MANY resolutions made by people in the New Year are to lose weight and get healthy after over-indulging at Christmas, but nurses at the Okeford Veterinary Centre are asking people to make the same resolutions for their pets.

The nurses are running free weight clinics in January to help pets achieve their optimum weight and body condition score, after being spoilt over the festive period.

As with humans, obesity in pets can be associated with health issues including heart disease, diabetes and arthritis.

Nurses April Luffingham and Gemma Morley have helped Myha, a three-year-old beagle who weighed 15.8kg originally, lose 3.8kg, which is equivalent to four bags of sugar, and 24 per cent of her initial body weight. After 16 months on the obesity diet, Myha lost 12 centimetres from her waist and has reduced her chances of developing obesity related health issues.

The veterinary centre's nurses are encouraging pet owners to join their weight clinics, where pets' weight will be assessed and a personalised weight loss plan will be prepared. Pets will then have regular weight checks and after three months, an award will be given to the pet who loses the highest percentage of their original body weight.

To book an appointment or for more details call the Okeford Veterinary Centre on 01837 52148.