UK veterinary charity the Peoples Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) conducted a four-year study on the weight and overall health of 25,000 pet dogs, coming to the conclusion that one in five dogs is now overweight.

To bring awareness to and help combat pet obesity, PDSA holds an annual Pet Fit Club competition. The 11 finalists for the 2010 competition, five dogs and six cats, have nearly 90 kilograms (198 pounds) of excess weight among them. They will be put on a strict regime of diet and exercise to help them reach their ideal weights.