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Dear Dr. Wise: Ginger, our six-year-old beagle, is getting fat. She usually gains some weight during the winter but, until this year, she loses it over the summer. Is being overweight a problem for dogs? Should we put her on a diet or do all dogs get fat as they get old?

Answer: Obesity is as unhealthy for our canine friends as it is for us. Dogs and cats have the same organ systems that we have and they function best in a slim and trim body. As in humans, excess weight adversely affects an animal's heart, liver, kidneys joints, and immune system.

Recognizing that Ginger has a problem is the first step toward proper treatment. As long as you can easily feel a dog's ribs beneath its skin, you know the animal probably is at a health weight. But when those ribs disappear beneath a mound of flesh, it is time to implement a diet and exercise routine.

The cause of obesity is simple - too much food and not enough exercise. Putting a dog on a diet must be done very carefully. You will have to cut back the quantity she eats. Do this very gradually and be sure you are using a high quality food. If you are going to try to increase Ginger's exercise, do this very gradually also. Daily walks and short games of fetch are good but be careful no to stress her excessively at first.

This obesity problem can be prevented. Just cut back on the amount you feed Ginger as you notice her gaining weight. Some house pets, if allowed to, will always eat too much. Many dogs that must have their food limited to stay trim will act hungry just as soon as they finish their meal. Those pets can have their daily food divided into two meals and be put on a diet high in fiber which will make them more content.

Your efforts to control Ginger's weight will add years to her life and help keep her active and alert as she becomes a senior citizen.

If you have any question about your pet, write to Dr. Wise, Indiana Veterinary Medical Association, 201 S. Capitol Ave. Ste. 405, Indianapolis, IN 46225, or visit www.invma.org. A public service with the aim of promoting animal health.

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