Decorte Future Industries, a Cambridge-based start-up using groundbreaking artificial intelligence (AI) to extract health data from sound, has launched Sonus Health — a first-of-its-kind app that allows pet owners and vets to check a pet’s heart and overall health using only a smartphone microphone.

The technology, co-developed with leading veterinary cardiologists, delivers accuracy equivalent to in-clinic health assessments for a fraction of the cost. 

Veterinary care is in crisis. During the first year of COVID, over 150 million new pets joined households globally — the largest jump recorded in history. By the age of six or seven, 40 - 60% of pets develop chronic conditions, while veterinary prices have risen by more than 60% since 2015. Faced with costs of up to $1,600 for advanced diagnostics, many pet owners are being forced into the devastating decision of euthanasia, with recent reports showing a significant rise in such cases due to unaffordable care.

Sonus Health uses groundbreaking AI to extract complex health information from sound, specifically from sound recorded by a standard smartphone microphone. Pet owners simply place the phone against their pet’s chest to receive instant preliminary readings on heart rate, heart rate variability and murmur indications, followed by a detailed health report reviewed by a veterinary cardiologist that can identify anything from whether the pet is in pain to complex indications of serious disease. Each successful scan loops in a Diplomate in Veterinary Cardiology, the highest qualification in the field, a consultation with whom normally would cost northward of $1,000. Sonus Health is already in use with over a dozen veterinary clinics worldwide who were granted early access, including one of the largest vet groups in the UK. Over 160 clinics across Australia, the Middle East, India, China, South America, North America, Africa and Europe have so far signed up to the global waitlist. 

Alongside the launch, the company has appointed new members to its leadership team. Daniel Steele, founder and CEO of one of Europe’s largest booking platforms, having grown that company from 0 to 1 million users and 0 to £50 million in bookings, has joined as CTO. Linda Jiang, former COO of Wluper and co-founder of what grew to be China’s largest mobile data analytics company, ultimately acquired by Alibaba, joins as CRO. Leading veterinary cardiologist Laurent Locquet, who heads an online school of 400 veterinary cardiologists, joins as Head Veterinarian. 

Dr Roeland P-J E Decorte, Founder and CEO of Decorte Future Industries, said:“Pet healthcare is reaching a breaking point. Millions of new pets joined households during Covid, the largest surge in recorded history. In 2026, virtually all of these pandemic pets are reaching the age when complex conditions typically emerge. The result is a looming ‘petpocalypse’: a wave of ageing pets arriving just as costs have risen dramatically and veterinary capacity is under strain. Already today, news stories appear almost weekly reporting on owners, clinics and insurers being overwhelmed. Too often, the result is pets suffering in silence or being put down because treatment is unaffordable. Sonus Health gives the world a groundbreaking new tool to change that, and to brace for what’s coming.”

“Bringing in senior stakeholders from some of the largest veterinary hospital groups worldwide also means we have the technology, industry and clinical expertise to deliver this at scale. For the first time, specialist-level assessment and triage will be available to any pet owner, nurse or veterinarian with a smartphone. We are giving every pet a voice and helping them to live longer, healthier lives.”

Wildcrofts, a new independent dog treat brand, has launched in the UK, bringing a refined range of 100% natural, functional freeze-dried raw dog treats to market. 

Designed for dog owners who refuse to compromise between indulgence and health, the brand is now available online and to selected stockists. 

Using a gentle freeze-drying process, Wildcrofts removes moisture without high heat, helping to retain up to 90% of the naturally occurring nutrients found in whole ingredients. Each recipe starts with high-quality, responsibly sourced protein and is paired with carefully selected whole-food ingredients that are traditionally associated with supporting everyday canine wellbeing, including digestion, immunity, heart, and joint health. 

As a result, Wildcrofts has created a light, highly palatable treat that is gentle on the gut and well-suited to frequent use, including training and dogs with sensitive stomachs. 

The launch comes at a time when dog owners are increasingly questioning the quality and provenance of everyday treats. While premiumisation in pet food continues to accelerate, many treats on the market remain heavily processed and padded with filler ingredients that aren’t necessary.  

Wildcrofts was created to address this gap, offering freeze-dried raw dog treats made from whole ingredients, with no unnecessary additives or fillers, designed to feel indulgent while remaining simple, clean, and functional.  

The initial Wildcrofts range includes three recipes, each developed with a clear role within the dog’s diet: 

• Harvest Delight (£2.99 RRP) – Made with British free-run turkey and pumpkin, this gentle recipe is designed with digestion in mind, using simple ingredients commonly chosen to support gut health and tolerance. 
• Seafood Medley (£2.99 RRP) – Combining wild-caught white fish and salmon with vegetables, this recipe draws on the natural oils and nutrients found in fish, traditionally associated with joint support and mobility. 
• Farmhouse Feast (£2.99 RRP) – Blending British free-run chicken with sweet potato, this recipe uses ingredients commonly associated with heart health and sustained energy, making it suitable for everyday rewarding. 

Sustainability and quality sourcing are integral to the brand’s ethos. Wildcrofts uses Red Tractor Certified British meats, MSC Certified seafood, and operates a low-waste production process, aligning with the expectations of modern premium pet retail. 

Beyond the product itself, the brand has also embedded a give-back commitment into its commercial model. Following launch, Wildcrofts has pledged that for every 10 packs sold, nourishing treats will be set aside for donation to local dog rescue partners. 

Sarah Chung, founder of Wildcrofts, says: “Wildcrofts started with a frustration I think many dog owners share. We’re told to treat our dogs like family, yet so many treats on the market don’t meet the standards we expect from our own food. I wanted to create treats that feel honest, indulgent enough to feel like a real reward but made with purposeful whole ingredients that are good for your dog.” 

Wildcrofts is available now via www.wildcrofts.com and is rolling out to selected stockists across the UK. Retailers interested in stocking the range can get in touch via hello@wildcrofts.com.

The Pet Industry Federation has joined the Pet & Equine Insurance Association, with PEIA also becoming a member of PIF, strengthening collaboration between pet businesses and the insurance sector at a time of increasing focus on animal welfare, affordability and risk management.

PIF represents pet-related businesses across pet services, pet retail, manufacturing, pet grooming and boarding. PIF believes that pet insurance plays an important role in supporting animal welfare and responsible pet ownership and that closer dialogue between insurers and the wider pet industry is increasingly important as pressures on costs and expectations of pet health continue to grow.

Through its membership, PIF is well placed to share practical insight into how pet owners interact with businesses at key decision points and to help improve communication around risk, care and the value of insurance. PIF also has a strong track record in developing codes of practice and sector guidance and in working collaboratively with veterinary and welfare organisations through groups such as the Canine and Feline Sector Group and the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Animal Welfare.

Commenting on the announcement, Nigel Baker, PIF CEO, said: “Pet insurance is a vital part of the wider pet care landscape. This mutual membership reflects a shared commitment to a better understanding between insurers and the pet industry. We are keen to work closely with PEIA and its members, share insight from our members and support clearer communication with pet owners around welfare, responsibility and risk.”

Sharon Brown, PEIA CEO said: “I’m thrilled to welcome PIF into the PEIA community and to join PIF in return. We all want the same thing: better outcomes for pets and the people who love them. The more we work together across the ecosystem, the easier it becomes to raise standards, improve understanding of risk and care, and help pet owners make informed choices about insurance that support welfare and long-term sustainability.”

Pet care provider Petpals has officially launched in Halesowen, Wesd Midlands, led by former Peaky Blinders actor Andy Tierney, who is swapping scripts and spotlights for leads, collars and cat treats. 

With a lifetime of varied experiences behind him and a deep love of animals in his heart, Andy’s latest role is all about bringing warmth, trust and exceptional care to pets and their owners across Halesowen.

Andy lives locally with his cockapoo, Marley – his constant companion and a daily reminder of just how important animals are to our lives. After years of moving around the UK and overseas, Andy says settling in Halesowen has marked an important new chapter.

“I’ve lived all over the place, but this really feels like home,” said Andy. “Marley and I are properly settled here now, and that sense of belonging makes this feel even more special. It’s somewhere I genuinely care about, and that’s reflected in how I want to look after people’s pets.”

Andy’s background is as rich as it is unconventional. He spent 13 years in the British Armed Forces, later worked in the pub trade and policing, and retrained as an actor, appearing on stage, television and film – including roles in Peaky Blinders, where he appeared alongside Cillian Murphy. A cancer diagnosis a few years ago prompted a moment of reflection.

“It makes you stop and reassess everything,” explained Andy. “I had to take a step back and really think about how I wanted to spend my time going forward. I came through it knowing I wanted to do something that brings comfort and reassurance – something that feels worthwhile on a day-to-day level.”

Petpals is the UK’s longest-established multi-service pet-care specialist, providing a range of bespoke and award-winning services – from dog walking and cat visits to pet sitting and pet taxis. Andy, who is fully trained, insured, uniformed and DBS checked, is now bringing the high standards and top-notch care already associated with Petpals to Halesowen.

A particular passion for Andy is ensuring cats receive the same level of attention and understanding as dogs. “Cats are just as important to families, but they’re often overlooked,” he said. “They have their own personalities and routines, and I want cat owners to feel confident their pets are being cared for by people who genuinely understand them and take the time to get it right.”

Andy hopes Petpals will quickly become a trusted name locally – known for professionalism, compassion and genuine care. “This feels like the right chapter for me,” he added. “If I can spend my days helping animals, supporting local pet owners and being part of this community, then I know I’m exactly where I should be.”

Petpals is now up and running in Halesowen, ready to support local pet owners with friendly, reliable and professional care – with Marley firmly on paw-trol.

To find out more about Petpals Halesowen’s range of pet-care services, visit www.petpals.com/area/halesowen, email halesowen@petpals.com, or call 07300 311915.

EzyDog UK, a leader in premium dog gear for outdoor enthusiasts and everyday walkers, has released of a vibrant new orange colourway for its highly rated Thermax Vest, the go-to thermal layering solution for dogs during the cooler months.

Already loved by pet owners for its slim, performance-driven design, the Thermax Vest combines advanced thermal technology with maximum comfort to keep dogs warm without restricting movement during walks, hikes or playtime. Now available in striking orange, the vest boosts low-light visibility for enhanced safety on early morning and evening outings. 

Performance Features:

• Thermal insulation via body heat: The lattice polar fleece liner traps warmth without bulk, allowing dogs to stay cosy even in chilly conditions. 
• Under-harness compatibility: The streamlined, four-way stretch design fits snugly under harnesses, preserving freedom of movement and control for active dogs and confident handlers alike. 
• Water-resistant and quick-dry: Thermoseal-taped seams and a durable YKK zipper help fend off light showers and aid fast drying after wet walks. 
• Enhanced visibility: The new orange colourway increases visibility in dim light, helping keep dogs and owners safer

“The Thermax Vest has long been a favourite for pet owners who don’t want warmth to come at the expense of activity,” said EzyDog UK Director. “The new orange option is not just stylish, it’s a functional upgrade for visibility in the darker months, giving owners extra confidence when out and about.”

Available in sizes from XS to XL, the orange Thermax Vest suits a wide range of breeds and body shapes. The thoughtful design reflects EzyDog’s commitment to combining practicality with performance for everyday dog walking and outdoor adventure alike. 

Availability:
The new orange Thermax Vest is now in stock and available from EzyDog UK’s online store at competitive winter pricing. Free delivery on orders over £30 and a one-year product warranty ensure excellent value for both retailers and consumers. 

www.ezydog.co.uk

Firefighters rescued 44 animals, including guinea pigs, mice and rabbits, during a fire in a Harlow pet shop.

Four crews were called to the blaze at Vets for Pets, located inside a Pets at Home store, on Tuesday.

On arrival, crews reported the shop was 100% smoke logged and worked to find a fire in the back of the shop. 

Crews worked quickly to extinguish the fire and safely rescue the animals. 

Firefighters will remain at the scene ventilating the building and making the area safe.

An investigation was carried out and found the fire was caused accidentally. The rescued animals were left in the care of vets and shop staff.

Station Manager Matt Bannon said: “We’re really pleased to have rescued all the animals and hope they recover quickly. 

“We’ll be at the scene for a little while longer ventilating the building and making the area safe, please continue to avoid the area if you can.”

Poets at Home said on its Vest for Pets Facebook page: “We are incredibly grateful to Essex County Fire and Rescue Service who worked at speed to successfully contain and extinguish the fire and move the animals on site to safety. As a precaution, all animals are currently being assessed by veterinary surgeons.

“We would like to extend our thanks to our colleagues on the ground who are working tirelessly to care for the animals and support the ongoing assessment of the building.”

Leading pet joint supplement business Zooomy has launched an affiliate programme to help the income streams of dog professionals and small businesses.

With many dog professionals reporting reduced bookings and rising business expenses, Zooomy’s new affiliate programme offers a simple, low-barrier revenue stream at a time when diversification has become essential.

Affiliates earn 10% commission on first-time orders and 5% on repeat purchases, with referrals tracked for 365 days, allowing dog professionals to generate ongoing income while supporting pets with joint issues.

Affiliates receive:

• an easy-to-use dashboard
• ready-made marketing materials
• ongoing support
• direct access to vet and co-founder Humphrey Grimmett for product suitability questions

The programme prioritises education over influence, and Zooomy is seeking dog professionals who recommend products based on welfare and science – not trends.

Zooomy’s long-chain HA formula was developed after Joanna, a practising vet with a special interest in joint dysfunction, and Humphrey, who previously worked in veterinary pharmaceuticals, identified a lack of effective, affordable joint support options for UK pet owners.

Unlike supplements that rely on glucosamine, chondroitin or short-chain HA, Zooomy uses long-chain Hyaluronic Acid, the only form proven to be absorbed by dogs. 

The liquid is tasteless, free from fat, sugars and protein, and suitable for cats and dogs with allergies or dietary sensitivities. Owners are advised to assess results over six weeks, though many report improvements sooner.

Humphrey Grimmett said: “The economic pressures facing small businesses are real, and at the same time, we’re seeing huge numbers of pets struggling with joint discomfort. We created Zooomy to offer a scientifically grounded and affordable alternative to traditional supplements, and the response has been overwhelming.

Our new affiliate programme allows dog professionals to support the animals in their care with a product they trust, while generating an additional income stream. It’s a practical solution at a time when many in the industry are being squeezed.”

Zooomy also offers low-minimum wholesale options for small independent retailers who want to stock the product without committing to large upfront orders.

Developed by UK vets Joanna and Humphrey Grimmett, Zooomy has become one of the fastest-growing joint support products in the UK, offering an evidence-based long-chain Hyaluronic Acid (HA) supplement that delivers rapid improvements for pets living with stiffness or mobility issues.

Over the past 12 months, Zooomy has seen exceptional growth - with sales up 698% year-on-year and subscription revenue up 1,100%. They were also a finalist in the Pet Federation Industry Awards 2025.

The affiliate programme is open now, with applications available via the Zooomy website.

More information on the affiliate programme: https://partners.zooomy.com/ 

More information on trade: https://www.zooomy.com/pages/trade

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Pets Corner, the family-run UK pet retailer renowned for expert-trained teams, quality natural products and exceptional customer care, has announced the appointment of Nick Anderson as its new Chief Retail Officer.

With more than 160 stores nationwide, alongside Dogwood Grooming Salons and Pet Practice veterinary surgeries, Pets Corner has built a reputation for putting pet wellbeing at the heart of everything it does. The business is proud to employ Academy-trained staff who deliver knowledgeable, personalised advice to pet owners, supported by a carefully curated range of high-quality food, accessories and health products.

Nick joined Pets Corner at the start of 2026, bringing with him a wealth of retail and operational leadership experience spanning several decades. He began his career at Gateway and Somerfield, progressing through the business to Regional Executive level and developing a strong foundation in large-scale retail operations and people leadership.

He later joined Wyevale Garden Centres, where he met Pets Corner CEO Dean Richmond and established a strong working relationship. During this time, Nick played a key role in opening Pets Corner stores within garden centres, helping to successfully expand the brand into new retail environments.

Nick then spent 13 years at Dobbies Garden Centres as Operations Director, leading multi-site operations, driving operational excellence and supporting significant business growth. He now brings this extensive experience to Pets Corner, where he will oversee retail operations and support the company’s continued expansion and customer experience strategy.

Speaking on his appointment, Nick Anderson said: “I’m delighted to be joining Pets Corner at such an exciting time for the business. The company’s commitment to animal welfare, colleague development and customer service truly sets it apart in the sector. Having worked with Dean previously, I know the strength of the culture and the ambition for growth, and I’m looking forward to helping the teams build on the fantastic foundations already in place.”

Dean Richmond, CEO at Pets Corner, said: “Nick brings outstanding operational expertise and a deep understanding of multi-site retail. We’ve worked closely together in the past and share the same values around people, standards and customer experience. His appointment further strengthens our leadership team as we continue to grow responsibly and invest in our colleagues and communities.”

Nick’s appointment reflects Pets Corner’s ongoing commitment to investing in leadership, people development and sustainable growth across its retail, grooming and veterinary operations.

Two new directors were welcomed to the OATA Board at the trade association’s Annual General Meeting held on 14 January.

Kevin Barton, of ALF Aquatic Distribution Ltd, has returned to the Board after a few years away, and the Revd David Walker, of Birley Moor Aquatics Centre in Sheffield, also joins the 14 other voluntary Directors who make up the OATA Board.

Dr Donna Snellgrove, of Mars Petcare, begins her two-year stint as the new Chair, taking over from EcoMarines’ Laura Carlin, while Maurits van de Pol, of Aquidistri, also stepped  into the Vice Chair role.

OATA Chief Executive Dr Matt Bond thanked outgoing Chair Laura Carlin, of EcoMarines, for her time at the helm, particularly in her support of the staff team over a period of change in 2025. “Laura has been an exemplary chair, serving longer than the usual two-year stint. She has been a real support to the team over the past year, when we’ve undergone so many changes. And we’re very grateful to all our Directors who volunteer their time to sit on our Board. We cannot do it without them.

“And we’re very pleased to welcome Kevin Barton of ALF Aquatic Distribution Ltd back on the Board and also newcomer the Revd David Walker, of Birley Moor Aquatics.”

OATA’s Board of Directors is currently made up of 16 people who represent the whole of the industry, from wholesalers and manufacturers to importers and retailers. The complete OATA Board of Directors is now made up of:

• Kevin Barton, ALF Aquatic Distribution Ltd
• Laura Carlin, EcoMarines
• Robert Edgecock, Independent Aquatic Imports Ltd
• Caroline Everett, Anglo Aquatic Plants Co Ltd
• Neil Hardy, Neil Hardy Aquatica Ltd
• Phil Jones, Kingston Koi Company
• Simon Langdale, Maidenhead Aquatics
• Philip Lawton, Kidsgrove Tropicals
• Rob Peck, The Coral Centre
• Max Pedley, Ornamental Aquatics Wholesale
• Brian Schaff, TMC
• Mark Smith, Pets at Home
• Dr Donna Snellgrove, Mars Petcare
• Matt Stevenson, Seneye
• Maurits van de Pol, Aquadistri UK Ltd
• Revd David Walker, Birley Moor Aquatics Centre

There are still vacancies on the Board, which is usually made up of 18 people. If you are interested in finding out more about what it takes to join the OATA board then you can join as an observer under the New Blood scheme. To find out more about what this involves call the OATA office on 07946 167121.

OATA members can watch the AGM highlights video in the Members’ area of the OATA website.

New research from the Royal Veterinary College has found that although dog owners can often accurately identify common canine health problems, they frequently underestimate how urgently to seek veterinary care. 

This research provides vital information to help veterinary professionals guide, inform and support owners earlier, and help owners to understand their key role in protecting their dog’s health to better support canine welfare.

Much like humans, dogs can experience a wide range of different medical conditions, from diabetes to osteoarthritis. However, unlike humans, dogs are unable to directly communicate how they feel, so owners take on the responsibility for identifying illness and promptly seeking veterinary care when needed. Owners’ knowledge and perceptions are long recognised as key influences on how and when they decide to enlist veterinary expertise, but have been understudied until now.

This study, therefore, set out to explore decision-making by UK dog owners for when to seek veterinary care for common conditions in dogs and to identify what influences these decisions. The RVC team conducted a large UK online study, using realistic clinical “vignette” scenarios for 30 common conditions affecting dogs, derived from UK-wide VetCompass patient records. The vignettes were short clinical text ’stories’ of an illness that included information on the dog’s demography (e.g. age), relevant clinical history (e.g. limping) and helpful contextual information (e.g. events preceding the signs of illness).

Each of the 1,772 dog owners assessed three vignettes and gave their view on what the likely condition was and how urgently they felt that veterinary care was needed. The participants also reported which information sources they used to help with their decision-making for the vignettes and which ones they habitually use in the real world for their own dog’s health. Owner vignette responses were then compared with consensus from a panel of experienced veterinary surgeons to decide on the accuracy and reliability of these responses.

The findings revealed that UK dog owners were highly accurate at identifying conditions with clear visible signs. For example, epilepsy, kennel cough, flea infestation, anal gland infections or osteoarthritis. However, owners were less accurate at identifying conditions that had variable or less visible signs, such as mast cell tumours, glaucoma, diabetes and gastrointestinal foreign body. These results show the value that veterinary care offers to owners to protect their dogs from delayed treatment.

Owners also rated conditions as less urgent than veterinary surgeons advised in over a quarter (28.4%) of responses. Conditions commonly underestimated included ear infection (otitis externa), damage to the eye (corneal ulcers) and heatstroke. Underestimation of urgency is a particular welfare concern because it risks delayed or even non-treatment, prolonging suffering or even resulting in death for life-threatening conditions.

Owners reported using diverse information sources, both to aid their vignette responses and also more habitually for their own dog’s health. The most commonly used sources for their own dog were their knowledge/experience (73.7%), contacting their local veterinary practice (61.1%) and internet searches (49.2%). Factors influencing their choice of information source included the reputation (66.8%), factual correctness (65.6%) and availability (39.5%) of the source.

The research found that the use of online dog health groups to either identify the conditions in the vignettes, or habitually for their own dog, decreased the accuracy of assessments. Similarly, using the online dog health groups for their own dog also increased the risk of underestimating urgency by 30.0%. In contrast, using online dog health groups to aid vignette responses had positive effects, reducing the risk of underestimating urgency by 50%. Using general internet searching to aid vignette responses also increased the accuracy of identifying conditions but had no impact on urgency assessments. These complex and sometimes conflicting effects of information sources suggest the importance of owner-related factors, such as health information-literacy or trust in advice provided by peers in dog health groups.

The findings also showed that owners who habitually contacted their veterinary practice for advice on their own dog’s health were more likely to assess vignette condition urgency in line with veterinary recommendations. These results show that a strong working relationship between owner and veterinary practice can be a cornerstone to protecting the health and welfare of their dog.

In this new information age, there is also likely to be increased reliance on telephone triage, telemedicine platforms and veterinary-endorsed information prescriptions to support better shared decision-making between owners and veterinary teams. Emerging AI technologies may also have valuable roles in aiding owner assessments and subsequent decision-making in the future, though further research is required to understand the risks and reliability of the ‘advice’ given by these sources.

Dr Rowena Packer, Senior Lecturer in Companion Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science at RVC and senior author of the paper, said: “This study highlights a welfare gap between what dog owners observe and how they perceive the need for veterinary care. Understandably, health problems without obvious external clinical signs are most at risk of having the need for urgent treatment underestimated. However, with better triage support, including telemedicine and carefully designed AI decision-support tools, there is an opportunity to help improve this awareness. Used responsibly, these tools could help support owner decision-making, reduce delays, support veterinary teams and ultimately improve welfare outcomes for dogs.”

Michelle Farrow RVN, PhD student at RVC and first author of the paper, said: “Veterinary professionals see firsthand how delays in seeking care can impact animal welfare, but we also recognise the uncertainty many owners face. Decisions about seeing the vet are rarely straightforward. This research provides valuable insight into those moments of uncertainty, helping veterinary teams to guide, reassure and support owners earlier, communicate more clearly, and ultimately improve outcomes for dogs.”

Professor Dan O’Neill, Professor of Companion Animal Epidemiology at RVC and co-author of the paper, said: “Owners often underestimate their power to influence the lifetime health of their dog, which includes choosing a dog with a natural body shape in the first place, to then learning about common health conditions in dogs and how urgently veterinary care is needed for each. With great power comes great responsibility. By working through the vignettes in this new paper, caring dog owners can increase their skills at recognising health conditions and their urgency.”

Independent retailers are facing the same crippling pressures as pubs but remain excluded from discussions about additional business rates support, a leading independent retailers association has warned following the latest employment figures.

Data from the Office for National Statistics showed payroll numbers fell by 135,000 in the year to November, with the decline concentrated in retail and hospitality. A provisional estimate showed a further 43,000 drop in December alone.

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of the British Independent Retailers Association (Bira), said the figures provided fresh evidence that independent shops deserve equal treatment to pubs when it comes to business rates relief.

"These employment figures show retail is under exactly the same strain as hospitality," said Mr Goodacre. "Shops are shedding jobs heading into what should be the busiest trading period of the year. That tells you everything about the state of independent retail right now."

The government is expected to announce reduced business rate rises for pubs in England after pressure from landlords and industry groups. More than 1,000 pubs recently banned Labour MPs from their premises in protest at the increases.

Mr Goodacre said independent retailers face identical challenges to pubs - significant increases in rateable values, falling sales due to weak consumer confidence, and rising labour costs from higher National Insurance contributions and minimum wage increases.

"Our business model is under real stress, and we also have to compete against online retail giants and low-value imports escaping duty," said Mr Goodacre. "We're cutting staff when we should be hiring for Christmas. That's not sustainable."

The CEO pointed out that independent retailers have always been recognised alongside pubs in previous relief schemes, such as the Retail Hospitality and Leisure relief during the pandemic.

"If there is a new deal for pubs, we want to see the same for independent retail," added Mr Goodacre. "It would be an absolute scandal if community shops and hard-working shop owners are left to manage their own demise by this government."

The ONS figures were released on 20 January, showing wage growth in the UK had also eased to 4.5% between September and November, with private sector pay growth slowing to its lowest rate in five years.

In November's Budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves scaled back business rate discounts from 75% to 40%, with no discount at all from April. Combined with upward adjustments to rateable values, this has left many independent retailers facing substantially higher bills.

Mr Goodacre warned that excluding small shops from any new relief package would send a clear message that the government does not care about independent retail or high streets.

"Perhaps independent retailers need to follow the pubs' example and start banning MPs from their premises too," said Mr Goodacre. "We need action, not warm words."

CSJ’s comprehensive natural supplements are  used by legions of dog owners and handlers to keep their precious dogs comfortable, looking great and feeling well. 

Since its beginnings in the 1990’s CSJ’s nutritionists and herbal experts have worked hard to support dogs’ general good health as well as address specific needs, for example:

• to help ease pain, No Ake! – the hugely popular tincture is extremely effective and can provide that extra bit of help without the need for steroids or pricey alternatives AND it won't upset the dog's tummy. 
• to aid mobility and stiff joints, Shift! – helps support the nutritional maintenance of healthy joints and cartilage, tendons and ligaments and is perfect for older dogs that are starting to slow down and show signs of joint stiffness, or sporting and performance dogs.
• to promote healthy skin and coat, Algae Oil – the Vegan-friendly, renewable alternative to fish oil is rich in Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids. 

A look on www.csjk9.com offers a choice of CSJ’s many carefully targeted foods, treats and supplements and, if spoilt for choice, popping a note to their nutritional advisor can clarify any queries about what’s best for a particular dog or a lifestyle need.

For more on CSJ products visit www.csjk9.com or call 01745710470

Pet Trade Innovations has announced the launch of Puppy Bamboodles – the latest extension of its award-winning range. Specially crafted for the puppy market, these chews are set to become an in-store essential for retailers seeking fresh, high-demand products that drive sales and repeat business.

What’s New?

Two Exciting Flavours:

• Salmon & Cranberry
• Chicken & Blueberry

Two Convenient Sizes:

• Small and Medium – perfect for puppies of all breeds and stages

Award-Winning Rebrand:

• Puppy Bamboodles are fully incorporated into the vibrant, eye-catching Bamboodles packaging that’s proven to stand out on shelves and attract today’s pet parents
•  

Why choose puppy Bamboodles for your store?

• Retail-ready appeal: Bright, engaging packaging and playful branding make Puppy Bamboodles a perfect fit for any in-store display—ideal for endcaps, puppy sections
• Proven sales driver: Bamboodles is already a top-performer in the dog chew category, and the new puppy range is poised to capture the booming puppy segment
• High repeat purchase potential: Puppies chew more, and pet parents are eager to treat them—driving frequent returns and basket growth
• Trusted quality: Made from a unique blend of bamboo and nylon, these chews are safe, durable, and recommended for healthy puppy development

Steve Driver, Managing Director at Pet Trade Innovations, commented: "Following the outstanding success of the Bamboodles brand, we are delighted to announce the launch of our new puppy range. This innovative formula has been carefully developed to support healthy puppy teeth, and features engaging scents designed to appeal to today’s pet owners. We believe Puppy Bamboodles will offer strong sales potential for retailers, provide an exciting solution for new dog owners, and quickly become a favourite toy among puppies.”

Available now for trade orders!

Puppy Bamboodles are shipping immediately to retail partners across the UK and Europe. With excellent margins and full marketing support, now’s the time to refresh your puppy offering and join the Bamboodles success story.

Contact for orders, samples, or POS materials on 01276 919808 or email office@pettradeinnovations.com

Make Puppy Bamboodles your next best-seller—order today and let the puppy love (and sales) roll in!

Availability

The rebranded Bamboodles products and new lines are available now through Pet Trade Innovations Ltd and our leading wholesale partners. For more information, visit pettradeinnovations.com or contact info@pettradeinnovations.com.

BolognaFiere Group and Zoomark have announced the launch of PetBridge, powered by Zoomark, a new B2B exhibition designed to connect India’s rapidly expanding pet care sector with the global industry.

The event will debut in Mumbai, India, on 25-26 November 2026 at NESCO center, Bombai Exhibition Center (BEC), bringing international standards, sector-leading expertise and long-term industry vision into one unified platform, and marking a significant step in the Group’s broader international development strategy and strengthening its presence in Asia.

Conceived as a professional platform tailored to India’s evolving business landscape, PetBridge brings together the international expertise of BolognaFiere Group and Zoomark with the local insight of leading Indian partners. The project reflects a shared commitment to supporting companies as they navigate new commercial opportunities, build strategic relationships, and interpret the market with greater clarity.

As India’s pet economy accelerates, valued at USD 3.6 billion in 2024 and expected to exceed USD 7 billion by 2030, the industry is entering a phase of transformation driven by premiumisation, innovation and a fast-expanding community of pet-first households.  

With demand rising across food, health, services, retail and lifestyle, the market is ready for a world-class event that can consolidate growth and create new pathways for collaboration.

PetBridge responds directly to this momentum, offering a strategic gateway where India’s domestic ecosystem meets global opportunity.

Powered by Zoomark, one of the world’s most established and respected trade shows for the pet industry, built in partnership with Inspira Bridge Events, organisers of CMPL, India’s leading private-label event, PetBridge combines global authority with deep local insight.

Together, the partners are shaping an exhibition that reflects the needs of a market evolving at speed, and the ambition of companies ready to expand their footprint in India.

Antonio Bruzzone, CEO, BolognaFiere Group, said: “India is today one of the most dynamic pet care markets in the world, and the launch of PetBridge represents a decisive step in our global development path. We are bringing Zoomark’s international expertise to Mumbai and integrating it with the deep local market knowledge of our partners, to offer companies a platform where they can interpret market evolution, build new connections and create long-term value. With PetBridge, we are opening a new chapter in our presence in Asia and reinforcing BolognaFiere’s role as a platform that anticipates trends and supports companies in their growth journey.”

Luisa Bersanetti, Exhibition Manager, Zoomark, added: “PetBridge represents a natural evolution of our mission at BolognaFiere Cosmoprof.  We believe in events that create ecosystems, places where companies meet the right partners, discover new products, and find space to innovate. With PetBridge, we are contributing to the development of a show built around both the needs of the industry and the energy of India’s growing pet community.”

Vicky Menezes, Founder of Inspira Bridge Events and Show Director of PetBridge, commented: “PetBridge is designed as a serious business platform for a serious, fast-evolving industry. By combining India’s market realities with global best practices, we aim to create an ecosystem that supports both Indian companies scaling up and international brands entering the market with clarity and confidence.”

PetBridge will take place over two business-focused days, offering a professional environment designed to support sourcing, networking and commercial development across the full value chain of the pet care industry. The format is built around a strong B2B foundation, ensuring exhibitors, distributors, retailers, manufacturers, investors and service providers can engage in purposeful dialogue and high-quality networking.

As the show prepares for its first edition, PetBridge powered by Zoomark aims to establish itself as the bridge between India’s pet care future and the global industry, fostering meaningful partnerships, accelerating commercial growth and highlighting the potential of one of the world’s most promising markets.

Exhibitors and visitors interested in participating can register at: www.pet-bridge.com

Jollyes Pets, which reported a 6% increase in pre-Christmas sales compared to the previous year, is set to open four new stores by the end of February – Blackpool, Ponders End, Hartlepool and Whitehaven.

The award-winning retail group announced total sales growth of 10.4% for the key trading period of 1 to 24 December 2025, as pet owners balanced rising household costs with a continued desire to care for, and treat their pets this Christmas.

Jollyes’ strategy focuses on keeping prices low on the customers’ favourite items, while delivering better quality and choice for customers, making it easier for customers to treat their pets over Christmas.

With significant rises in food and vet bills over the year impacting household budgets, customers searching for great value have been switching to Jollyes, so they don’t need to compromise on the care for their pets and can reap the benefit of lower prices.

Cost-of-living pressures on pet parents are significant.  Figures from the Office for National Statistics show vet costs at the end of 2025 were almost 50 per cent higher than they were in 2020.

At the same time there are reports of increasing demand at UK pet food banks.  In late 2025 the RSPCA reported pet abandonment and neglect cases were at a five-year high because of these economic concerns.

In response, over Christmas Jollyes customers donated 424,000 tins of Lifestage cat and dog food to more than 150 local charities, food banks and animal rescue organisations across the country.

Additionally, Jollyes also donated £40,000 to five animal welfare and community charities across the UK.

Adam Dury, chief executive officer-designate at Jollyes, said: “We know how much pets are part of the family and how, even in tough economic times, their owners want quality, care and something special at Christmas for their Pets.

“In 2026, we’ll continue to make high-quality pet care accessible to all, investing in both range development alongside our commitment to low prices, as we deliver great value every day.”

Continued store expansion in 2026

Jollyes has also confirmed it planned to open in four new locations in the coming weeks, with store launches in Blackpool (24 January), Ponders End (6 February), Hartlepool (14 February) and Whitehaven (27 February).

The new openings follow seven store launches in the final weeks of 2025 and reflect Jollyes’ strategy of bringing affordable pet care, broader range and expertise closer to local communities.

Each new store is expected to create around eight local jobs, with recruitment underway at https://careers.jollyes.co.uk/. 

Over the past three years Jollyes has almost doubled the number of stores across the UK, becoming a clear challenger brand in the UK pet retail market.

It was named as one of The Sunday Times’ best big companies to work for in 2024, and in 2025 won the Retail Week Award for Head Office Heroes following its highly successful raw frozen food roll out.