Pets Corner has opened its new Basingstoke superstore, describing it as the ultimate one-stop shop for all pets.

The store is located at Unit E5 on Chineham Shopping Centre, Reading Road, just around the corner from its previous site.

With plenty of free parking, the store offers an impressive Dogwood Grooming Spa and will open a Pet Practice Vets in October.

Customers will also find an expanded freezer section for raw feeders, an extensive new range of deli treats, and a new bed collection featuring the retail group’s first Cosy Corner.

Pets Corner CEO Dean Richmond sent Pet Trade Xtra a gallery of pictures from the new store (see below)...

A pet company’s campaign to highlight the dangers of flushing cat litter down the toilet has won the backing of two major water companies.

Yorkshire Water and Anglian Water have both warned against the practice, confirming it can pose a serious health risk and cause blockages within the infrastructure.

The problem was brought to their attention by Tailor-Grace, supplier of sustainable cat litter brand Huskaloo.

Kate Layfield, of Yorkshire Water, said: “We ask our customers to only flush the 3Ps down the toilet – that’s pee, poo and paper (toilet). Cat poo should not be flushed down the loo as it isn’t domestic waste and our treatment works are not designed to effectively treat toxocara which can be found in it.”

Anglian Water’s Collette Parker explained: “This kind of animal waste should never be flushed down the loo. Although rare, dog and cat poo can carry toxocara, which is one of the very few bacteria that we are unable to eliminate in our water treatment processes. Flushing cat litter down the loo can also lead to blockages in our sewer network, putting the region’s much-loved environment at risk.”

Yorkshire Water has even produced a short video to help explain why it shouldn’t be flushed. Click on the following link to view https://ow.ly/hy5O50R3UTN

Huskaloo’s mission to ‘Save the planet one cat at a time’ encompasses all aspects of the environmental impact of cat litter, from carbon footprint to safe disposal.

Huskaloo is made from coconut fibres and can be put on a compost heap or in the garden where it will break down in a few weeks.

A number of cat litter products on the market claim to be flushable. Some state you should check with your local water company first. But according to Yorkshire Water Anglian Water, they would never condone the flushing of cat litter down the loo.

Terry Barber, head of specialist pet sales, wrote to the water companies to clarify their position after customers asked if cat litter could be flush down the toilet.

“Their response was a definite NO,” said Terry. “The first reason is that it will block the system. And the second is the fact that cat poo may contain the bacteria toxocara that causes toxoplasmosis, which is one of the few bacteria that cannot be treated at water treatment plants.

“So our answer to the question is, there isn’t a cat litter than can be flushed down the toilet and that you should not flush cat poo either.”

Shropshire-based Rosewood Pet Products has made a financial contribution of £66,149.57 to the Shropshire Wildlife Trust after failing to comply with packaging waste regulations designed to protect the environment.

An investigation by the Environment Agency ended in Rosewood Pet Products of Queensway, Telford, making the payment under a proactive Enforcement Undertaking (EU) to the Shropshire Wildlife Trust.

An EU is a voluntary offer made by companies and individuals to make amends for their offending. It usually includes a financial contribution to a charity to carry out environmental improvements.

Packaging regulations are designed to ensure that businesses fund the recycling of the waste they create.

The investigation revealed that the company became obligated for the regulations in 1999 but did not register until 2020.

By failing to register and to take reasonable steps to recover and recycle packaging waste, it was estimated that the business avoided fees and charges of  £60,135.97 to which a 10% penalty element is added, totalling £66,149.57 to be paid to charity.

Companies become an ‘obligated’ packaging producer if they handled in excess of 50 tonnes of packaging materials in the previous calendar year and have a turnover of more than £2 million.

Shropshire Wildlife Trust are using the payments to offer 27 fully funded visits to their Wood Lane Nature Reserve for schools from the Telford area.

Another project will engage local teenagers and young people in Telford in using their local green spaces in a positive way through 5 weekend workshops each year for 3 years.

Jake Richardson, Senior Technical Officer for the Environment Agency, said: “Protecting the environment and taking action against those that damage or threaten this is our utmost priority.

“While we will always prosecute in the most serious cases, Enforcement Undertakings are an effective enforcement tool to allow companies to put things right and contribute to environmental improvements.

“They enable businesses to become more compliant and prevent repeat offending by improving their procedures, helping ensure future compliance with environmental requirements.”

Ellie Larkham, Trust Education and Learning Manager for Shropshire Wildlife Trust, said: “This funding will support Shropshire Wildlife Trust’s Education and Learning Team to bring schools to our Wood Lane nature reserve for an unforgettable trip.

“The schools will experience our one-day Secrets of Waste session, which includes looking at how well nature recycles on our nature reserve.

“There will also be a trailer ride provided by TG Group to visit the adjacent landfill site and materials recycling facility.

“Schools tell us that they struggle to fund off-site trips like this, particularly with the increasing cost of coach travel, but they are reluctant to pass on costs to parents.

“We want to ensure that this funding has a legacy, so it is really exciting to have the opportunity to work with a group of the most engaged schools to embed outdoor learning in their curriculum.

“The whole school community will be encouraged to take ownership of the green spaces around their school which can lead to improvements in the local environment for everyone. 

“We will also run some taster session events to engage local teenagers and young people in Telford in using their local green spaces in a positive way.”

The last filed accounts show that the company had a turnover in excess of £37 million.

The offences impact upon the industry itself, as the company has been able to trade at a financial advantage compared to its competitors.

Since 2020, the company has been registered and compliant in each subsequent year with the Regulations.

Full story

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/telford-company-makes-66000-contribution-to-wildlife-trust

Pixtured: The Shropshire Wildlife Trust Wood Lane site near Ellesmere in Shropshire. Credit: John Hawkins/Shropshire Wildlife Trust

Pawsome Paws Boutique (PPB), the brainchild of founder Sophie Chesman, is returning to the Pet and Aquatic Trade Show (PATS) this year with its highly anticipated official Disney collection. Originally sold out, it is now fully restocked and available to trade. 

This achievement is just one of many highlights in the company’s journey from a modest home-based project to a recognised brand name in the pet accessory industry.

Sophie’s passion for pets, particularly her own dogs Reuben and Betsy, has been the driving force behind PPB’s success. From the moment Reuben was a puppy, Sophie was obsessed. She spent every spare penny at Pets at Home, indulging him with various accessories and treats. Her keen interest in trends and patterns soon led her start making handmade accessories for Reuben, sparking the beginning of a remarkable journey.

In December 2016, with just £100 in her bank account, Sophie founded Pawsome Paws Boutique. It all started with handmade, personalized dog lead hangers that she crafted as Christmas gifts for friends and family. After sharing her creations in a dog group, the response was overwhelming – they went viral. Sophie spent the entire Christmas season hand painting and staining wood to fulfil the influx of orders, marking the humble beginnings of her business.

By 2017, orders were pouring in, and Sophie reinvested every penny into introducing new products. Pawsome Paws Boutique had officially launched, and in just one year, Sophie was overwhelmed with orders, working 17-hour days to meet the demand. Etsy and Facebook became her primary sales channels, while she tirelessly sewed for hours on end, all while growing a vibrant social media presence.

In September 2019, after two years of running PPB from her home, Sophie took the leap and signed for her first commercial unit. Just a few months later, in December 2019, she hired her first employee, marking a significant milestone in the company’s growth. By June 2020, PPB had reached an impressive 100,000 followers on Instagram, a testament to the brand’s growing popularity.

The year 2022 was a pivotal one for PPB. They traded at Crufts for the first time in March, launched their inaugural collection in August, and returned to Crufts in March 2023 for a second time. That same year, PPB introduced the "Walkies Ready Club," a group designed to bring the online community together for dog walks while raising money for charity. Sophie also expanded the product range with a new homeware collection and made a significant breakthrough by launching PPB products in-store and online at Pets at Home.

Today, the PPB team has grown to 10 employees, all working from a 3,000 square foot headquarters. The official Disney licensed products, launched in January 2024, have been a resounding success. The Winnie The Pooh collection sold out quickly, followed by equally popular Lion King and Bambi collections. August 2024 marked another exciting milestone with the launch of PPB’s Paramount licensed products, starting with the Emily in Paris collection.

Sophie’s dedication and vision have not gone unnoticed. She has been shortlisted for the Rising Star award and the Marketing Campaign of the Year award, further solidifying her status as a leading figure in the industry.

With over 276,000 followers on Instagram, 38,000 on Facebook, and 28,000 on TikTok, PPB’s online community continues to thrive. Their PPB Addicts Facebook group boasts 8,000 members, all eager to share in the company’s journey and celebrate its successes.

As Pawsome Paws Boutique looks to the future, the sky's the limit. With more exciting Disney collections and other creative endeavours on the horizon, Sophie’s journey from a bedroom sewing machine to an official Disney collection serves as an inspiring testament to what passion, dedication, and a love for dogs can achieve.

Record numbers of exhibitors…the biggest ever showcase of new products…scores of show offers and competitions. It all adds up to PATS 2024 – the most exciting event in the pet industry for years.

Final preparations for the Pet & Aquatics Trade Show are being made as the eagerly awaited three-day exhibition gets set to open its doors at Telford International Centre in a month’s time on Sunday, 29^thSeptember. 

The excitement has been building for months with more than 340 exhibitors planning their new launches around PATS 2024.

Now the wait is almost over for both exhibitors and visitors…and the show will soon begin.

“There is a tremendous buzz surrounding the show,” said show director Gordon Thomas. “So much is happening at PATS over all three days of the exhibition, it really is a must-visit event for retailers and buyers. You won’t be disappointed.”

With so many exciting plans it could easily be a record-breaking year for attendance numbers as well.

PATS will be hosted in four halls for the first time and will see the launch of the much-anticipated Aquatics Zone in Hall 1A, where leading aquatics and watergardening companies will be exhibiting their products and services.

In addition, the New Starter Zone, supported by PetQuip with media partner PPM, will be larger than ever, as more start-up companies take advantage of the dedicated area in Hall 3 to launch their ranges.

The majority of visitors will make the New Product Showcase, their first ‘port of call’ as this  will have a huge presence at PATS 2024. All entries in the Showcase will be judged by a panel of independent retail experts for the New Product Awards on the first morning of the show with the winners receiving their certificates later that day.

As well as seeing an unrivalled array of new pet products and speaking to major suppliers and manufacturers, visitors will also be able to attend demonstrations from some of the country’s top dog groomers.

Leading trade association PetQuip, which has been working with PATS to attract international pet retail chains and distributors to the Autumn showpiece, will be staging its prestigious PetQuip Awards after the second day of the exhibition. Reflecting the dynamism of the UK petcare sector, the annual awards recognise and reward the energy, achievement and innovation realised within the pet trade over the past year.

All visitors to PATS will receive a free catalogue, a complimentary tea/coffee voucher, and free parking for up to 1,300 cars. You can register online for free entry at the PATS website www.patshow.co.uk.

A full and up-to-date list of exhibitors is available on the website together with information on how to reach the venue and regularly updated show news.

Opening times

Sunday, 29th September 2024: 9.30am-5pm

Monday, 30th September 2024: 9.30am-5pm

Tuesday, 1st October 2024: 9.30am-4pm

There are just a few days to go until entries close for the 2024 PIF Awards.

The Pet Industry Federation Awards, sponsored by leading pet wholesaler Su-Bridge Pet Supplies, showcase excellence across 22 different categories, with new categories launched this year, including Pet Tech of the Year and Garden Centre Pet Department of the Year, as well as the existence of the firm favourites across a range of activities in the pet sector. 

Businesses have until 5pm on Monday 2 September to submit their applications. Simply visit www.petfederation.co.uk to find out how to enter and get details of the entry criteria for each award. 

Winners of the Pet Industry Federation Awards 2024 will be revealed at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel, Stoke on Trent on Thursday 7 November. 

Confirmed sponsors for this year’s awards are: Su-Bridge Pet Supplies as platinum sponsor, with Cliverton, YuMove and the Animal People Recruitment Company as headline sponsors. Other sponsors include: Big Biscuit Company, Collar App, Impact Exhibitions, Associated Veterinary Services, Garden Centre Expo, Naturo, Millin Brook Luxury Dog Boarding, Nobull Marketing Agency, Johnsons Veterinary Products, Tuft, Anthesis Enterprise Software, Call of Nature Cat Litter, Citation and Vital Pet Products.

There are still some sponsorship spots available, which provide outstanding promotional and networking opportunities. To find out more about sponsorship, telephone Daniel Everett, PIF’s Operations Manager, on 01234 224507 or email daniel.everett@petfederation.co.uk. 

As one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of cold-pressed natural dry dog food and raw frozen meals for dogs, Wilsons Pet Food is set to launch a substantial line-up of new products during PATS, and unveil a striking new look for the much-loved brand.    

“We’re counting down for what will undoubtedly be our busiest PATS show yet,” explained Craig Wallace, MD, Wilsons Pet Food.  “We have an extensive selection of new products to launch; over forty SKUs span our range of natural meals, treats and supplements. We have also invested in an impactful new look for the brand; PATS is the ideal place to share all our exciting news with the trade.”

At Wilsons, the focus remains on natural recipes for dogs, using high-quality ingredients sourced from the UK. All products are packed with wholesome goodness and free from artificial colours, preservatives and flavourings.

“The new products launching, continue to offer pet owners the high-quality recipes they’ve come to expect from Wilsons," explains Craig. “We’re looking forward to promoting our current ranges to the trade and unveiling all the exciting NPD that will soon be available to stock."

At PATS stand B10, Wilsons will offer the trade a special discount during PATS: a 10% saving when spending over £200, 15% saving when spending over £350 and 20% with £500 spent. Wilsons will also be running a competition at PATS to win over £300 worth of stock.

To learn more about Wilsons meals and treats, contact the team at trade@wilsonspetfood.co.uk

Dog owners and professionals across the UK are being urged to take part in a new initiative designed to support anxious dogs and their owners.

Sarah Jones, founder of My Anxious Dog, has launched the 'My Anxious Dog Partner Pack,' a resource aimed at helping professionals raise awareness for dogs that wear yellow, a colour signalling they need space.

Sarah, who owns a nervous Cocker Spaniel named Bella, started her business after creating yellow space awareness products for her own dog. She developed the packs in response to requests from dog trainers and walkers looking for ways to spread the message.

She explained: “Many owners feel isolated or misunderstood because of their dog’s anxiety, and pet professionals want to educate others. The pack is designed to empower them to raise awareness about what a #doginyellow means and provide better support to anxious dogs and their owners.”

The My Anxious Dog Partner Pack includes leaflets, stickers, information booklets, and other resources for professionals to use in spreading the message. By joining the programme, businesses like dog trainers, walkers, vets, and groomers gain access to educational tools, including social media content, graphics, and a partner badge. They also earn a 15% commission on each referral for yellow space awareness products.

There’s the opportunity to feature in the ‘Partner Spotlight’ section on the My Anxious Dog website, connecting them with anxious dog owners seeking support and they can take part in Sarah's National #DogsInYellow Day, held on 20th March each year, a key event for raising awareness about anxious dogs across the country.

Sarah knows firsthand the challenges of caring for a reactive dog. "Sharing your life with a nervous or reactive dog can be isolating and frustrating. Other dog owners, people you meet on walks, and even friends and family don’t always understand the lengths you go to for your dog.

"People don’t always get what you’re going through, and it can make even simple things like a walk feel overwhelming. That’s why I started My Anxious Dog—because I’ve been there. It resonated with owners all over the world, and I’m excited to work with pet professionals through this programme so together we can make life happier for anxious dogs and their owners," she said.

For £49.99, businesses can become a partner and access the pack to demonstrate their understanding of the needs of anxious dogs.

To learn more or to become a partner, visit www.myanxiousdog.co.uk.

The Cat Show Live, powered by Antinol, is uniting the very best of the cat community this September 14th for an unparalleled experience empowering cat lovers at the Birmingham NEC.

At the heart of The Cat Show Live is "Hope Alley," a groundbreaking initiative that highlights the crucial work being for cat rescues and adoptions. Through the use of an innovative digital rehoming experience, "Hope Alley" provides a streamlined and supportive process for rehoming cats in need. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage directly with various rescue centers, interact with representatives, and learn about the inspiring efforts being made to rescue and rehome cats across the UK.

Hope Alley will shine light on cats of all sizes who need attention, including the largely followed Big Cat Sanctuary. The UK-based charity helps to conserve and protect wild cats like jaguars, leopards, lions and tigers. Attendees can connect with the team behind a huge rescue mission to save five traumatized lions, Amarni, Lira, Vanda, Rori, and Yuna, from war-torn Ukraine.

‘We at The Big Cat Sanctuary are excited to be attending the first Cat Show Live. We can’t wait to talk to you about all our cats, big and small!’

Event organiser Sam Marsh with Aaron, Cam and Tyler from The Big Cat Sanctuary. 

Also amongst the rescue warriors in attendance is the Celia Hammond Animal Trust who rescue, rehabilitate and rehome unwanted, abandoned and stray cats from their centers throughout London.  

The Cat Show Live stands proud in its mission to contribute to the organizations making a difference and facilitate hundreds of cats finding their forever homes. A significant stride towards this goal includes the annual commitment to donate a percentage of profits to chosen charities, underscoring a dedication to making a lasting impact. 

Samantha Marsh, co-founder of The Cat Show Live Ltd, shares, "The Cat Show Live is not just an event; it’s a culmination of our love for cats and our commitment to responsible, educated cat ownership. Our long-term vision is to establish an annual event that not only celebrates feline excellence but also supports cat charities and rescues across the UK."

The event promises to be an inspiring and educational experience, featuring a variety of interactive exhibits designed to empower visitors to be the best cat owners they can be.

Don't miss your chance to be part of this incredible event! Get your tickets to The Cat Show Live this September and be inspired at HOPE ALLEY. Join us in celebrating the wonderful world of cats and contribute to the cause of making a difference in the lives of our beloved feline friends!

Join over 3,000 other cat lovers at The Cat Show Live. This September 14th at the Birmingham NEC. Opening times: 9am-5pm. Tickets on sale at: https://thecatshowlive.co.uk/

Henry Wag has announced a significant update to its drying range with products now being made from Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certified materials.

This innovative line underscores the company's dedication to sustainability and eco-friendly practices in the pet care industry.

Key features of the range include GRS-certified sustainable materials, ensuring high post-consumer recycled content and eco-friendly production. The innovative design guarantees superior absorbency and quick drying, making the towels, mitts, and coats perfect for pets. Recycled plastic bottles are used to create the yarn used in the GRS drying items. 

In addition to the sustainable materials, the new packaging design includes rebranding elements, 2D barcodes from Buyerdock, and multilingual packaging. These updates enhance the product's in-store appeal and provide valuable information to consumers and retailers alike.

“Henry Wag is committed to creating effective, convenient, and planet-friendly pet products," said Grant Rogers, Managing Director at Henry Wag. "Updating the brand's drying range is a testament to this commitment.”

The Henry Wag drying range is now available at select retailers and online. For more information, visit Henry Wag’s sustainability page.

Pickles Pet Pantry, a beloved local business in Olney, Buckinghamshire has been honoured with a nomination for the highly coveted SME Business Awards in the Business Leader category. This recognition is a testament to the dedication, resilience, and passion of the entire team at Pickles Pet Pantry, led by its founder, Katie Parker.

Established to cater to the needs of pets and pet owners in the community, Pickles Pet Pantry has become a cornerstone of Olney’s local business landscape. The company provides a wide range of high-quality pet products and personalised services, all designed with the well-being of pets in mind.

Katie Parker, the driving force behind Pickles Pet Pantry, expressed her surprise and pride at being nominated:

"When Jack asked me to check the inbox, I didn’t expect to see an email telling me I’d been nominated for an award. This year, we’ve faced challenges, and each time we’ve conquered them and grown. I honestly can’t believe one of our customers thought I deserved a Business Leader award. I am beyond proud. We’re a very small fish in a big pond, and to know we’re making an impact feels very special! It’s a team effort."

This nomination comes as a significant milestone in what has been a year of both challenges and growth for Pickles Pet Pantry. Despite being a small business, the team’s collective efforts have made a big impact on the community, earning them recognition at the national level.

The SME Business Awards celebrate the achievements of small and medium-sized enterprises across the UK, highlighting the leaders, innovators, and community-focused businesses that make a difference. The Business Leader category acknowledges individuals who have shown exceptional leadership and vision within their businesses.

Katie Parker’s leadership and dedication to her business, her team, and the community have clearly not gone unnoticed. As Pickles Pet Pantry continues to grow and serve the needs of Olney’s pet owners, this nomination stands as a proud moment for the entire team.

The awards ceremony will take place later this year, where winners will be announced. Pickles Pet Pantry are also finalists in New Business & Retail Business of the year at the Wembley Finals.

You can Vote for Katie on the SME awards Page:  https://eventsandpr.co.uk/sme-national-business-awards/award-categories/

For more information about Pickles Pet Pantry, please visit https://www.picklespetpantry.com/

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Wilsons Pet Food has appointed Stuart Nicholson, a former board director at Symington’s, as the new Chairman.

In his new role, Nicholson will focus on strategic growth and corporate governance to support the ambitious growth plans of the Scottish-based natural pet food company. With 40 years working with some of the UK’s largest food manufacturers and extensive board-level experience, Nicholson brings a wealth of expertise to the role. 

“Wilsons is a trusted, heritage brand recognised for its quality ingredients and first-class manufacturing processes. With an inspired and motivated leadership team and significant investment underway across the business, the future for Wilsons is very exciting. I’m thrilled to be able to help contribute to that,” said Stuart Nicholson. 

Commenting on the hire, Wilsons MD, Craig Wallace said: “Stuart's extensive background in food manufacturing and his contribution to shaping highly successful and dynamic businesses make him a great fit for Wilsons. His experience will provide us with fresh and invaluable insights as we continue to drive growth in the natural pet food category with our meals and treats.” 

In addition to Nicholson's appointment, Wilsons has strengthened its trade sales team with two new senior hires. Sam George joins as Head of Pet Trade Sales, with over 10 years of trade experience in the pet food sector, and Katie Neal, previously with Woof & Brew and Bugalugs Pet Care, joins as Head of Grocery.

Speaking about the upcoming PATS event, where they will unveil new recipes across the full range of meals and treats, Sam George, Head of Pet Trade Sales at Wilsons Pet Food, stated, “With PATS just around the corner, it’s a fantastic opportunity to meet both current and new customers. I’m really looking forward to what will no doubt be a fantastic trade event.”

To find out more about stocking the Wilsons range contact the team at trade@wilsonspetfood.co.uk

The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has undertaken the world’s largest study into the health of designer crossbreed dogs and revealed that the overall health of three common designer crossbreeds (Cockapoo, Labradoodle and Cavapoo) is largely similar to their parent purebred breeds. These findings debunk common public beliefs about the superior health of these designer crossbreed dogs and provide vital information to assist potential dog owners when deciding which type of dog to acquire.

Designer crossbreed dogs are created by the intentional crossbreeding of longer established ‘purebred’ breeds to create new ‘designer’ breeds, such as the Cockapoo (a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and Poodle). The UK has seen a significant increase in demand for these designer crossbreeds over the past decade, particularly since the pandemic, with many designer crossbreeds now surpassing the popularity of their parent breeds. For example, there were more Cockapoo dogs (653,597) owned in the UK in 2023 than either Cocker Spaniel (562,951) or Poodle (105,369) dogs.

Much of this meteoric public demand has been driven by a widespread belief that designer crossbreeds are a healthier option, due to somehow breeding out of harmful health effects caused by inbreeding that is common in purebred dogs. However, this new RVC study has revealed that specifically for Cockapoo, Labradoodle and Cavapoo, the risk for the 57 most common disorders did not differ between these three most common designer crossbreeds and their purebred parent breeds in 86.6 per cent of the disorder comparisons. Of the 13.4% disorders comparisons that did differ, these were almost equally split between designer-crossbreeds having higher risk for 7.0% and lower risk for 6.4%.

The study - led by Gina Bryson, master's graduate; Dr Rowena Packer, Senior Lecturer in Companion Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science; and Dr Dan O’Neill, Associate Professor in Companion Animal Epidemiology, all at the RVC - surveyed 9,402 UK owners of the three most common designer crossbreeds (Cockapoo, Labradoodle and Cavapoo) and their parent breeds (Cocker Spaniel, Labrador Retriever, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Miniature, Toy and Standard Poodles). The owner-reported health information was then collated and the risk of each breed having the 57 different most common disorders found in dogs was compared.

Key findings include that:

• There was no difference in disorder risk between these three most common designer crossbreeds and their purebred parent breeds in 86.6 per cent of the disorder comparisons.
• Designer crossbreeds had a higher risk of 7 per cent and a lower risk of 6.4 per cent of disorders.
• The risk of dietary indiscretion, vomiting and diarrhoea was higher in all three designer crossbreeds compared to their shared parent breed, the Poodle.
• All three designer crossbreeds had a higher chance of ear infections than their non-Poodle parent breeds. Additionally, Cockapoos had higher likelihood of itchy skin than their parent breeds, a disorder often caused by allergies.
• Both Labradoodle and Cockapoo had a lower risk of patellar luxation (slipping kneecaps) compared to Poodles yet the Cavapoo did not differ in odds compared to either parent breed.
• Of the 13.4 per cent of disorders comparisons that did differ, these were almost equally split between the breeds.

These findings show that the risk did not differ at all for the majority of disorders between the designer crossbreds and their parent breeds. The findings also largely debunk beliefs held by some people that designer crossbreeds are somehow damaged or defective by not having the ‘pure’ blood of purebred dogs and must therefore be less healthy than the parent purebred breeds.

Based on these results, when considering purchasing a dog, the researchers encourage owners to instead consider other factors such as the specific expected health issues, suitability of the breed’s size, behavioural and husbandry needs for their lifestyle, and likely temperament to decide upon their chosen breed. Additionally, owners should focus on acquiring puppies or dogs from a high-welfare source regardless of whether they are pure or crossbred, including only buying puppies from breeders who will allow visits in person prior to purchase, and sell puppies from the place that they were bred with their mother present.

Dr Rowena Packer, Senior Lecturer in Companion Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science at the RVC and senior author of the paper, said: “The popularity of designer crossbreeds, particularly Poodle crosses, has boomed over the past decade in the UK. With cute teddy bear-like features, their aesthetic appeal to many households is clear. However, our previous research discovered that many are purchased based on assumed characteristics that are not well-evidenced, such as perceptions they are hypoallergenic, good with children, and have good health.

“This study has demonstrated that although the health of designer Poodle-crosses is no worse than their parent breeds’, it is also no better. This means that owners should still be strongly focused on purchasing from breeders who prioritise health and temperament over looks in their breeding decisions, and not to assume their puppy will automatically be healthy due to being a crossbreed.

“Prospective owners should be extremely mindful that the popularity of Poodle-crosses means they are at high-risk of coming from poor welfare sources such as puppy farms and illegal imports to meet this demand, which could negatively influence their future health and welfare.”

Gina Bryson, RVC Masters graduate and lead author of the paper, said: “This paper delves into the health of common designer crossbreeds in the UK, with the clear intent of dispelling unfounded biases towards both purebred breeds and crossbreeds. Our foremost priority should be to prioritise overall dog welfare, and to ensure that responsible ownership and good breeding practices are upheld, with owner and breeder decisions driven by sound scientific evidence.”

Dr Dan O’Neill, Associate Professor in Companion Animal Epidemiology at the RVC and co-author of the paper, said: “Ongoing public concerns about serious health issues affecting pedigree dogs are pushing the public increasingly towards acquiring designer crossbreed dog breeds but this new work suggests that owners wanting to avoid acquiring innately sick dogs should instead focus on avoiding extreme body shapes (e.g. flattened faces, bulging eyes, skin folds) regardless of whether the dog is purebred or a designer crossbred breed.”

Although we're in summer holiday season and Bonfire Night is unlikely to be at the forefront of our minds, PDSA is warning pet owners to start preparing for fireworks now.

The vet charity for pets in need has urged owners to take action as soon as possible in a bid to reduce the extreme distress and suffering that fireworks can cause to some of our furry friends.

PDSA Vet Nurse, Nina Downing, said: “Our pets’ enhanced senses mean they can find the loud noises and bright flashes from fireworks overwhelming, which can lead to severe anxiety, trauma and even injuries.

“The sooner you start preparing, the better. Some pets who are seriously affected by fireworks, need to be helped and supported in learning to cope in these situations. It can take months of training to prepare them, so they feel more comfortable with the bangs and flashes, so it is essential to prepare well in advance.

Here are PDSA’s top tips on things you can do now to tackle your pet’s firework phobias: 

1. Desensitisation and counter-conditioning

“Teaching your pet that firework noises aren’t frightening starts now – for young kittens and puppies who will be experiencing their first fireworks, desensitising them early is a great way to prevent these fears from taking hold in the first place.

 For a pet that is already scared you may need several months to desensitise them and reassure them that fireworks are not to be feared.

To do this, play firework noises quietly throughout the house – these can easily be found online. If they show any signs of stress such as looking at the speaker, ear twitching, lip licking, running away, yawning repeatedly or barking, stop the noises, and try again at a lower volume the following day.

If they stay calm, gradually increase the volume over time, always at their pace. It is really important not to rush them during this process.

Once they are completely happy with very loud firework noises and don’t react at all, you can start counter-conditioning, which is training their brain that the noises are a good thing.

To do this, give them a treat each time you switch the noises on. Turn off the sound as soon as they finish eating.

Doing this now will allow time for your pet to build up positive associations with these sounds and they might even start to enjoy the noises!

2. Secure your garden

“Starting to secure your garden now will help prevent fearful furry friends from running away if they panic. Ensure any possible escape routes – such as holes in fences – are inaccessible or closed off. Also check that your pet’s microchip details are up to date to give you a better chance of being reunited if they do run away from home. If your pet isn’t microchipped, speak to your vet as soon as possible to arrange an appointment to have this done - it's now a legal requirement for  cats in England to be microchipped, and has been the law for dogs in the UK for many years.

3. Check the dates of any nearby firework displays

“This year, Bonfire Night falls mid-week, so be mindful that firework displays could be taking place over a prolonged period of time. Making a note of nearby parties and celebrations early will help avoid any shocks or surprises in November. You will be able to change your pet’s walk and toilet time routine or arrange to stay home to ensure they are safe and sound during peak firework times.

4. Set up a hideaway

“Although it might seem odd to draw your curtains and blinds on a summer’s evening whilst it’s light outside, creating a mock Bonfire Night environment can be good preparation. Make sure all your windows have curtains or blinds to block out flashing fireworks on the night. At least four weeks before, create a ‘den’ in a quiet room or open crate with soft bedding and your pet’s favourite toys. Training your pet to associate this area with positive experiences, coming and going as they please, will help them feel in control and calm during firework season.

5. Speak to your vet

“If you’re concerned your pet has a severe phobia of fireworks or loud noises, and calming measures don’t help, it’s best to speak to your vet for advice. There are many options open to you.  Do this as soon as possible to allow yourself enough time to prepare your pet and find the most effective treatment for them.

“Your vet may suggest other measures to improve the phobia, such as contacting an accredited pet behaviourist or prescribing medications to help. Be aware that these medications should only be used as a short-term solution and never give your pet any medication that hasn’t been prescribed by your vet.”

For more information on how to prepare your pet for Bonfire Night and to download PDSA’s free Firework Guide visit www.pdsa.org.uk/fireworksready

Dogs Trust has welcomed the new Pet Abduction Act which came into force on August. 24.

From Saturday, anyone found guilty of stealing a dog in England or Northern Ireland will face up to five years in prison, a fine, or both. Previously, despite the very distressing nature of having a dog stolen, pet theft has not been a specific crime and has instead been treated in the same way as the theft of household items such as phones and bikes.

Under the new Pet Abduction Act, dogs and cats are no longer treated as inanimate objects but instead are recognised as sentient beings capable of experiencing emotional trauma when they are stolen from their owners.

Paula Boyden, Veterinary Director at Dogs Trust said: “We are delighted to see the Pet Abduction Act come into force, and that it recognises the emotional bond between dog and owner. For years, Dogs Trust has called for harsher penalties to deter those who profit from this despicable crime and to tackle the issue of pet theft here in the UK.

“Having your beloved pet stolen is an extremely stressful, heart-breaking experience. For most owners, pets are members of the family, and being separated from them, without knowing where they are, is devastating. However, despite the obvious emotional impact pet theft has on families and owners, until now it has been treated no differently to mobile phone or laptop theft.  

“Along with this new law, there are other ways owners can reduce the chances of this despicable crime happening to you. Never leave your dog unattended, especially in a public area, and if you are walking them off lead, always keep them in sight. You should also be careful with what details you share online about your canine companions.

“Not only is it a legal requirement for your dog to wear a collar and ID tag in a public place and to be microchipped, these two simple steps will also help to get your dog home to you as quickly as possible if the worst does happen.”  

Pet Trade Innovation proudly launches The Wonderful World of Treats. It’s a brand experience, which is about being accessible, inclusive, sustainable and transparent. 

As the first UK treat manufacturer to use biodegradable, plastic free packaging, it strives to be carbon neutral.

The brand also prides itself on its high quality ‘species appropriate’ ingredients, with an emphasis on minimal processing and wellness to offer healthy treats with lots of variety, bursting with flavours. 

Inspired by tastes from human cuisine, Wonderful World brings an exciting twist to your pup’s snack time, training session, or just for celebrating being a good dog. 

Offering four varieties: Burger Hills, Sushi Forest, Pizza Oasis and Cake Mountains – each contains three distinct flavours. Combining 12 different recipes, each catering for every canine culinary taste and preference. 

The Wonderful World range is 100 per cent natural, wheat free, and uses up to 24% air dried single proteins like beef, chicken, duck, pork, salmon and white fish.

Providing four Vegan options, the treats combine either bean, gram, pea, potato, or rice flour. Cold pressed flaxseed oil and rapeseed oil is complemented by a raft of healthy ingredients including, avocado flesh, carob, seaweed, green tea extract, ginger, apple, carrot, kale, spinach, blueberries, thyme, parsley, shitake mushrooms, and turmeric.

Hand baked in the UK and thoughtfully created into individual fun shapes that represent their variety. Moist and delicious, making Wonderful World a healthy treat that’s perfect for reward-based training and everyday enrichment.

Steve Driver, MD, at Pet Trade Innovations, enthused: “The Wonderful World concept is all about bringing joy and a sense of wellbeing to dogs and their people. All the treats are inspired, tested, tasted and baked in the UK using only locally sourced ingredients where possible. Our aim is to deliver a brand that has a conscience to make our ‘world’ as wonderful as possible, helping pet parents with honest, cost-effective options to share experiences with their pets, no matter their breed, personality or culinary tastes.”

The range is accessibly and competitively priced with four packets of each flavour RRP: £21.00.  That’s only £1.75 per pack!

For more information click here

The Wonderful World of Treats range can be view on the Pet Trade Innovations stand (C22a) at PATS on 29th September to 1st October.

The Nutriment Company has announced the acquisition of Pet Treats Wholesale, marking its fourth acquisition in 2024 and the third in the UK. 

Following the successful acquisitions of raw pet food focused Totally Natural Pet Products in April and Natural Instinct in July, TNC continues to expand its presence in the UK market, this time in the natural pet treats sector.

Pet Treats Wholesale Ltd. is one of the leading natural dog treats and chews manufacturers in the UK, boasting an extensive and award-winning range of more than 150 products. The company won a New Product Award at PATS last October. (see picture above).

The company was founded based on the deep personal desire to serve a gap in the market: high-quality treats that are easily digestible and produced to a high standard directly in the UK.

This clear vision resulted in a well thought through and widely recognized product range that led Pet Wholesale Ltd to rapid growth in the UK over the last few years, serving over 2,000 stockists through its wide offering of grain-free natural treats including sausages, sticks, slices, pâté and a diverse selection of natural air-dried products.

Louis Jolivet (pictured right), Managing Director of Pet Treats Wholesale, said: "We are thrilled to join The Nutriment Company and look forward to working with the entire team as they continue their impressive journey. As a key treats and chews manufacturer within the group, we see this as a significant opportunity to scale our operations, enhance our product offerings, and share our expertise with the team. We are excited to be part of one of the most dynamic and promising projects in our sector and we cannot wait to contribute to our collective success."

Anders Kristiansen, CEO of The Nutriment Company, explained: "Pet Treats Wholesale has been a supplier to us for many years and we have known them for providing exceptional product quality and customer service. Thus, it was a very logical move to join forces with TNC and help bring these qualities to a broader range of customers - both in the UK and across mainland Europe."

Julius Adrian, Head of Corporate Development at The Nutriment Company, added: "I'm extremely excited to welcome Louis and the full team to our group. It's a very dynamic and entrepreneurial group of talents that has grown their business rapidly and proven their abilities repeatedly in the past - and I'm sure they will contribute greatly to the overall success of The Nutriment Company."

Inventor Cat director Victor Carpio, who won investment from Dragons’ Den star Deborah Meaden when he appeared on the BBC hit series, has announced he will be showcasing his Dental Wand product at PATS.

The innovative product is the only dental solution that combines the instinctive play of a cat with the brushing of their teeth.

Victor has confirmed that PATS will be the first time the Dental Wand has been offered to the retail market in the UK where demand is expected to be high. 

Inventor Cat has already been nominated for six PetQuip Awards, including Product of the Year in the Healthcare and Grooming Category and UK Retailer of the Year in the Independent Category.

“We cannot wait to show everyone our products and are thrilled with the nominations, which reflect our innovation in bridging the gap in the feline dental market by giving cats 100% control over the brushing of their teeth.  We are pioneers in the rise of health toys, producing the only true cat-friendly toothbrush on the market,” said Victor.

The Dental Wand attaches to the telescopic rod and, through interactive play, encourages the cat to capture it in their mouth as they would their prey. When the cat bites down on the dental wand, the toothpaste bursts through the holes covering the surfaces of the teeth while the bristles bend and snap, disrupting the bacteria in the cat's teeth.

The Starter Kit, retailing at £26.99, includes the Dental Wand, enzymatic toothpaste, a telescopic rod, the worm toy, and catnip.

You can find Inventor Cat in the New Starter Zone on Stand Q21, where retailers who order at the show can expect a 15% discount on orders over £200.

Cat owners wishing to purchase a dental wand online at https://www.inventorcat.co.uk/dentalwandshop can claim a 25% discount using the code PATS2024. This offer will run until the end of September or while stocks last.

Leading veterinary surgeon and nutritionist Dr Veneta Kozhuharova, Director of Associated Veterinary Services based in Rainham, Kent, has launched her own range of freeze-dried pet food.

The launch of the Dr Veneta range coincides with news that her business has been nominated in multiple categories for the prestigious PetQuip Awards.

Associated Veterinary Services is world renowned for its range of veterinary export services. This includes helping to facilitate the export of commodities from the animal health industry, export food industry, and animal travel industry. They provide veterinary inspections of commodities for export, advice on legislation relating to export certifications, and technical support relating to import permits and export procedures for products that are of animal origin or animal-by products. They also provide certification of the export and travel of all animals ensuring their welfare.

Through Dr Veneta’s work as a nutritionist as well as being a vet, and approving recipes for export to different countries, she became inspired to create her own range of dog food.  

Dr Veneta freeze-dried food is the latest phenomenon in the pet food market. It marries the convenience of a traditional kibble with the nutritional value of a raw diet.  The intricate freeze-drying process safeguards both the nutritional structure and shelf life of the products to create a far-reaching range that supports the ongoing health and wellbeing of your dogs whilst providing them with essential nutrients such as protein, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. It is also convenient and easy to use, highly digestible, grain free, is a complete meal, uses human-grade natural ingredients such as raw meat and vegetables and is high in protein. The food is suitable for all sizes and breeds of dogs from 6 months of age. The kibbles themselves also make excellent dog training treats.

Dr Veneta has created a food that does not just support the wellbeing of dogs, but also their microbiome which is responsible for so many physiological functions that happen in dogs’ bodies and where 84% of the all-important immune system resides. Each recipe has been designed to tackle ailments seen in an everyday veterinary practice – elderly dogs, anxiety, joint problems, poor digestion and skin irritations. In addition to herbs and superfoods, a “hero” ingredient, Nutritional Yeast which is fermented and gluten free and very palatable to dogs has been added to support and feed a dog’s microbiome. All meat proteins, vegetables and fruits are British and locally sourced supporting local communities. The diet is also extremely good for maintaining a dog’s weight.

Dr Veneta is available in five varieties: STAY MOBILE (Chicken Swede & Blueberry); STAY CALM (Turkey, Pear & Apple); STAY SHINY (Turkey, Salmon, Carrot & Blueberry); STAY WELL (Chicken & Rabbit, Apple & Pumpkin);  and STAY YOUNG (Pork, Pumpkin & Pear).

Associated Veterinary Services is a finalist in the Business Services of the Year Category at the PetQuip Awards and Michelle Williams, Sara Mendana and Daniel Barta have been nominated for Best Employee of the Year. Dr Veneta pet food is a finalist in the Best Product of the Year category (food and treats).

Dr Veneta said: “We are absolutely delighted to be recognised by the pet industry for all our hard work at Associated Veterinary Services. The launch of my new pet food was also something that I have dreamt about for years and I wanted to create recipes for dogs that could be the best possible. We are entering a new chapter of our business evolution.”

Dr. Veneta will be exhibiting at Edition Dog Live on 25 August and PATS Telford in September.

For further information visit  www.drveneta.com

The Tetbury Pet Shop has launched its first-ever dedicated luxurious dog spa treatments, created to enhance dog wellness. 

Recognising the immense mental health benefits dogs bring to our lives, the store aims to reciprocate by offering them exceptional mental and physical support through its wellness treatment.

The spa treatments go beyond traditional grooming, focusing on relaxation and wellbeing. The team has observed the positive impact of the grooming sessions and is excited to elevate the experience.

Key Features:

• Wellness-Focused Treatments: Soothing baths, massages, UV light therapy, Epsom salt soak, and customised care to relax and rejuvenate.
• Experienced Professionals: Passionate and highly trained groomers dedicated to your pet’s wellbeing.
• Products: Using only organic and natural products tailored for each dog with custom formulations for each specific dog. 

This is a four-hour pampering treatment that aims to calm and relax dogs, leaving a lasting sense of serenity. 

Using aromatherapy, the scent used will be picked by the dog depending on their needs. Calming music will create the perfect atmosphere. 

Time is taken for the dog to get to know their therapist, while a personalised mud mask is made as the bath fills up for the paw soak. 

A thorough bath and conditioning massage is followed by a gentle blow-dry and lavender towel wrap. 

Earthing mats and infrared lights, toilet breaks, a health check, and a joint massage are all included. 

Optional dog drying coats are available to leave with and complimentary wash bags filled with products.

"We believe that just as dogs support our mental health, they deserve the same care in return," said Amelia, founder of The Tetbury Pet Shop. "Our new wellness treatment is designed to provide unparalleled relaxation and rejuvenation for our furry friends."

For more information, please visit www.thetetburypetshop.co.uk/spa