I knew, even before I stepped into the veterinarian’s office that Mr. Magoo, my pug, had gained weight, but I was shocked to discover how much.
As I struggled to make him stand still on the scale (which he never did) he suddenly looked much chubbier than I’d realized, and when the scale’s needle finally settled, I was shocked to learn he’d gained two pounds since our last visit.
Not good on a small breed.
I have one excuse although if I’m truthful with myself, it’s pretty feeble. While the South Shore has been under construction, work has been going on from 7 a.m. to sunset, so Mr. Magoo and I haven’t been able to take his two daily walks. The mileage isn’t huge, probably a quarter-mile if that, but it’s been enough to keep his handsome physique.
Or so I thought.
I looked more closely at him and admitted to myself that he’s started to share some features with the cartoon character of Porky the Pig. Truth is, I’ve been giving him too many treats.
He’s on a diet, as of today, I swore to myself as I drove to the grocery store with Mr. Magoo sleeping soundly on the front seat, no doubt dreaming of cream puffs. I planned to buy the green beans the vet recommended as a healthy treat.
My self-lecture continued. I’ll cut out the little extra treats I’ve been giving. But he does so love to eat and he’s getting old. He’s fourteen and a half. Did I really want to starve the poor guy?
Somehow, a green bean treat seemed paltry compared to a smidgeon of granola bar, or a figment of potato chip, but I bought a bag of fresh green beans anyway and headed home. When I got home, I stashed the green beans in the refrigerator and did some research.
Thank goodness that I did. Every article praised the merits of a dog eating green beans. Not only are they health-giving, dogs love them. However, the beans need to be unadorned. Beans can be cooked or raw, but be free of salt, oil or any other adornment.
One website suggested a solution for people like me who can’t help but give their beloved but plump puppy numerous treats during the day. Give Fido one regular dog biscuit and dispense green beans throughout the rest of the day.
My plan is to start with one green bean and increase the numbers in the following days.
As of this writing, I have no idea how Mr. Magoo will respond, but once he figures out where the green beans are being stored, he’ll be hanging out in front of the refrigerator instead of the pantry.
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