By CAITLIN LENG
Published: | Updated:
A rescue dog that weighed the same as a baby hippo has shed the pounds - and found her forever home.
Bulldog Peggy-Sue weighed a mammoth 32.5kg - approximately the same as a ten-year-old child or a newborn hippopotamus - when she was brought to the RSPCA's West Hatch Animal Centre in Somerset.
Peggy-Sue was so large she struggled with walking, was susceptible to infection and overheating, and could not take a few steps without collapsing. To move her around, the West Hatch Animal Centre had to carry her in a crate from their van to her kennel.
But after being rehomed during the charity's 2025 Adoptober scheme, Peggy-Sue began her weight loss journey with her foster carer. Her exercise regime was increased gradually, with the pooch now enjoying exercise and adhering to a strict diet plan.
Now, Peggy-Sue weighs a much healthier 23.5kg - 9kg down from when she first went to the charity.
When she first arrived at the centre in July 2025, RSPCA Animal Deputy Centre Manager, Anita Clark, said the pup 'really needed some care and attention'.
Ms Clark said: 'It was awful to see her struggle with everyday movement and we had to carry her in a crate from the van to her kennel.
Bulldog Peggy-Sue weighed the same as a baby hippo before she shed 9kg
Peggy-Sue was so large she struggled with walking, was susceptible to infection and overheating, and could not take a few steps without collapsing
Peggy-Sue weighs a much healthier 23.5kg after exercising and following a strict diet plan (Pictured: Peggy-Sue at her new home after her weight loss)
Because of her weight, Peggy-Sue 'really needed some care and attention' when she first arrived at the RSPCA's centre in Somerset
Peggy-Sue has been adopted by a couple from Taunton who say she is quite a water-baby and enjoys rock pools and streams
After being rehomed during the charity's 2025 Adoptober scheme, Peggy-Sue began her weight loss journey with her foster carer (Pictured: Peggy-Sue at the beach with her new family)
'She was suffering from an ingrowing claw, infected skin folds, and an extremely low tolerance for the summer heat.
'To keep her comfortable and prevent overheating, a fan was kept blowing into her kennel at all times.'
Peggy-Sue has since been adopted by Emmie and Andy, from Taunton, - who say she is quite a water-baby and enjoys rock pools and streams.
Emmie said: 'Peggy-Sue is our sixth rescue and they have all turned out to be the most amazing dogs ever.
'When she first came home she only showed small bursts of energy - but little by little she has built up her strength and now she is utterly amazing and loves her walks and trips in the car.'
RSPCA Scientific and Policy Manager, Ashleigh Brown, said: 'Obesity can affect many types of pets.
'Whilst it is mainly caused by consuming more calories than are needed for their activity levels and physiological functions, other physical and external factors - including age, breed, neutering status, medication and some health conditions - can also contribute to weight gain.'