Story
<p>Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.</p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: &amp;quot;Arial&amp;quot;,&amp;quot;sans-serif&amp;quot;;">You can sponsor Alfie on his weight loss journey here.<span> </span>All donations will help PDSA treat the thousands of sick and injured pets our vets and nurses see each day.</span></p>
<h2><a>Introducing Alfie</a></h2>
<p>Big Alfie, from Strood, Kent, is now on a diet and fitness programme specially tailored by the vets and nurses at Gillingham PDSA PetAid hospital.</p>
<h2><a>Weight story</a></h2>
<p>The weight problems began after Alfie started limping at the age of three. He suffers from both arthritis and hip dysplasia and the excess weight he is carrying is adding to his misery. His owner Maureen Parks says she does not want to see her dog enter his senior years out of shape and is seeking help to get him down to a healthy weight. She said: “He means the world to me. He’s a member of the family. All my kids and grandchildren love him to bits. If I can help him in any way I’ll do it.”</p>
<h2><a>Vital Stats</a></h2>
<p><strong>Current weight: 52.5kg</strong></p>
<p><strong>% overweight: 22%</strong></p>
<p><strong>Ideal weight: 43kg</strong></p>
<h2><a>Bad Habits</a></h2>
<p>Alfie has a sweet tooth when it comes to custard creams but he’s been banned from the biscuit barrel as he embarks on his weight loss challenge!</p>
<h2><a>PDSA Vet Advice</a></h2>
<p>Sean Wensley, PDSA Senior Veterinary Surgeon, said: “Excess pounds can contribute to a number of serious health conditions and, sadly, it does reduce life expectancy. But the good news is that it’s never too late to make positive changes to a pet’s diet and lifestyle.”</p>