An overweight Trowbridge dog has become the biggest loser at a vets after shedding a quarter of her body weight.

Lucy, a three-year-old Golden Retriever, weighed 40kg when she was put on a diet at the end of 2009 and has since lost 10.8kg to now tip the scales at 29.2kg.

She began to slowly gain weight at the age of six months after she was neutered, which can cause unwanted weight gain. It meant she was becoming breathless and had little energy.

Her weight gain was noticed at her annual vaccination by the Trowbridge branch of Garston Veterinary Group and was referred to a weight club.

Amanda Fisher, manager at Garston Veterinary Group, said: “We provide a weight clinic at the surgery so Lucy has come in on a regular basis to be weighed and we have been able to provide nutritional and exercise advice.

“Lucy was started on Royal Canin obesity diet, and was fed a measured amount.

“Lucy came back to see the nurse every two weeks initially so that we could check how well she was doing and tolerating the new food.

“We are pleased with her loss during the year – it’s not good for an animal to lose a lot of weight in a short period of time, it needs to be gradual.

“She will always need to be monitored for weight gain but has done really well to loose an impressive 10.8kg. That’s the equivalent of a small dog such as a Border terrier or Cocker Spaniel.”

Kate Douse is a veterinary nurse at the Garston’s Glenleigh Surgery in Wingfield Road, and was asked to look after Lucy.

She said: “Obesity can have adverse effects on joints and the animal’s mobility. It can also lead to diabetes.

“We are seeing more and more obese pets now.

“We see a lot of fat pets after Christmas when owners have some time off and like to treat their pets.

“Lucy has enjoyed coming into the vets and now she has more energy and tolerates longer walks.”