(Welcome to our weekly pet column, courtesy of Pet Connection Programs Inc. of Marilla. We post a new article each week, so be sure to check back on a regular basis!)

As pet parents around the world gear up for the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, Petco shares important reminders to keep pet safety top-of-mind throughout the season. Preparation is key and can help immensely when it comes to keeping pets calm and happy.

(Welcome to our weekly pet column, courtesy of Pet Connection Programs Inc. of Marilla. We post a new article each week, so be sure to check back on a regular basis!)

Driven by increased focus on pet health and the powerful role in pet owner lives of the human-animal bond, U.S. sales of pet food will rise 16 percent between 2015-2018 to reach $33 billion!

(Welcome to our weekly pet column, courtesy of Pet Connection Programs Inc. of Marilla. We post a new article each week, so be sure to check back on a regular basis!)

Over 50 percent of pets are considered overweight or obese, with numbers climbing steadily. Just as with people, pet obesity has become an epidemic in the U.S.  

Dr. Mark Verdino, Animal League America Vice President and Chief of Veterinary Staff states, "The most common cause for obesity in animals is over-feeding and lack of exercise. In this regard, most overweight animals can easily be put on a path to lose weight."