A company manufacturing and supplying retractable, portable dog safety gates won a £50,000 investment from entrepreneur Deborah Meaden when its owners appeared on the BBC One hit series Drtagons' Den.

Father and son, Peter and Chris Maxted, from Horsham, appeared in the Den last Thursday, seeking investment for their Dog-G8 company.

Peter and Chris impressed the Dragons with their pitch and received two offers – the other from Sara Davies – but decided to go with Deborah Meaden because of her current links with the pet industry. In return for her £50,000 investment, she asked for a 20% equity in the business.

The Dog-G8 gate was the inspiration of Peter, the founder of the company, who has been a pet sitter for over 20 years.

Peter was very aware of the risks associated with dogs at front doors – escapes, attacks and thefts – and although there were other gates on the market, he felt they were inadequate and ineffective enough to work for all breeds. 

He decided to design and sell his own version so he could keep his and client’s dogs safer at the front door. 

Peter’s son Chris is also a director in the business and has been working alongside Merseyside Dog Safety Partnership and the University of Liverpool to raise awareness of dog attacks and their impact on delivery workers.

The Dog-G8 product is British made and features a modular, retractable, and portable design. The product is incredibly versatile and can be used on multiple configurations ranging from the front door to stairways, hallways, motorhomes, caravans and more. The gates modular design enables it to be spanned to any width, allowing the gate to be fitted to the widest of configurations such as patio doors or extra-wide openings where standard, conventional gates cannot fit.

The gate is made from mild steel, coated in chrome or white powder coat, bolted together with bespoke, customised clips which give the gate strength and durability.

When the gate is not in use it sits flat and compact to one side it’s neat, unobtrusive, and out of the way. Finally, it is removable, enabling it to be easily stored away or docked to other configurations (if extra brackets are purchased).

Since launch the company has seen massive growth and now sells directly to customer in the UK, Canada, United States, and Europe. The product went viral on TikTok & Facebook attracting over 80 million organic views across all videos and they attended Crufts last year for the first time where the product was well received. The Dog-G8 Company were the Theo Paphitis' Small Business Sunday Winner in March 2021.

The Dog-G8 Company is working on bringing out new variants of the current products. The business will launch a taller version of the gate within the next few months, ready for Crufts 2023, alongside offering customers a range of new colours. Now only two colours are available, Chrome and White in one height.

The business is looking to widen its distribution network by targeting the trade and wholesalers in the next year and is looking for investment to fulfil their ambitious plans for the future. Tune in to see if they can find a Dragon to invest in their business.

The gates are available to buy directly from www.dog-g8.com. Prices start from £62.95 for a standard gate and come with a range of accessories, extensions and brackets.

A Southampton pet food and accessory retailer has urged dog owners across the region to include unprocessed food, such as raw meat, in their dog’s diet. 

New research from the University of Helsinki, Finland, found that puppies who were fed mainly dog food, such as kibble, were more likely to suffer from gut health issues in later life, compared to dogs who were fed a raw food diet, or a mix of both. 

Deborah Burrows, MD of Healthy Pet Store, said that because raw food is unprocessed, it retains bacteria and enzymes which are needed for a healthy gut and strong immune system.

7000 dog owners were surveyed over a ten year period to find out what they fed their dogs. The caregivers were asked whether their dogs had experienced gut issues that lasted more than three weeks. 

It was found that dogs mostly fed dog food were 29% more likely to develop gut health issues such as vomiting, diarrhoea, weight loss and loss of appetite, compared to dogs who ate mostly unprocessed food such as raw meat. 

Deborah added: “This study supports everything we believe in at Healthy Pet Store and has shown the importance of raw feeding for potentially protecting against gastrointestinal problems.There are also other proven benefits of raw food including improved skin, coat and dental hygiene to name a few. 

“Feeding your dog a balanced diet is key and there are easy ways to achieve this with home prepared meals. Even feeding your pet unprocessed food from time to time may offer many benefits for their health. I would recommend incorporating something unprocessed such as raw meat several times a week if you can.” 

The research found a strong correlation between dogs' diets as puppies and whether or not they developed gut problems in later life.

Healthy Pet Store based in Totton has been an advocate of raw-feeding since 2014. The store has one of the largest ranges of unprocessed foods in the region to allow caregivers to prepare varied and nutritious meals for their pets. 

For more information about raw feeding and Healthy Pet Store visit healthypetstore.co.uk.

Store manager Andria Keelan and border collie Mylo (above left) and Princess the Unicorn (above right).

Jollyes is putting the finishing touches to its new store at Port Glasgow, Inverclyde, which will be opened by Princess, Scotland’s iconic unicorn.

The nationwide pet retailer’s latest store – it’s sixth in Scotland - will open at Unit 11, Gallagher Shopping Park, Port Glasgow, Lanarkshire, PA14 5DX on Saturday, February 25 at 10am.

While Jollyes in Port Glasgow has no plans to sell unicorns, it has turned to the expertise of Scotland’s Unicorn Experience.

Princess, one of their famous unicorns (who masquerades as an adorable miniature Shetland pony) – will carry out the official opening alongside Inverclyde Provost Drew McKenzie.

Also helping launch the store will be Scotland’s national piper Louise Marshall who will be playing tunes such as ‘How much is that doggy in the window’.

The 5,000 square feet store will employ 12 colleagues, led by store manager Andria Keelan.  Andria, 28, joins Jollyes after 13 years at Argos.  The proud mum to an 11-month-old Border Collie Mylo, Andria is looking forward to her new dream job supporting other pet parents in Inverclyde.

The new store makes quality affordable, with a full offer of frozen raw food and a community pet clinic offering very affordable pet care with vaccinations from £33 and microchipping for dogs, cats and rabbits stating at just £13.  The store will also offer a small selection of small anmals.

Jollyes, The Pet People, plans to give Port Glasgow’s pet lovers a warm welcome on opening day with events including:

• the official opening by unicorn Princess and Inverclyde Provost Drew McKenzie
• children can meet and feed Princess
• face painting and animal stilt walkers
• the chance to win prizes by playing the “wheel of fur-tune”
• goodie bags for the first 100 visitors
• a performance by Scotland’s national piper Louise Marshall

Kerry Midgley, Jollyes regional manager, said: “We’re can’t wait to throw open our doors at Port Glasgow – we’re putting the finishing touches to a store that we know everyone in the town will be proud of – and what better way to do it than have Scotland’s national animal, a unicorn, to be there to celebrate the occasion.

“The store is in a brilliant location and we’ve designed it to make it as easy as possible for pet lovers in Lanarkshire to find what they are looking for from small animals, food and accessories to toys and treats.”

Jollyes’ new Port Glasgow store is part of a near £1 million investment in Scotland – in 2022 it opened new stores in Stirling, Glenrothes and Edinburgh building on the popularity of its long-standing stores in Clydebank and Perth.

Backed by Kester Capital, Jollyes has 86 stores across the UK and has ambitious plans to open more stores across the UK in 2023.

Since dog lovers seem to choose their dogs the same way they like to swipe right on dating apps, MyDogMatch.com has launched to help dog lovers find their perfect furry companion.

When it comes to finding the perfect match of the furry kind, only half of dog owners picked their dog because the personality traits suited their family and lifestyle, and 31% admitted they chose their dog purely because of looks.

And it seems that this has led to regret for some as 42% admit that based on the dog they have, they would do things differently next time, according to research by Burns Pet Nutrition. 

More than one in 10 (12%) said they wouldn’t get the same breed again, almost one in five (19%) admitted they would do their research next time and 5% said they were put off ever getting a dog again. 

On MyDogMatch.com, created by Burns Pet Nutrition, those people looking for a new puppy or dog can first choose the dog based on looks and then read all the information they need, from the health tests the parent should have, how much exercise they need, the grooming requirements and the pros and cons of the breed. 

Dog lover Ollie Ollerton, who is supporting the campaign, commented: “I did my research when I got [insert dog’s name], but many don’t. I made sure to look at the pros and cons of the breeds I liked and chose a [insert breed] because I was most willing to accept the cons and felt that the breed best suited my lifestyle. I urge others to use MyDogMatch.com to help them find their perfect match.”

John Burns MBE, founder of Burns Pet Nutrition, added: “It is important to do your research not only on the breed to make sure you have the right dog for you. Your dog will be with you for anything between 10-15 years of your life, and some can have expensive insurance costs and vet bills that you need to be prepared for. There are so many amazing breeds, there is a dog for everyone, it's just a matter of finding the perfect one for you and your family.”

It is also important to make sure once you know the breed for you, to find the right breeder. A responsible breeder will interview you to make sure that you are going to offer the right home to their puppy and ensure you take your puppy home with all the information you need to know to have a happy life together. Yet despite this, 35%of dog owners don’t think they got all the information they needed from their breeder.

Mrs Doreen MCGugan breeder of Golden Retrievers added: “I always want to know that my puppies are going to a loving home, with an owner who is prepared for all that comes with the breed. Any decent breeder will be happy to tell you everything you need to know and help you decide if that breed is right for you. They should always show the puppies with the mum, show you the health tests and will be there for lifetime guidance and advice, and many. If you don’t get any of these things then I would question if that person is the best breeder and if they are sending you home with a happy, healthy puppy.”

Award-winning herbal pet care experts at Dorwest Herbs have announced their support of the world’s largest dog show Crufts, returning as an exhibitor to the NEC Birmingham from the March 9-12.

Dorwest is incredibly proud to have exhibited at Crufts for so long and to celebrate 50 years at Crufts is a real milestone! In 2023, Dorwest is also celebrating its own 75th anniversary, with over seven decades since Managing Director Jo Boughton-White’s grandparents started the business.

Founded in 1948, Dorwest now has 75 years specialist experience in companion animals and herbs to its customers. A third generation family business located in rural West Dorset, experts at Dorwest are passionate about keeping dogs and cats healthy and happy by using pharmaceutical quality herbal supplements.

As winner of last year’s ‘Online Business of the Year’ at the National Pet Industry Federation Awards and ‘Best Multichannel Marketing Campaign’ at the Ecommerce Awards, the Dorwest brand continues to grow with recognised public acknowledgement for their impact on the pet industry.

“We’re so excited to be back at the NEC and have a long standing friendship with Crufts,” comments MD Jo Boughton-White. “Crufts has played a huge role in our heritage and growth and will continue to do so in our future. We strongly believe in supporting the showing community and this event is the perfect way to celebrate the dog world. This year is our 50th year at Crufts and our own 75th birthday, so we have lots of exciting things planned!”

Find Dorwest at stand 72 in Hall 4 at Crufts for expert advice given from friendly product advisors. With an exclusive 15% off everything at the show and free #dorwestdog ball with every purchase, while stocks last.

Dorwest bestsellers include: calming Scullcap & Valerian Tablets for nervousness and anxiety, including those with post-lockdown behaviour issues, Keeper’s Mix® Sensitive launched in 2021, an even gentler version of their best-selling dietary supplement ideal for puppies, and new advanced joint care supplement MoveWellia® launched in 2022, including joint health super-star herbal extract Boswellia - with a long history of use for inflammatory joint conditions.

To find out more about Dorwest call 01308 897272, email info@dorwest.com or visit www.dorwest.com, and don’t forget to buy tickets for this year’s Crufts at www.crufts.org.uk/tickets

A plucky border terrier who sustained serious rear leg injuries after two squirrel-chasing incidents is back to his best after taking a very unusual ‘miracle cure’.

Nine-year-old Sykes, who lives in Maidstone with owner Simon Weedon, 65, was no longer even able to cock his leg to go to the toilet after the two upsetting incidents, in which he sustained serious damage to cruciate ligaments in both rear legs.

Simon took him to the vets who prescribed pain killers, but he was warned that there was a chance the condition could get even worse.

"He's a Border Terrier and is really well trained, but if there is a cat, squirrel or rabbit in his eye line he just can't handle it, and his chase instinct kicks in.

"The vet said they could operate, but because it was quite likely that it would happen again, it was best for him just to have painkillers. It was awful because his quality of life really changed and he couldn't even cock his leg to go for a wee." Said Simon who dotes on Sykes and his cat Stimpy, who inexplicably the terrier loves.

Following the sad incidents Simon looked for alternative ways to help Sykes, and came across Pawable's Collar-Gen, a supplement which is said to boost general health, as well as improve joint or muscular issues.

Though usually known as a human beauty supplement, collagen is a protein that is found in skin and connective tissues like joints, tendons, cartilage, and ligaments.

It is important for our bodies, but it also makes up 30% of all the protein in a dog’s body, so when it depletes over time it can exacerbate conditions.

Research by Pawable has found that collagen has an extremely positive effect on the strength of their bones, teeth, and claws.

Simon added: "It's amazing the transformation, he's doing exactly what he wants to do again, and can even stand up on both legs when he gets excited about something. It's a powder  so he doesn't even notice it in his food so it's really easy to give. He's been having it for 18 months and I'll never stop giving it to him. He's doing really well."

To find out more about Pawable go to www.pawable.co.uk   

Ruffwear has unleashed a new range of accessories for adventuring with dogs that helps owners roam further in the outdoors as well as being considerate of the environment.

The new collection includes practical stash bags that attach to your dog’s lead and hip packs for storing all your essentials close to hand when out and about with your pooch. One product in particular gives dog owners a practical solution to clearing up your dog’s waste when they may not be disposal bins for miles around.

The Ruffwear team designed the Pack Out Bag, as a convenient solution for carrying full pick-up bags in a waterproof and stink proof pouch, hands-free between drop points. It includes adjustable belt for waist-worn transport and an integrated clip for direct attachment to the waist or a backpack.

The design was inspired by the frustration many of us feel when seeing discarded dog waste and poop bags on the paths and trails where we walk. Product developers at Ruffwear designed a solution which allows you to cleanly and hygienically store dog waste for hours and not leave unsightly bags of poop hanging on tree branches or on the ground.

Natalie Sullivan, marketing director for Accapi Group, the exclusive European distributor of Ruffwear explains: “Many in the outdoor community are aware of the ‘leave no trace’ principle of responsible walking, camping and hiking. There’s no reason why these principles shouldn’t apply to our four-legged companions too. 

Our whole purpose at Ruffwear is to make products that enhance human and dog connections outdoors and a huge part of that ethos is ensuring people respect and care for their environment. Whether its epic expeditions or the more everyday adventures, the pack out bag is a simple but highly effective solution to that issue and the bonus is, you don’t have to walk for miles swinging a bag of dog poop in your hand!”

To re-launch the new and improved pack out bag Ruffwear has produced a fun video which shows the behind the design process and encourages people to ‘doo-doo’ their part and not only pick up after their dog on the trails but also sensibly dispose of the poop bags which can take a lot of time to bio-degrade which in turn impacts on wildlife habitats and waterways.

The pack out bag and new collection of adventure accessories is available from Ruffwear stockists across Europe as well as www.ruffwear.co.uk

PetQuip is running the British Pavilion at Zoomark in Bologna, Italy on May 15-17, supporting businesses in their continued export drives.

The UK exhibitor group also features the PetQuip industry information stand and meeting point, where the multi-lingual PetQuip team will be promoting British pet product innovations and suppliers and meeting international buyers on the stand. 

The team will be ensuring that Great Britain’s place as a professional nation of top class pet product suppliers is recognised by international pet product retailers and distributors. 

A spokesperson for PetQuip said:  "If you haven’t yet decided to take part in the UK pavilion, there is still time to be part of the exhibitor group: we have secured space to accommodate those of you who haven’t been able to plan your exhibition presence until now.  

"The new areas will be snapped up quickly so do make sure you get in touch if you would like to showcase your products to attendees at one of the best international exhibitions in the show calendar."

Setting aside the numerous networking opportunities in the restaurants of Bologna once the show has ended each day, the exhibition itself is a bustling and energetic event that has grown in size from its early beginnings in two halls.  

Zoomark is now a popular destination for visitors from outside Italy and the EU and the Italian market alone has 62 million pets and 5,000 independent pet stores.

Exhibitors to date include industry stalwarts Burns Pet Nutrition, Canagan, Vitalin, Hugo Kamishi, CSI Urine, Kompact 9, Eden Holistic Pet foods, Animology, PATS and Aqua, James & Steel Ltd / Canny Collar, JG Pears, McAdams Free Range Pet Foods, Pets Choice, Petlife International Ltd, Poochiful, ProFleece - Simply2 Pet Products, Tribal Pet Foods, Symply, We.pet and Yora Pet Foods for the Planet. 

Contact Emma Brazier on emma@petquip.com or Pat Flynn on pat@petquip.com for more details about the show and the comprehensive range of logistical and marketing support you receive when you exhibit with PetQuip to support your show presence. 

Natural Cornish Pet, voted UK Pet Retailer of the Year in 2021 at the PetQuip Awards, has introduced a tasty range of fish-based and sweet potato treats, which are now available to buy in new re-branded pouches.

There are many reasons why you should introduce fish into your dog’s diet. Fish is a great source of Omega 3 which is an essential fatty acid. It has anti-inflammatory properties which help to condition the coat and skin and aid in joint mobility and cardiac health. The omega oils contained in fish are also good for brain development as well.

If you feed your dogs some types of fish treats, you will find that they are great for their dental health as the rough texture of dried fish skin encourages dogs to chew and remove any tartar from their teeth. It aids in digestion as fish protein reduces the growth of unwanted gut bacteria and is a help for dogs with sensitive tummies and older dogs with slower digestive systems. Fish is also low in fat so it is perfect as a tasty treat, avoiding any obesity issue which is so important in aging dogs.

The fish treat range includes bags of natural dried sprats, fish finger chews, salmon potato cookies, white fish cookies and white fish cubes. All are available to buy in a range of bag sizes from small treat pouch size up to 5kg bags.

Packed full of chewy goodness, Sweet Potato Chunks and Fries offer a natural low fat treat option for dogs. Perfect for training and rewarding good behaviour they provide the ideal snack and are suitable for dogs of all shapes and sizes.

Sweet potato is a rich source of vitamins C and B6 as well as being a good source of manganese, potassium and other B vitamins. Vitamin C can help to reduce inflammation in dogs and can also be helpful in improving their cognitive function. Vitamin B6 is absolutely vital in the functioning of the red blood cells that are responsible for carrying oxygen around your pet’s body and is also essential in maintaining a healthy central nervous system as well as helping to regulate hormone distribution. Potassium aids electrical function in the brain and nervous system in your dog and manganese aids in the preservation of strong bones and cartilage. The common dark orange coloured sweet potato is also an awesome source of beta-carotene which is converted to vitamin A and can help to maintain and nurture your dog's eyesight as well as improving immune function. Sweet potato can also help to balance blood-sugar levels so is a good alternative treat for those dogs suffering from diabetes. 

Prices start from RRP £3.50 for a 75 g pouch..  , 

For further information visit www.naturalcornishpet.co.uk. For trade enquiries visit:  Natural Pet Wholesale — Natural Cornish Pet Wholesale

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Police have released images of two masked men wanted in connection with a £1,500 raid on a Pets at Home store in Essex.

The two suspects entered the store on Knight Park, Saffron Walden shortly after 2pm on January 10, before stealing supplies, including dog collars, leads and pet supplements.

They then left with a trolley of the stolen items and drove off.

An Essex Police spokesman said: “We are looking to identify these two men, who we want to speak with in connection with this investigation.

“If you recognise them or have any further information, please contact us.”

Anyone who recognises the men is asked to contact police by calling the non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference 42/14741/23, or by making a report to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Picture: Essex Police.

An independent shop is set to close its doors for the final time, blaming online shopping and big chain brands for its demise.

Bucknall Pets in Stoke-on-Trent is holding a closing down sale between now and its final day of trading on Saturday, February 25.

Posting on Facebook, the shop owner’s daughter Tabitha Gulliver said: “If we don’t support local businesses, then we will all loose out.”

Tabitha added: “My dad Ian owns Bucknall Pets, a pet supplies shop. Sadly, he has made the tough decision to close down the shop in 2 WEEKS! More and more people are choosing to shop online and with the big chain brands, rather than shopping local. 

“He has lots of stock still available, and so many great offers! So please, if you have a pet, pop in for some food, grooming products, toys, accessories etc! He has it all!

“Help support a local business in its last couple of weeks.”

Tabitha thanked customers for supporting the pet shop. 

“I have been a little overwhelmed with the lovely stories and memories, so I thank you all for that,” she said.

Following a year that saw the world's oldest pet insurer launch the UK's only lifetime insurance for horses, Agria Pet Insurance has announced its focus on animal welfare for 2023 and beyond. With the cost of living crisis continuing to put pressure on pet owners, Agria’s focus will be to educate animal owners so that they can maintain protecting and prioritising their pet’s welfare.  

Based upon the five needs of the Animal Welfare Act: Behaviour, Diet, Health, Environment and Companionship will be at the heart of all Agria does. Each of these five needs ensures that an animal is cared for both physically and mentally. While the Act is there to protect animals from harm and mistreatment, Agria is also seeking to investigate what typical animal owners can do to make their animals lives as good as they can possibly be.

Providing pets with healthcare since 1890, the foundation of Agria’s ethos is to allow animals to thrive, whilst providing peace of mind for their owners. This is a passion shared with customers as well as the many partners, vets, breeders and rehoming organisations Agria works closely with – ultimately its whole community. Supporting the insurer in promoting the importance of animal welfare is long-standing partner, Lord Trees.

Lord Trees, Professor of Veterinary Parasitology and crossbench member of the House of Lords, said: "Animal welfare is crucial to me, as a crossbench peer and former vet. The Animal Welfare Act of 2006, which I was involved in, updated all previous legislation and provides clear guidance on animal care through the five welfare needs: Behaviour, Diet, Health, Environment, and Companionship. These needs ensure the mental and physical wellbeing of animals by allowing them to express their natural behaviours; have a suitable diet; live in an environment with companionship and shelter. I fully support Agria's 2023 campaign to raise awareness about the importance of fulfilling our duty to care for animals."

Another supporter of the insurer in advancing the significance of animal welfare is partner, Marisa Heath.

Marisa Heath from the All Party Parliamentary Group for Animal Welfare, said: "The 2006 Animal Welfare Act redefined animal welfare by recognising the physical and mental needs of animals. The five freedoms are a crucial starting point for understanding pet needs beyond basic care. To achieve the highest standards of animal welfare, it's important to consider what normal behaviour is for our pet, what causes fear or distress, and what they enjoy doing. I'm delighted Agria Pet Insurance prioritises animal welfare by working with owners to deliver the five freedoms and more for their pets."

Vicki Wentworth, Managing Director at Agria Pet Insurance, said: "In 2022, Agria proudly became carbon positive and now diligently focuses on protecting pet welfare. Animal companions enrich our lives and Agria aims to return that generosity by giving them the best possible life. We have supported animal welfare through funding research and supporting rescues for many years. Now, in 2023, Agria plans to explore more ways to illuminate pet welfare through specialist interviews, research and case studies, helping owners to treat animals well and in a way that fully enriches their lives.”

To learn more about Agria’s commitment to animal welfare visit https://www.agriapet.co.uk/welfare-hub-pet/

The British Independent Retailers Association has said that news big retailers such as TK Maxx and New Look are exiting the high street is leaving it 'fragille'.

BIRA, which works with over 6,000 independent businesses of all sizes across the UK, has said that the cost of living crisis, along with the impact of covid and soaring energy costs are continuing to crush the high street even further.

Figures released from the Centre for Retail Research have shown that almost 50 shops are closing a day, however the larger stores are now starting to also exit, including Paperchase, House of Fraser, New Look and TK Maxx.

BIRA CEO Andrew Goodacre said: "The recent announcements of store closures by large retailers and hospitality businesses is further indication that the high street is a fragile place for businesses at the moment.

"Low footfall, train strikes, cost of living are all impacting on the high streets, especially in the large city centres and shopping centres. It is not unusual for large businesses to review their estate, close down unprofitable sites and focus on the remaining shops. However, for the smaller independent, who most only own the one shop, these difficult economic conditions may mean the end of the business and that business owner’s livelihood," he said.

Mr Goodacre added: “These closures, and the report of record closures last year, should compel the Chancellor to use the Spring statement in March to focus on economic growth, especially in the high streets around the UK. The inflationary pressures were never driven by consumer demand and are now falling away. This will give the government more flexibility to support independent businesses that play such a vital part in local communities.”

Leading veterinary employer, IVC Evidensia, is marking International Women's Day this year – March 8 – with the launch of a global celebration of its female workforce. 

Throughout the month of March, IVC Evidensia is asking its employees globally to nominate a woman they work with who they believe goes above and beyond and is making a positive impact.   

For each for each nomination submitted, IVC Evidensia will donate to a charity focussing on improving girls´ and women´s situation in the world. Nominees can choose for a corporate donation to be made to either: The Malala Fund, Global Girl Project, or Womankind Worldwide 

Sarah Heath, IVC Evidensia Group Sustainability Director said: “With 87% of our staff being women we want to take the opportunity to celebrate females at IVC Evidensia on International Women´s Day 2023. This is also an opportunity to lift individuals that contribute and make heroic efforts to make our company what it is.  

“We're proud of our entire team, but in honour of this special day, throughout March we'd like to showcase some of our incredible female colleagues. Those women who, through their actions and leadership, are making a positive impact on their colleagues, animal patients, and clients, and driving progress and success where they work and within our wider business.” 

IVC Evidensia will review all submissions and aims to publish as many stories as possible on International Women's Day and at regular intervals throughout March on its social media and internal platforms. We look forward to reading your inspiring stories and celebrating the exceptional women of IVC Evidensia. 

A UK-based dog bakery has moved closer towards being carbon neutral with the installation of a 30KW solar system, an electric car charger and planting trees at its factory unit in Shropshire.

Life Of Riley Bakery Ltd, a manufacturer of natural healthy pet treats, relocated and upscaled to new commercial units in March 2022, and since then has been striving to reduce its carbon footprint.

The move towards a greener future started in November when the company installed a large solar panel system spanning the entire roof of their units 

“This was a huge investment for us,” said Sarah Meredith, owner of Life Of Riley based in Market Drayton, Shropshire. “But we feel strongly about being as kind to planet as we can with our business operations. 

“As we scale the business up, we do not want it to be at the cost of the environment. We will always make business decisions with this factor at the forefront of our minds. It means we are more in control of our costs too, with the volatile energy prices effecting manufacturing businesses significantly.”

The company has also invested in a fast charge car charger onsite and an electric car which the team uses for all business travel.

Already offering plastic free and compostable packaging options to customers and stockists, Life Of Riley is in deep discussions with its packaging suppliers to remove single-use plastic completely from its range.

“Over 85% of our customer base are trade stockists, for which many of them take advantage of our loose biscuit options, meaning they can display our products in the most flexible and economical way possible. Customers are becoming more aware of plastic waste every day and we want to make sure we are not letting the side down,” added Sarah.

Life Of Riley is also planting its way to having a forest – in return for honest customer reviews the company plants a tree. “It’s great to see how our customers are excited by the fact they have a tree planted on their behalf. We hope to plant as many trees as we possibly can and soon we will be planting one for every order we receive.”

Leading raw food dog food manufacturer Benyfit Natural has partnered with Prevented Ocean Plastics (POP) to ensure that all of its raw food plastic tubs are now made from plastics collected from coastal towns and cities across the globe.

Greg Van Praagh, Head of UK & Europe at RPFC, comments: “We’re committed to making the necessary changes as a business to ensure that we’re doing all we can to support a circular economy. 

“We know the impact that pet food production has on our environment so we will make the all the changes we can to ensure our impact is as minimal as it can be.

“Switching to using POP (Prevented Ocean Plastics) for our raw food tubs is just the first step of many to come from Benyfit Natural. Our new Benyfit Bites treat range packaging is 100% recyclable and all our carboard boxes and sleeves are too. We know we’re not perfect yet, but we plan on getting as close as possible over the next few years.”

The Prevented Ocean Plastic programme is the largest of its kind, collecting plastic across coastlines that are at risk from ocean plastic pollution. They provide ongoing supply of recycled plastic at industry scale that is premium quality whilst supporting and providing work for local communities.

For more information visit

www.benyfitnatural.co.uk

www.preventedoceanplastic.com

Raw dog food brand, Paleo Ridge has engaged in a multi-store launch with Jollyes, which will culminate in seven stores stocking the award-winning premium range this month.

Paleo Ridge products are currently available in six Jollyes stores including Hermiston, Llanelli, Stirling, Waterlooville, Gosport and Totton. Each store stocks products from the Essentials, Classic and Paleo Plus ranges, to ensure there is something for every customer. As demand for raw dog food grows, Paleo Ridge may be stocked in further Jollyes stores.

Paleo Ridge has been growing their number of stockists over recent years.  Jollyes and Paleo Ridge first began working together in November 2022, and it is hoped by both firms that the partnership will go from strength to strength.

Gill Synnuck, Trade Account Manager for Paleo Ridge, based in Waterlooville, Hampshire, said: "We are delighted Jollyes have expanded their raw offering and now feature complete meals from our Classic, Paleo Plus and Essentials Paleo Ridge ranges.”

"It’s a huge step for us, and a sign of things to come as more people begin to understand the huge benefits of feeding a species appropriate diet.”

"As a well-known and trusted brand, we are looking forward to working with Jollyes and encouraging more customers to switch to raw, and for their dogs to reap the benefits."

Ben Carter, Buyer for Jollyes – The Pet People said: “Pets come first for Jollyes, we want our customers to have happy pets for less and we see the benefits and demand for raw as a way of helping our customers and their pets. Therefore, we want to partner with key brands to make raw widely accessible and available nationwide through our stores.”

Winning a New Product Award at PATS Sandown, the UK’s Spring pet industry exhibition, can have a tremendous impact on the fortunes of an exhibitor. It can help turn a new launch into a bestselling item in pet stores around the country and clinch that all-important export deal.

One of the main reasons why the Award is held in such high esteem is the fact it is decided by a panel of independent retailers, who know what it takes for a product to fly off the shelves.

Entries for the New Product Showcase and Awards at PATS Sandown, which takes place on 26-27 March 2023 are starting to flood in as exhibitors get ready to showcase their latest launches to retailers and buyers from the UK and abroad.

The New Product Showcase and Awards are sponsored by pbwnews.

Here two companies who triumphed in the New Product Awards at PATS Sandown in 2022 reveal what the accolade has done for their business.

Case Study No 1

Mealberry GmbH – Winner of Small Animal and Bird Product Award with Little One Starter Set

How did you react to winning a New Product Award at PATS Sandown?

I think everyone who enters products in the contest secretly hopes to win, but when your name is called and your product has actually convinced the experts and judges it is a very rewarding feeling. It gives you the confidence and confirmation that your knowledge and product development are right for the market.

Has the award helped your business?

Yes, it has created brand awareness – a lot of people who had not heard of Mealberry know us now. It is also an independent confirmation that it is a great product, which is reassuring to the customers and helps them to make the purchase decision.

How did you use the win to promote the product?

We used it in our marketing and event communication. It is also handy in all other markets we operate in. Everyone knows the UK has a strong market when it comes to the pet industry and this makes the impact even greater. We are very grateful to have won and it motivates us to continue to innovate and develop.

Case Study No 2

Sharples Pet – Winner of Dog Accessories and Toys Award with LickiMat UFO

How did you react to winning a New Product Award at PATS Sandown?

We were delighted to win the New Product Award. The whole team were really excited about it.

Has the award helped your business?

Yes, as it is a well recognised and respected award in the pet trade, so winning the award is a big stamp of approval. It has certainly helped raise the profile of the UFO.

How did you use the win to promote the product?

We used the award-winning logo on advertising, email sign off and media.

New Product Awards at PATS Sandown 2023

The New Product Showcase and Awards will again be main features at this year’s PATS Sandown. All entries to the Showcase will be judged by a panel of independent retailers and retail specialists on the first morning of the show (26 March), and winners of the Awards will be announced at 1pm on the same day.

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