Hello all.Ok, we have a bit of a problem and before starting to correct it, I'd like to get some ideas/suggestions as to what is the best way to approach this.
My yorkie is in good health, except he was diagnosed with mild luxating patula a few months back. He doesnt show signs as in limping or pain, but it could happen any day. He was weighing in at 7,5 lbs at the time.Along with his daily dose of Cosequin, the doc recommended I keep his weight in check because every extra ounce would add stress to his knees.
Due to some problems I had recently, I've been extremely busy and didnt have time to walk him as much.He still goes out 3 times per day (1o minutes in the morning, 10 in the afternoon and 20 minutes at night).We also play a little 5-6 days per week, usually consists of him chasing a tennis ball.He is a picky eater.Diet usually consists of Alpo dry food, canned food maybe 4 times per week, plain chicken breast, a little egg in the morning, and baby carrots a few times per week.As I said, he is very picky and lots of times he refuses to eat his dry or canned food and i cave in and feed him chicken, or something similar, but generally healthy food and no junk. I do not know if I've been feeding him too much, but I checked his weight today and he was at 9,5 lbs.I'm with him every day, and I didnt notice he gained so much until I put him on the scale.The weight gain could be a result of overfeeding and less exercise, I dont know.
Now, I am planning to start some kind of regimen tomorrow. I'd like to hear suggestions or advice from people that went through this, so I can go about it in the best way possible.We are also moving next week, so I know there he will be under some stress, so I'm trying to do this the best way so that I wont contribute to the stress even more.
Should I just buy diet food and walk him for longer? Should I keep feeding him regular food but smaller portions?
Please share your thoughts.Me and Athos want to thank you in advance.
