Every weight loss journey starts with a single step.
We're sharing Margo's incredible transformation in her owner Louise's own words, from the challenges they faced to the life-changing results they've achieved together.
We Knew Something Had to Change
Margo was a rescue from Happy Landings. She came to us when she was four months old, as a fluffy pug. Interested to know why she was so fluffy, we had a DNA test done and were surprised to find she was 98% pug and only 2% Pekingese!
Her weight started creeping up in 2024, when she was five. A combination of hot weather and a growth on her foot, meant a lack of walks for Margo. Added to the fact that she is greedy and will eat anything, her weight shot up!
Being brachycephalic (flat-faced) we have always had to be careful with Margo in warm weather, but the weight gain made her tolerance of the heat much worse. She got to a point where she would struggle on walks even when it wasn't warm.
We Knew Something Had to Change
Margo was a rescue from Happy Landings. She came to us when she was four months old, as a fluffy pug. Interested to know why she was so fluffy, we had a DNA test done and were surprised to find she was 98% pug and only 2% Pekingese!
Her weight started creeping up in 2024, when she was five. A combination of hot weather and a growth on her foot, meant a lack of walks for Margo. Added to the fact that she is greedy and will eat anything, her weight shot up!
Being brachycephalic (flat-faced) we have always had to be careful with Margo in warm weather, but the weight gain made her tolerance of the heat much worse. She got to a point where she would struggle on walks even when it wasn't warm.
This was worrying to watch as an owner as her breathing was really affected, it was hard to watch her struggling.
We weren’t nervous about staring a weight loss programme as we knew we needed to do something about this, for her quality of life.
We decided to reach out for support. Working at Langford Vet Practice, it made sense to ask my colleagues for help.
This was worrying to watch as an owner as her breathing was really affected, it was hard to watch her struggling.
We weren’t nervous about staring a weight loss programme as we knew we needed to do something about this, for her quality of life.
We decided to reach out for support. Working at Langford Vet Practice, it made sense to ask my colleagues for help.
Small Steps, Big Changes
Bringing her in for her first weight clinic appointment was eye-opening, we couldn't believe how big she had got. Seeing her every day we hadn't noticed her weight had gone up as much as it had. She weighed 9.8kgs, a healthy weight for her breed is between 6.5 - 7kgs!
The vet nurse we saw suggested a specific diet for Margo and worked out the amount of food she should be having.
At home I had a chat with my adult children about limiting treats for Margo. Fortunately, because she is so greedy, we were able to switch to low calorie treats, such as cubes of cucumber, which she was more than happy with.
It hasn’t always been easy, we have always been good at not feeding her "human food", some members of the family found it hard not to give Margo her favourite treats and stick to the veg!
What kept us motivated was seeing results quickly. As the weight came off, she had much more energy and seemed happier.
To keep us on track Margo came in for two weekly weight clinic checks initially, which has now dropped to monthly checks, just to make sure her weight doesn't start creeping up.
We first started noticing positive changes when Margo had lost just under half a kilo at her first weigh in, two weeks after starting her new food. For a small dog, that was a really noticeable amount.
Small Steps, Big Changes
Bringing her in for her first weight clinic appointment was eye-opening, we couldn't believe how big she had got. Seeing her every day we hadn't noticed her weight had gone up as much as it had. She weighed 9.8kgs, a healthy weight for her breed is between 6.5 - 7kgs!
The vet nurse we saw suggested a specific diet for Margo and worked out the amount of food she should be having.
At home I had a chat with my adult children about limiting treats for Margo. Fortunately, because she is so greedy, we were able to switch to low calorie treats, such as cubes of cucumber, which she was more than happy with.
It hasn’t always been easy, we have always been good at not feeding her "human food", some members of the family found it hard not to give Margo her favourite treats and stick to the veg!
What kept us motivated was seeing results quickly. As the weight came off, she had much more energy and seemed happier.
To keep us on track Margo came in for two weekly weight clinic checks initially, which has now dropped to monthly checks, just to make sure her weight doesn't start creeping up.
We first started noticing positive changes when Margo had lost just under half a kilo at her first weigh in, two weeks after starting her new food. For a small dog, that was a really noticeable amount.
A New Lease of Life
Margo has lost almost 3 kgs, she now weighs in at 6.9kgs. She is still losing weight but at a slower rate.
The weight loss has made such a different to Margo's health and quality of life. She is now keen to go on walks again, even running and play with our other dog Vivienne and playing with toys.
Her breathing has improved and tolerance of the heat. She would have struggled hugely with the hot weather we have had recently had she not lost the weight. Overall, she is much happier and healthier.
When we look back at where she started, we can't believe the change in her, she is like a different dog.
What would we say to other owners who might be considering a weight loss programme? Do it! And you'll have a happy healthier dog!
Bringing your dog to a weight loss clinic hugely increases your chances of success. A vet nurse will create a plan for you and the weight check appointments help to keep you on track.
If you're worried about your pet's weight, don't wait. The support we received from the team was incredible, and seeing Margo happy, healthy and enjoying life again has made every step worthwhile.
Could your pet benefit from a little extra support with their weight?
Get in touch to find out how with a little dedication, teamwork, and guidance our Slim4Life weight management clinic can help your pet achieve a healthier, happier life.
Call us to book an appointment 01934 852 422