Mizzy,the SuperSized Bullmastiff has a neck that is as big as her veterinarian's waist | PDSA
Mizzy now takes long walks and is on a strict diet | PDSA
Enter Mizzy, a 5 year-old Bullmastiff from the town of Littleover in Derby, England. She weighs in at a hefty 159.6 lbs (11.4 stone) - more than the average weight of a British woman.As the latest contender in an animal fit club, she needs to lose more than 1/3 of her body weight to reach her ideal size (108lbs/49kg).
Her owner Cheryl Pedley describes Mizzy as a “giant cuddly teddy bear,” and says “We got Mizzy when she was a year old and she has always been a big girl, but wasn't overweight,” according to PDSA (People's Dispensary for Sick Animals)
Mizzy had undergone surgery for Pyometra in early 2011 | PDSA
ComplicationsIn early 2011, Mizzy had undergone emergency surgery for Pyometra, a potentially fatal womb infection. This, along with other health problems caused Mizzy to put on the weight within six months due to her immobility. Ms. Pedley adds “She isn't given any naughty treats at all, just dental sticks.”
Mizzy put on the weight within 6 months after her operation | PDSA
“The good news is it's never too late to make a positive change and improve a pet's lifestyle.”
Sue Barlett is Mizzy's Veternary nurse who monitors Mizzy at Derby PDSA | PDSA
She explains that “Overweight pets are less mobile, less willing to play and more likely to develop a number of serious health conditions. “The good news is it's never too late to make a positive change and improve a pet's lifestyle. We're confident that Mizzy will have a slim-line figure and new lease of life by the end of the competition.”
Will Mizzy take the title of PDSA Pet Fit Club slimmer of the year? | PDSA
The Challenge “I knew her breed was supposed to be big,” said Ms. Pedley, not realizing how overweight Mizzy had become. “She used to love long walks so I didn't think anything of giving her big helpings then, but I should have adjusted her food when her activity levels decreased - hindsight is a wonderful thing. 'When the vet explained the problems her extra weight was causing her I wanted to do everything I can to help her. “I couldn't bear to lose such an adorable dog to something preventable.”Ms. Pedley and her Bullmastiff Mizzy | PDSA
Ms. Pedley decided to enter Mizzy into PDSA's Pet Fit Club where Mizzy and other overweight animals will compete for the title of PDSA Pet Fit Club slimmer of the year. According to PDSA, Mizzy is now following a tailor-made diet and fitness program by the vets and nurses at Derby PDSA PetAid hospital. Supporters can follow Mizzy's progress and sponsor her weight loss challenge by visiting Mizzy's page to help raise funds for PDSA, the UK's leading veterinary charity, offering pet health care for a range of animals, including dogs, cats & rabbits.left: Mizzy's owenr Cheryl Pedley, right: Mizzy's veterinary nurse Sue Bartlett | PDSA
VIDEO: Will this 160lb Bullmastiff become Britain's Biggest Loser?
SOURCE: PDSA