Dennis the Dachshund is this week's viral Internet sweetheart after photos of the once-obese mutt's weight loss warmed the hearts of viewers.
Dennis, who previously weighed in at 56 pounds, has slimmed down to 12 after undergoing surgery to remove the excess skin left behind after he
shed the pounds, The Columbus Dispatch reported.
Dr. Kathleen Ham, an assistant professor at the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, told the newspaper that the surgery was necessary after the weight loss because Dennis was developing infections in the skin folds.
Brooke Burton, Dennis' owner, told The Dispatch that she got the dachshund from a relative who used to feed the dog burgers, pizza, and other food that would make it difficult for even the average human to stay in shape.
"I've seen this depressed little dog blossom into a spunky little spitfire," Burton, a nursing student, said. "I would say that, after a month of taking care of him, he realized I was helping him."
Dennis crash dieted on dry dog food and began getting regular walks, which slowly worked off the extra pounds.
"I first was told I was crazy taking on such a huge commitment but
I didn't care," Burton told Today.com. "I have such a huge love for animals, that I didn't care the time or money needed to make Dennis a normal dog again. I find it crazy people telling me I'm a hero. I just don't see it that way. I'm just a normal person trying to do the right thing the best I can. I would hope that anyone else would do the same thing too. Animals don't deserve to be treated the way they do."
People magazine wrote that Burton was so inspired by her experience with Dennis that she started Dennis' Legacy, an Ohio State University-backed fund that helps other pet owners pay for physical therapy, diet plans, and veterinary appointments for their obese pets.
"[Dennis'] whole personality has changed," Burton said. "He is always looking for someone to play with. And he loves to bark orders."
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