Back in 2014, Jasper Islington became a slim down success story. Here once more is his riveting account of beating the bulge. Because it CAN be done, people!
I’ve always been a fairly laid back, happy go lucky Corgi but I wanted to talk about something that I had to deal with, that a fair number of us have to face: being a “Floor Sausage”.
Mum and Da were always careful about what I ate, but somehow, when no one was looking, I got up to 42 pounds — about 10 pounds over my ideal weight, according to the vet! (As a quick aside, every Corgi is different and my ideal weight is just that, MY ideal weight. Yours could very well be different!)
The Uprights were concerned and knew that changes were needed. They wanted to make sure I stayed happy and healthy as long as possible, and for us Corgis weight is a VERY important factor.
We worked closely with the vet to come up with a personalized action plan to get me from 42 pounds down to 32 pounds. The most important thing for me was NO TREATS except for raw green beans and raw carrots. No cheese, peanut butter, cream cheese, fruit or anything else. We also reduced my kibble and added in canned unsalted green beans. They are low in calories but have a lot of bulk. Finally, we increased my exercise level. My walks were extended and we added a round of INTENSE keep away for 15 to 20 minutes.
It took about 18 months of vigilance and sticking with the plan to get me where I am today. It’s not a quick process, but pick your favorite saying (slow and steady wins the race, a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, etc.) and stick with it!
YOU CAN DO IT!
Awww Jasper, you have proved that the master can accomplish anything he puts his mind to. Wonderful.
Great work, Jasper! I am seeing far too many wonderful corgs who are terribly tubby. They look uncomfortable and I feel uncomfortable looking at them. It’s just cringy all around. Corgs were built for running and rounding things up. Please folks, follow Jasper’s advice and don’t turn your buddy into a Loaf of Floor Sausage!
Wow, hats (and pounds) off to Jasper! My Rosie stayed with her breeder for 8 months while I was staying with my sister getting well. Rosie had a ball with all the other dogs and played a ton. She came back 9 pounds lighter which thrilled the vet. I am trying to keep up the good work and will try the green beans!