MIDDLETOWN, N.Y., April 21, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ani-Mall Pet Hospital in Middletown, NY is educating pet owners about the importance of proper pet nutrition. Puppy and kitten veterinarian Dr. Michael Barra cites new research showing that the majority of dogs and cats are overweight or obese. Dr. Barra says that a combination of overfeeding and lack of exercise are contributing to pet obesity. Additionally, Dr. Barra says that may pet owners simply do not realize how detrimental a few extra pounds can be to their pets' health. The vet clinic's nutrition counseling services educate pet owners about weight management and obesity prevention.

Ani-Mall Pet Hospital is joining the fight against obesity in pets. The Middletown animal hospital announced nutritional counseling services aimed to address weight management problems in pets.

"I see every day the numerous health problems caused by obesity in pets," said Dr. Michael Barra. "Unfortunately, many pet owners do not realize how serious and widespread this problem is. In fact, according to a recent study, many pet owners mistakenly believed that their pets were a healthy weight, when in reality, they were overweight."

Dr. Barra is partnering with pet owners to raise awareness about the dangers of pet obesity. Through dietary management, the veterinarian is hoping to reduce the number of dogs and cats facing weight problems and improve pet health.

"Just a few extra pounds can cause serious health problems for pets," said Dr. Barra. "Pets that are overweight or obese are at increased risk for heart disease, diabetes, arthritis-related joint pain, and other chronic health conditions."

The Middletown animal hospital's pet nutrition services are designed to help pets safely lose weight. The veterinarian says that simple changes to portion size, food quality and exercise can help pets lose the extra pounds.

"Overfeeding is a huge problem, especially when it comes to high-caloric treats," said Dr. Barra. "We educate pet owners about how much food their pets actually need, which frequently differs from the manufacture recommendations printed on the food packaging."

Pet nutrition counseling can also help pets diagnosed with a food allergy or intolerance. Dr. Barra says that an increasing number of pets are allergic to common food ingredients, including beef, chicken, soy, wheat, barley, corn, eggs and dairy.

"Our dietary management services can also help pets that are suffering from a food allergy," said Dr. Barra. "We help pet owners create an elimination diet to identify the allergy trigger. Once this is identified, we can create a customized diet that will maintain a pet's healthy weight while avoiding the ingredients triggering allergies."

Ani-Mall Pet Hospital is accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). The veterinary hospital provides comprehensive pet care services, including vaccinations, surgery, spay/neuter, pet grooming and pet boarding.

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Animal Hospital in Middletown Educates on Pet Nutrition to Fight Pet Obesity