How to turn a pet project into a booming business
MOrE than half of the Uk’s dogs and nearly 50 per cent of cats are overweight. Obesity can shorten your pet’s lifespan and lead to diseases such as arthritis, breathing difficulties, diabetes and cancer. So, how can you keep your pet trim?
rachel knight, a pet nutritional adviser who gained her qualification as a franchisee with pet food supplier Oscar, shares her tips on helping overweight pooches . . .
DIET: If your dog is slightly overweight, feed it an appropriate diet with reduced calories and increased fibre. If you are concerned your dog may be obese, speak to your vet.
MEASURE: Weigh food daily — measuring cups can be inaccurate.
INTERACTIVE FEEDERS: Use a slow- down bowl, which requires dogs to use their paws or tongue to access food, or an interactive feeder, where the animal must play with a toy in order to release food.
WEIGH: regularly check your pet’s weight and condition. See wsava.org for a guide.
EXERCISE: Ensure dogs get a consistent level of exercise and mental stimulation.
TREATS: Cut back on extras and, if you must give a treat, reduce their meals a little.
FOOD DIARY: record all food the dog is being fed by every member of the family. rachel, 45, became an Oscar franchisee after a 25-year career as a bank business manager and financial adviser.
She says: ‘I love working with animals and was attracted to the Oscar franchise by the flexibility and challenge of running my own business.’
The franchise supplies food, accessories and nutritional advice to pet owners and promotes your business. The initial package is £8,995, including everything needed to launch your business and the cost of taking a pet nutrition qualification.
Visit oscar.co.uk. For more pet nutrition advice, call 0800 195 8000.