Feeding obese dogs during weight loss is on average cost-neutral.

OBJECTIVES: The cost of feeding a purpose-formulated weight loss diet may deter owners of obese dogs from proceeding with a weight loss programme. The current study aimed to compare average food costs during weight loss with those before weight loss. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Average daily food costs, for before and during weight loss, were calculated in 22 obese dogs that had successfully completed weight management. RESULTS: The median food cost before weight loss was £0 · 52/day (£0 · 24-3 · 31/day), for main meal only, and £0 · 64/day (£0 · 26-3 · 31/day) for main meal and additional food (table scraps and treats). The median food cost during weight loss was £0 · 90/day (£0 · 26-1 · 36/day), and no additional food was given. The average daily feeding costs during weight loss did not differ from pre-weight-loss costs, either with (P = 0 · 425) or without (P = 0 · 222) the additional food included. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Knowledge that average diet costs do not significantly differ from food costs prior to weight loss may help veterinarians to persuade owners to enrol obese dogs in a weight management programme.

Learning the process of collaborative clinical research.

Conducting research using a collaborative model is one mechanism for increasing participation in dental hygiene research by clinicians with limited research backgrounds and skills. This paper describes the learning process of collaborative research using a descriptive pilot study planned and implemented by a team of experienced researcher/educators and inexperienced dental hygienists. Formation and development of the research team and identification of the research topic are discussed; details from the pilot study illustrate delegation of roles and duties, and basic research methodology. Their successful interaction showed that such participation could translate into increased research activity, which would add to the dental hygiene knowledge base.