Our Mission

The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the awareness, prevention, and treatment of obesity and weight-related disorders in companion animals. We address the complex challenges of pet obesity through measurable standards, collaboration, and evidence-based clinical guidance.

APOP supports veterinary healthcare teams, promotes research, confronts weight bias, strengthens the One Health connection, and advances clinical recognition of obesity as a disease. Through prevalence surveys, position statements, educational initiatives, and policy leadership, we work to improve long-term health outcomes for pets and the families who care for them.

Our History

APOP was founded by Dr. Ernie Ward after observing a steady rise in obesity among patients in his small animal practice. Practicing in a coastal retirement community, he recognized parallels between human and companion animal health trends and saw a growing need for clinical leadership focused on prevention, assessment, and treatment.

In 2006, APOP conducted its first pilot prevalence survey. The results indicated that more than half of pets assessed by veterinary professionals were overweight or living with obesity, closely mirroring patterns seen in human public health data. Since then, APOP has continued tracking prevalence trends and examining how pet owners and veterinary teams understand body condition, nutrition, and the long-term health impact of excess adiposity.

The Global Pet Obesity Initiative

In 2018, APOP launched the Global Pet Obesity Initiative (GPOI) to advance a unified framework for defining and assessing pet obesity. These guidelines have been formally recognized by 25 leading veterinary medical organizations.

• Establishes a uniform definition of pet obesity.
• Standardizes body condition scoring (BCS) for dogs and cats.
• Recognizes obesity as a disease.

Our Supporters and Partners

Pet obesity is one of the most widespread health challenges facing dogs and cats today, yet it is also one of the most preventable. Real progress happens when veterinarians, researchers, industry leaders, and communities work together toward shared solutions.

Through collaboration, APOP expands education, strengthens clinical standards, advances prevalence research, and promotes evidence-based care that improves long-term health outcomes for pets. Together, we can reshape how obesity is understood, discussed, and treated in veterinary medicine.

Leadership

APOP is guided by veterinary professionals committed to advancing clinical standards, research, and evidence-based care in the prevention and treatment of pet obesity.