Leveraging Child-Pet Relationships to Promote Physical Activity    

Just as there have been epidemic increases in obesity among US children in recent decades, obesity among pets has likewise increased sharply, placing them at increased risk for chronic diseases and premature death. As with children, insufficient physical activity is a key contributing factor. To address these challenges, ChildObesity180 partnered with the Tufts School of Veterinary Medicine to develop a theory-based program to encourage children to be active with their dogs, harnessing the strong bonds between children and pets to promote the health and well-being of both.