YOUR family pet could be the key to fighting the flab in 2017.

That’s the advice from the British Veterinary Association (BVA), which claims regular exercise will also prevent a rise in dog obesity.

Gudrun Ravetz, BVA president, said: “It can be difficult to drag yourself out of bed on a cold, dark winter morning to take the dog out but, remember, your dog is always pleased to see you and keen for a walk.

“Taking a dog for a walk or run costs much less than a gym membership and is much more fun and rewarding.

“It also aids in creating a closer bond between owner and dog, which can have a positive impact on wellbeing.

“In addition, it combats the well-known health risks that can come with being overweight, such as diabetes, cardio-respiratory disease and joint pain.”

For more advice, visit the website at www.bva.co.uk.