New Year's Resolution: Help Fido Get Fit

Does YourNeed To Make A Weight Loss Resolution?

Think you could stand to lose a few around the waist in 2012? Chances are someone close to you could, too: your pet.

"We all love our pets, and we love to reward them with treats," said Dr. Travis Stork of TV's The Doctors, "but that can pack on the pounds and shorten their life." Just like humans, obese dogs are at risk of cardiovascular problems, arthritis and trouble breathing, according to StopCanineObesity.com.

And, also like humans, there are personal trainers whose main goal is to whip Fido into shape. Guest Tamar Gellar, author of 30 Days To A Well-Mannered Dog, explained that part of the problem is that people don't realize the average dog food is mostly made of carbs. "It's very important to give protein and not carbs, and it's also important to give vegetables as treats -- my dogs love steamed broccoli and I dip it in hummus," she said.

Watch the video for Geller's tips on how to help your pup reach a happy, healthy weight in the new year.

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