It's Not a Diet...It's a Lifestyle Change

We're not waiting for Monday to start our new health program in our house.  We have become lazy and overweight and need to get a grip NOW!  This is my vow to my dogs that we will eat less (and better) and get more exercise!

The Food Plan: I don't plan to feed any type of weight loss dog food.  Our vet did not recommend it.  He said it mainly causes a lot of "elimination".  He, and we, believe we can control calories using our current dog food.  I also don't think we are over feeding our dogs at meals.  I think our main issue with food is in the "treat" department.  I want to cut back on milkbones, not cut out, and incorporate some low calorie treat options like carrots.  I even want to start making some of my own homemade low calorie treats.  We do feed a small amount (about 1/4 can) of wet canned food during the dinnertime meal.  I want to gradually move to a homemade wet option for this meal.  Something human grade and fresh.   I am also someone who feeds my dog safe human food too often from our dinner scraps.  I plan to cut this to a minimum as well and only give them what I prepare just for them.  I assume this will be a work in progress, but we'll get there!

The Exercise Plan: It is a very hot summer in our area right now.  Our dogs get far fewer walks this time of year unfortunately.  I think I can squeak some more exercise out of them later in the evenings when the sun goes down though.  I plan to play for a bit outside with them, where their kiddie pool is standing by when needed.  Neither of our boys loves to play fetch for any length of time, but as long as I am wandering around the yard, so will they.  One game they never tire of is chasing a laser red light.  Usually these are marketed for cats, but my dogs LOVE this game!  I just have to be sure I don't run them into a tree!  (If anyone plans to try one, just be careful not to shine it in the dog's face)

Wish us luck!  We'll keep you posted!