Chow Hounds by Ernie Ward DVM is an excellent reference guide for those dog owners seeking the best nutrition for their pets.  The number of dogs considered obese or overweight in 2007 was 43 percent, but that figure increased to 45 percent in 2009, according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention.  Dr. Ernie Ward discusses how Americans have not only impacted their own health and well being, but that of their pets.

He says that following his prescriptive plan can restore any dog back to health within about six months.  The book begins with information about how to read through the fluff on food labels to get to the real composition of the meals being fed to pets across America.  There are complicated breakdowns that the average pet owner may not take the time to complete.  Beyond that, the book offers some some simple common sense pointers for pet owners, including making sure that animals are given enough exercise and playtime.

Like eating healthy as a human, pet owners should ensure they watch their dog’s calorie intake and do not give in to the “puppy” eyes of their animals and overfeed them.  Rather than simply discuss how owners can make dog food from scratch, Ward also discusses how to rotate in healthy, organic foods throughout the week in addition to commercial dog food.  However, owners should throw away their dog treats, bones and others, and replace them with healthy treats like carrots, broccoli, and apples.  Included in the book are recipes for creating healthy treats for your pet from sweet potato cookies to quiche bites.

With more Americans living in urban areas and in apartments, yard space is at a minimum, which reduces opportunities for exercise in fenced yards, according to Ward.  But Ward reminds readers that they should take the time to exercise with their canines to strengthen their familial bonds and keep healthy habits on track for both dog and human.  To ensure owners are taking ideal care of their pets, Ward includes a chart with breed information and ideal weight and weight and the corresponding pace for walking 1 mile with your dog.

Overall, Chow Hounds is an excellent source of advice for pet owners with overweight dogs and who may be in need of a push to get healthy themselves.  Many of these activities can translate into changes for human behavior and eating as well.

Giveaway details:

2 copies for US/Canada, 1 copy for international reader (be sure to let me know if you are outside the US/Canada) —

1.  Leave a comment about why you want this book and email address.

2.  Spread the word via Twitter, Facebook, etc., and leave me a link.

Deadline is April 26, 2010, at 11:59 PM EST

About the Author:

Dr. Ernest Ward, DVM, or “Dr. Ernie,” author of Chow Hounds, is a practicing veterinarian who is dedicated to helping pets and their humans live healthier lives. He appears regularly on the Rachael Ray Show, and has been featured on Animal Planet, NBC Nightly News, and CNN.

Check the rest of the tour stops on TLC Book Tours.

This is my 27th book for the 2010 New Authors Reading Challenge.

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Don’t forget about today’s stops for National Poetry Month at New Century Reading and 1330V.