Overweight Stray Dog Gets Saved, And Rescuers Are Left Shocked

Neville was wandering the streets of San Bernardino, California, for weeks in 90-degree weather before he was finally rescued.

No one really knows what happened to him or how he ended up on the streets, but one thing was certain – Neville desperately needed help!

A Good Samaritan found him outside a business in San Bernardino, where he spent the whole day in smothering heat.

After giving him some food and water, the person contacted City of San Bernardino Animal Services.

Rescuers were shocked when they discovered just how desperately overweight this stray dog was.

Strays often face unimaginable hardships, and for this dog, being severely overweight posed serious health risks.

Despite his size, Neville’s spirit remained unbroken, and his journey to recovery is nothing short of remarkable.

This rescue story highlights the importance of offering care, patience, and proper nutrition to help an animal reclaim its health.

Follow along as Neville’s transformation unfolds and see how his rescuers helped him shed the weight and find a loving home.

A Morbidly Obese Stray Dog

Source: Saving San Bernardino Dogs

When a Good Samaritan brought a stray dog to the shelter, the staff was shocked by just how overweight the dog was.

The poor pup, later named Neville, weighed a staggering 132 pounds - almost double the healthy weight for a dog of her size and breed.

The shelter staff immediately contacted a veterinarian, who confirmed that Neville had a thyroid problem, contributing to her severe obesity.

The staff shared her story on social media, hoping to find a rescue group or adopter who could help.

They described Neville as a "total love bug," with everyone at the shelter falling in love with her sweet personality.

Despite her health challenges, Neville's spirit was unwavering.

From Stray to Saved

Source: Saving San Bernardino Dogs

Neville, initially listed as a 2-year-old German Shepherd mix, was later discovered to be a female dog.

She had only been at the shelter for a short time when the post went viral, and soon after, Neville was rescued.

Niki Thai Van Dat, the owner of Niki’s Play N’ Stay in Modesto, California, saw the post and decided to drive nearly seven hours to bring Neville home.

Upon arriving in Modesto, Neville - now known as Buddha - was immediately brought to the vet for a thorough check-up.

It was clear that Neville’s weight had made it nearly impossible for her to walk, and she had to be wheeled around in a wagon.

The vet confirmed that her thyroid levels were low, but not enough to diagnose her with hypothyroidism.

Despite the challenges, Niki was committed to helping Neville regain her health.

A Journey to Health and Happiness

Source: Save SBC Shelter Friends

Niki put Neville on a strict healthy diet and devised a gentle exercise plan that would not strain her joints.

After starting medication, Neville began to lose weight.

From her starting weight of 132 pounds, Neville eventually dropped down to 112 pounds - a milestone that brought tears to Niki’s eyes.

The transformation was incredible.

Neville’s current weight is 69 pounds, and she looks like a completely different dog.

The once immobile pup now enjoys lounging in the sun and strolling around the yard at her own pace.

She is fully vaccinated, spayed, potty-trained, and gets along well with other dogs, cats, and children.

Ready for a Forever Home

Source: Niki Thai Van Dat

Neville, now a healthy and happy dog, is ready to find her forever home.

Niki shared her current progress on social media, emphasizing how much Neville enjoys being a laid-back “couch potato.” She is calm and loving, and she only needs short walks, followed by plenty of rest.

Niki is confident that Neville will find a loving family who will appreciate her unique personality and care for her for the rest of her life.

We are hopeful that Neville’s forever home is just around the corner, and we can’t wait to see her continue to flourish in a loving environment.