Ozempic for Dogs - Breakthrough or Ethical Dilemma?

In this episode of The Consult Room, I explore a headline-grabbing idea that’s raising big questions in veterinary medicine - the possibility of an Ozempic-style appetite suppressant for dogs.

With around half of dogs in the UK now overweight or obese, researchers are trialling a slow-release implant designed to suppress appetite and support weight loss. At first glance, it sounds like a potential breakthrough. But obesity in dogs is largely a human-created problem, and that raises important ethical, welfare, and responsibility questions.

I unpack the science behind GLP-1 implants, the potential benefits for certain dogs, and the concerns vets need to think about carefully - from masking early signs of illness to shifting responsibility away from diet, exercise, and lifestyle.

This episode isn’t about rejecting innovation. It’s about asking whether medical solutions should support better care, or replace it?

In This Episode:

• Why dog obesity is one of the biggest welfare challenges today

• How appetite-suppressing implants work

• The real causes of pet obesity

• Ethical concerns around medical shortcuts

• Why exercise matters beyond weight loss

• Could appetite suppression mask early disease?

• Where drugs fit - and where they don’t

Key Takeaways:

• Dogs don’t feed themselves - obesity is a human responsibility

• Weight-loss drugs may help some dogs, but won’t fix the root problem

• Exercise is a legal and welfare requirement, not optional

• Appetite is a vital clinical warning sign

• Education, portion control, and lifestyle change remain essential

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