Seeing an incredibly overweight dog show up at a rescue can really take your breath away, especially when you learn that the situation was caused by an owner who kept feeding the dog far too much and ultimately gave up on him.
Stories like this make you shake your head and ask how someone could let things get so out of hand. It might not fit everyone’s idea of neglect, but in so many ways it still is.
When a dog is fed far beyond what their body needs, it doesn’t just fill their stomach — it damages their health and steals away the simple pleasures a dog should have, like walking comfortably, playing freely, or even just feeling good.
So when an exceptionally heavy Dachshund arrived at Contented Critters in Minnesota, the team couldn’t help but gasp at the sight before them.
He Needed Immediate Weight Management
Frank’s situation was heartbreaking. Before reaching Contented Critters, he had already passed through another rescue.
Animal control officers had taken him in after his former owner was arrested. At that point, Frank was a senior dog who weighed an alarming 37 pounds.
This was shocking to everyone involved, so his rescuer set a goal to help him shed at least half of that excess weight. Frank was so severely overweight that basic movement was a struggle.
His weight loss plan began right away. His caregiver placed him on a strict diet and consistent exercise routine.
Within one month, Frank had made impressive progress and dropped 7 pounds. It was still the beginning of a long process, but such change in a short period was extraordinary.
He adored interacting with people. His tail would start wagging the moment his rescuer approached, and he was slowly rediscovering how to play.
Although his journey is not yet complete, it is clear that an even more dramatic transformation is ahead. His daily life is improving rapidly, and it is remarkable to witness how much more he can do now.
Reactions Across TikTok
After seeing Frank’s progress, the Minnesota rescuer shared a video on TikTok.
The response was overwhelmingly positive. Many people expressed hope that Frank would continue thriving and completely rebuild his life.
One viewer wrote: “Seeing Frank in his original physical condition had me crying. Unbelievably sad. Thank you for helping him have a better life! Was he owned by an elderly person who over fed him thinking that equated to care and love. Many times that happens and they can’t physically walk the dog either. Again. Yay for Frank!”
It is encouraging to see how many people online are cheering him on. His journey is truly inspiring and demonstrates how much can be achieved with patience, commitment, and proper care.
Another person commented: “Maybe put a little shirt on him to protect his belly from dragging.”
They have already adopted this idea. Frank owns several shirts that his rescuer rotates for him, and he looks great in each one.
A final commenter asked: “Is he doing any water therapy? It’s a good way for him to lose weight but not put pressure on his joints and muscles.”
He appears to be receiving all the appropriate support, and he continues improving each day. That is what matters most. Everyone is rooting for Frank to finally enjoy the life he always deserved.