Pets Keeping Fit

The UK’s first ever pet only gym - Animal Active - is set to be launched soon.
Trials have already taken place at Sir Richard Branson’s health club, with gym members encouraged to bring their pets for a work out.
Trained exercise coordinators will run a series of group exercise classes which will include Pooch Paunch Buster, Puuuroebics, Wag Attack, Canine Crunch and Pawlates.

There will also be a weigh-in area for all pet owners to come and check the weight of their pet. A full time vet and pet nutritionist will also be on hand to answer any health and diet queries.
Laura Thomas, 35, from Ealing said: “I have to admit to feeding my pet Basset Hound too many treats and not really exercising him enough.
"Now that there is a special exercise environment just for animals nearby, I’m determined to get him in shape.”
The health club is scheduled to open its doors later this year and will be a haven for animals in need of exercise or lifestyle management.

Obesity
The PDSA has recently warned that pet owners could be responsible for a worrying epidemic of over-sized animals, ranging from dogs and cats to hamsters, gerbils, rats, rabbits and budgies.
Much of the problem is down to overfeeding and lack of exercise, with one in four dog owners admitting that they never exercise their pets.
Heart complaints, diabetes and arthritis are just some of the health problems associated with pets carrying excess weight. Sir Richard Branson said: "The UK obesity epidemic is affecting the whole family, animals included. "With more overweight and unfit pets living in the UK than ever before, we want to tackle this head on.
"Opening our first ever 'Animal Active' is a great way to do this. We hope that members and their pets will enjoy working out together."

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