The war against pet obesity will not be easily won. There's no magic cure. Even with today's amazing pharmacologic advances, long-term success lies in changing pet owners' attitudes toward weight issues and helping them adopt a healthier lifestyle for their pets. By extension, we may positively impact our clients' health as well. It's time to take a stand and stop ignoring one of the leading causes of death in our patients.

Dr. Ernest E. Ward Jr., a Veterinary Economics Editorial Advisory Board member, owns Seaside Animal Clinic in Calabash, N.C. He finished the Ironman competition in Hawaii last month. Send questions or comments to ve@advanstar.com