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Overweight pets must battle the bulge, just like us

From TODAY correspondent Jill Rappaport With the holiday season in full bloom, it is a time for celebration, family and FOOD. And that means it's also the time of year we all tend to put on the pounds. Well, our pets can also pack on the pounds, just like their owners! Pet obesity is a common and dangerous condition that affects an astonishing 40 percent of our animals today. And an overweight pet
By S. Dani

From TODAY correspondent Jill Rappaport

With the holiday season in full bloom, it is a time for celebration, family and FOOD. And that means it's also the time of year we all tend to put on the pounds.

Well, our pets can also pack on the pounds, just like their owners! Pet obesity is a common and dangerous condition that affects an astonishing 40 percent of our animals today. And an overweight pet can be a walking time bomb, at serious risk for contracting diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and even cancer.

In our segment today we feature two animals who are "battling the bulge" and succeeding: A buxom beagle named Lady, and a full-figured feline named Friedo.

If you take action now, you can add years to your fur angel's life and every extra day we have with them is a gift indeed. If you have a overweight pet, but are winning the weight battle with them, we would love for you to share your story with us here. And for those of you who are concerned that your animal has a weight issue, you should know that you can do something about it now. All that's required is love, patience and no more table scraps!