Britain’s fattest Labrador is being put on a strict diet after well-meaning owners stuffed ‘Dinky Dan’ with so much food he ballooned to TWICE the size he should be.
Despite his dainty name, when he was rescued Dan tipped the scales at a whopping 115lbs – more than a baby hippo.
Big fat black Lab Dan will be steering clear of festive treats this Christmas, as staff at the Dogs Trust Rehoming Centre in Canterbury, Kent, have put him on a strict diet.
The seven-year-old portly pooch has been put on a strict calorie controlled diet and exercise plan to help him slim down and shift his extra pounds, as a normal Labrador his age should weigh around 55lbs.
In a bid to find him a new home, Dogs Trust are appealing to active owners who can keep him on the right track and help him trim down to a healthier size.
Adam Levy, Dogs Trust Canterbury Rehoming Centre Manager said: “Dinky Dan is one of the largest dogs we have seen at Dogs Trust but he’s a happy, friendly boy and we know that with plenty of walkies and a strict diet we can help him shed those extra pounds.”
Weighing twice as much as a healthy dog, Dinky Dan has already lost 4lbs and will need to continue his efforts in his new home if he wishes to reach his ideal weight.
Adam added: “Dan is such a friendly boy who loves nothing more than playing with his toys and meeting other dogs on his walks.
“He is looking for an active family home with owners who can help him stick to a healthy, dog-friendly diet and ensure he gets plenty of daily exercise.”
“We’re sure that in the right home and with plenty of support, he can shift the pounds in no time.”
Porky Dan is believed to have piled on the pounds after his former owners overfed him and gave him human food, like pies and roast dinners.
Dogs Trust Veterinary Director Paula Boyden says that whilst the temptation might be to treat your pooch to a doggy delicacy, it’s best to make it an occasional treat.
She said: “It’s important not to over-feed dogs as the excess weight puts strain on their bodies, particularly the heart and joints.
“Human food is not an ideal balanced diet for your dog.”
“Dog treats and special meals, for example dog-friendly cakes, should be occasional and certainly not a replacement for a regular diet.
“Such treats are often highly calorific so if you are giving them to your dog, reduce their daily meal portions accordingly.”
