals a decrease in caloric need. Short sleep durations are associated with the release of the hormone, ghrelin, which stimulates the appetite.
• Be mindful of extra treats, and only on occasion.  Keep up an exercise routine also, or the weight comes right back.

Now, you might say you need an owner, but all you really need is a conscience.  And yes, you can teach an old dog new eating habits!!

Vicki Krause Wellness Blog

TAGS     health,  wellness,  dogs,  eating,  habits,  calories,  weight loss,  water,  sleep,  mindful

About the Author

Vicki Krause is a YMCA employee and Wellness Coach and is certified in SilverSneakers cardio-circuit, SilverSneakers yoga stretch, and CPR. She has been a TOPS facilitator for the YMCA for over a year and prior to that a Weight Watchers Leader for over 8 years... 

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