Cumberland family’s dog stars in pet food commercial

CUMBERLAND, R.I. (WLNE) — A Cumberland family’s dog has found itself in the national spotlight in quite the unexpected manner.

“Someone sent me a Facebook ad that a company was looking for beagles that were a little bit overweight,” Amy Lacroix said.

Lacroix followed up by sending a photo of her dog Waylon to IAMS, a dog food company.

“Like everyone else, I didn’t think anything would come of it,” she said. “Then I got an email that he moved on to the next round.”

Soon after, a giant replica of Waylon was floating through Chicago, stuck between some buildings.

The display was all part of an IAMS commercial promoting its healthy dog initiative, highlighting that nearly 60% of American dogs are overweight or obese.

Waylon’s family said he is now four pounds lighter thanks to exercise and his new diet.

“He’s getting really used to being in front of a camera,” Lacroix said. “I think he likes it.”

The family said it has been surreal seeing Waylon get his time in the limelight.

“We got to work with a lot of great people and go a lot of great places,” Lacroix said. “We’ve had a wonderful time.”

Waylon can be seen regularly in IAMS promotions, and his family said he is now set for a well deserved rest.