THE deadline for Hampshire pet owners to help their pet lose weight is getting closer.

National pet charity the PDSA is hoping to tackle the problem of overweight pets through its fitness club, and has been appealing to owners in Hampshire to put their pet forward if they believe they lead a ‘couch-potato’ lifestyle.

Next weekend, the opportunity finishes to nominate animals for the 13th annual competition that has helped 124 overweight and obese pets lose a total of 71 stone.

Last year’s winner shed 34 per cent of his bodyweight.

The charity has made a renewed appeal for pet owners to put forward their furry friend if they believe they need to lose weight.

PDSA vet Rebecca Ashman said: “It is a ticking time bomb that will have drastic consequences for our pets.

“Latest scientific literature shows that at least a third of dogs and a quarter of cats are clinically overweight or obese, but the true figures could be as high as 40 per cent, making obesity one of the most common medical diseases seen by vets.”

As previously reported, up to 15 overweight dogs, cats and rabbits will be selected.

The closing date to apply is March 4, and participants will receive free diet pet food for the duration of the competition, with the overall winner crowned at the end of 2018.

Rebecca added: “Prevention is definitely better than cure, but if owners are worried about their pet’s weight, it is never too late to do something about it.

“With the right advice, a good diet, suitable exercise and a bit of willpower owners have the ability to make a real difference to their pet’s health, happiness and life expectancy.”

It has helped 124 pets which include 79 dogs, 37 cats and eight rabbits during the contests.