Slimmer Bull hits top target for losing weight

Bull, who lives in Yapton Lane with owner Tania House-Spence, has lost 17kg, or a quarter of his body weight, in just six months.

He beat 22 other dieting dogs and 11 cats to scoop the award, which included a year's worth of Hill's pet nutrition products for him and an M&S hamper for Tania.

Tania said: "We were fortunate in that Bull accepted the new diet straight away and seemed content to eat less than he'd been used to.

'Huge difference'

"We've noticed a huge difference in him over the last few months. He's much more agile and bouncy and really seems to enjoy his walks these days. He's also a lot calmer and just seems happier with himself."

She added that Bull had been seriously overweight for several years and it was making him uncomfortable, as well as putting extra strain on his joints and major organs.

Sacha Elliot, veterinary nurse at Pet Doctors, in Woodlands Avenue, Rustington, encouraged Tania to put Bull, who weighed 68kg, on a diet.

Owners' ordeal

She said: "Putting a pet on a diet can be an ordeal for many owners as they don't like to deprive their beloved animal of their favourite food and treats.

"But, with veterinary help and advice, it's really easier than people think and can make the world of difference to pets. It's also proven to increase their life expectancy.

"Tania did really well in sticking to the regime and Bull is reaping the benefit of her efforts. Compared with when I first met him, in June, 2009, he's now full of energy and raring to go."

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