A MIDDLEWICH woman and her ten-year-old Cavalier King Charles, Alfie, have both been on a weight loss journey and between them they have so far lost over 8st this year.

Veda rehomed Alfie earlier this year, he arrived weighing in at 16kg, more than double the size he should be and he could barely walk or move.

Shortly after he became really sick and during tests it was also found that he had a serious heart murmur.

Edward Davies, veterinary surgeon and clinical director at Cheshire Pet in Holmes Chapel held nothing back and told Veda that Alfie must lose weight.

He worked alongside Veda and suggested that she reduced his food intake by at least 25% and increased his daily exercise routine, starting slowly and building it up as Alfie lost weight.

Veda said: “I understood how Alfie felt, as I was also on a diet and wanted to lose weight, this has helped us both.

“At first I felt cruel reducing Alfie’s food, but I knew it was the best thing for him to improve his health and fitness, so I was firm but fair.

“It has been amazing to see so many positive changes in Alfie, at the beginning he struggled to keep up with me on his walks, but now he is running in front and I am chasing him.

“Another big bonus has been that he snored, a lot and loudly, that has all gone.

Edward said: “Alfie was brought into the practice very poorly and his weight will have been a big part of this.

“Overweight and obese dogs are much more likely to develop diabetes, heart and respiratory conditions, arthritis, even behavioural problems.

“This is why it was so vital for Alfie to have a complete lifestyle change to lose the unnecessary weight.

“It really isn’t healthy for our pets to become overweight, I know we feel that we are being kind by overfeeding and treating, but it is quite the opposite and can create so many medical issues.

“It is important to remember that when our pets lose weight, it does not just mean cutting calories, it is also important that the balance of essential vitamins and minerals remains correct.

“Veda has added years to little Alfie’s life and they should both be very proud.”

For more information about Cheshire Pet Holmes Chapel call 01477 544554.