Los Angeles, California - Humans aren't the only ones who tend to pack on a few extra pounds during the winter months. Our pets are susceptible to some unwanted weight gain as well. And though as pet owners we have a difficult time admitting when our pet is overweight, it's important to bear in mind that being just ten percent overweight reduces your pet's life span by one-third and predisposes him or her to a variety of disorders ranging from arthritis and diabetes to cancer and heart disease.

The single most common cause of obesity in pets today is well meaning owners who, in the spirit of giving, indulge their pets with oversized portions and excessive treats. As I'm sure you're well aware, that weight adds up quickly. If only those extra pounds would fall off as quickly as they go on!

Integrative Veterinarian, Dr. Carol Osborne, DVM offers five fun and effective ways for you and your four-legged friend to get some exercise together, even if you're convinced your fur baby isn't overweight.

5 Ways to Lose Weight With Your Pet This Spring:

1. Intervals - Plan a longer stroll in the morning or the evening to avoid the hottest part of the day. Walk briskly, jog for 30 seconds, and then return to a brisk walk. Repeat every 2-3 minutes. The 30 second intervals will raise both of your heart rates, thus boosting your metabolisms.

2. Fetch for Abs - Lay down in sit up position, holding your dog's favorite toy. As you come to sitting position, pretend to throw the toy. Repeat as many times as your pooch is willing to play along. (This game can also be played with a feather stick for cats.)

3. Squat Jumps - Same idea as the previous exercise, except this time you will get your dog's attention with the toy as you squat down. Return to a standing position and have your dog jump to retrieve the toy.

4. Race to the Finish - Take your dog out to the backyard or a nearby park. As your furry friend takes off to retrieve the ball you've just thrown, run with him. Race him to the toy, then tug-o-war for a few seconds before tossing it again. This exercise allows both of you to increase your heart rate with a quick burst of cardio and engage core strength at the same time.

5. Stair Running - Always a classic. If you don't have stairs at home, consider bleachers at a nearby school, etc. Keeping your dog leashed by your side, progress up and down the stairs several times. Jog, skip a step, jump to the next step, climb sideways; there are numerous variations that can be done to intensify this work out for yourself while still allowing your dog to engage his hips and strengthen leg and back muscle.

About Dr. Carol Osborne, DVM

Dr. Carol Osborne is a world-renowned integrative veterinarian, author and entrepreneur. A pioneer in anti-aging medicine and longevity research for pets, she created and patented PAAWS: Pet Anti-Aging Wellness System for dogs and cats. Dr. Carol holds both the dog and cat scientific patents. She authored international best sellers, Naturally Healthy Dogs and Naturally Healthy Cats. Currently, Dr. Osborne offers traditional veterinary care integrated with natural holistic therapies, diets and remedies for dogs and cats at the Chagrin Falls Veterinary Center & Pet Clinic located in Chagrin Falls, Ohio.

Dr. Carol is also a popular media personality and has been a frequent guest on FOX & Friends, The Today Show, Good Day L.A., and Discovery's Animal Planet. She's also been featured in USA Today, The L.A. Times, Ladies Home Journal, Woman's World, InStyle, and the New York Daily News.

For more about Dr. Carol, visit her online at ChagrinFallsPetClinic.com.