Lola the flabby Labby

[jumstead1023]

Since Lola’s appt with Dr Jeff June 14 she has lost 3 pounds. She will be 11 next month and currently 78.4 pounds. I have been very diligent about reducing her raw and adding in fruits n veggies but doesn’t seem to be helping that much. She is slowing down so increasing exercise is ?? Any ideas or is it just a VERY slow process?

 

[Dr. Jeff]

she has lost 3 pounds.

That's awe-some Judy!!

. She is slowing down so increasing exercise is ??

Snuffling and nose work can help burn calories and increase metabolic rate in even the most sedentary pup.

Any ideas or is it just a VERY slow process?

Yes, it can be very slow.

Patience and perseverance are super important.

3 lbs in under 2 months is great tho!!

 

[jumstead1023]

I am glad that she has lost any weight but my additional concern is her hesitancy to jump into my work vehicle and not sure neck or rear leg soreness. She’s fine otherwise.
They laugh at her when getting weighed because she tries to lean on the wall to make her weigh less! Lol

 

[Dr. Sara]

Dear Judy,
Labs are certainly prone to obesity, even with careful weight control. I second Dr. Jeff's congratulations, and I am including a link to a paper discussing the genetic link to excessive appetite in Labs which contributes to this problem.

Genetic variant may help explain why Labradors are prone to obesity

A genetic variation associated with obesity and appetite in Labrador retrievers – the UK and US’s favourite dog breed – has been identified by scientists at

www.cam.ac.uk

Overweight dogs tend to have stiff joints, so it often helps to give a brisk massage of the neck, back, and legs before asking for any exertion.
I would also suggest using steps to help her get in the vehicle. Even if she CAN make the leap, an 11 year old Lab - especially if spayed or neutered - simply has less ligament elasticity, and is more prone to damaging joints. This is compounded when she is carrying extra weight on those old joints.
I hope this helps!
Sara

 

[jumstead1023]

I have a ramp but it really doesn’t work for my work vehicle but I also got mounting steps (like getting on a horse) and she actually used those today. I also purchased the Luna Soothe 2 for all my dogs. People at work have actually noticed she has a bit more pep in her step.
Thanks

 

[jumstead1023]

Any supplements you recommend?

 

[Dr. Sara]

Obese dogs are stressing their joints, so I recommend joint supplements, as I do for senior dogs. Obesity also results in increased free radicals, so I recommend antioxidants; again, I suggest these for senior dogs as well. Personally I use Super Snouts Joint Power and VetriScience Immune Plus (was Cell Advance). There are many other possible products, and you likely have your favourites!
Dr. Sara

 

[jumstead1023]

Obese dogs are stressing their joints, so I recommend joint supplements, as I do for senior dogs. Obesity also results in increased free radicals, so I recommend antioxidants; again, I suggest these for senior dogs as well. Personally I use Super Snouts Joint Power and VetriScience Immune Plus (was Cell Advance). There are many other possible products, and you likely have your favourites!
Dr. Sara

Thanks

 

[jumstead1023]

Happy 11 birthday to my Lola

 

[Dr. Jeff]

Happy Day Lola! ?

 

[jumstead1023]

Since Lola’s appt with Dr Jeff June 14 she has lost 3 pounds. She will be 11 next month and currently 78.4 pounds. I have been very diligent about reducing her raw and adding in fruits n veggies but doesn’t seem to be helping that much. She is slowing down so increasing exercise is ?? Any ideas or is it just a VERY slow process?

Today weighed 78

 

[Dr. Jeff]

Yay! Little by little!

 

[jumstead1023]

As long as she is going in right direction

 

[Dr. Christina]

Very good for the weight loss, even if slow. As Dr. Sara said, can be a big challenge in labs.
My concern is the slowing down.
Is she getting constitutional treatment from Dr. Jeff?
Maybe an intuitive session (with you or another) as to why she is slowing?
Other energy treatments?
Bemer mat?
Explore the many TTouch and PT exercises for improved mobility.

keep us posted on what makes her peppier.
Dr. Christina

 

[jumstead1023]

Thank you I will. This is Lola volunteering at a funeral. She was there for four hours and was more interactive with people that the others. I think she acts lazy when she is bored.

 

[Dr. Christina]

That is true for so many of us. Boredom or just the same old, some old, even if sort of fun may not get us interested. Maybe visiting farmers markets, or doing something with kids?
Dr. Christina

 

[jumstead1023]

As a therapy/comfort dog she is very active. Last week she attended a funeral and then two days later visited an assisted living facility. I’m actually monitoring her to make sure she still enjoys it and so far she does.

 

[Dr. Christina]

Keep asking if there is anything else she wants. Use animal communication (have you taken a class?) or muscle testing. And of course you observations.
Dr. Christina

 

[jumstead1023]

Keep asking if there is anything else she wants. Use animal communication (have you taken a class?) or muscle testing. And of course you observations.
Dr. Christina

Thanks