Dogs Trust Loughborough is calling on local residents to consider giving a forever home to Major, an 11-year-old Anatolian Shepherd who weighs an astonishing 81 kilograms.
Major was taken in by the team at Dogs Trust Loughborough following the death of his owner. Now, Dogs Trust Loughborough’s mission is to find Major a loving home, while also raising awareness on the critical issue of obesity in dogs.
Major, who holds the title of being the heaviest dog ever cared for by Dogs Trust Loughborough, faces the challenge of osteoarthritis, potentially linked to his weight. Major is currently on a weight-loss programme, which includes regular exercise sessions in the Hydrotherapy & Physio suite and a carefully managed diet to help him shed weight and maintain an active lifestyle.
Major loves to be in the company of people and would thrive in a home where his family could be around for the majority of the day. Despite his age, he enjoys having short games of chase with his carers and is eager to interact with other dogs, so would love some walking friends out and about.
Major boasts an excellent track record in housetraining and travels well in the car. However, due to his age and size, some assistance, such as ramp training, may be beneficial to ensure his comfort during car travel.
Celine Di Crocco, Rehoming Centre Manager at Dogs Trust Loughborough, reflects on Major’s journey: “Major is a big dog on the lookout for a new owner with a large dog shaped hole in their lives. He is the biggest dog we have every cared for here at Dogs Trust Loughborough, but despite his size, he embodies the gentle giant spirit that has endeared him to everyone at the rehoming centre.
“Major’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the responsibilities that come with pet ownership and the potential weight management challenges in dogs. While being a bigger dog might mean there’s more of him to love, it’s essential that owners understand the importance of supporting their dog to maintain a healthy weight to prevent some of the health issues that come as a result of obesity.
“Our team is committed to supporting Major on his weight loss journey and securing for him a forever home where he can experience a life filled with happiness and well-being.”
Major is now seeking a permanent and loving home to call his own. He can live with children aged 12 years and over, and the possibility of living with another calm dog exists, pending successful introductions at the centre. However, households with cats or small animals may not be suitable for Major. On the other hand, he could potentially thrive in an environment with other large animals, such as livestock or horses.
To discover more about Major and explore how you can provide him with a loving home, please visit Dogs Trust Loughborough’s website at www.dogstrust.org.uk/loughborough.
