When your dog puts on the pounds is a diet pill the answer?

Veterinarians* estimate that some 40 per cent of dogs in Europe are overweight, with about 10 per cent clinically obese. It seems Britain's increasing tendency towards being fat is spreading to man's best friend. Now there's even a drug to help dogs slim.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have recently licensed Slentrol, the first diet drug for dogs. This prescription drug will manage the obesity in dogs by reducing appetite and fat absorption to produce weight loss.

Chris Jones, publisher of www.petclubuk.com, the fact packed information website that offers advice and tons of tips on how to keep your dog happy and healthy, says "The best form of medicine is the prevention of obesity rather than its treatment. Pet owners are killing their dogs with kindness; their excess weight is the result of too many snacks and treats.

"The key to shifting the flab from around your hound is a light diet, backed by regular daily exercise. Treats should be given sparingly, and only as a reward for good behaviour".

To help ensure that dogs live a healthy and contented life, PetClub UK recommends the latest generation of dog foods that not only provide lighter nutrition for overweight dogs but are formulated to support joint health. This is critical as dogs grow older and become more prone to being overweight.

Berrimans Senior/Light Plus dog food, available to order online from www.petclubuk.com is recommended for the less active/ older dog as extra care is required when your dog approaches their senior years. This product has a balance of omega 3 and omega 6 for healthy skin and glossy coat. It also contains Vetoxan which helps boosts and maintain a strong healthy immune system.

PetClub UK's Chris Jones says; "Responsible feeding and regular exercise are absolute necessities if a dog's weight is to be kept at a healthy level. Much as we love our pets, and enjoy sharing our lives with them, dog owners need to understand that our friends' needs are very different to our own.

"Owners of overweight dogs tend to be more concerned with the amount of food they offer than whether or not the dog is receiving a balanced diet. What is most important, however, is that your dog is given the right type of food".

Visit www.petclubuk.com to join in forum discussions about overweight dogs and for a range of healthy dog foods including: Berrimans Senior/Light Plus - priced £30.86 15kg. The shop includes an innovative facility to set-up a convenient bi-weekly, weekly or monthly recurring order for frequently used products.

*Dr Alex German, MRCVS, from the Pet Obesity Clinic at the University of Liverpool.