HOUSTON, TX (WFLA) – A 7-year-old Dachshund named “Fat Vincent” has shed more than half his body weight in less than a year.
Eight months ago, the jumbo-sized pup weighed a whopping 38-pounds. He was unhealthy, depressed and had high cholesterol.
“Fat Vincent” had been dumped at a county animal shelter after his owner had died.
“He was friendly, but I could barely discern between his laying down and standing up positions; with his short little legs, there was very little clearance between the floor and his chest and abdomen,” his veterinarian Sharon Anderson told CNN.
That’s when K-9 Angels Rescue, in Houston, took him in and began to help save him. His ideal weight should be between 15-17 pounds, so Vincent began a rigorous routine of water aerobics and walks.
Now, eight months later, “Fat Vincent” isn’t fat anymore. He’s trimmed down to 17 pounds and is almost ready for his forever home. He has about another pound and a half to lose to reach his goal.
His whole demeanor has changed as well. “He is the sweetest, funniest, happiest guy now,” Anderson told CNN.
Follow Vincent’s journey to adoption on his Facebook page: Fat Vincent of K-9 Angels Rescue Houston.
Vincent’s story is not unique. In 2015, an obese beagle was given a second chance at life thanks to an animal rescue group that put him on a weight loss program.
The story of “Kale Chips” the 85-pound beagle went viral. The porky pooch was surrendered to Chicago Animal Care & Control by his elderly owner who could no longer care for him.
And there’s the story of “Obie,” the dachshund that put on twice the amount of its own weight and had to go on a diet.
The pup moved to Portland and stayed with Nora Vanatta, a dog rescuer. The dog was put on a strict diet and exercise regime and lost about 55 pounds. Obie had to undergo a surgery to remove excess skin.
But now Obie is at healthy 35 pounds and feeling well.What others are clicking on:
