Dog weighing same as baby elephant named Slimmer of the Year

The 10-year-old Alaskan Malamut, who weighed the same as a baby elephant has been branded ‘Slimmer of the year’ after shedding half his weight in just 12 months.

Trojan arrived at the RSPCA in Ashley Heath weighing in at a shocking 101kg, in November 2020.

Kennel supervisor Nicola Anthony, 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.”

The lovable bear now weighs in at a much healthier 60.1kg and is feeling much better for it. But the senior pooch needs a home that can keep his previous health and age in mind when taking him on.

Trojan weighed the same as a baby elephant

Nicola said: “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.”

READ MORE: Special pets needing a new home in Dorset

He’s looking for a home with someone who will be around for most of the day and, once he’s settled in his new home and routine, may be able to be left for short periods of time. He could live with older children and needs owners who will not over-fuss him.

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. Obesity can affect all types of pets and the main causes are from eating too much or not exercising enough."

Find out more about Trojan on the RSPCA website or contact Ashley Heath on ashleyheath@rspca.org.uk.