Our First Born (Fur)Children

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"What are you going to do about those dogs when this baby comes along?" Those are true words that were said to my husband and I after we announced our baby news. The first time I heard someone say this, I truly didn't know how to react. I think I just sat there in silence. Now when I hear someone ask me this I just get angry. We consider our dogs to be our first born children. Would you get rid of your children just because you were expecting another baby? I didn't think so. So why would I get rid of my dogs? I couldn't even fathom doing such a thing. 

Don't get me wrong. I am fully aware that when the baby comes it will be an adjustment for all of us, including the dogs. Cooper and Kane are used to being the center of our universe, and now they are going to have to share that spotlight with someone else. It will be hard, but it will be completely worth it. I picture Cooper being a protective older brother who will look out for his baby sister at all times. Kane on the other hand, not so much. Kane will probably sniff around at the baby from time to time, but I don't see him being too interested in her. 

I'm almost 18 weeks pregnant, and I've already done my fair amount of research on introducing pets to the new baby. I don't want my dogs to feel neglected when she is born, so it's important for Steven and I to learn ways to help the dogs adjust to their new baby sister before she even arrives. Part of that is keeping their routine as normal as possible once baby girl gets here. We will continue to snuggle the pups as much as ever, take them outside to play throughout the day, shower them with treats and belly rubs, and make sure they are getting the proper nutrition for evey life stage. That's where IAMS and Target come into play for our family.

It is important to us that our dogs get the proper nutrition to fuel their growing bodies. My dogs have always been a big fan of IAMS dry dog food because of the quality of ingredients and the benefit of healthy teeth and gums due to the abrasive chewing action, and I am a big fan of Target for supplying their food. I am at Target at least twice a week (if not more) purchasing groceries and other necessities for our home, so I love that I can push my cart right over to the pet aisle and purchase anything and everything that I need for our fur-children. IAMS dry dog food isn't the only thing I purchase for Cooper and Kane at Target. I also pick up their favorite treats and endless amount of toys. Target is my one stop pet shop for all our dog's favorite items, and this will be an even greater benefit once the baby arrives. I love that I will be able to head to Target for everything I need in our home, for our baby girl, and for the dogs. It will certainly make things easier for this new mama! 

Are you looking to purchase a quality food for your dog or cat? The Target Cartwheel app is currently running 5 IAMS deals. Those deals include wet and dry dog food and expires on July 25th, and wet and dry cat food that expires on July 11th. Hurry because you don't want to miss those great offers! The IAMS brand believes that the right diet can do amazing things for pets, including boot immunity, help burn fat, help maintain muscle, help promote healthy digestion, aid in weight loss, reduce tartar buildup, and in some instances even nutritionally manage the progression of disease. 

Do you use IAMS dog or cat food in your household? Do your pets love it as much as mine do? Please share in the comments below.