Obese Dachsund's caregiver settled in legal case

obese dachshund
Obie the Dachshund. Photo: Facebook

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After a several month custody battle, Obie, an obese Dachshund, will now have a permanent home with foster mom Nora Vanatta. Nora Vanatta and Oregon Dachshund Rescue reached an out-of-court settlement this week regarding ownership of the overweight dog.

As result of the settlement, Vanatta is now Obie's legally recognized caregiver. However neither party is permitted to comment further. As part of the terms of the settlement both parties are prohibited from discussing the case.

When Obie was relinquished by his elderly owners to Oregon Dachshund Rescue in August he was morbidly obese and weighed 77 pounds (35 kg). He was given over to Vanatta to foster, and she set up a Facebook page, Biggest Loser Doxie Edition, which chronicled Obie's weight loss. Obie's story caught the public's imagination and he became something of a canine celebrity appearing on television and media channels.

Vanatta posted to her Facebook page on Wednesday January 23:

"Well, good new travels very fast. Yes, you have heard correctly that a settlement with ODR has been reached. Obie went to his lawyer's office today and made it official. Today is a wonderful day in Obie's journey. Obie gets to stay with me and his brothers and continue his legacy. I cannot discuss the details of the case and ask for respect with that piece of the settlement. I know Team Obie will be happy to continue to support his journey to a healthier dog. Here's to the next stage of Obie's life! Thank you all for your amazing and endless support!"

Jenell Rangan posted on the ODR Facebook page:

"OBIE Lawsuit Has Been Resolved:Oregon Dachshund Rescue Inc made attempts to settle this matter for months. The initial concerns we had that lead us to file the lawsuit have resolved with the passage of time. We have now been able to conclude this matter. We are moving forward; continuing our efforts to save Dachshunds and find them good home. Both sides signed a confidentiality document so no further information can be given. Thank you all for your support."

Obie has shed 28 pounds and now weighs 49 pounds thanks to a strict diet and exercise. When Obie has lost additional weight he will get skin reduction surgery.

An overweight dachshund is shedding pounds
Obie just after a bath in January. Photo: Facebook