The finances of fitness

These are the facts: Estimates indicate that nearly half of all pets are overweight or obese. And dogs that are fed less have a median life span that's nearly two years longer than average and are less likely to develop chronic disease, according to a study published in JAVMA in 2002. Dr. Tom McCoy, owner of Harvard Avenue Veterinary Clinic in Tulsa, Okla., acted on this information, creating a six-month weight-loss program for his patients. For overweight patients with body condition scores of 6 or 7, he uses the regular office visit to point out the health concerns and life span difference between overweight and lean pets. Then he discusses the type and amount of food and treats to give and monitors weight at future exams.

Overweight pets with body condition scores of 8 or higher receive Dr. McCoy's weight-loss workup, including a medical history, physical examination, CBC, serum chemistry profile, T4 measurement, urinalysis, and preliminary weight-loss program. "Even if the pet presents for another problem, we use the initial visit to conduct these preliminary steps, because minimizing the number of visits encourages better compliance," he says.

Fruitful follow-ups

The next step? At a second appointment no more than two weeks later, Dr. McCoy discusses the lab results, any abnormalities identified, and appropriate therapy for concurrent conditions. He also finalizes a diet plan. "I emphasize that a weight-loss program is a process, not a quick fix," he says. "And I frame the issue as a disease syndrome instead of just talking about fat. Clients understand that better."

After the two-week recheck, clients return each month for five months. At these follow-up visits, Dr. McCoy discusses changes, documents progress, and alters the plan as needed.

What it all costs

The costs to the practice include lab expenses and time to organize the program, train staff members, weigh pets, and send reminders or call clients. The cost to the clients? Full exam fees at every recheck. "We're using our expertise to treat a critical health issue, and we charge accordingly," Dr. McCoy says. He says other benefits of the program include increased client bonding and additional client visits for unrelated services. He enrolls 50 to 60 patients a year in the program, which generates $17,500 to $21,000 annually, with direct expenses of $1,900 to $2,300.