Pet shops and dealers in England will be banned from selling puppies and kittens under government plans. 

The proposals, which have gone out to consultation, will mean those wanting to buy or adopt a pet less than six months old will have to go to the breeder or a rescue centre.

A ban on licensed sellers dealing in dogs and cats less than eight weeks old is already coming in on 1 October.

Campaigners welcomed the announcement, but warned of "potential loopholes".

It is a victory for the Lucy's Law campaign, which has been calling for the ban to be implemented. 

The campaign was named after a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel who was badly treated in the puppy farming system.

The ban aims to reduce the health problems associated which emerge when animals are reared in poor conditions.

There are no records of the number of puppies sold via third parties, but the animal charity Blue Cross has estimated it is between 40,000 and 80,000 per year in Great Britain.

The Department for Environment, Food and rural Affairs said fewer than 100 third party sellers - which includes some pet shops - are licensed in England.

Speaking in support of a change, Environment Secretary Michael Gove said: "People who have a complete disregard for pet welfare will no longer be able to profit from this miserable trade."

The move was welcomed by Paula Boyden from the Dogs Trust - but she warned that "potential loopholes" needed to be closed off for the ban to be successful. 

"We believe that to be effective, a ban needs to be supported by some key additional measures, such as regulating re-homing organisations," she said.

Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club secretary, said the ban would "stop the suffering of many dogs and send a very strong message to puppy buyers that it is never OK to see a puppy in any environment other than the one it was born and raised in, and with its mum."

Marc Abraham, of the Pup Aid campaign, said: "Irresponsible breeders have for years used third parties to keep themselves hidden from the buying public and the proposed ban will make all breeders accountable."

Picture: Pupaid Twitter page

Animal welfare campaigners are celebrating as Michael Gove promises to eliminate the horror of puppy farming.

The announcement was made at an event for animal welfare campaigners to celebrate the introduction of Lucy’s Law held at Downing Street on Tuesday.

This is a fantastic victory for animal welfare campaigners who have worked tirelessly to end the horrors of puppy farming.

In his speech the Environment Secretary promised to end puppy farming and announced that puppies will no longer be sold in pet shops, by online dealers or third-party sellers.

Jo Amit, of HOWND, the ethical pet care brand, who attended the meeting at No.10 said: “We are overjoyed that this callous commercial practice will now be banned and that puppies will no longer be bred in these cruel and horrendous conditions. We were extremely honoured to have been included at this landmark event.  Animal welfare is at the heart of the HOWND ethos and we’ve been supporting Marc (Abrahams) and the anti-puppy farming campaign from the beginning – this is a great victory”.

Five generations of expertise in animal nutrition and 100% Irish ingredients are at the heart of Go Native – a new complete range of grain-free dog food, treats and dental sticks from Connolly’s Red Mills.

The Connolly family has been making animal feeds in Co Kilkenny, Ireland since 1908 and has used that know-how and commitment to quality to create this ultra-premium, grain-free range.

Go Native has been developed by nutritionists and vets at Connolly’s Red Mills’ purpose-built facility and crafted in their kitchens. Go Native is a complete diet for all dogs, whatever their size, breed or age.

 When only the best is good enough – sourcing the finest Irish ingredients

Connolly’s Red Mills are very particular about using trusted suppliers and only the best, carefully  sourced, natural ingredients are selected for Go Native. 

Fully traceable and sustainably sourced, Go Native food contains 70% meat from a single meat source  – either organic herring or salmon or free-run chicken and turkey  – combined with superfoods like v kale, spinach, broccoli and carrot.

Connolly’s Red Mills’ stringent quality control goes a step further– they even make the poultry feed that’s given to the duck and chicken they select for Go Native.

Recipes include Duck with Apple & Cranberry, Organic Herring with Carrot & Kale, Organic Salmon with Spinach & Ginger and Chicken with Potato & Broccoli.

Go Native grain free meaty treats contain 30% meat and come in four varieties: salmon, herring, duck and turkey. They are cold formed  to ensure all of the nutrients are locked in and suitable for dogs over six months.

Go Native dental super sticks have a unique rough texture and spiral shape to reduce tartar build-up and the formation of plaque and come in two varieties: Carrot & Sweet Potato or Pumpkin & Broccoli. The dental super sticks also contain ground peppermint for fresh breath.

The utmost care and attention to detail at every step

All ingredients are tested in Connolly’s Red Mills’ on-site laboratory and the entire range is grain-free, reducing the risk of allergy. Go Native also contains no wheat, maize, soya or corn, so is 100% gluten-free as well as free from genetically modified ingredients.

“A century of know-how, care and attention at every step has gone into creating this exceptional dog food range,” said sales and marketing director Gareth Connolly. “We’re proud that Go Native is produced using the highest quality, sustainably-sourced, Irish ingredients.”

Go Native Dog food is packed using Connolly’s Red Mills’ unique Nutrient Fresh Management System.

To celebrate the launch of Go Native, Red Mills hosted a special dinner party for some very special four-legged guests. They all thoroughly enjoyed themselves, plates completely cleared with not a morsel of Go Native left behind. The meal was then polished off with a tooth-cleansing Go Native Dental Superfood stick before the guests headed home with goodie/doggie bags.

Check it out here: https://www.redmills.ie/products/pets

To find out more or to register your interest in becoming  a stockist, visit www.gonativedogfood.com

The Gardenex export federation has a major involvement in two important international garden and leisure exhibitions that attract buyers from around the world during September.  

The Federation is organising the British pavilion at spoga+gafa in Cologne, Germany and a week later is hosting the International Buyers’ Centre at Glee in Birmingham.  Both of these events will involve Gardenex and UK suppliers in productive discussions with a wide range of overseas buyers, with the aim of increasing Britain’s exports of garden, leisure and pet products.

In the lead-up to the shows, with the date of Brexit next year looming, the Federation’s team is working hard to help British companies plan ahead and to be prepared as much as possible for the potential changes in trading that may result.

“Brexit Day on 29th March 2019 is only a matter of months away, so the Federation of Garden & Leisure Manufacturers Ltd is working hard on your behalf to gather as much tangible information about the possible implications of the deal’s outcome as possible,” says Amanda Sizer Barrett, the Federation’s Director General in the latest newsletter to members.” Once the EU and UK stance becomes clear, in the early New Year we will be assembling a programme of practical help, support and advice in which we will be inviting you and your colleagues across the industry to participate.

“In the meantime, Gardenex has assembled a list of some of the business areas that may be affected by Brexit that you need to start making plans for.  It’s not an exhaustive list but a prompt to consider in the light of your own business which you can use to identify the main areas where you can begin to prepare for the outcome, whatever shape Brexit actually takes.  It seems a Herculean task but broken down into separate areas, this exercise will help you and your teams find some clarity as to the potential paths ahead.”

For more detailed information, member companies are invited to visit the Gardenex team at spoga + gafa or Glee, where they will receive advice and guidance regarding several key areas including the potential impact of Brexit on customers, data protection, contractual terms, tariffs and customs, environmental law and intellectual property.

Continues Amanda: ”Following on from the work involved in implementing the new GDPR regulations, companies will understandably feel beleaguered and that in Brexit planning, more precious resources are being directed yet again away from new investment, sales and innovation: but it’s a truism that forewarned is forearmed: and our teams are happy to help our member companies and to welcome new companies into membership who want the benefit of this kind of pragmatic advice.”

The Federation will be playing its part in tracking the progress of the twists and turns of the tortuous negotiations.  As well as producing a packed day of help and advice at the Federation’s not-to-be-missed Future for International Trade conference in early 2019, in the interim the teams will be offering its member companies an on-line Brexit Impact Analysis that will guide you along the appropriate channels of action to consider to help ensure you are prepared for the springboard of Brexit Day itself and the transitional agreement beyond.

“Most importantly, businesses need to hold their nerve because it holds more evident than ever that firms that trade internationally are more resilient and more profitable,” concludes Amanda “Now is the time to keep close to your international customers and reassure them of your continued commitment to international trade.”

HOWND has taken a bold step into the dog treats market with a first range of 100% natural vegetarian Hemp Wellness Treats - available to order at a 15% trade discount at PATS Telford.

Following on from the runaway success of its Hemp by HOWND Skin, Nose and Paw and Playful Pup Balms launched to much acclaim last year at PATS, winning the coveted PetQuip Gold, HOWND is once again at the forefront of developing innovative products for the pet care market.

Entering the dog treat market with its range of five vegetarian Hemp wellness dog treats was an obvious next step for the multi award-winning duo.

Jo Amit of HOWND says: "We're excited to be coming back to PATS with our first range of dog treats that look vibrant on shelf together with our existing colorful and quirky pet care range. HOWND is now known for its commitment to innovation and creating ethical products that dog owners and retailers love.  We feel we've ticked all the boxes with these great tasting wellness treats."

HOWND created Hemp Wellness Treats to complement its ethical range of pet care products. The team spent two years researching, rigorously testing the recipes, and refining the products. They worked with a leading pet nutritionist to create the range which is hypoallergenic, gluten and grain free. Made from 100% natural ingredients, packed with organic hemp and vegetarian human-grade cheese, Hemp Wellness Treats are also rich in Omegas 3,6 & 9 and fibre.

Made in the UK from ethically sourced local ingredients, these premium snacks taste great and come in five different flavours; tackling common conditions, such as smelly breath (Yup You Stink!), itchy skin (Got an Itch?), calming anxiety (Keep Calm), healthy bone development (Playful Pup), and stiff joints associated with ageing (Golden Oldies).

All of HOWND's products are natural, cruelty-free and 100% and HOWND is endorsed by the Nature Watch Foundation. HOWND has the coveted Ethical Accreditation from the Ethical Company Organisation, with all products bearing the Cruelty Free International ‘Leaping Bunny' logo - only one of a handful of pet product manufacturers worldwide to receive this accreditation.

Available in five different flavours, packed with 100% natural goodness and with five different health benefits, Hemp Wellness Treats are mini-cookie shaped treats, designed as a complementary dog food to enhance the wellbeing of dogs of all ages.

www.dogslovehownd.com

HOWND will be on Stand H61 at PATS

More stores should make their premises dog-friendly because it can boost business. That’s the view of a leading garden centre but if you are going to attempt it, make sure you do it properly.

Carolyn Spray, of Pentland Plants in Midlothian, Scotland, says: “I keep seeing garden centres saying they are dog-friendly but in essence all they do is slightly tolerate dogs to look good! Our entire garden centre is dog friendly, not just certain areas.

“We allow dogs everywhere. We welcome dogs with a biscuit at the tills and have a large pet section filled with toys, treats, beds.”

Here Carolyn explains why her garden centre business takes a serious dog-friendly approach:

“I have had dogs all my life and get really annoyed that, although it’s improved, there are still far too few places you can take dogs in the UK. I spend my life looking for places to take my Beardies with me and I’m off on a motorhome tour on the North Coast 500 round the top of Scotland in October and will try to take the dogs as many places as possible!

“There is absolutely no reason you can’t take dogs into shops and cafes, it’s entirely up to the owners to make that decision.
“I think lots of garden centres and other shops don’t realise you can have dogs in restaurants and cafes, just not in places like kitchens where food is actually prepared.

In our garden centre and cafe we have lots of dogs visiting on a daily basis and we love it! In the cafe there is an area for dogs, a play area for kids and that leaves plenty of space for those who want to avoid either or both!

“We understand that some of our customers are a bit scared of dogs or even allergic so it’s only fair to have designated areas.

“We sell lots of things in the cafe for owners to treat their dogs and believe me they do! We have Snuffledog beer, Barking Bakery cakes and cookies, Kelso and Titch biscuits and Petface bone shaped biscuits, Frozzys frozen yoghurt and we sell loads! How could you bring your dog out with you to a cafe and not include a wee treat for them?

“Our pet area is quite large and is filled with lots of different biscuits,  chews and treats, toys for outdoor and indoor play, beds, coats and all the accessories you need!

I guess a lot of what drives our pet department’s success is that I buy what I want and need for my dogs which is always a good way to run a business I think!  If the owner/ buyer is passionate about a product it really shows! I’m sure that being dog friendly has increased our pet department over the years as it’s always second or third highest turnover in our gift department!

“We continually talk about being dog friendly on social media and a lot of our new customers are word of mouth, which is the best way to find new customers I think.

“We have festive dog photography at Christmas where we have a lovely doggy photographer called Nadia from Yellow Dog Photography, and we create a festive backdrop for people to have photos of their dogs taken in front of. It’s grown in popularity year on year! I think last year’s event was the best so I’ve not idea how to better it this year!

“We held a selection of pet events at the garden centre this spring including basic obedience, trick training, brain games, reactive dog and agility. They were all sold out very quickly and we have huge waiting lists!

“We don’t have signs up saying “please pick up after your dog” because surely people who take their dog into a shop shouldn’t need to be told. There are occasional accidents but it’s easy cleaned up!”

PATS Telford has secured a strong line-up of speakers for two days of seminars designed to give pet retailers ahead-of-the-game ideas on new lines, new approaches and new profit potential.

The UK’s national pet trade exhibition, taking place at Telford International Centre on Sunday and Monday, September 23-24, promises to be a spectacular event with over 200 UK and international companies exhibiting.

And the talks by prominent industry figures, staged in association with Pedigree Wholesale, look set to keep visitors entertained and informed throughout both days of the show.

The free-to-attend series of seminars will cover a wide range of topics including: how to drive sales of pet products, the key driver to the pet industry, new licensing laws, the strength of independent retail, the impact of Brexit, getting more visitors to your website and a focus on trends.

Renowned pet marketeer J.Nichole Smith will be a keynote speaker on both days of the show, and she gave an insight into what visitors can expect from her talks.

Can you give us a flavour of the ideas and inspiration you will be imparting to PATS visitors during your presentations?

When I speak at shows, my goal is to both inspire and deliver easy, actionable steps that pet brands can implement right away. My sessions at PATS this year are about marketing and branding – and my definitions of both of these common buzzwords might surprise you. I love taking complicated, overwhelming, and sometimes boring topics and repackaging them in a way that makes them easy and do-able, and maybe even fun. So if you come to one of my sessions, expect to hear something a little different, and hopefully, walk away with at least one thing you can use right away to grow your business.

What can you tell us about your own background and reasons for working in the pet industry?

Like most petpreneurs, I got started in the pet industry because one dog changed my life. My pet career officially began as a pet photographer, graphic designer and consultant in 2005, and shortly after I co-founded Dog is Good, a lifestyle brand for dog lovers. As an artist in the pet space I have had the pleasure of working with pet owners, pet brands large and small, and as a journalist working with all the major pet titles in the States, and Pet Product Marketing here in the UK. When I moved to London I got a Masters in Marketing and then launched my own retail store. I sold that business and moved fully into consulting and helping petpreneurs find freedom and fulfilment (instead of burnout) by building brands that matter, instead of just businesses. In 2017 my book 'The Million Dollar Dog Brand' was published – it is the essential guide for entrepreneurs who want to build successful, sustainable businesses in the pet space. I am still a part-owner in Dog is Good, which is hugely successful in the States.

Where can people find out more about you before they visit the show?

There are two ways people can find me. Through my personal brand, jnicholesmith.com, I host a weekly podcast called  'Magic Maker' which is a great way to get to know me and my philosophy. You can also check out workingwithdog.com, the membership site I created exclusively for petpreneurs to help make marketing easy. I am also quite active on instagram: @jnicholesmith & @workingwithdog

Have you got a favourite pet?

I am a dog person, for sure. I got a Great Dane when I was in college who totally changed my life (she's the reason I am in the pet industry!) Then I got a Frenchie to keep her company and when we moved to the UK and when we walked, everyone called them 'Little 'n Large’. But secretly, my first love is horses. I have dreamed of owning horses since I was a little girl – and I still cannot wait to have one (or a few) of my own!

What is the best/most innovative pet brand you have helped developed and why?

I am currently working with a really exciting pet tech brand that I can't really talk about yet... but I have loved working with many brilliant, innovative minds in the pet space. Two that come to mind are Victoria Stilwell, a celebrity dog trainer who has led a movement away from aversive dog training methods and towards the future of dog training. She champions scientifically-proven methods that are both more effective and more compassionate, but she is also on the ground doing work in advocacy and working on legislation that helps dogs and their communities. I also loved working with Cynthia Chomos, who owns Catiospaces.com – she helps cats and wildlife stay safe, by helping cat owners build indoor/outdoor 'catios' for their cats – an enclosed space where they can enjoy the enrichment of the outdoors, without the risks. I love her and I think her business is genius.

Which companies have you worked with in the past?

I have worked with just about every type of pet company – from Purina and Petco (one of America's market leaders in pet retail), to product brands like  P.L.A.Y., The Company of Animals, 2 Hounds Design... and from celebrity dog trainer Victoria Stilwell to solopreneurs: retailers, dog walkers, pet sitters, groomers and pet photographers. I have also worked with most of the media brands in the pet space.

Is there anyone you would really like to work with now?

I would love to work with Pets at Home, and I am especially keen to work with non-pet brands that could benefit from learning more about and moving into the pet space, like luxury hotels who desire to be truly pet-friendly, or investors who are looking to acquire pet brands. As I'm from Seattle, I have always wanted to work with Starbucks to develop an in-house pet brand (as their locations are pet-friendly). I really admire Cath Kidston as well, and I'd love to help them launch in the pet space. I think one of the things that is easy for pet businesses to forget, is that in countries like the UK and the US where a majority of households have dogs, many exciting opportunities for reaching more customers actually live in complimentary spaces like home, hospitality, travel, and other lifestyle brands.

Were you excited to be asked to speak at PATS?

Most of my work is in the States, so I love the opportunity to get to know pet brands in the UK. Last time I spoke at PATS the sessions were totally packed – standing room only - and that's a great feeling. I met some wonderful entrepreneurs, and I can't wait to come back!

For all the latest information on PATS Telford visit www.patshow.co.uk where you can also register for free entry to the show.

Poppy’s Picnic’s meteoric rise in the fresh raw pet food market has been recognised and rewarded with wins and further nominations for prestigious regional and national business awards.

Since appearing on BBC Dragons’ Den, where founder Dylan Watkins and business partner Louise Mackintosh were offered four investment opportunities, the innovative company has already won ‘Business Start-up of the Year’, while also being nominated in the Outstanding Excellence Award category, at the 2018 Wiltshire Business Awards.

Poppy’s Picnic has now been nominated for three further prestigious awards, acknowledging the company’s growing prominence in the fresh raw pet food market.

Rural Business Awards

The Rural Business Awards, sponsored by Amazon, are the only UK-wide business awards specifically for the rural sector. Poppy’s Picnic has once again been nominated as Wiltshire ‘Business Start-Up of the Year’, chosen from many similarly positioned start-ups. The regional winners, to be announced on 18 October, will go forward to the national finals which take place in February 2019.

PetQuip

Priding themselves on introducing innovative new products to the market, Poppy’s Picnic is thrilled to have three products nominated for the ‘Pet Product of the Year’ at the PetQuip Awards.

To be announced at the national PATS Telford pet food trade show the three products - ENHANCED PET FOOD, COMPLETE MEATBALLS and PUPPY FOLLOW-ON PASTE - are also featured in the trade show’s prestigious ‘New Product Showcase’.

The Director General of PetQuip, Amanda Sizer Barrett said,

“PetQuip receives worldwide recognition and to gain one of its awards demonstrates that the winning firm is a high achiever in the pet industry. Using the awards as a form of promotion can add significant credibility to both a company and its products in both home and overseas markets. We are looking forward to finding out who will be the lucky winners this year.”

2018 Business Leader Awards

And finally, hot off the press, Poppy’s Picnic has been nominated once again as ‘Start-up Business of the Year’ at the 2018 Business Leader Awards.

Celebrating the achievements of companies and the people who run them across the South West, the awards received over 200 high calibre entries this year and competition to become a finalist was fierce. The winners will be announced on 27 September in Bristol.

Since turning down all the investment opportunities from the Dragons, including a £60,000 investment from Deborah Meaden, Poppy’s Picnic has successfully raised £600,000 through crowd funding and this will be used to fund ambitious plans for the business, including new recipes and a whole new range for cats.

Founder Dylan Watkins and business partner Louise Mackintosh believe that simplicity - or RAWPLICITY as they call it - is the key to their success.

“RAWPLICITY is behind everything that we do at Poppy’s Picnic. From producing recipes that include the best quality, recognisable ingredients, to creating innovative products that help dog owners with portion sizes, feeding our food is fun and easy” says Dylan Watkins.

“Our aim from the start has been to make it easier for more people to feed fresh. Any fresh food in a dog’s diet is better than none and we make innovative products to help people switch completely to feeding our raw meals, or just add a little boost to a kibble diet. It’s not about being exclusive and saying people have to feed a strict and set way, it’s about being inclusive and helping people make changes for good. Our marketing backgrounds means we have created a strong, stand out brand and our focus has always been on creating a community of Poppy’s Picnic fans who help us spread the word.”

Dylan concludes, “Our food is handmade by a fourth generation Wiltshire butcher and only includes the best human-grade British ingredients. We want every cat and dog in the UK, and beyond, to have access to the best quality fresh meals - the closest to what they would eat in the wild. It is our ultimate aim to make the raw food diet fun, easier and more convenient for pet owners to follow in order to encourage more people to start feeding their pets in this way”.

For further information on the product range or if you are interested in becoming a stockist, please contact Poppy’s Picnic. Tel: 01380 716 599 email: woof@poppyspicnic.co.uk or visit the website: www.poppyspicnic.co.uk

Premium natural supplements manufacturer Lintbells will be at PATS Telford 2018 on stand C11 with some seasonal offers that will position retailers for the lead up to the year end. The company will also be offering retailers the chance to sign up to its new Mobility Matters initiative, as well as the chance to win an Amazon Echo.

Mobility Matters launched last year in the veterinary channel and has been very popular, helping practices to better support owners whose dogs have joint stiffness. This year Mobility Matters has also been extended to include cats .

A tailored version of the pack containing useful support materials is now being extended to the pet trade, ideal for outlets that want to help customers maintain their dog’s health through guided recommendations. 

Lintbells Commercial Lead, Sue Lewis commented, “The senior category is a great opportunity for retailers and having well trained staff will allow them to better support their customers. The Mobility Matters programme extends beyond supplements to include other products which help improve a pet’s quality of life.”

Retailers can register their interest at PATS on the Lintbells stand C11 so they receive priority notification when Mobility Matters launches to the trade.

A key focus on the stand will be the company’s YuCALM brand where there will be a trade offer of ‘Buy 3, Get 1 Free’. Lintbells recently launched YuCALM Cat, which has proven popular with owners looking for a natural solution for their nervous or anxious felines.

The YuCALM range is ideal for use around stressful periods in a pet’s life - such as fireworks, Christmas or indeed any transition event that causes a change to the normal routine. Pets can also experience increased anxiety as children return to school and pets are left behind, or when travelling during holiday periods. 

Delegates will have the chance to win an Amazon Echo when visiting the stand, by registering and answering a simple question. 

Sue Lewis says the team is looking forward to catching up with existing customers and introducing the brand to new accounts.

For further information, visit www.lintbells.com.

Pictured: Nigel Pittham – Lintbellls Director of Operations and Sue Lewis, Lintbells Commerical Lead.

Pet Remedy, manufacturer of the unique and clinically proven natural de-stress and calming range, has launched its 2018 Party Season campaign.

The company aims to increase awareness of how parties and fireworks can cause a huge amount of stress & anxiety in our pets and offer customers a range of solutions to help them cope.

Speaking about their 2018 campaign, Martyn Barklett-Judge, Managing Director of Pet Remedy said: “Traditionally, bonfire night in November has been recognised as a stressful time for pets. But pet owners should remember that fireworks are now common from Halloween in October right through to Chinese New Year in February. Occasions such as Diwali, Christmas and New Year’s Eve all add to the stress.

"In addition to fireworks, other triggers for stress include parties, lots of house visitors, loud music, changes to routine, even Christmas decorations and excited children with new toys!”

Pet Remedy offers a natural solution to stress using its unique and patented blend of Valerian absolute oil with Vetiver, Basil & Clary Sage. These essential oils have a tiny molecular structure which makes them very concentrated, aromatic, and easily able cross the brain-blood barrier.

Consultant Psychiatrist Dr. Flo Watt MRCPsych explains: “Pet Remedy works with the pet’s own natural calming mechanisms by mimicking GABA (gamma amino butyric acid) which is a natural calming agent present in all mammals, reptiles, and birds. So when a pet becomes stressed or anxious the Pet Remedy actives help trick fired-up nerve cells into thinking they are getting a message from the brain to calm. This is why it starts to help instantly.”

Pet Remedy’s new Party Season Survival Kit is described as “All you need to help keep your pet calm and relaxed during the party season ” It contains a plug-in diffuser, 15ml calming spray and individual calming wipes at a RRP of £25

In addition to this new product, Pet remedy is providing a wide range of point of sale & marketing material to help retailers promote their calming products during Party Season.

Sales Director, Rob Tyler confirms: “Party Season gives retailers a huge opportunity to introduce pet owners to new ways of helping calm their pets. Around 50% of our calming products are sold in the last 3 months of the year so we offer specially themed display units, posters, shelf edges, stickers and even badges to help our stockists maximize the potential. This year’s campaign is our strongest yet and we are already building up our stocks in preparation to meet increased demand.”

Pet Remedy will be exhibiting at PATS Telford 23^rd – 24^th  September which is their deadline for Party Season Pre-Orders to guarantee supply of marketing material.

Link to Pet Remedy 2018 Party Season Campaign Brochure

http://petremedy.co.uk/be-prepared/

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Pets at Home is reported to have discontinued the sale of dog treats containing kangaroo meat.

According to thelondoneconomic.com website, the pet retail chain were contacted by animal welfare charity group Viva! following reports that the treats were spotted on its shelves.

Pets at Home stocked two variations of the 100 per cent kangaroo meat strips which were marketed as grain and gluten-free, “natural” high-quality dog treats.

CEO Peter Pritchard is said to have responded positively, confirming that as the treats did not meet the company's ethical standards they would discontinue sales.

To read the full report click here

Loving Pets UK & Europe has appointed Steve Cooke as Sales Director. Steve brings some 35 years of experience dealing with major retail chains, distribution channels, trade, and the massively fast growing on-line sector.

As business development manager at Rolson for some 13 years and a collective history of 35 years in the import of the branded goods industry, Steve is ideally positioned to help take Loving Pets to the next level in the UK and Europe.

The US parent company has achieved some $70m of revenue, suggesting this company is ready to step up the game on this side of the pond!

New Head Offices and warehousing are being constructed in East Sussex, ready for December 2018, with an impressive showroom where companies can get up close and personal with the exciting range of products and find out how they can participate in this dynamic success story.

Boehringer Ingelheim has rebranded its popular equine joint supplement with the launch of Equitop GLME.

The joint supplement of choice for professional riders, Equitop GLME (previously known as SERAQUIN GLME), joins the Equitop portfolio of products which also includes Equitop^® Myoplast, Boehringer’s market-leading supplement that supports lean muscle growth in horses.

The eye-catching new packaging clearly distinguishes the product as an Equitop brand and communicates the benefits of Equitop GLME to horse owners.  It features an easy-to-read product description together with a ‘Vet Endorsed’ badge to emphasise its veterinary heritage.

Equitop GLME is a highly palatable, pearl formulation joint supplement specifically developed to support the healthy function of cartilage, joint capsules, tendons and ligaments.  It is derived from an active extract of New Zealand Green Lip Mussels - a natural source of glucosaminoglycans (GAGs), chondroitin and essential fatty acids – and is tested free of prohibited substances.

The nutrients within this product help to lubricate joints, as well as supporting normal joint function, the stability and elasticity of ligaments and the shock-absorbing properties of cartilage.

Equitop GLME is fed once a day either separately or mixed with feed and one tub will typically last for 30 days and can be used in all horses and ponies.

“By encompassing Equitop GLME into the Equitop portfolio and launching easy-to-read new packaging, we are enhancing our product offering to both retailers and horse owners,” comments Dr Amy Scott, brand manager for Equitop GLME at Boehringer Ingelheim.

For more information on Equitop GLME or Equitop Myoplast visit www.equitop-myoplast.co.uk

With the August bank holiday (27^th August) almost here and over a third of pet owners now choosing to whisk their beloved dog away with them Natures Menu’s veterinary team share their top tips on how to have a pawsome staycation with your pooch.

-          Do Your Homework: Assuming all holiday parks and hotels allow dogs is an easy mistake to make, however this isn’t always the case! Before you embark on your summer staycation make sure you read up on your chosen accommodation’s pet policy to avoid disappointment.

-          Sun Protection: Whilst we might want to make the most of the rare British sunshine to top up our tan, we need to ensure that dogs aren’t in the sun for long periods of time. If you don’t have a parasol for protection, try to pick a shaded spot so that your precious pooch has somewhere to avoid the heat!

-          Safe Travels: Everyone has fond memories of a family road trip from some point in their childhood, however they’re not quite as popular amongst our furry-friends. To make sure their journey is as safe and comfortable as possible; keep your dog suitably restrained in the car, don’t let them hang their head out of the window, fit sunshades, keep them hydrated and take regular stops for a bit of exercise whenever it is safe to do so.

-          Meals on Wheels: To save on boot space and ensure that there’s enough room for all of your holiday essentials, why not plan ahead and get your dog food delivered straight to your hotel? Natures Menu delivers throughout the UK using a fleet of 70 refrigerated vans, so that you can treat your dog to their favourite raw inspired food upon arrival at your destination.

-          Fit to Travel: Before you leave really consider whether taking your dog on holiday is the best option for them. Although there’s no doubt that they’re part of the family, not all dogs are completely suited to travelling, so check this with your vet in good time prior to your holiday starting.

-          On-the-go: When packing the essentials for your holiday, don’t forget to make a check-list for your dog! To help your pet feel at ease whilst on holiday and travelling they’ll need a comfortable place to sleep, their favourite toy and, most importantly, a travel bowl for fresh water.

-          Clean Up Your Pawprints: Before you head out of the door for your staycation, remember to stock up on poo bags, allowing you to clean up after your dog wherever you are!

To kick-start your holiday and tick one thing off your to do list, Natures Menu has whittled down some of the UK’s best pet-friendly holiday resorts and booking sites to leave their top three:

1.   Leisure Resorts: With three award-winning holiday parks, Lakesway in the South Lakes, Rivers Edge in Ingleton, and Aysgarth Lodge Holidays in the Yorkshire Dales, there are pet-friendly lodges on each site to cater to both you and your dog’s every need!

2.   cottages.com: A hand-picked collection of dog and pet-friendly holiday cottages to rent across the country allows every member of your family to have a wonderful break. Large enclosed gardens, stunning locations close to some of the most scenic walks and plenty of comfort – there’s no better option for treating your best friend to the best.

3.   Beyond Escapes: Four-legged family members are welcome at this luxury holiday destination set within the stunning South Devon hills near Totnes. Offering contemporary pet-friendly lodges to cater for everything a pooch could need on holiday, for the humans there is a spa, gym and restaurant.

Natures Menu Vet, Claire Miller, said: “Taking your dog on holiday with you and being able to make fond memories together is such a lovely thing to do in the summer, however it’s important to ensure that our beloved pets are having as much fun as we are, whilst also staying safe! To avoid making a holiday faux-paw and to have one less thing to worry about, don’t forget to order your delicious Natures Menu treats direct to your chosen holiday destination.

“That way you can be assured your dog is having a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet, which is low in sugar and packed with natural ingredients. Diets are really important when it comes to our pets and one that is full of goodness will make sure they are in tip-top condition for enjoying a long walk either in the country or on the coast during their summer break.”

For more information on feeding raw visit www.naturesmenu.co.uk

Pet food and product retailer Kennelgate has unveiled its new concept store called Pets & Friends in Mansfield in Nottinghamshire. Similar stores are set to open across the UK in the near future.

Pets & Friend, which opened its doors a week ago, will have a grand opening on Saturday.

The newly fitted, freshly branded store offers a exciting customer experience for pet owners to spoil their furry family members.

The store, which boasts new zones and products, also hosts the perfect place to pamper pets. The new ‘Pooch & Pamper’ instore professional grooming service offers pet-friendly treatments to keep Fido looking and feeling his best.

Speaking about the launch, Hannah Legg, Marketing Director at Kennelgate, said: “We’re passionate about pets and love to share our expertise.  

“The launch of our new Pets & Friends concept signifies a huge step forward for the business.  Our aim is to help customers and their pets live a healthier and happier life, and we certainly deliver against this through our new store experience. 

“We look forward to introducing more Pets & Friends stores to the UK market.”

Kennelgate is the retail arm of Kennelpak, a wholesale supplier of own brand and third party branded pet food and associated pet products.  Kennelpak was sold by its family owners to Enact in July 2017.

Glendoick Garden Centre has joined an increasing number of retail establishments in allowing dogs on to the premises.

Following help from Dog Friendly Perthshire, a “Dog Etiquette” notice has been produced to make sure all customers are able to enjoy their experience at Glendoick.

Jane Cox, Director said “We receive a lot of passing trade from customers travelling between Aberdeen and the South and have been increasingly asked for dogs to be allowed in. I think this hot weather has made this even more important when customers are choosing where to stop for a break in their journey.”

Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times and are allowed on the main central walkway as a means to access the two outdoor café terraces. Glendoick offers a shaded car parking area where dog owners can also find a water butt and dog bowl.

Laughing Dog, one of the few pet food manufacturers in the UK to oven bake its entire range of dry food, has announced the arrival of a brand new range of adult cat completes.

Launching this autumn, the new range of adult completes marks the first* 100% oven-baked cat food to be made in Britain at its family-run site in Lincolnshire.

Naturally baked using farm-grown ingredients and ethically sourced human grade meat, Laughing Cat will offer two grain free varieties: turkey and fish. Specially formulated for complete and balanced nutrition, the limited ingredient recipes will be free from added grains, cereals, gluten, soya, dairy and sugar, as well as having no added artificial colours, flavours or preservatives.

Ben Mankertz, Commercial Manager, at Fold Hill says: “Laughing Dog is well-known for high quality yet simple ingredients. Our customers have inundated us with requests for cat food over the years, so this launch is very much a natural development for the farm bakery brand, and certainly well overdue!

"As with our dog food, our baked completes will be 100% made on the family farm – a crucial factor for our customers when reductions in carbon footprint and transparency are key.”

Laughing Cat is part of Fold Hill Foods Ltd, based in Lincolnshire. The current range will be available in 375g recyclable bags.

For further information, please visit www.laughingcatfood.com, email trade@laughingcatfood.com or call (Freephone) 0800 098 8057. 

*Correct at time of going to press, 20^th July 2018.

The excitement is building as the pet industry gears up for one of its biggest events of the year…PATS Telford on Sunday and Monday, 23-24 September.

All the latest innovations, exciting new product launches, unrivalled networking opportunities and future trends come together to create the industry’s most thriving exhibition.

Visitors can expect to see more than 200 exhibitors at PATS Telford with the industry’s leading companies, plus a growing number of new businesses, ready to showcase their products and services.

Final preparations are being made as the eagerly awaited exhibition gets set to open its doors at Telford International Centre in a just over a month’s time.

This year’s show has attracted:

• A record numbers of new exhibitors – 63 in total
• The biggest ever showcase of new products
• Unrivalled show offers and competitions
• Top groomers for insightful demos and talks
• Leading figures delivering informative seminars

“There is a tremendous buzz surrounding the show,” says organiser Annie Foord. “So much is happening at PATS Telford over both days of the exhibition, it really is a must-visit event for retailers and buyers. You won’t be disappointed.

“All the latest new product launches will be unveiled as well as great talks from some of the industry’s most respected names and demonstrations from the country’s top groomers.

“I can promise it will be great day out so make sure you travel to Telford and attend the biggest pet trade show for years.”

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

On arrival at Telford International Centre, a large majority of visitors will head for the New Product Showcase, which will have a huge presence at the exhibition. All entries in the Showcase, sponsored by pbwnews, will be judged by a panel of retailers for the New Product Awards on the first morning of the show, and the winners will receive their accolades at the PetQuip Awards Dinner in the evening.

As well as seeing an unrivalled array of new pet products and speaking to top suppliers and manufacturers, visitors will also be able to witness demonstrations from the country’s leading dog groomers and listen to talks from prominent industry figures.

All visitors to PATS Telford will receive a free catalogue, free tea and coffee, and free parking, and 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 both venues and regularly updated show news.

Opening times

Sunday, 23rd September, 2018: 9.30am-5.00pm

Monday, 24th September, 2018: 9.30am-4.00pm