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A miniature dachshund originally weighing 56 lbs shed more than 75% of its body weight after undergoing a new diet and fitness regime.
Dennis, the morbidly obese dog from Ohio, was adopted by Brooke Burton two years ago from a relative who fed it junk food including pizza, burger, and other human food.
According to Burton, a nursing student, Dennis started dropping weight after he put it on diet of dry dog food. The dog, who is currently weighing 12 pounds, also took frequent walks as its form of exercise.
Speaking to the Associated Press, the 26-year-old dog owner said: “In the beginning, you could tell he was very depressed, that he really didn’t feel good at all.’’
Burton revealed that Dennis’ real personality came out after losing weight.
“After he lost weight, this bossy little demanding man popped out. He’s into everything; he wants to play with everybody.”
Because Dennis shed off so much weight, the folds of its excess skin caused the dog to have infections. In order to get rid of it, the dog had to undergo three surgeries at the Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center.
Dennis’ veterinary surgeon Dr. Kathleen Ham warned other pet owners about the dangers of overfeeding animals. Ham pointed out that pets need affection and attention, more than food.
“We have an expression: food is not love. Most of what your pet wants from you is affection and attention,” she added.
