My New Avatar

[steved110]

I've succumbed to the pleasure of a fairly frequent change of avatar in the last few months, and thought some might be interested in the story of my laest one - if not, move on, I don't mind!

This dog Rusty was just in the news in the UK, weighing 11.5 stone (161 pounds / 73kg) http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,2-2476938,00.html

He was so fat he can only walk a few paces then has to rest. The owners have been prosecuted succesfully for cruelty to animals. Of course this is an extreme case, but the strange thing is that it would be perfectly legal for parents to overfeed a child to the same extent, and NOT get prosecuted.

It is a strange world ....

[rudgej]

I saw the article on the news, and it is a shame. Also frustrating for the RSPCA who spent something like £23K on the prosecution just for the judge to give the dog straight back to the owners.

I'm bemused though. As avatars are generally some online representation of us or have significance to us, what is the connection for you and the dog?

[steved110]

I'm a vet, and often deal with dogs that , potentially at least, could end up in a similar condition. I've never seen a dog as extreme as this, but have seen a cat that was almost as bad ( in proportion)

weight control issues are a potential minefield to discuss with owners as many take offense easily, especially if they are already sensitive about the situation.

[Big WIll]

I thought it was your dog at first, then realised..

Cruel people, Scarey that could be done to children and probably is!