HSBC, one of the world's largest banks, has recently commissioned and filmed a video case study about Group55 and its multi-award winning pet brand, Animology.

The Lancashire based company, who were recently named as the North West Micro Business Of The Year in the FSB WorldPay 2014 Awards, was chosen by the HSBC as a case study that could inspire future customers and showcase the benefits of becoming a HSBC business customer.

The film, now available on the HSBC website, has captured the spirit of determination and inspiration that has enabled Group55 to become a globally leading pet care brand.

The story behind the company’s growth is provided by Group55’s Managing Director, Stephen Turner, whose passion for the company shines through when describing the journey that has ultimately led to his company selling products in over 40 countries worldwide.

Group55 Managing Director, Stephen Turner, said: “We are thrilled to have been chosen by the HSBC. To be recognised by one of the biggest and most successful corporations in the world as a company that can inspire future businesses shows just how far Group55 has come in recent years.

"Through the passion, dedication and entrepreneurial spirit behind Group55, Animology has developed into a power brand that is recognised and trusted throughout the pet industry and as a company, we are confident in the direction that we are heading."

With the financial support provided by the HSBC, the last four years have seen Group55 go from strength to strength. Along with the continued support from HSBC, the growth of Animology continues as new product development contributes to retaining an engaged and loyal customer base.

The video is now available to view on the HSBC Business Banking website - http://www.business.hsbc.co.uk/1/2/business-banking/customer-stories/group-55

Cat owners across Europe have helped the pet care sector remain buoyant during 2013, despite challenging economic conditions that continue to impact many shoppers.

This is according to the latest Pulse Report, launched during National Pet Month in the UK, which provides trends and insights for the most popular retail categories across the UK and Europe, published by global market and shopper intelligence firm IRI.

Worth €8.5 billion last year, the pet market still grew in value by +1.7% across six key markets – France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain and Italy and the UK – during a recession. However, according to IRI, this growth was driven by an increase in price rather than volume sales. Price inflation and the fact that there are more premium branded products available in small sizes have also helped grow the sector, which saw slower growth than the previous year.

Cat owners in particular have been fuelling this success with cat food remaining the trendsetter in pet care. Representing just over half (50.1%) of all pet care sales across Europe, cat food delivered the fastest growth after pet accessories.

Dog food with sales of just over €3 billion, increased its share but at a slower pace, driven largely by snacks and treats. Offering shoppers greater convenience and choice, single servings of wet cat food and to a lesser extent dry food are the drivers for growth in cat food – and where brands are investing most.

“While the pet care category isn’t growing like it used to, we can see that the trend is better or at least in line with other FMCG products,” according to Paolo Garro, Director Business Insights, IRI.

“It’s interesting, however, that pet care appears to be an increasingly polarized category. Shoppers are trading down, with private label growing across most European markets, offering a cheaper but acceptable alternative to premium brands during challenging economic times. But shoppers are unique in this market, and a dog owner may shop very differently to a cat owner, so manufacturers must continue to innovate and defend their brand equity.”

During 2013, the pet care category saw limited product innovation compared to previous years, apart from the major brands developing premium tastes in small sizes or new user-friendly packages, while ‘oral care’ snacks and treats continued to grow in importance.

Key trends:

• The European market grew in value by +1.7% in the year ending Q4 2013 – worse than the growth in the year ending Q3 2013 (+2.0%)
• Spain, France and Italy were the top performers for growth in the year ending Q4 2013
• The main contributor to the growth of pet care across Europe was cat food worth €4.2 billion, up €+84.1 million over the previous year
• A smaller but relevant contribution came from dog food with value sales of €3.1 billion (€+46.5 million) driven mainly by snacks and treats
• Pet accessories had sales of €801 million (€+27.8 million)
• Other pet food was the biggest falling by €-15.4 million over the previous year, but still generating sales of €299 million.

The IRI Pulse Report for pet care is one of 10 super category reports produced by IRI each quarter to show high-level comparison and analysis for retail markets across major European countries. The market is split into dog food, cat food, other pet food and pet accessories, and highlights key metrics such as total sales, market trends, category shares and winners and losers for Europe and individual markets.

It is available by clicking here

The Wildlife Aid Foundation in Surrey has been using leading canine veterinary behaviour product Adaptil to help calm and reassure the fox cubs in its care – and it has produced spectacular results...

WAF is dedicated to the rescue, care and rehabilitation of sick, injured and orphaned wild animals. Established in 1980 by Simon Cowell MBE, the charity's veterinary hospital in Leatherhead deals with more than 20,000 wildlife emergencies every year.

Its policy is to return every patient to the wild once it has recovered. The Foundation's work is the focus of the popular TV series Wildlife SOS on Discovery Channel's 'Animal Planet'.

Lucy Kells, WAF’s hospital manager and a registered veterinary nurse, said: “Wild foxes will sometimes fight each other when they are introduced for the first time. Last year we had two young fox cubs that were six to seven weeks old. 

"We wanted to put them together and we’d been donated some Adaptil Spray by a local veterinary practice, so we thought we’d give it a go.  We’ve never seen anything like it in 30 years; as within seconds the fox cubs were curled up with each other and there was no fighting.

“Now we provide an Adaptil Diffuser to our volunteers who are feeding orphan cubs, and we’ve fitted diffusers in our orphan shed.  We’ve not had one single fight and the cubs are less stressed when we clean their enclosures.  It has been beyond dramatic!”

Following a visit and guided tour of WAF, Emma Jackson, product manager for Adaptil at Ceva Animal Health, commented, “This is a fantastic charity - the WAF staff and volunteers’ dedication, professionalism and unwavering ability to support so many animals with such limited resources, is outstanding. I was truly inspired and humbled by their hard work. As such I wanted to support them further by donating Adaptil diffusers and sprays to enable the charity to continue to use the product on both its fox cubs and adults.”

Adaptil is a synthetic version of the ‘dog appeasing pheromone’ that would naturally be released by the mother dog 2-3 days after birth to support her bond with her puppies and comfort and reassure them.  Adaptilis scientifically proven to help comfort and reassure puppies and dogs at times of stress - particularly when encountering new experiences and unknown environments such as a new home, pets and people.  It is available as a collar, diffuser and spray.

For information on Adaptil visit www.adaptil.co.uk and Wildlife Aid Foundation visit www.wildlifeaid.co.uk.

Goldman Sachs, one of the banks behind last month's £1.2bn flotation of Pets at Home, has begun coverage of the company but with a target price lower than the original offer price.

Shares in Pets at Home have fallen from the 245p float price to as low at 205p last week. Now Goldman has issued a buy note with a 242p target, ahead of the company's results in June.

The decision by Goldman will inevitably anger some of the original investors in the float who have seen the value of their shares fall to 210p in the space of a few weeks.

Goldman Sachs said this week: “Our research is completely independent from all other parts of our business. Our analysts base their research on objective analysis and projections.”

Investors, however, who are nursing considerable losses on the stock, wondered why the Goldman Sachs analyst’s target price had changed from a pre-flotation range up to 260p to only 242p in the absence of material news or adverse market conditions.

Bank of America Merrill Lynch, which also advised on the flotation, began its coverage with a target price of 260p, more in line with its target ahead of the float.

The initiation of coverage helped drive shares in the retailer up 3.46% to 216.5p.

It came as one of the world’s biggest investors, GIC – the sovereign wealth fund for the government of Singapore – upped its stake in Pets, which was controlled by private equity firm KKR until its float.

GIC increased its stake to over 5%, from 4%.

Due to the unrivalled success of our e-mail newsletter publishing operation we need now need to expand our sales team.

We’re looking for the ideal person to take on the sales of our unique mix of banners, buttons, Webitorials and E-mail Advertorial special issues for Pet Trade Xtra, GTN Xtra and GTN Food Xtra.

If you have telephone and face-to-face sales experience, have a good understanding of digital media and an interest in either the pet, gardening or catering markets then joining our team could be the ideal opportunity for you.

Our company is renowned for producing excellent b2b editorially-led products that fully engage with our audiences and provide real results for our advertisers and commercial partners.

To find out more about this great opportunity, please send an e-mail to Trevor Pfeiffer making your case to be interviewed, together with your current CV.  E-mail trevor.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk.

With more than 60% of its exhibitors currently exporting their products, PATS is looking to increase its overseas visitor presence at Harrogate in September.

PATS will be attending Interzoo in Nuremberg, Germany, next month as part of the British Pavilion, where it will be encouraging international buyers to visit the Harrogate show on Sunday and Monday, September 14-15.

Last year the PATS Harrogate exhibition attracted 80 overseas visitors from across the globe, including companies from Europe, and as far afield as Australia and America, representing a 34% increase on 2012.

It is hoped that numbers will rise still further this year and to accommodate the expected increase, a special visitor lounge will be provided in the Harrogate International Centre.

Overseas buyers will have use of the lounge, which is being sponsored by PetQuip. Visitors will be offered free tea and coffee, have free use of the internet, and have access to the services and advice provided by PetQuip.

PATS Harrogate is the perfect venue for international visitors to discover what’s new in the marketplace and an ideal opportunity to talk to UK-based manufacturers and suppliers. Exhibitors who export will have a ‘PATS Exporter’ logo on the fascia of their stand at the show to help people navigate their way around the exhibition.

Harrogate is also the perfect destination, allowing visitors to combine some sightseeing in and around the idyllic North Yorkshire town with business at the exhibition. It’s easily accessible by road, train and air. Leeds Bradford International Airport (LBIA) is the closest airport to Harrogate, and there are regular daily flights from many connections in Europe and worldwide.

PATS Harrogate is promising to be one of the most successful exhibitions yet with 132 exhibitors already having booked their stand. With more than half of them exporting, meeting international clients is a key part of their plans for the show.

Katie Goldsmith, sales director of Collarways, says: “At PATS we have the opportunity to meet in person some of our international customers, some for the first time, even though we have been supplying them some while. It's great to put a face to the name. The Collarways stand is always busy as the show attracts a wide spectrum of different buyers from all around the world. We are really looking forward to introducing our latest products at Harrogate to both UK and overseas visitors, in time for the busy Winter season.”

The Animology brand of pet care products has grown at a remarkable rate over the past few years and is fast becoming a leading international product range. Group55's Stephen Turner says: “We've exhibited at home and abroad and the response from the pet and grooming trade both here and overseas has been fantastic. PATS is a great place to get over the message that we’re serious about exporting our products.”

Butch & Bess asked dog lovers at Crufts 2014 to describe the smell of Butch Leather Eau de Dog Pet Perfume and give their verdict! They captured the comments on video.

Click here to find out what people thought

Two members of staff at pet accessories company Ancol have raised over £10,000 running the London Marathon for blood cancer charity and bone marrow register, Anthony Nolan.

Director Simon Lane (above right) and head of buying Richard Whitehouse (above left) completed their first ever marathon and raised £10,400 for the charity, which helped to save the life of Simon’s son, William, who was diagnosed with leukemia five years ago.

“We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who sponsored us and for all your good wishes” says Simon. “Without the support of our family, friends and colleagues we would not have achieved this.”

Mary Campbell, Head of Events at Anthony Nolan, said: “We’re delighted that Simon and Richard have raised such a fantastic amount for our charity. The funds they have already raised will help us to recruit 10,000 potential bone marrow donors to the Anthony Nolan register – for someone with blood cancer, that’s 10,000 more chances of a cure.”

There’s still time to donate - visit Ancol’s fundraising page at: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/ancol

For more information on Anthony Nolan visit www.anthonynolan.org

The Pet Industry Federation has announced the dates of two forthcoming workshops on Companion Animal Nutrition:

Companion Animal Nutrition Seminar

• Monday 19 May 2014 - Bridgwater College, Somerset
• Monday 7 July 2014 - Sheffield College, Sheffield

The companion animal nutrition seminar has been developed for pet retailers and any pet specialists interested in pet nutrition and will be delivered by independent nutrition expert, John Murray.

The course content comprises:

• Basic nutrition (nutrient groups, balance, digestability, palatability)
• Understanding pet foods (commercial pet food comparisons, raw diets, special diets, calculating feed costs)
• Feeding dogs, cats and rabbits (lifestage, lifestyle, body condition score, energy requirements)
• Question and answer session

The nutrition course costs £75 to members and £100 to non-members and includes comprehensive course notes, lunch and refreshments, Pet Industry Federation branded certificate of attendance and an exclusive £60 discount on membership registration for attendees joining the Federation on the day.

Further details about the course are available on the Federation’s website at www.petfederation.co.uk, where you can also book your place. You can also call 01234 273933.

Dog owners have been invited to take their pets on a sponsored walk in aid of Cancer Research UK.

Best Paw Forward in Highgate Wood last year raised more than £10,000 for the charity, and organisers hope this year’s event will do even better.

The walk will take place on Sunday June 8, and covers two laps of the ancient woodland. Walkers will set out in small groups, starting from the playing fields in front of the cafe.

There will be prizes for best fundraisers and best dressed dogs. Owners and pets from Dima’s Good Boy Dog School will also give a demonstration.

Registration costs £8 per dog. For information call 07940 592755 or email nlondonfundraisers@gmail.com

The attraction of finding lucrative new export markets for pet care products has resulted in over 55 British exhibitors joining the PetQuip-organised group that will be exhibiting at Interzoo at the end of May.

Interzoo, being held in Nuremberg between 29 May and 1June, is the world’s largest trade fair for pet supplies, and attracts buyers from around the world. 

Most of the 55-strong group will be located within the British pavilion, where the PetQuip association will be organising and manning a UK pet product information stand that will provide support services for the UK exhibitors and a product service point for overseas buyers.

The majority of the exhibitors have received cash grants which were secured for the companies by PetQuip under UK Trade & Investment’s Tradeshow Access Programme. 

Thirty-two of the companies will be exhibiting for the first time at Interzoo, and will be introducing many innovative products to international buyers. 

Here's a rundown on some of the British contingent and what they'll be showcasing at Interzoo:

Accapi UK (Hall 7 – Stand 438) will be showing its award-winning Kurgo products designed to make travelling with dogs easy.  The innovative products protect dogs from harm and prevent them from causing a distraction to the driver.  Included in the range is a new Tru-Fit smart harness with video camera mount that can record the dog’s activity when out hiking or running.  The harness has all the features of the company’s standard in-car safety harness and the camera mount’s adjustment system creates a perfect fit and good stability for the camera.

Anco (9-521) will be exhibiting a number of new natural pet treats.  These include ‘Anco Naturals’, a range of gluten-free air-dried healthy dog treats and chews that contain no additives, preservatives, artificial colouring or flavours.  There are also six varieties of ‘Anco Bakes’ that are made with natural ingredients, together with ‘Anco Roots’ made from natural tree roots that are rich in vitamins and minerals.  The roots provide fun and when chewed they act as a natural toothbrush.  Completing the new items are ‘Anco Oceans’, a range of hypoallergenic and gluten-free treats made from 100 per cent fish. 

Ancol (9-515) will be exhibiting its quality leather dog collars and leads together with an extensive range of accessories for cats, dogs and small animals.  These include items for grooming, play time, bedding and training.

Animate/Outhwaite Pet (9-522) will be exhibiting its new WalkingMate™ range of nylon collars, harnesses and leads for the first time.  The new LED collar and harness range requires only one battery, and can also be used as a normal collar or harness.  Prototypes of other LED items under development for both dogs and humans can be seen on the Animate stand.  Also on display will be dog coats, jumpers and an extensive Christmas range.  The company is looking to expand further into the European and the US markets, and the company’s European and US sales managers will be in attendance on the stand.

Animology (9-507) is expanding its range of quality shampoos and sprays that are available for pet owners, vets, retailers and groomers.  The new Animology Hand gel is a medical grade formulation that kills 99.9 per cent of bacteria.  The product is available either in a convenient 50ml bottle or in a 250ml bottle.  Another recent development is Animology Clean Sheets that have the same formulation as the successful Animal Fox Poo shampoo.  The textured material is designed to lift any dirt, smell or grease from a dog’s coat, and the product gives the same result as a dry shampoo.

Barking Heads & Meowing Heads (9-542) is a natural range of cat and dog foods that contains only the best quality natural healthy ingredients.  The company will be launching a new complete wet food range for both cats and dogs that has been designed to complement its popular dry selection.  The UK manufactured wet foods are packaged in humorous and colourful branding to ensure real impact on the shelf.  The company’s complete dry food for both cats and dogs including general maintenance, puppy, light and senior diet ranges will also be exhibited. 

BecoThings – eco friendly pet (9-514) will be showing its new beds that are produced from eco-friendly materials.  The beds are durable and comfortable to suit any dog’s sleeping position.  They are machine washable and come in a range of three colours and four sizes.  The use of natural fibres results in the Beco Bed being hypoallergenic, antibacterial and odour resistant.  The fabrics chosen for the covers are in practical but distinctive colours and are created from a mix of cotton and hemp, and stuffed with a finely shredded, recycled polypropylene consisting mainly of bottles and bottle caps.  The covers are easily removed for cleaning.

Bronte Glen Ltd (9-516) is adding a new throw to its range of pet bedding products.  The throw is available in three sizes and is made from a luxury wool blend fleece with a waterproof fabric backing.   Also new at Interzoo is vet bedding in a country plaid design.  Other products on show will be Active non-slip, Traditional and SuperGold vet bedding along with a best selling range of SeniorGold vet bedding and dog beds.  Trojan waterproof beds and an ultra luxury range of Merino wool beds complete the product line-up.

Burgess Pet Care (9-420) will be displaying its various ranges of pet food, including the vet-recommended  Excel brand for rabbits, guinea pigs and chinchillas that has been specially developed for small animals by specialist nutritionists and experts.  Burgess Pet Care also produces Burgess Sensitive, a premium hypoallergenic range for cats and dogs that contain premium functional ingredients.  In addition to these products, the company will be showing a range of great value pet foods under the Supadog, Supacat and Supasmalls brands.

Butch & Bess (9-607) will be showing its naturally made and beautifully scented pet grooming products, including a new SuperGroomer range for professional groomers.  Naturally derived and infused with healthy and healing essential oils, the company’s conditioning shampoos, refresher sprays, pet perfumes and detanglers help to alleviate itchy and dry skin.  They are free from alcohol, parabens, soap, dyes, phosphates, phthalates or other harsh chemicals.   Butch & Bess has also launched a consumer ‘Replicating’ formula.  These shampoos are luxurious yet affordable and are suitable for both dogs and cats of all breeds. The ingredients all work together to nourish the skin, as well as conditioning and softening the coat correctly for fine scissoring.

Cambrian Pet Food Products Ltd (9-410)will be exhibiting its full ranges of dog and cat foods that are produced to exacting BRC standards.  The products include wet foods that are either canned or contained in a plastic tray, and also dry food to which fresh meat can be added.  Both of the company’s manufacturing plants manufacture high quality ‘humanised’ pet food under the Gelert brand name. 

The Canny Company Ltd (7-364) will be launching the new Canny Magloc, the quickest and easiest way to connect a lead to a dog.  The design is ideal for people who find it difficult to attach a standard trigger clip, as the Canny Magloc uses magnets to attract the lead to the dog’s collar then a strong locking mechanism made from 30 per cent glass-reinforced nylon secures the two ends in place.  A strong tungsten-steel clip completes the secure connection, meaning the device will withstand up to 65kg of pressure.

The CarPET pet hair remover (9-506) will be showing its pet hair remover that lifts, gathers and removes pet hairs from carpets, soft furnishings, car/motorhome interiors and horse rugs.   It comprises a durable rubber block that has soft, harmless rubber prongs that dig deep to remove all types of embedded pet hairs, which then roll together to be removed in one bundle without harming the surface of the fabric.  The product is ideal for pet owners, groomers, caravan/motor home owners, horse owners and cleaning companies, and for sale through hardware outlets, mail order or the gift market.

Countryside Products Ltd (9-414) specialises in high quality wild bird feeds and small animal feeds.  The company uses only the best raw materials, including grains and seeds that are locally grown and supplied by local farmers.  Countryside Products’ multiple line bagging plant produces single seed or seed and grain mixes, formulated to a standard mix or an individual client’s own specification.  The company also produces seed treats and a variety of filled coconuts, suet cakes and other suet based treats.  Other products include netted and un-netted fat balls in plain flavour packs, variety packs and tubs.

Devoted (9-616) will be showing its new range of 3 x Premium Grain Free complete dog foods made with 60 per cent duck and trout, free run chicken or Scottish salmon together with 40 per cent vegetables, fruits and botanicals.  The UK-made foods also contain prebiotics and joint care supplements.

Dog Rocks Distribution (3A-218a) produces a 100 per cent natural rock product that when placed in a dog’s water bowl will help prevent new urine burn patches appearing on lawns, shrubs and box hedge.  The product does not medicate the dog in any way and does not change the pH balance of dog’s urine.  It is easy to use and safe for all domestic pets and has been proven and endorsed by vets.  Dog Rocks work on absorbing the impurities found in water, removing them, retaining them and then filtering them so that pets have a cleaner source of water, which eliminates the risk of burn patches on lawns.

Doggee (7-364) will be showing its Doggee waste bag dispensers on a keyring.  These include a new range of Mr. Men bag dispensers. This colourful collection is in branded shelf displays and will also be available to display on clip strips and shop hooks.  These handy accessories have their own Mr. Men branded dog bags that are supplied in blister packs of 4-colour matched rolls of 20 bags each and packaged in similar colour schemes to the dispensers.  Designed to function like original Doggee bag dispensers, the bags are stuffed inside and remain there without the need for a lid.  The units have a keychain attachment to clip easily to leads or keys. 

Doggy Bag® (9-609) will be showing its Super-absorbent Doggy Bag ® that dries and cleans a dirty dog in seconds.  It absorbs ten times more water than any other towel and literally peels off thick black mud.  The mess is then trapped in the bag so the product is ideal to keep and use in the car and campervan, as well as in the home.  It can also be used after bathing a dog, so reducing grooming time.  Doggy Bag ® dries out quickly, so does not retain any smell therefore does not need frequent washing. 

Fold Hill Foods Ltd (7A-305) manufactures complete and complementary pet foods under the brand names of Chewdles and Laughing Dog.  New to the Chewdles range are: Sensitive Chicken Chunks that are small semi-moist treats that are wheat free and available in a 150g pack; Click n Treat, a handy training aid that clicks as it dispenses a treat; and a range of cat products comprising semi-moist snack sticks plus chicken and herb and cheesy treats.  An addition to the Laughing Dog range is ‘Wonderfully Wheat Free Biscuit Meal’, which is a complementary food ideal for feeding with a wet, raw or B.A.R.F diet.

Forthglade (9-619) is one of Europe’s leading natural wet pet food manufacturers that has experienced brand sales increasing 40 per cent over the past year.  A recently launched product is the Natural Lifestage Multicase, featuring three nutritionally balanced product variants, including chicken, duck and lamb.  All three variants contain either brown rice or potato and vegetables, fortified with added vitamins and minerals, including seaweed, glucosamine and chondroitin.  The Multicase is an excellent option for those consumers who like to feed a range of flavours but would prefer to buy this convenience in just one case.

Get Off (9-509) will be exhibiting its Spotless Punch repellent products that are registered in accordance with the EU Biocides Directive 98/8/EU.  The range of Get Off animal repellents offers a highly effective means of deterring even the most persistent cats and dogs.  By releasing a strong odour, Get Off confuses their sense of smell, deterring the animals from fouling and territory marking in specific areas of a garden or home.  The products include; Get Off Scatter Crystals that are a “jelly-like” substance for use on lawns and flowerbeds; Get Off Spray that prevents territorial marking for both indoor and outdoor use; and Wash & Get Off Spray that cleans, neutralises and deters repeat soiling.

Guisapet (9-621) will be showing its creative pet beds that are durable, easy to clean and recyclable.  The range includes medium dog caves for dogs up to 15 kilos in weight.  They are made from polyethylene and available in black, brown or white. There is also a bed for small dogs up to 7 kilos in weight.  These are available in black, blue, pink or white.  A cave for cats up to 8 kilos in weight is in the range, and is available in black, blue, pink or white.  A monster cave is also being shown that is suitable for both cats and dogs. 

The Hatchwell Company Limited (9-614) has been producing products for the pet trade for over 80 years.  These include innovative, seasonal and everyday pet treats such as advent calendars, Easter eggs, Christmas puddings and functional health treats.  The company’s toothpaste for pets is now part of its leading Dentifresh dental range. Hatchwell also produces healthcare products, nutritional products, flea treatments, and grooming products. Its range covers products for dogs, cats, small animals, birds and equines.

Hilton Herbs Ltd (9-517) is a leading manufacturer of pure herbal supplements for animals and all products are formulated in the UK by a medical herbalist, using human-grade ingredients.  The company’s UFAS (Universal Feed Assurance Scheme) accreditation guarantees traceability from field to feed.  Two of Hilton Herbs recently introduced products are the Bye Bye Itch herbal mix and Bye Bye Itch lotion.

HoundHouse (9-518) will be exhibiting its comfortable living quarters for many different animals.  They are constructed from breathable canvas and are ahygienic, veterinary approved pet shelter.  The lightweight, collapsible and portable HoundHouse is easy to clean, waterproof and flea resistant.  As the products are cool in summer and warm in winter, they are ideal for permanent housing or when camping or travelling. They are suitable for many animals including rats, hamsters, cavies, pigs, cats or dogs.

Hugo Kamishi (9-610) is a new range of products from ALF Ltd, a major distributor to the trade of aquarium and pond products.  The Hugo Kamishi range includes a wide selection of imitation plants made from a selection of materials, coloured and natural gravels, decorative stones and ornaments and .is exclusively for bricks and mortar shops.  There are over 400 items with new products being added on a continuous basis.  ALF is able distribute over 100 brands to European markets.

Igloo Pets Ltd (9-618) is a manufacturer and designer of a 2-in-1 cat loo and carrier.  The carriers are designed to enable the cats to easily circle and stand up in the loo, and can be converted easily to a carrier by removing the privacy plate and locking down the door.  The carriers are also suitable for most small animals.  The company also produces matching colour scoops, liners, filters and a ‘Snow litter’ that is ideal for use with Igloo’s carrier.   Additional product launches at Interzoo include two sprays; the ‘Ice Fresh’ deodorizer and the ‘Crystal Clean’ cleaner.  Both are ideal for all litter trays and hutches.

James and Steel (7-364) will be displaying its ‘Enchanted Home’ pet furniture that is constructed by hand and is available in a range of stylish designs.  Also displayed will be the ‘Tuffs’ range of super tough plush toys comprising cheeky fabric characters, some containing body squeakers.  Other products include ‘Medi Pet’  cat and dog grooming products, flea treatments, supplements and household cleaning items and GreenCat’  eco-friendly clumping cat litter made from corn husks.  GreenCat is dust free, odour eliminating and can be flushed away for easy cleaning. 

Lily’s Kitchen (9-513) produces natural and organic food for cats and dogs and is unveiling its new international packaging across a core range of best sellers.  The packaging has been designed specifically for European markets and includes German, Italian, French, Spanish, Dutch, Norwegian and Finnish languages.  The product range includes dry and wet food for dogs and wet food for cats.  All of the delicious recipes are made using only freshly prepared meat and fish, fresh vegetables and fruit, with a blend of botanical herbs.  There is also a range for cats that includes100 per cent certified organic 100g trays containing either chicken, turkey, lamb or fish.  There is also a variety suitable for kittens.

Litter Kwitter + Pet Diner (9-605) will be introducing PET DINER™, a new range of automated pet feeders that enable a pet to feed when the owner is not present.  The feeders are programmable with up to four meals per day over 28 days.  The PET DINER’s digital timing mechanisms make sure pets dine at the allotted time.  Also on show is the Litter Kwitter, a device to help people train their cats to use a human toilet.  The product comprises a special white base plate (like an oversized toilet seat) plus 3 colour-coded training discs.  The white base plate fits on the porcelain rim of all standard toilets while the training discs fit inside the base plate to form the platform on which the cat learns to navigate the toilet. 

Long Paws (9-418) will be introducing two new products at Interzoo.  The first is a 250ml mini pet water bottle, which is an addition to the existing Long Paws’ 500ml and 750ml pet water bottles.  The mini bottle fits easily into a handbag or can be attached to a belt.  It carries sufficient water for small dogs or for use on short walks.  The dog bottle releases water as your dog licks.  Also introduced is MacPAWS, a packable dog raincoat in a pouch.  MacPAWS raincoats are available in three designs and six sizes, ranging from 8” (20cm) to 22” (55cm).  Counter displays are available for the pet water bottles and MacPAWS raincoats.

Mackle Petfoods (9-519) will be showing its range of cat and dog wet foods.  The dog food products have 100 per cent natural ingredients with a meat content of 60 per cent plus added essential vitamins, minerals and omega 3 and 6.  The products also contain 20 per cent brown rice for optimum energy delivery and to help with a healthy digestive system, and 15 per cent vegetables to provide protein to promote muscle growth and repair.  There is a recipe suitable for all puppies and dogs and for those that require either a grain free diet or a calorie controlled intake.  The cat food products are also 100 per cent natural with a meat content of 70 per cent plus with added essential vitamins, minerals and omega 3 and 6. 

Micro-ID (9-622) isa supplier of Microchip Identification systems for animals, and will be showing its new Ultimate Pet Recovery Service.  The mini-microchip used by the company is the smallest implantable chip for animals, making it easier and more comfortable to implant.  The micro-ID package for pets includes the mini-chip together with a collar tag, a serial number linked to the chip number and an app, which when loaded onto a smart phone allows the finder of a lost or stolen animal to send a message via the smart phone to the database.  This then sends a message to the owner, together with a map reference showing where their pet is located.  The finder then gets a message telling him where the owner is located. 

Multitier Aquarium Systems (9-620) will be introducing its display units for aquarium fish, reptiles or small animals. The units provide an ideal and versatile solution for all pet shops, zoos, aquaria and laboratories wishing to refit, reface or install their own displays and facilities.  The units are made from heavy duty non-rusting materials including anodized aluminium, stainless steel or plastic.  They are strong, long lasting, stylish, available in standard silver anodised or any RAL colour and available in either kit form or for full installation. The company also provides extrusions for bespoke installers.

Natures Menu Ltd (9-453) will be showing its raw and natural pet foods, including a new Country Hunter range that has been created from traditional English country meats including venison, rabbit, duck and salmon.  The ready-made raw meals and meaty 600gram size wholesome cans offer consumers something that is new and nourishing for their pets.  There is also a new gently baked Oaty mixer that has been popular in UK pet stores during the past year.  Oats have significant nutritional properties for dogs including calming.  B vitamins and magnesium, and they are also easy for dogs to digest and can be used to support a raw diet.

Ortiga Products (9-511) will be showing its innovative design led toys together with various hand finished leads and collars.  There are also fun and planet friendly waste bags and beautiful hand finished dog accessories.

Oscar & Hooch (9-615) will exhibiting a new range of stylish and practical dog accessories.  The Suedette fabric collars and leads are extremely hardwearing and are antibacterial and anti-dust mite protected.  The range comprises twelve trend setting colours and uses the finest materials sourced and manufactured in the UK.  All of the products are machine washable, stain repellent and scratch resistant.

PATS & AQUA (9-406) is the UK’s number one pet trade exhibition which gives international buyers and suppliers an opportunity to see the best that British pet companies have to offer.  Now in its sixth year, PATS stages an event in the south of England in March, and a second show in the north in September.The PATS team has a close working relationship with the PetQuip association, which assists international visitors to the show.

Pet Rebellion Ltd (9-505) will be showing its practical pet rugs and absorbent food mats. The pet rugs act as a barrier to prevent muddy paw prints spreading throughout the home.  They have a non-slip gripping backing, which works efficiently on all types of floors, including tiles and wood.  The mats are available in four sizes and runner lengths and are machine washable.  Also in the range are rugs that have been designed to fit into the boot of a car.  A range of absorbent food mats is also on show, and these are available in three sizes, small dog/cat, medium dog and giant size. 

PetQuip (9-404) is the UK-based International Trade Association of Pet Equipment Suppliers.  PetQuip provides a catalyst for business contact between manufacturers, suppliers and international buyers, and membership is open to manufacturers and suppliers of pet equipment anywhere in the world. 

Pointer Pet Products Ltd (9-410) manufactures a broad range of high quality baked biscuits and treats for either branded or private label customers.  Its product range includes single layered biscuits, sandwich biscuits, biscuit rolls and rough biscuits.  The company’s packing capabilities include bulk, quadro-seal, form fill and seal, cartons and flowpack with euro hook.  Pointer will be launching a range of new products at the show.

Pooch & Mutt (9-504) will be displaying its all-natural and ethically made dog treats with natural additives.  There are also four products in the supplement range that are designed to help ensure that dogs lead happy and healthy lives.  These include an itchy skin/colitis supplement, a joint supplement, salmon oil and weight management tool.  The company is also launching a new pocket pack size of best selling treats from the original range.   These are ideal for use when away from home.  Completing the exhibits are packs of larger sized biscuits in best selling flavours called "Calm & Relaxed" and "Fresh Breath". 

Precious Pets London (9-611) will be exhibiting its UK- made luxury grooming products for pets, including new moisturising Eau de Toilettes for dogs.  This produces a fine mist that has a natural and long lasting scent.  They are gentle on the skin and are of human grade quality.  Also on show will be the company’s luxury conditioning dog shampoos that are naturally derived and scented with blends of essential oils. These shampoos are also of human grade quality, are long lasting and suitable for sensitive skin.  New products for 2014 are a 5 litre groomer range and luxury conditioning cat shampoo. 

Profleece Ltd (9-602) is a leading supplier of pet and vet bedding, and is launching a new flag range of pet bedding fleece products at Interzoo.  The  range can be supplied with a non-slip backing or traditional green backing.  Profleece can supply any flag up to a maximum of three 3 colours, and these can be positioned on the fleece bedding to suit a customer’s own requirement.  Customer’s own brand name, logo or design can also be knitted into the bedding fleece.

ROK Straps Europe (9-412) will be exhibiting its award winning and innovative dog leads and accessories, including several new additions comprising a purple/black colour way and two smaller size couplers.  The leads are made from a solid natural rubber core and tight nylon outer braid.  The design prevents jolts and ensures that the handler is in control at all times.  The leads are ideal for training and have padded hold loops for comfort and a built in traffic leader loop for instant close control in hazardous situations.  This feature also doubles up as an in-car restraint.  A full range of padded matching adjustable collars and stretch couplers are also available.

Seneye (9-613) will be displaying its digital test device that monitors the key water in an aquarium on a continuous basis in order to protect the fish.  Should a problem occur, the Seneye device sends an alert to the owner’s telephone allowing important changes to be made to avoid any harm being done to the aquarium’s inhabitants.  The messages also include expert advice based on the type of aquarium and the specific problem that has occurred.  This information can be invaluable to any novice who experiences an emergency situation. 

Snugglesafe (2-333) is a popular range of innovative pet accessories.  These include a new innovation, the SnuggleSafe GobbleStopper that is designed to slow down a dog’s eating habit, thereby improving digestion and therefore the dog’s health.  The company’s products use a microwave heatpad that provides long lasting warmth wherever it is needed.  The fact that the product has no wires and is both bite and scratch resistant has allowed the company to develop a range of innovative pet products.  The SnuggleSafe Cool Pad, Bunny warrens and hi-absorb pet towels are already popular in Europe and in North America.

Spike’s World Ltd (9-614) is extending its poultry product range with the addition of a new ‘Feathers & Beaky’ top-fill drinker.  The product will make life much easier for the increasing number of people keeping a few chickens in their back gardens.  The high quality materials used plus the robust design complement the company’s award-winning feeder, vegetable holder and chicken gyms.  The company will also be showing its full range of wildlife foods including ‘Spike’s Dinner’ for hedgehogs and ‘Wildthings’ for swans, ducks, badgers and foxes.

SureFlap (9-402) is a microchip pet product specialist, and will be launching the SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder this summer.  The feeder uses the same microchip reading technology as the company’s range of pet doors, giving a pet exclusive access to its food.  It is ideal for multi-pet homes where pets have different feeding times, and for pets on prescription diets and weight management programmes.  The company will also be exhibiting its SureFlap microchip pet doors that recognise the unique number of a pet’s identification microchip, which acts as a personalised door key to access the outdoors but denies access to strays and neighbours’ pets.

Symply and Canagan (9-510) specialises in grain-free dog food, and is launching Canagan Large Breed at the show.  The new product meets the specific nutritional needs of large and giant breed dogs in all life stages.  It caters for the growing trend in dog and cat foods of moving towards a more natural diet, closer to that of the animals’ ancestors in the wild.  Canagan’s grain-free pet food range has been voted "Dog Product of the Year" in the UK.

TastyBone (9-502) manufactures a range of nylon chew and play toys.  New at Interzoo will be a durable and resilient range of Mighty dog toys that have been produced to suit the strongest of dogs.  They are virtually indestructible and will also float and bounce.  

Vetbed (9-512) will be showing its ranges of pet bedding, healthcare and hygiene products that are suitable for both professional and domestic pet owners.  The company’s brands include the Original Vetbed^TM, the Safebed range of disposable paper bedding for small animals and the Harkers range of healthcare, hygiene and feed supplements for racing pigeons. Interzoo 2014 will see the official launch of KarmaWrap, which is designed to apply a comforting pressure to a dog’s torso and chest, and is proven in around 85 per cent of cases to significantly reduce signs of anxiety caused by noise, separation, firework, thunderstorm, excitability, nervousness, lead pulling, antisocial barking and car or crate travel

Vitalin (9-503) produces a range of hypoallergenic and wheat gluten-free food for dogs.  To be launched at Interzoo is an enhanced Super Premium Life Stage Range that has been enriched with additional natural supplements, made in the company’s own factory in the UK.  The family owned company holds the prestigious Royal Warrant, and is now seeking overseas distributors.

Waterlife (9-403) has been at the forefront of aquarium and pond product technology since 1968.  The main areas of activity include disease treatments, water conditioners, algicides, test kits, filter media, specialist foods, goldfish products, marine products including sea salt and pond products.  New for 2014, Waterlife is launching Nova, a naturally derived tea tree based medication.  It is a broad spectrum medication, treating parasites, bacteria and fungus.  The product will appeal to beginners and to those who wish to avoid using chemical options.  Nova is safe with filtration, plants and fish and will not dye silicon sealant. 

WildWash (9-617) is a new concept in animal care.  The products on show comprise a range of natural pH balanced shampoos and cosmetics for pets.  They include shampoos to cater for every coat type, a conditioner, a detangler and two perfumes.  The products are 100 per cent natural, containing pure essential oils and are completely free from parabens, sulfates, phosphates, phthalates, PEGs, petrochemicals and synthetic fragrances.  The company’s perfumer has created complex and beautiful scents to complement and enhance each particular shampoo and fragrance.  The ingredients used in the range are of human grade and have been hand blended and hand stirred to combine a diverse and holistic mixture of plants, botanicals and essential oils. 

The RSPCA is appealing for information after 17 degus were found dumped in woodland in Newport on Saturday.

The animals were found in woodland in the Ringland area by a member of the public who was walking his dogs.

RSPCA Inspector Christine McNeil said: “Someone has deliberately dumped these animals without a second thought for their welfare. They have allowed them to breed and just thrown them out like rubbish when they have tired of them. Fortunately they were found before anything bad happened."

The RSPCA is now trying to trace the owner, and anyone with information is asked to call 0300 123 8018.

The PDSA store in Ironmarket, Newcastle, has launched its 'wedding extravaganza' featuring a large collection of new and secondhand wedding dresses. Prices start from £30.

Store manager Kelly Byrne said: "It is going to be a fantastic and fun event. We have lots of styles and sizes in store."

The store also has outfits for bridesmaids and mothers as well as accessories such as veils, hats, shoes and head-dresses.

Kelly added: "This is an incredible opportunity for couples to make the happiest day of their life even better, by finding a beautiful dress at an unbelievable price.

"It's great fun helping a bride choose her dress, especially as the sale will also help PDSA continue its life-saving work."

Due to the unrivalled success of our e-mail newsletter publishing operation we need now need to expand our sales team.

We’re looking for the ideal person to take on the sales of our unique mix of banners, buttons, Webitorials and E-mail Advertorial special issues for Pet Trade Xtra, GTN Xtra and GTN Food Xtra.

If you have telephone and face-to-face sales experience, have a good understanding of digital media and an interest in either the pet, gardening or catering markets then joining our team could be the ideal opportunity for you.

Our company is renowned for producing excellent b2b editorially-led products that fully engage with our audiences and provide real results for our advertisers and commercial partners.

To find out more about this great opportunity, please send an e-mail to Trevor Pfeiffer making your case to be interviewed, together with your current CV.  E-mail trevor.pfeiffer@tgcmc.co.uk.