*This is a sponsored post.
If you’ve read this blog for long, you know that I’m very particular about what I feed my dogs. Each of my girls has her own special dietary needs: Sadie, my Doxie, is 14 years old and needs nutrition that’s right for seniors, and my Pittie girl, Nike, has terrible allergies and we have to be very careful what she eats.
For this reason, I started cooking for my dogs several months ago and while I enjoy it immensely, I worry about whether or not they’re getting the ideal balance of nutrients. Too much of this? Not enough of that? I have to admit, it stresses me out a little bit. Who knew dog food could worry a person so much?
When I was asked to try Hill’s® Ideal Balance, a new, natural pet food that provides perfectly balanced nutrition, I thought why not? After all, Ideal Balance has no corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. I like the sound of that. It contains ingredients that I was already using in the recipes I create for my girls, like fresh chicken, apples, cranberries, and brown rice.
At BlogPaws back in May, I had the opportunity to meet and talk with Dr. Kathy Gross, a nutritionist at Hill’s who was an important part of the development of Ideal Balance. Knowing that she is passionate about creating an all-natural pet food made me feel good about giving it a try.
I have to tell you, my dogs love Ideal Balance! When I first put their bowls in front of them, both Nike and Sadie looked at me as if to say, “What, Ma? You’re not cookin’ tonight?” But after a few bites, they quickly got over their shock and they downed their meals with joy and gusto.
Have you seen the new commercials for Ideal Balance? Not only informative, but gorgeous! Look at this!
My dogs have been eating Ideal Balance a couple of times a week for a month or so now, and we’re really happy with it. It’s the Ideal Balance for each dog’s specific dietary needs, and I’m happy to say we’ve had no issues with allergies.
In fact, I’m so pleased with the results that I’ve decided to partner with Hill’s, and over the next few weeks I’m going to be talking a little more about their great products, and I’ll even be teaming up with them for a couple of amazing giveaways that you’re not going to want to miss.
Have you had a chance to try Ideal Balance yet? If so, I’d love to hear your thoughts. And if you haven’t tried it, give it a try for free! Hill’s is offering a mail-in rebate of up to $12.99 when you purchase a 3.5 pound bag or larger of dry dog food.
*This is a sponsored post. I have been compensated for completion of this article. Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc. is not responsible for the content of this article.
Christine says
September 4, 2013 at 12:10 pmWhat really stinks is that those of us who cannot afford these more expensive foods are left feeling like “bad” dog parents. I just cannot afford to feed my 3 dogs (an English mastiff, a rottie & a pit) food that costs $1.86 per lb. It hurts to think what I’m giving my dogs is sub-par but all I can do is buy what’s best for what I can afford. No I cannot cook for them, I just do not have the time. So food wise, other than cooking, suggestions are welcomed regarding good foods that aren’t gonna leave me homeless!
Christina Berry says
September 4, 2013 at 12:23 pmChristine, you shouldn’t feel like a bad dog parent! That is not my intent, at all! I apologize that you feel that way!
Even on a budget, you can still be diligent about what you’re feeding your dogs. I strongly encourage label reading and being aware of what’s in the food you’re giving your mutts. More importantly, make sure the commercial food and treats you buy are both made and distributed in the US.
It’s a great idea to supplement their commercial dog food with fruits and vegetables (bananas, apples, blueberries, carrots, green beans, etc.). I buy the $1 bags of frozen vegetables at Kroger, and my dogs love them. Even instant oatmeal (nothing with raisins!) and scrambled eggs are good choices, and generally don’t take a lot of time or cost a lot of money.
Another great treat idea is baked sweet potato chips. These are simple and very inexpensive, and I love that sweet potatoes are considered a Super Food and filled with anti-oxidants.
http://www.thelazypitbull.com/2013/02/from-canine-kitchen-baked-sweet-potato/
Ann Staub says
September 4, 2013 at 6:39 pmThis is one of the foods I’ve been considering putting Shiner on. She’s tried some of the canned food and liked it. I usually don’t have to worry about whether or not she’ll like something because she likes everything!
Christina Berry says
September 4, 2013 at 11:30 pmAnn, be sure to take advantage of the rebate if you decide to try it. Miss NIke is really the same way – she typically likes EVERYTHING! My little doxie girl has gotten a little pickier as she’s aged, but neither of them have ever turned their nose up at much! 🙂