Obese Dachshund ‘Frank the Tank’ Sheds Pounds and Gains a New Life
An obese Dachshund is on his way to a healthier life thanks to his rescue family. TikTokker Dots Farm (@dotsfarm) has been sharing the uplifting weight-loss journey of Frank the Tank, as they affectionately nicknamed him.
Dots Farm is part of Contented Critters, an animal rescue in Ely, Minnesota. Frank, nearly 10 years old, first landed in animal control after his previous owner went to jail. Minnesota Basset Rescue pulled him, and soon after, Dots Farm adopted him on July 22nd. At the time, poor Frank weighed a whopping 37 pounds and waddled more like a seal than a dog.
In the beginning, Frank could only manage short potty walks, sniffing around the yard, and shuffling after a trail of treats left for him inside the house. But he worked hard and shed seven pounds in the first month. That might not sound like much, but considering his belly literally dragged across the floor and he could barely move, those pounds were hard-earned.
Now, just a month and a half later, Frank has dropped from 37 pounds to 24 pounds! His belly almost clears the floor — “light under the tunnel,” as his family jokes. One fan even cheered that he’s going from “Tank” to “Swank.” His ultimate goal weight is around 17 pounds.
@dotsfarm Frank is less then impressed with his new way of getting dinner
♬ Manamana THE MUPPETS – FzSoundFactory
To help keep him moving, his family has gotten creative. “Frank is less than impressed with his new way of getting dinner,” they wrote in one video of him nudging kibble out of a rolling food ball.
He’s also become a swimmer, thanks to generous supporters who donated a pool, flotation device, food, sweaters, and other supplies. Swimming is not only fun for Frank but also easy on his joints.
Health-wise, Frank is surprisingly resilient. He tested negative for Cushing’s Syndrome and thyroid disease, and his fatty chest lumps are expected to shrink as he slims down. Down the road, he may need surgery to remove excess skin, but for now, his progress is amazing and heartwarming.
@dotsfarm Some common questions about Frank the Tank!!! Thanks for all the love and support! #FranktheTank ♬ Happy Dog. – Líricus Instrumental
Beyond food and fitness, Frank’s biggest love is people. He adores snuggles, belly rubs, and being with his family. He even has a new trick: howling from his bed until someone comes to lift him up. “You can tell who’s winning that game,” his mom joked.
@dotsfarm Franks new trick is howling from his bed until someone comes to pick him up. You can tell whose winning that game
♬ Welp, Didn't Expect That – Yu-Peng Chen & HOYO-MiX
With his family’s devotion and encouragement from fans around the world, Frank is well on his way to reaching his weight goal. And no matter what, he’s already won what matters most — love and a happy home.
As one supporter summed it up: “Yay for Frank finding people who are working hard and supporting him. All dogs deserve this kind of love.”
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