Obese pup gets second chance at life after owner's death

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An obese, 7-year-old dachshund adopted from a Houston animal shelter a few weeks ago is making significant progress toward a healthy lifestyle.

Originally 38 pounds, Vincent was twice the size of his recommended weight. He had high cholesterol and was in danger of suffering nerve damage due to a dipped back, according to CNN.

After being rescued by Melissa Anderson, who has experience with dachshunds, the dog is making progress toward the nickname Skinny Vinnie.

Anderson has had the dog "participating in water aerobics five times a week," which also helps with strained joints, and playing with other dogs, according to the CNN report.

He has gone from floating in the water to paddling and waddling in the yard to jogging, the report said.

The ordeal has had an impact on hard on the dog both physically and emotionally however.

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Vincent was sick while in his week of rescue, and during a walk, one passerby accused Anderson of animal cruelty when in actuality she was giving the dog attention that he likely never had before.

Anderson says she has now noticed a positive change in the dog's behavior and attitude.

His diet has been changed drastically as well.

"I am not sure what the previous owner fed him, but I think it was all fast food. He was literally detoxing the first week," she said to CNN.

A stop at the Starbucks drive-thru sent the dog into a frenzy, but that behavior hasn't be reinforced.

Instead, Vincent now eats a "special dog food" and is rewarded green beans and carrots though he hasn't gravitated toward them yet.

Since Anderson responded to the K-9 Angels Rescue Facebook post for Vincent within 15 minutes, the dog has trimmed down to 35.2 pounds.