Dennis the Dachshund Inspires Pet Parents to Get Pets Healthy

META, Mo., May 11, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- The weight loss of Dennis the dachshund is nothing short of extraordinary. The miniature dachshund started his journey from pet obesity at 56 pounds, then over the past year and a half, lost 44 pounds and completely changed his lifestyle. Now, Dennis and his owner, Brooklyn Burton, of Columbus, Ohio, are on a mission to encourage other pet owners to share their pets' healthy activities via #MoveThosePaws.

Today, Dennis and Burton appear on the "Steve Harvey" nationally syndicated talk show to share his story and how simple exercise and proper nutrition play a role in his new healthy lifestyle. They also received a few surprises that support their continued journey.

"Simple exercise is so beneficial to our pets," explained Burton. "Something that I did with Dennis is hide carrots for him to find – it definitely got him moving."

Burton believes a community can inspire and give pet owners new ideas to keep your pet active. She asks others to join her with #MoveThosePaws to share photos or videos of pets exercising.

Nutrition also key to pet health
Throughout Dennis' journey, Burton has emphasized quality pet nutrition played an important role. And, it doesn't have to be expensive or a diet food.

"I'm a college student, and I need an affordable pet food to feed Dennis to help him get and stay healthy," added Burton. "For most of his weight loss, he ate Diamond Naturals Lamb and Rice. Now, I have switched him over to the Diamond Naturals Senior pet food."

According to veterinarians, Burton's approach to handling pet obesity was on track. The correct balance of diet and exercise is key to assisting pets shed some pounds.

"You don't have to have a complicated program to help your pets lose weight," commented Dana Wilhite, a veterinarian in Kansas City, Mo. "The right combination of quality nutrition and exercise goes a long way to getting most pets back to a healthy lifestyle."

Wilhite says the formula for helping pets lose weight includes the following:

• Quality, affordable nutrition
• Measuring your pet's feed to ensure you are not overfeeding
• Eliminating table scraps and extra treats
• Consistent exercise

"There are foods specially formulated for weight loss and they do work. However, not all pet parents can afford these products, which is why we recommend a quality pet food that is affordable," added Wilhite.

To follow Dennis' journey or to find additional tips on combining quality pet nutrition and exercise, follow www.Facebook.com/DiamondPetFoodsCompany.

©2015 Diamond Pet Foods. Always consult your veterinarian.

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SOURCE Diamond Pet Foods