While people are preparing to celebrate the end of Lent with chocolate eggs and hot crossed buns, vets are drawing up strict calorie controlled diets and exercise plans for these portly pooches.

Earlier this month, Woody, a four-year-old chocolate Labrador, was brought to Battersea’s Brands Hatch home because he pulled his owner over on the lead.

He weighed a gargantuan 43kg - a medium-sized adult Lab should weigh about 30 kilos.

Meanwhile eight-year-old Border Collie Romeo weighed 37 kilos on arrival.

Romeo was brought to Battersea after his owner died and was described by the family as "quite greedy".

Border Collies are used as sheepdogs and are often very active, usually weighing about 20 kilos.

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Claire O’Hagan, dog rehoming team leader at Battersea, said: “Some dog owners think they are being kind by overfeeding their dogs and giving them lots of treats.

"But being fat has the same health repercussions for dogs as for humans - it puts tremendous strain on the heart and joints and ultimately shortens their lives.

"Dogs are simple souls: save treats for special occasions or as rewards during training and they’ll love you just as much."

If you could give a rescue dog a healthy, happy home, call Battersea on 0843 509 4444 or visit battersea.org.uk