Pfizer Animal Health to treat EU obese

For eight months, vets in the US have been able to use Pfizer Animal Health’s Slentrol in their battle against overweight dogs.

Now, the drug, which works by limiting an animal’s appetite, is to be offered to European vets.

Owners must then work out a long-term diet and fitness regime to allow their animal to make a full return to fitness.

Andy Green, of the Kent-based Pennard Veterinary Practice, commented that European pet owners often do not realise how problematically overweight their canine is.

“They’re not aware of gradual weight gain until they bring their dogs in for check-ups and see over time how much their dog has gained weight,” he added.

Recently, secretary of state for the environment Hilary Benn, visited a London Blue Cross animal hospital and saw its obesity clinic, where overweight pets are regularly weighed and checked.

He urged people to visit their vet for advice on feeding and caring for their animal to ensure it stays in good health.