Humans need to feel connected to others, and we sometimes bond as deeply with our dogs as we do with those of our own species. However, the flavors of human-canine bonding can vary wildly. On one end of the spectrum are those who fall in love with dogs based on their looks, personality or intelligence. On the other end are those who become attached to dogs in order to fill the holes left by emotional wounds. There probably are as many variations of this bond as there are dog owners, and any variation can be unhealthy if proper consideration is not given to providing for the dogs' needs. So, what do dogs need from us?
A while back, I attended a discussion given by a veterinarian from the CSU Animal Cancer Center, and I learned that this organization is one of the best-equipped animal cancer research facilities in the country. Not only that, but some of their own discoveries have resulted in advances in treating cancer in humans.
Now they are tackling canine obesity. Just as with humans, obesity in dogs can result in many undesirable health detriments, such as heart disease, lack of stamina, and diabetes. It can also exacerbate some genetic deficiencies, such as hip and knee dysplasia.
