'They are family!' Gemma Atkinson addresses concerns about letting dogs near toddler Mia

express.co.uk:

Gemma Atkinson, 37, and her Strictly Come Dancing professional partner, Gorka Marquez, 31, had their daughter Mia in 2019.The actress took to Instagram to share what happened to her two dogs once her daughter was born and how the family adapted as a four.Gemma took to Instagram today to post a video montage of her dogs with her daughter from a newborn to the present day.Along with the video she posted a lengthy message, making her followers aware of how her dogs and Mia live together.In view of her 1.7 million followers she penned: "From the minute I was pregnant some people asked what would happen to Norman & Ollie."My reply was always 'huh?' Nothing would happen other than we’d have a new pack member to love and care for.A post shared by Gemma Atkinson (@glouiseatkinson)"No other thought even entered my head.They are family as well and they are so loved by all of us."I’ve tried to make sure they haven’t ever felt left out or unloved since Mia arrived."In fact, it was Norman & Ollie who many times kept me company on night feeds, sat by my feet or next to me reassuring me we were ok. (sic)She continued: "Mias bond with them gets stronger every day and I’m so happy with the little family unit we have together. (sic)"Helping to feed, walk and bathe them teaches responsibility, and her compassion and empathy im sure is part because of them also. (sic)"I loved growing up with a dog and I know Mia does too."Many social media users took to the comments to share their experiences and their opinion on Gemma's daughter's close relationship with the dogs.TheKateLawler said: "So often dogs get pushed aside when people have children, it's really sad."They're family members and they enrich children's lives.