A veterinarian in Santa Clarita is naming the most common New Year’s resolution she sees humans make for their pets, and offering advice on how to make this resolution a success.

Dr. Jaimie Ronchetto of Cinema Veterinary Centre noted that weight loss and increased activity can be a New Year’s resolution humans not only make for themselves, but for their pets as well. 

“Our pets sort of follow in our footsteps, so if we’re not super active, they’re not usually super active, and there (are) a lot of overweight pets,” Ronchetto said. “We shower them with love using food a lot of times, … so this is a good time of year to change those habits.”

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It’s important to note that weight loss for pets should be gradual over time, with diet changes and exercise implemented in moderation, according to Ronchetto. 

“Don’t make the goals too crazy — just little bits at a time is always the healthy and safe way to do it,” she said. “You don’t want to overdo it.” 

Before starting any new diet and exercise plan for a pet, Ronchetto recommends seeing a veterinarian in Santa Clarita to discuss appropriate weight loss goals for the specific pet. 

“There are body condition scores that we go by, so we can show you those graphs and let you firsthand see where your pet is at as well so you have a better understanding of what your pet should look like and where they’re starting,” Ronchetto said. 

A veterinarian can discuss the type of food recommended for the pet in addition to the amount, just how much exercise the pet should be getting and how slowly the weight loss should occur, Ronchetto continued. 

While pets will almost certainly notice changes in their diet, Ronchetto noted that showering them with extra affection instead of treats can help ensure they still feel loved, with healthier treat alternatives also an option. 

“If they still really need the ‘snackies,’ then you switch to healthier snacks just like we would,” Ronchetto explained. “So carrots, green beans, other veggies like that that give them a little bit of a crunch, they feel like they’re getting something special. It’s human food, but it’s safe for them and it’s not a ton of extra calories.”

Other New Year’s resolutions Ronchetto recommends that can also help with the pet’s weight loss would be considering a new hobby that involves the pet, such as agility classes or training programs for pets that might be good candidates to become therapy animals. 

“It’s the start of a new year,” Ronchetto said, “so a good time to get started with those things.” 

Ed. Note: This article is a KHTS Feature story based on a recent radio interview with Cinema Veterinary Centre.

Dr. Jaimie Ronchetto, DVM, is a Santa Clarita veterinarian who opened her own veterinary hospital in Valencia after spending several years in private practice as an associate veterinarian at other SCV hospitals. Ronchetto and the staff at Cinema Veterinary Centre strive to give every dog, cat and pocket pet outstanding quality care in the areas of medicine and surgery. A Hart High School graduate, Ronchetto earned her BS degree from UC Davis and graduated with Honors from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. Those looking for a veterinarian in Santa Clarita or a “veterinarian near me” can contact Cinema Vet today for more information. 

Cinema Veterinary Centre

23460 Cinema Drive

Valencia, CA 91355

(661) 253-9300

Cinema Veterinary Centre – Valencia

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