A dog described as a ‘walking skeleton’ when he was found abandoned in Northampton has been lovingly re-homed.

Thanks in part to Naturediet Pet Foods he is now on the road to a full recovery.

Hobo was discovered by a member of the public in Northampton on 16th July this year. He was taken to the PDSA Hospital in Monks Pond Street, where he was named Hobo by centre staff.

Severely emaciated, staff at the PDSA feared the worst for the German Sheperd, believed to be between five and seven years old. “I have never seen such a mistreated dog, he really was like a walking skeleton” said Claire Ryder, an Inspector with the RSPCA. In addition to malnutrition Hobo also suffered from grossly overgrown nails and mange, which had caused him to lose nearly all his hair.

After over a month at the PDSA Hospital in Northampton Hobo was lovingly adopted by Mr and Mrs Butcher from Hertfordshire. The couple were alerted to Hobo’s plight after seeing the stricken animal on the television. Mrs Butcher, a fan of German Sheperds, was so moved by the story of Hobo that she begin the process of adoption.

The Butchers alerted Naturediet to Hobo’s predicament. The holistic pet food manufacturer was more than happy to help, and donated three cases of their natural food product to aid in Hobo’s recuperation.

Remarkable recovery

When rescued Hobo weighed just 18kg, he is now a more healthy 28kg and is expected to reach a target weight of 30-32kg by Christmas. Mr Butcher attributes Hobo’s amazing recovery to Naturediet. “He’s got an appetite like a horse and enjoys all flavours of Naturediet” said the new owner who believes the Naturediet product to be up to 70% responsible for Hobo’s miraculous recovery.

Most commercial pet foods contain highly processed ingredients and food additives that a dog in Hobo’s condition might struggle to digest. Naturediet products are free from all artificial additives, colourings, flavourings and preservatives. The packs are highly digestible containing Omega 3 and a minimum of 60% real meat mirroring the dog’s natural diet.

After witnessing Hobo’s success, Mr and Mrs Butcher now feed Naturediet to all their seven dogs. Many of which they describe as fussy eaters but are happy to wolf down Naturediet at a great rate.

Hobo’s skin is now clearing up and he is gradually building muscle. Despite his ordeal Hobo is a very friendly dog who loves to play. His new owners describe him as being full of energy, “Even I struggle to hold him on his lead” comments Mr Butcher.

Hobo continues to receive first class care from the PDSA and with the added help of Naturediet is now able to enjoy his well-deserved second chance in life.

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