This super slimmer dog has been getting all the pats for shedding half his body weight – even if his treats are now limited.
Alaskan malamute Trojan arrived into RSPCA care In Dorset in November 2020, tipping the scales at 101kg – the same weight as a baby elephant.
Despite turning up in a bad way, Trojan is now almost half the pup he once was – losing over 40kg in total thanks to help from staff.
It’s been a year since he first came to the animal rescue centre and now – at a healthy 60.1kg – the incredible shrinking pup looking for a new home.
Kennel supervisor Nicola Anthony, from Ashley Heath Animal Centre where Trojan has been cared for, said: ‘Poor Trojan was in a terrible way when he arrived here a year ago. He was dirty, matted and unbelievably obese.
‘It’s taken a year, a very special diet and an exercise regime to help him lose the weight slowly and safely; and he’s now almost half of his original weight. Thankfully, he hasn’t lost his big character!’
An older dog, ten-year-old Trojan is described as a ‘loveable bear’ who needs a home that can keep his previous health issues and age in mind when taking him on.
Nicola added: ‘Trojan is arthritic and has thyroid problems so will need ongoing treatment in his new home. These conditions won’t be covered by any insurance so his new owners will need to be prepared to cover these costs.
‘Although he’s in his twilight years, don’t let that fool you; he has no intention of “retiring” any time soon. He is still strong and likes to go for short walks, plod around the garden and have a good sniff.
‘He gets on really well with other dogs but doesn’t like being jumped all over so he’s best around calm, respectful doggy friends.
‘We think he’d be best as the only dog in his new home so he can have all of the attention and affection; and he really deserves it!’
Always keen on a belly rub, and in need of good company from an owner who is around often, Trojan would be best suited for a home without any young children and where he can get lots of attention.
The RSPCA says he is happy to spend most of the day sleeping, and is generally quiet unless someone arrives or if it is dinner time.
He can be left for short periods of time, and could live with older children, but Trojan’s new owners will need to resist fussing over him – including when it comes to food.
RSPCA chief veterinary officer Caroline Allen said: ‘Pet obesity is a serious welfare issue and recent studies have suggested that around half of all pet dogs are overweight. We are, quite literally, killing our pets with kindness…
‘Overweight pets can suffer from serious health problems such as heart disease and diabetes. Carrying more body weight can also increase the chances of pets suffering from conditions such as arthritis and can even shorten their life expectancy.
‘If you’re worried about your pet’s weight, we’d recommend speaking to your vet before making any significant diet or lifestyle changes and ruling out any health conditions that may be affecting their weight.’