According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, 54 percent of America's pet population is 
overweight. Sweeney, who also stars on the daily soap opera "Days of Our Lives," became aware of pet obesity when she took her Boston Terrier, Winky, to the vet and was told her pooch could stand to lose a few pounds. After adjusting Winky's diet and making a few changes, the canine is back in shape.
With the Million Pound Pledge, Sweeney is urging pet owners to come together on petfit.com and collectively help their animals drop a combined one million pounds by March 30.
Sweeney spoke to Reuters about the plan and pet obesity.
Q: When did you realize Winky was getting fat?
A: "She was a little thick, but I thought it was kind of cute. The vet explained she was a good two pounds overweight and when your dog is only 19 lbs, that's a lot. People don't realize what a significant difference a pound or two can make on a small animal."
Q: What's the most common mistake people make when it comes to feeding their pets?
A: "The number one mistake is giving pets table scraps. I made the mistake thinking I was
overweight. Sweeney, who also stars on the daily soap opera "Days of Our Lives," became aware of pet obesity when she took her Boston Terrier, Winky, to the vet and was told her pooch could stand to lose a few pounds. After adjusting Winky's diet and making a few changes, the canine is back in shape.With the Million Pound Pledge, Sweeney is urging pet owners to come together on petfit.com and collectively help their animals drop a combined one million pounds by March 30.
One lucky winner will
a free trip to
"The Biggest Loser"
finale in May.
Sweeney spoke to Reuters about the plan and pet obesity.
Q: When did you realize Winky was getting fat?
A: "She was a little thick, but I thought it was kind of cute. The vet explained she was a good two pounds overweight and when your dog is only 19 lbs, that's a lot. People don't realize what a significant difference a pound or two can make on a small animal."
Q: What's the most common mistake people make when it comes to feeding their pets?
A: "The number one mistake is giving pets table scraps. I made the mistake thinking I was
