It’ll come as welcome news to owners of portly pooches.
A new diet drug claims to cut their weight by a fifth in sixth months.

The makers of Slentrol, a liquid which is mixed daily into food, works by suppressing the dog’s appetite and cuts its absorption of fat.

The makers say it could help to tackle a growing weight problem among Britain’s 6.8 million pet dogs.

Around a quarter of dogs are obese, raising their risk of a host of ailments, including diabetes, heart disease and joint problems.

It is claimed that Slentrol, which costs less than 50p per day, can lead to a dog shedding 18% of its body weight. For an overweight labrador, this would be the equivalent of around a stone, while for a Yorkshire terrier, it would equate to a pound or two.

However, the RSPCA has criticised the drug, saying it is no substitute for regular exercise and a proper diet that limits fattening treats.

Its chief vet, Mark Evans, told the Daily Mail: “Instead of covering up weight with a pill, it’s vital to tackle the real reasons why so many pets are overweight.

“Pet obesity is a serious animal welfare problem and as a nation of so-called animal lovers, we have a duty to tackle it now.

“In most cases, a lifestyle based on a healthy, reduced-calorie diet and an appropriate exercise regime is all that’s required to bring about weight loss.”

Via news.sky.com