It might seem a little bit strange how a German Shepherd might gain 50 pounds. There are no answers in Tony’s case. He was discovered as a stray and sent to the Sacramento Animal Shelter, where he was saved.
Tony seems to have found a loving home for the first time in his life. Tony was rescued by Lee Asher, an animal rescue enthusiast, and joined him and his group of eight other dogs. Tony had little confidence and didn’t know how to receive affection on his first day at his new house.
Since the first time he saw Tony, Lee Asher has been determined to not only teach him what a family is, but also to help him lose weight and become the fit German Shepherd he was destined to be. He also intended to take him on the road to raise animal rescue awareness.
Tony was a sorry sight when he returned home. He couldn’t climb stairs, tried to hide, and couldn’t catch a treat because of his lack of coordination. He needed to shed 50 pounds, but more importantly, he needed to understand what it meant to be a member of a family.
Tony weighed 148 pounds during his first vet appointment. Because he was overweight for a German Shepherd, he was at danger for hip and joint injuries, heart problems, and cancer. Tony would have to reduce weight, which he would do with the assistance of Lee and the rest of the group.
Lee became enamoured with Tony and attempted to “smother him with affection.” He pushed him to be more active and play with the other dogs by encouraging and motivating him. Tony was befriended by two Chihuahuas, and the three of them became fast friends.
Tony was quickly taken under the paw of a lab, who proceeded to educate him how to be a dog. Tony became a true member of the pack as time passed, and he began to play outside with them, doing his best to keep up. He began to lose weight and acquire strength and confidence. He’s even got a female companion!
When the time came, Tony was ready to join the rest of the dogs on the road. He was able to keep up with his pals during his expedition, and he even shed his final two pounds while running across the Brooklyn Bridge, bringing him to his goal weight of 100 pounds! Tony is a true inspiration who is currently enjoying his best life.