‘Doggy Ozempic’ Trials begin as Canine obesity Rates Surge

A United States biotechnology company has initiated trials for a canine version of the popular weight-loss medication Ozempic, informally dubbed “doggy Ozempic,” “Wagovy,” or “Ozempup.” The progress comes as a growing number of pet owners grapple with weight issues in their companions,prompting both hope and debate.

A Growing Crisis: Canine Obesity on the Rise

Veterinarians and pet health organizations are increasingly sounding the alarm about rising obesity rates in dogs. Recent data indicates that approximately 50 percent of dogs in the United Kingdom are currently classified as overweight, a 5 percent increase since 2014, according to figures released by UK Pet Food. This trend mirrors similar increases observed in human obesity rates worldwide.

“The increase in canine obesity is a serious health concern,” explains Dr. Emily Carter, a leading veterinary nutritionist.”Excess weight can lead to a cascade of health problems, including diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and a reduced lifespan.”

The Science Behind ‘Doggy Ozempic’

The drugs currently used for human weight loss, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, function by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone called GLP-1. This hormone regulates appetite,blood sugar levels,and digestion,leading to reduced food intake and weight loss. Scientists are working to develop similar medications specifically formulated for dogs, addressing differences in metabolism and physiology.

Okava, a San Francisco-based company in collaboration with Vivani Medical, is at the forefront of this research. Their candidate drug, OKV-119, employs a GLP-1 mimic known as exenatide and would be administered via a subcutaneous implant designed to last for six months.

Drug Target species Active Ingredient Administration Projected Availability
Ozempic Humans Semaglutide Injection Currently Available
Wegovy Humans Semaglutide Injection Currently Available
OKV-119 Dogs Exenatide Subcutaneous Implant 2028-2029 (Projected)

Okava anticipates that OKV-119 could be available to veterinarians as early as 2028 or 2029. However,some pet owners and experts express concerns about the ethical implications of using weight-loss drugs for animals.

The Ethical debate and Pet Owner Perspectives

The prospect of medicating pets for weight loss has sparked debate. Some argue that it shifts responsibility away from owners to manage their pets’ diets and exercise. others acknowledge the challenges of managing obesity in animals with complex behavioral or underlying medical issues.

“I understand the criticism, but it’s not always about a lack of effort,” says Sarah Miller, a dog owner whose golden retriever struggles with compulsive eating. “Sometimes, there are underlying issues that make it incredibly difficult to control a dog’s weight.For some, including my own, it’s a genuine addiction.”

Concerns also exist regarding potential behavioral changes. Dampening a dog’s appetite might unintentionally reduce their overall enthusiasm and joy. Researchers, such as Okava’s CEO Michael Klotsman, hope the drug will allow pets to eat appropriate portions without the obsessive behaviors that often accompany severe food-driven issues.

“What owners should expect to see is their pet eating appropriate portions without the previous food obsession – they’ll still eat regularly and show interest in meals, just without the excessive begging, scavenging or gulping behavior,” Klotsman stated in a recent interview.

Did you know? According to the Association for pet Obesity Prevention (APOP), over 59% of U.S. dogs are overweight or obese.

Pro Tip: Before considering medication, consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions contributing to your dog’s weight gain and to develop a comprehensive diet and exercise plan.