National Pet Obesity Awareness Day was celebrated on Oct. 15. I didn't even know there was a day for this.

Did you know there is an actual dedicated group of veterinarians trying to reduce pet obesity in the U.S.? They are called the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention.

Their data finds that 48 percent of all pets in America are overweight or obese. Shocking!

Overweight pets suffer from heart disease, arthritis, diabetes and even cancer. An overweight pet's lifespan is two years shorter than a normal-weight pet's.

APOP's first study was on cats, the fastest-growing segment of overweight pets. One in five felines is considered "obese," which is defined as 20 percent above the ideal weight.

Dr. Ernie Ward, APOP's founder, found that pets gain weight during the holidays just like humans. Although a treat here and there may seem harmless, those extra calories will harm your pet.

Factors that influence obesity are genes (pugs, beagles, Labradors), diet, diseases (Cushing's disease, diabetes), certain drugs (steroids) and not enough exercise.

Don't wait until next New Year's to make this resolution to take care of your pet's health. If you have a chubby pet, consult your vet on ways to reduce your pet's caloric intake and how to increase exercise safely.

Zoe's been putting on the pounds lately since we stopped going to agility class. I always say I need to implement more exercise in her daily routine. Starting now, Zoe will be going on longer walks after work. I hope her vet is reading this.

Animal lover Leslie Kawamoto has been with the Advertiser for 18 years, or 126 in dog years. Check out her blog at http://HonoluluAdvertiser.com/Blogs