IAMS™ Unveils Oversized Balloon to Highlight Overweight Dog Issue During Thanksgiving Parade

As the holiday season approaches, a poignant issue plagues many pet owners: the health of overweight dogs. In a creative initiative, the IAMS™ brand has teamed up with a real-life dog named Waylon, who symbolizes the journey towards better health for pets. This year, IAMS debuted a striking oversized balloon modeled after Waylon, intentionally getting it stuck between two buildings during the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade. This imaginative spectacle aims to spotlight the alarming statistics that suggest over 59% of dogs in America are classified as overweight or obese, and many pet parents are unaware of their pets' health conditions.

The whimsical balloon generated significant buzz, appearing prominently in Chicago's Loop neighborhood, where curious passersby were encouraged to interact with QR codes placed nearby. Scanning these codes led them to the IAMS Healthy Weight Dog Hub, an online resource dedicated to providing guidance for dog owners navigating their pets' wellness journeys. The hub is filled with tools and information, including ways to keep dogs active, tips for balanced nutrition, and a unique IAMS Weight Assessment tool that helps pet owners determine if their furry companions are at a healthy weight by assessing their Body Condition Score.

Waylon, a lovable dog with a health history of being eight pounds overweight, serves as a relatable figure for many pet owners. His story emphasizes that with the proper veterinary guidance and nutritional support, pets can achieve healthier weights and lead more fulfilling lives. Following a vet-recommended plan focused on exercise and the right dietary changes, Waylon aims not only to lose weight but also to participate in a local turkey trot—a goal that many pet owners may find inspiring.

Jean-Paul Jansen, Chief Marketing Officer for Mars Pet Nutrition North America, articulated the mission behind this initiative: “Many dog parents don’t even know their pets are overweight, and our goal at IAMS™ is to help pups like Waylon live healthier lives. By showcasing his story on such a large stage, we hope to connect with pet owners who can relate and are seeking tools to support their dogs’ health.” Armed with this motivation, the IAMS brand is committed to equipping pet parents with relevant resources to enhance their dogs' wellbeing through a blend of nutrition and physical activity.

By sharing Waylon's journey, IAMS not only aims to impact pet health awareness but also to remind dog owners of the importance of regular exercise and proper nutrition. With increased visibility, they hope that pet parents will take proactive steps to address issues of weight and health through the guidance provided by the IAMS Healthy Weight Dog Hub.

Through this innovative approach, IAMS has successfully combined entertainment with education, sparking conversations around dog health while providing actionable insights for improvement. The brand is proud to offer products like IAMS Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food, designed with real farm-raised chicken and L-carnitine to facilitate healthier weight management in dogs. As holiday festivities unfold, the message remains clear: supporting our pets' health is paramount, and with accessible resources, every owner can be part of the change.

To discover more about Waylon's health journey and to gain access to invaluable resources that can help pet owners monitor and improve their dogs’ health, they can visit the IAMS Healthy Weight Dog Hub and engage with the brand on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Through education and community support, IAMS continues to strive toward a healthier future for all dogs and their families, ensuring that each dog can live a vibrant, active life, free from the challenges of obesity. Overall, IAMS’ effort not only raises awareness about a dire issue but also builds a bridge of knowledge and support for pet owners nationwide.