Rescue Dog Sheds Pounds, Finds New Home After Being Overweight
Peggy-Sue, a bulldog weighing as much as a baby hippo, has undergone a successful weight loss transformation and found a permanent home.
A rescue bulldog named Peggy-Sue, who once weighed 32.5 kilograms (approximately 71.6 pounds), has successfully lost nearly 10 kilograms and found a new home. When she arrived at the RSPCA's West Hatch Animal Centre in Somerset in July 2025, Peggy-Sue's significant weight made everyday activities difficult. She struggled to walk, was prone to infections and overheating, and would collapse after short distances.
Due to her size, staff had to transport her in a crate from their van to her kennel. Anita Clark, RSPCA Animal Deputy Centre Manager, noted that the dog required considerable care and attention. Peggy-Sue suffered from an ingrown claw, infected skin folds, and a low tolerance for heat, necessitating a fan to be kept on in her kennel at all times.
After being rehomed as part of the charity's 2025 Adoptober scheme, Peggy-Sue began her weight loss journey with a foster carer. Her exercise regimen was gradually increased, and she was placed on a strict diet. This intervention has led to a significant improvement in her health and mobility.
Now weighing 23.5 kilograms (approximately 51.8 pounds), Peggy-Sue has been adopted by Emmie and Andy from Taunton. The couple describes her as a "water-baby" who enjoys exploring rock pools and streams. Emmie shared that Peggy-Sue is their sixth rescue dog and has shown remarkable improvement since coming home, now loving her walks and car rides.
RSPCA Scientific and Policy Manager, Ashleigh Brown, commented that obesity is a common issue in pets, often resulting from consuming more calories than expended. However, factors such as age, breed, neutering status, medication, and underlying health conditions can also contribute to weight gain.