After Ozempic, is “Ozempup” on the way? Scientists explore weight-loss jabs for obese pet dogs-- All details here

In just a few months, Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro have transformed how humans lose the extra weight fast and effectively, and now the spotlight is shifting toward our furry friends. With certain pet dog breeds-- like pups, beagles, and labs-- being more prone to weight gain and obesity, conversations around the growing “crisis” of obesity in dogs has got scientist thinking. And now, they are asking an unexpected question: Could dogs also benefit from weight-loss jabs, just like humans?A report by the Daily Mail reveals that to find a solution to obesity in dogs, biotech company Vivani Medical has now teamed up with Okava to test a canine-friendly version of the same GLP-1 drugs behind popular human “skinny jabs.” If successful, this innovation—dubbed informally as “Ozempup”— might soon help overweight pets shed extra pounds and live longer, healthier lives.Unlike humans, who take weekly semaglutide injections, dogs would receive the “Ozempup” treatment through a tiny implant called OKV-119. About the size of a microchip, the implant would sit under the skin and release a steady dose of medication for up to six months.So far, early trials in cats suggest the treatment is safe. If dog trials show similar results, experts say the product could reach the market as early as 2028.Certain breeds are genetically more prone to overeating. This puts them at high risk of arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, and shorter lifespans. Professor Alex German, an obesity specialist at the University of Liverpool, explained, “There’s a massive genetic component that drives the animal to be hungry all the time. Having an alternative approach, such as drugs, could be useful for clinicians to have another option.”While vets usually prescribe special diets and exercise routines, these plans don’t always work, especially for genetically prone dogs. For many owners, managing their pet’s weight turns into a lifelong battle filled with frustration and guilt.Still, not everyone is convinced. Dr. Helen Zomer of the University of Florida warns that while the science looks promising, it’s too early to celebrate. “We don’t have definitive answers on whether it would be a good solution or the potential consequences,” she said.Experts stress that balanced diets, regular walks, and active playtime remain the most effective— and safest—ways to manage pet weight.This isn’t the first attempt to create a pharmaceutical fix for dog obesity. In 2007, Pfizer launched Slentrol, an appetite-suppressant for dogs. While it initially looked promising, it was eventually discontinued after many owners reported side effects like low energy and decreased happiness in their pets.With “Ozempup” still in development, only time will tell if dog owners will embrace medicated weight-loss implants or stick to traditional approaches like healthy diets and exercise. If successful, however, this treatment could reshape how veterinarians address the growing pet obesity crisis— offering hope for countless dogs struggling with weight-related health issues.For now, the takeaway is clear: Whether through medicine or mindful care, helping pets maintain a healthy weight is one of the greatest gifts an owner can give to their furry companions.