Rates of obesity in pets are rising in this country, just as it is for their human companions. So with all the quick-fix fat fighters out there for people these days, should we be surprised that there now is one for animals?

Slentrol, from Pfizer Animal Health, is the first prescription diet pill for dogs to be approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. It works by keeping some fats from being absorbed by the small intestine, giving the dog the sensation of being full. Hence, the dog isn't hungry and eats less. The medication, when administered properly, will allow your pet to lose about 3 percent of his body weight every month.

"If your dog is obsese, help is available!" says the Pfizer Web site. "Managing obesity in your dog is not a matter of 'looking good.' It's about managing the potential for serious health consequences."

Agreed. There are about 17 million overweight or obese dogs out there. And yes, they are more prone to arthritis, lung and heart problems -- and, in general, live shorter lives. But is a pill, rather than diet and exercise, really the answer for most dogs?

The Coco The Blogging Dog site had a recent post outlining Slentrol's risks, drawn straight from Pfizer's data. Tests showed dogs on Slentrol were more at risk for vomiting and diarrhea, although those symptoms often lessened as the treatment continued. But two dogs in the Slentrol control group developed corneal ulcers. A 5-year-old healthy beagle developed seizures. A dachshund had to be hospitalized for aneroxia. (Click here to read the full Coco post).

The reality is: All medications have risks, including those for animals. Is this one worth it?

Would love to hear from any veterinarians or dog people who have had experience with Slentrol.