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If you hurry, there's still time to register your dog as a contestant in the Louisiana SPCA's first Biggest Loser—Doggy Style program. For the $75 entry fee, 10 pudgy pups have the chance to participate in weekly weigh-ins, food/exercise diary, consultation with a pet nutritionist, weight management lessons, a walking trip to Zephyr Field, BARKtoberfest, a half-hour pool pass at Canine Connection and receive Wellness pet food coupons.

Away from the prying eyes of TV audiences, weekly prizes will be awarded to the pooch who loses the most paunch. And, finally, one lucky dog will receive a fantastic prize package as the biggest loser.

While the friendly competition was created in fun, the program is serious attempt to improve awareness of canine obesity. According to the latest figures from the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, more than 45% of dogs and 58% of cats are overweight or obese. Between 2007 and 2009, the number of overweight dogs and cats increased by 2% and 5%, respectively. "Pet obesity is now the biggest health threat to pets in the U.S.," says the study's lead researcher Dr. Ernie Ward. "The costs of obesity in illness and injury make it the No. 1 medical issue seen in today's veterinary hospitals."

Just like with people, the pounds creep up quickly. By some estimates, a pet's one-pound weight gain is equivalent to an additional five pounds on a person. The results are frequently the same: Overweight dogs can develop a variety of health problems from heart disease and cancer to diabetes and arthritis.

As an Army biologist, highly credentialed K-9 search, rescue and recovery handler and dog trainer, SPCA Biggest Loser instructor Melissa Ellis has noticed the increase in overweight dogs over the years and the destruction improper diet and exercise wreak on dog owners' enjoyment of their pets.

"I talk to so many people about problems with their dogs," she says. "A lot of behaviors are caused by inappropriate food or food allergies. You need the right food—not just what's on sale that week—in the right amount."

After eight weeks of a new diet and exercise regime, Ellis hopes to send home every dog a winner—not only as a slimmer dog but a more active, healthy and happy member of the family. "Keeping dogs at a healthy weight can add two years to their lives," she says.

The course begins on Monday, September 13. Weekly meetings will be held from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Jefferson Feed, Pet & Garden Center in New Orleans. Applications will be accepted through September 1, and all dogs must have basic obedience skills to participate. For more information, contact Lori Haeuser, lori@la-spca.org or 368-5191, ext. 154.

To slim down your hound without leaving town, simply consult your veterinarian.

And, for more information about pet obesity, visit petobesityprevention.com.

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