If dogs were to write out New Year’s Resolutions, they might look something like this: 1. Dig deeper holes 2. Chase more chipmunks and 3. Lobby for more rides in the car. They wouldn’t write 4. Lose those extra pounds.

But obesity is the No. 1 disease affecting our pets.

“As Americans have packed on the pounds, so have the canine and feline companions with whom we share our homes and, occasionally, our meals,” said Dr. Patrick Mahaney, Canine Health Foundation. “Obesity is also the number one disease I diagnose in dogs and cats in my clinical practice, with periodontal disease being the second.”

“Having grown up as an overweight child, and then making a concerted effort to improve my health and fitness in my teenage years and into adulthood, I am passionate about promoting anti-obesity awareness for pets,” he added. “Pet owners must recognize the negative holistic health implications of obesity, as nearly all organ systems suffer under the stress of carrying excess weight.”

Life threatening and potentially irreversible health diseases affect the following systems:

Metabolic - The functional synergy between the kidneys, liver, pancreas, thyroid and adrenal glands is disrupted by obesity.

Cardiovascular and Pulmonary - The heart, blood vessels and lungs are forced to inefficiently function at an elevated capacity when providing oxygen rich blood to excessive body tissue.

Immune - Obesity and lack of activity cause stagnation in the lymphatic system, which reduces fluid drainage and the ability for white blood cells to manage infection.

Musculoskeletal and Nervous - Arthritis (joint inflammation), degenerative joint disease (DJD, the sequela of chronic arthritis), and improper nerve conduction all occur from supporting excess weight.

Dermatologic - Portly pets are less capable of grooming themselves and more prone to skin fold dermatitis (inflammation) and infection (bacteria and yeast).

Gastrointestinal - Inactivity delays peristalsis (involuntary contraction of the intestines), leading to indigestion and constipation.

There are two conditions that indicate your pet is overweight or obese: excess fat covers the ribs, or lack of waistline (when looking down on your pet from above, there is a lack of visible narrowing just behind the last (13th) rib).

What steps can you take if your pet needs to lose weight? First, see your veterinarian to determine if an underlying disease or condition is contributing to the problem. Your vet can also suggest an exercise program.

Just as humans should do when they diet, use calorie restriction and portion control. Feed your pet at the lower end of the manufacturer’s suggested range per body weight. Most importantly, make a commitment to daily exercise – for you and your dog – and set realistic goals. The PPET (People and Pets Exercising Together) study showed that owners who regularly exercised with their dogs were better able to stick with their own workout plan than dog-less participants.

“There is no singular correct food, feeding system, or exercise program that can be employed over your pet’s lifetime,” Dr. Mahaney said. “As your pet ages or is afflicted by illness, its dietary and physical activity needs will change.”