Latest news with #AngelaDay
Daily Mirror
11-08-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Half of Britain's dogs are dangerously overweight and many owners have no idea
UK canine expert Angela Day says she is seeing far too many overweight dogs in her practice and gave advice on changes dog owners can make at home Britain is facing a hidden animal welfare crisis with more than one in two dogs now overweight or obese, a condition experts say can shorten a pet's life by up to two years. Veterinary bodies including the World Small Animal Veterinary Association now officially classify canine obesity as a chronic, progressive, and preventable disease, warning that excess weight is not just a cosmetic issue but a serious threat to health. Dogs carrying too much fat are at far greater risk of joint pain, arthritis, muscle and ligament injuries, diabetes, breathing difficulties, and heart problems. Their mobility and quality of life suffer, and so does their lifespan. Angela Day, a leading UK canine rehabilitation specialist and canine educator, said: 'Having a dog who is clinically obese is a welfare issue. Many owners don't realise their dog is overweight until it's already causing harm. "Carrying extra weight puts huge strain on joints, organs, and the heart, and it can quietly rob your dog of years of life. But the good news is, obesity is preventable, with the right action, you can give your pet a healthier, longer, happier life.' Angela says part of the problem is that owners often fail to spot when their dog has piled on the pounds, with fur, feeding habits, and breed type sometimes masking weight gain. Some breeds are at even greater risk. Scientific studies show that around one in four Labradors have a mutation in a gene called POMC, which makes them feel constantly hungry and slows their metabolism. This genetic quirk means they burn fewer calories and gain weight faster, making weight control even more challenging. Angela says simple changes at home can make a life-or-death difference for dogs struggling with their waistlines, and shared her four key tips for owners: Use a body condition score chart: Learn to check your dog's shape by feel and sight. You should be able to feel their ribs without pressing hard, and see a visible waist from above. Weigh food portions accurately: Use scales, not guesswork. Overfeeding, even small amounts, adds up quickly. Angela said cut out unhealthy treats. By swapping high-calorie snacks for carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or tasty home cooked treats. Build exercise into their daily routine: Even short, regular walks and play sessions can help shift weight and improve fitness. 'It's not about depriving your dog,' Angela added. 'It's about giving them the best chance of living a long, pain-free, active life. We owe them that.'
Yahoo
08-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
On this day: Dog health business recognised by Dragons' Den star
On this day in 2024, the East Anglian Daily Times reported that a Suffolk-based dog health business was recognised by a prominent entrepreneur. Born To Run, located in Thurston near Bury St Edmunds, provides pain management support for dogs suffering from mobility issues, including arthritis, through tailored massage and exercise programmes. Angela Day, the owner of the business, expressed her gratitude after winning a small business award from Dragons' Den star Theo Paphitis on February 12, 2024. The Small Business Sunday initiative, established by Mr Paphitis in 2010, aims to support local firms across the UK and has celebrated thousands of winners. Owner of the business Angela Day (Image: Angela Day) Ms Day said: "We never thought that we would stand out over the hundreds of incredible product-based businesses who took part. "We work very hard to make every client feel like the special dog owners they are." She added: "But to be chosen as a winner of Small Business Sunday and be mingling with CEOs of some of the best-known household brands is just incredible." The support from Mr Paphitis has been invaluable for Ms Day, who said: "It's fantastic to have support from Theo because as a small business it's difficult to be in enough places to raise your profile to the level that's needed to reach more dog owners, who may not even be aware of the help available for their dogs when they struggle with mobility and pain from conditions like arthritis. "Theo has recognised our hard work and helped spread the word about what we do. "I am beyond grateful." In addition to this accolade, Born To Run had also been announced as a finalist for the Animal Star Awards. Mr Paphitis said: "My vision is that everyone who has ever won an #SBS re-tweet from me becomes part of a friendly club of like-minded individuals who can share successes and learnings." [From the East Anglian Daily Times of March 8, 2024]
