If you are preparing for a telehealth appointment with a veterinarian and want to determine if your dog is overweight, there are several things you can do:
- Take photos or videos: Use your smartphone or camera to take photos or videos of your dog from different angles. This can give the veterinarian a better idea of your dog's body condition.
- Weigh your dog: If you have a scale at home, weigh your dog and share the information with the veterinarian. This can help the veterinarian determine if your dog is at a healthy weight or if they are overweight.
- Measure your dog: Measure your dog's chest, waist, and neck using a soft measuring tape. Share these measurements with the veterinarian during the telehealth appointment.
- Describe your dog's activity level: Share information about your dog's activity level, such as how often they go for walks, how long they play, and if they have any difficulty with physical activity. This can help the veterinarian determine if your dog is at a healthy weight or if they are overweight.
- Discuss your dog’s stage of life: Share if your dog is spayed/neutered, pregnant or possibly pregnant, or lactating. Also, make sure to tell your veterinarian their age. All of these different life cycle stages can affect the number of calories your dog needs on a daily basis.
- Discuss your dog's diet: Share information about your dog's diet, including what type of food they eat, how much they eat, and how often they are fed. This can help the veterinarian determine if your dog is getting the right amount of nutrients and if their diet is contributing to any weight issues.
During the telehealth appointment, the veterinarian may also ask you to perform certain tasks, such as feeling for your dog's ribs or looking at their waistline, to help determine if your dog is overweight.