Fat Vincent is an obese dachshund who's on a legendary weight loss journey

UPDATED April 8th, 2:05 p.m. ET to include comments from foster mom Melissa Anderson.

The biggest loser in this story is a brave pup named Fat Vincent.

Fat Vincent is a seven-year-old dachshund from Houston, Texas. Just eight months ago, the pup was surrendered to K-9 Angel Rescue after his owner passed away. 

Clocking in at 38 pounds, Fat Vincent was considered obese and had high cholesterol, back problems and difficulty walking.

With the help of the team at K-9 Angel Rescue and foster mom veterinarian Melissa Anderson, Fat Vincent started a diet and workout regiment to help him become Skinny Vinny.

"Vincent really had a good attitude from the beginning," Anderson told Mashable in an email. He still loves to eat, but he also adores his daily walks. I believe he's on the road to a lifetime of good health."

Foster mom Anderson decided to start Vincent's exercise routine off in the pool, as the water would take pressure off his ailing joints. 

Once swimming helped the pup shed some weight, he took to the streets on hour-long walks five to six times per week. 

"He loves his walks," Anderson told Fox 31 Denver. "He waits by the door after breakfast every morning."

Since starting his journey to a healthier lifestyle, Vincent has had a major, positive change in his mood and personality.

"He is the sweetest, funniest, happiest guy now," Anderson said.

He has also gone from his original 38 pounds to a svelte 17 pounds. All Vincent has left to lose is a pound-and-a-half. As soon as he reaches that goal, he'll be ready for adoption.

"The perfect home will continue his daily walks and the monitoring of his food," Anderson explained. "Most important is having lots of love to give."

Anderson also wants to stress how many other animals are in Vincent's situation.

"There are hundreds of dogs like Vincent abandoned at county facilities across the country," she told Mashable. "The message I want everyone to hear is that they too, can help save these dogs by adopting or fostering them to good health. I just want all of us to do our part to help these innocent animals."

Mashable has reached out to K-9 Angel Rescue for comment.

[h/t Fox 31 Denver]

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