Otago Polytechnic School of Veterinary Nursing lecturer
Krystle Kelly exercises Border collie Bella (left) and
springer spaniel Blue, as part of the school's "Pounce Into
It" programme. Photo by Craig Baxter.
Ten dogs and Larry, a particularly friendly rat, are
taking part in an innovative Otago Polytechnic programme
designed to boost pet exercise and trim excess weight.
The "Pounce Into It" programme, run by the polytechnic School
of Veterinary Nursing, makes the point that, with the arrival
of milder spring weather, pets as well as people can benefit
from a little more exercise and an improved diet.
The dogs, and Larry, are already five weeks into the 10-week
scheme, which includes clinical examinations, weigh-ins and,
in some cases, lifestyle changes.
If pet health problems are identified, pet owners and their
animals are also referred back to their vets for further
advice or treatment.
The scheme, launched this year, is the brain child of
veterinary nursing lecturer Krystle Kelly, who is "more than
happy" with how it is running. The scheme, involving animals
owned by polytechnic staff, is also a spin-off from
"Springin2it", a comprehensive activity and wellbeing
programme which has been run by the polytechnic for its staff
over the past three years.
Nine participating staff members from the school have already
shed a total of 28kg this year, as part of the wider
programme and, when their final weight-loss total is known,
its equivalent in pet food will be donated to the SPCA.
Polytechnic health, safety and wellness senior adviser Terry
Buckingham said 140 staff from 37 departments were taking
part in the "Springin2it" programme, which includes spiritual
and fun elements, and Zumba dance sessions.
Staff shed a total of 84.5kg during last year's programme.
"It's been a great success for us," Mr Buckingham said.
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