Dog Slimmer of the Year
Patch, a six-year-old Beagle Cross, weighed the same as an average six-year-old child - a whopping 4.5 stones (28.45kg) - when he was brought to the Rehoming Centre last year.
After finding a new home with the MacLean family in Motherwell, exactly one year after hitting the headlines Patch is within sniffing distance of his target weight – 2.4 stone - by weighing in at 2.9 stone (18kg).
Vets had warned that a rapid weight loss would put strain on Patch’s organs and could actually harm him, so it has been a slow, careful process. He follows a strict diet and his exercise levels have been built up gradually, with careful monitoring by veterinary staff.
Claire Kelman, Dogs Trust Glasgow Assistant Centre Manager, explain the charity’s delight at his progress:
"When Patch first came to us he was so obese he couldn't even walk and needed a sling to be moved from one place to another. Now he's lost the weight he can run around and properly enjoy his walks like any other dog. It just goes to show a good diet and careful exercise can make a real impact."
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
