Excessive food intake and excess weight gain is a growing problem in human and canine populations. Obesity is the most common nutritional disorder in dogs and cats, affecting up to half of animal companions. Obesity is also the most common nutritional disorder of human beings in developed countries.
For many people, the decline in daily physical activity along with eating patterns of increased caloric intake results in weight gain and development of overweight or obesity. Studies have shown that people have become obsessed with dieting. Over 64% of adults express a desire to lose weight, yet despite this desire to lose weight and billions of dollars being spent on diet books, the statistics continue to demonstrate no improvement in the increasing number of people affected by this complex multifactorial problem.
It is well-known that obesity influences health and the wellbeing of people and animals. Despite decades of research attempting to understand the risk factors, causes, and interventions for prevention and treatment, obesity remains a serious concern for people and companion animals. In the past 30 years, the prevalence of obesity in both people and animals has increased despite substantial efforts to address the problem. Interventions that address multiple components such as diet, physical activity and behavioral have shown the highest efficacy. However, long-term maintenance of weight loss remains the most significant challenge.
It is clear that we need creative ideas to address the rising obesity rates. Because obesity in both human and companion animals, shares common causes and treatment recommendations, a group of researchers evaluated the effectiveness of a combined people and pets weight loss program. The study demonstrated that overweight owners and their overweight companion animals could lose weight together. It also showed that companion dogs can serve as social support during the weight loss period. The study encourages combining treatment efforts to address obesity in dog owners and their pets.
The human-companion animal bond can be leveraged to create programs that promote physical activity in people and their pets with obesity. Dog walking has been shown to be a motivator for human physical activity, with health benefits to both the dog and the owner. Unquestionably employing a combined human pet program would provide an innovative approach to prevent and treat obesity. Realizing the potential of combined people and pets weight loss programs will require the leadership of a committed group of like-minded individuals representing the scientific and medical community.
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