Devon-based Redpaw Pet Supplies were crowned Independent Pet Retailer of the Year at the Pet Industry Federation Awards. This week Pet Trade Xtra finds out from owner Sammie Hunt what makes the company stand out from the rest…

When did you open the pet store?
I opened my first shop in 2014 and moved to the current location in 2016, I started my business in 2013, running trade stands at dog shows and agriculture shows.

Was there a pet shop there before?
No, I choose an area in Plymouth which I felt was convenient to customers – but I did not want to be on the high street.

How many people work in the store?
Two full time and one part time – Nadine, Jaycee and Yas.

What's your background?
After working within the animal industry all my life, I became frustrated working for other companies and when my mother became very ill and sadly past away, she inspired me to do what I wanted to do. I'm passionate about animal health and nutrition, and this is where I have some 25 years of experience. When attending dog shows (showing my whippets) I noticed no-one sold natural foods and treats. This is where I started, running at first a small stand selling only quality natural treats. Soon this was doing so well, my poor house was taken over by products and although my dogs were in heaven, I needed my front room back. I then began to look for a storage unit and whilst looking found my first shop. This then grew so quickly, I soon had to move to a bigger unit, where we are now. My experiences in employment includes Ministry of Defence Dog Handler, Dog Training, Animal Nutrition, Meat Production Industry, Health & Safety, Animal Management & Welfare and Animal Grooming.

How do you attract new business?
I strive to stock a great range quality products at sensible prices. I go above and beyond to help customers with nutritional issues, I work with some local vets, behaviourists and dog trainers to help pets with health issues related to nutrition and allergies. It is very important to me, for customers to feel they can come somewhere they can get advice without being pressured into purchasing products. As an independent business it is very important to offer a service that others don't. I'm always researching products and my customers know I'm always up to date with the market.

Do you offer other services as well as selling pet products?
Yes, we do microchipping, nail clipping, and bath and drys. We offer nutritional advice, help with weight loss/gain.

What sets you apart from the rest?
I've stuck to my guns and stayed true to what I believe, that Redpaw is hear to help owners have the most healthy, happy pets possible.

What's the secret of your success?
I drive to be different from our competitors and be the best possible. Launching my own brand products helps me ensure the items we sell are to the highest standards.

What does this award mean to you?
The absolute world. I've worked so hard building my business from a tiny table of treats to what we have grown into in just five years. I never believed we could win, but I'm so proud of my business and team achievements. It has definitely made all the low and very hard moments worthwhile.

What advice would you give to other independent pet shop owners?
Look for the gaps in the market, do your research to what your customers want, and be active with engaging with customers.

Final-year students at the Royal Veterinary College have stripped naked for a 2019 calendar in support of charity.

All the proceeds from calendar sales – priced at £10 each – will be donated to Vetlife, a charity providing  emotional, financial and mental health support to the veterinary community.

Photos on the calendar show the wannabe vets posing some of the animals they’re going to be taking care of in future.

The theme for the 2019 calendar is 'Vets in Action' and final-year student Ben Alexander Smith, who took the photos, said: “I wanted to take photos that would reflect a stripped back representation of the various careers vets in practice have. I’m really happy with the artistic look of the calendar and they are flying off the shelves."

The calendar can be bought here: https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/254001512830

Targets are a major source of discontent amongst today’s sales people, says recruitment specialist Lynda Ward, who has urged pet product suppliers to set achievable goals to their staff.

The founder and owner of Pet Trade Solutions said: “Sixty percent of the calls I’ve had in the past three months were from people unhappy about targets set by their current employers.

“Having seen both sides of the equation - from having set and being given targets - I understand the pitfalls that business owners or managers have to contend with and also the frustration and demotivation that can be felt by those on the receiving end.”

Lynda explains: “Targets should be achievable with effort, measured, timed and perhaps above all FAIR.  The management that consistently sets unachievable numbers, vastly increases them without justification or makes them easier for favoured members of a salesforce will soon have discontent and even falling sales as a result.”

She suggest: “The best way for ensuring that targets are a motivation (especially if they are to rise) is to spend a little time with each recipient, showing how the calculation for the forthcoming period was done and highlighting positive factors such as planned marketing activity, new products etc., then discussing ways to overcome any potential perceived difficulties on the area – that way the salesperson feels they are meaningfully involved in the process, has the tools to achieve and is not being given an impossible task which is not worth striving for.”

Lynda is always happy to personally advise on any aspects of recruitment and marketing strategy and can be contacted on 07946 743784 or at lyndaward@pettradesolutions.com

Bestpets, the specialist pet care division of Bestway Wholesale, was named as Wholesaler of the Year at the Pet Industry Federation awards, for the second year in a row.

This year has been busy for Bestpets and being voted ‘Wholesaler of the Year’ for a consecutive year is testament to the continued success of the company in partnership with its’ pet customers.

This year Bestpets looked at their range by category and introduced new suppliers, particularly to offer customers a premium choice with products such as Go Native and True Instinct. Old favourites were not forgotten either, with the reintroduction of James Wellbeloved. Combining the new product range with the brand new not-to-be-missed prices in the Bestpets Bonanza Trade Weeks, the company has been able to provide customers with the products they need at a competitive price.

Further improving the service to customers, Bestpets opened a customer contact centre earlier this month, available Monday to Friday for customers to call or email with any queries they have and in October Bestpets was the headline sponsor of the British Dog Grooming Championships.

Collecting the Wholesaler of the Year award was Peter Brame, Director of Trading - Pet, Mike Bailey, Head of Bestpets, and Billy Milburn, National Pet Sales Manager.

On winning the award, Brame commented: “Being selected to win this award for a second year in a row is a fantastic achievement for Bestpets. We work in partnership with our customers from independent pet retailers to professional pet groomers, to help develop their businesses. We seek to offer customers the very best product range and service for a fair price and this accolade is testament to the hard work of the team which has resulted in us achieving national recognition for our efforts. Thank you to all of our customers for shopping with Bestpets and for recognising us with this award.”

Brame added: “This year we opened a customer contact centre which we hope will support customers daily and we have updated our ranges and introduced special prices at our trade days. We will continue to work with customers to develop our offer in 2019, listing new suppliers and providing more convenient ways for customers to shop with us with a new digital platform – hopefully this will lead us to a hat-trick for this award next year.”

Natures Menu has been crowned Manufacturer of the Year after achieving the highest score on the criteria set by the judges of the Pet Industry Federation Awards.

Craig Taylor, Natures Menu Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to be named Manufacturer of the Year. It’s an honour to receive such an accolade and to be recognised in this way. We’re proud of all that we have achieved since our launch, growing from a small family-run business to now delivering hundreds of tonnes of quality raw and natural pet food every month to satisfied customers across Europe. We would like to thank all the team for their tireless commitment and hard work in helping us to achieve this award.”

Nigel Baker, CEO of the Pet Industry Federation, adds: “Natures Menu has experienced phenomenal success and we were thrilled to award them with one of our biggest accolades of the night. We were extremely impressed with the company’s growth and development, investment, innovation, strong customer service and staff training, making them worthy winners. We would like to pass on our congratulations to the Natures Menu team.”

Natures Menu specialises in raw dog and cat food made with fully-traceable quality meats and fish, blended vegetables, fruits and healthy carbohydrates, and uses British suppliers and ethical product sources wherever possible. 

For more information about Natures Menu visit www.naturesmenu.co.uk.

The circus comes to town for two Essex-based entrepreneurs as their Big Top inspired pet accessories for guinea pigs hits the big time, wins industry awards and helps to improve animal welfare.

Who would have thought that adopting a pair of male guinea pigs from a local rescue centre could have sowed the seeds for a successful new pet accessory business but that is exactly what happened to Essex-based entrepreneurs, Rik Cridland (36) and his wife, Helen (35).

HayPigs, the company that they went on to form, has gone on to win many industry awards and plaudits with its innovative circus inspired range of accessories for guinea pigs which are not only fun, bright and colourful but are also designed to improve the lives and wellbeing of these popular pets. The range also picks up on the currently popularity of all things to do with circuses at the moment following the success of the film “The Greatest Showman.”

Having truly caught the guinea pig bug, Rik and Helen went on to adopt another seven and having bought them every toy and accessory on the market, they soon became very frustrated at the lack of choice, quality and specialism there was for guinea pigs in pet shops.

As Rik explains: “It seemed strange that guinea pigs had no dedicated section in a pet shop and were simply bundled together with other small animals such as rabbits, hamsters, chinchillas and rats. We noticed that people actually bought products that weren’t even suitable for guinea pigs, simply through bad labelling or a lack of welfare knowledge. We were also astounded at how many guinea pigs ended up being ‘surrendered’ to rescue centres, because people were ‘fed-up’ with them or hadn’t expected them to grow so big, or live so long.

“Creating a brand for guinea pigs seemed like a great opportunity to raise the profile of these small animal pets and their welfare needs, while enhancing and enriching the everyday lives of small furries and their humans.”

With Rik's background running his own business as a product designer (Stir Design Ltd.) combined with Helen’s artistic skills honed in the theatre having been a trained dancer, choreographer and dance teacher  and a desire and drive to start their own family business, HayPigs! was born.

HayPigs! started trading in April 2017 on World Circus Day following nearly two years design, development and planning preparation. Since then the company has gone on to receive many accolades.  It is in partnership with Guinea Pigs Australia, it has exhibited at many trade and pet shows across the UK, it has won the Best New Small Animal Product Award at PATS Telford in 2017, was twice finalist at the PetQuip Awards (2017 and 2018) and was finalist in the Pet Product Innovation Category at the Pet Industry Federation Awards in 2017. 

HayPigs! has since reached the finals of the SME National Small Business Awards in the New Business Category which will be presented at a gala event at Wembley Stadium on 7 December and recently won the New Company Award at the Essex Business Awards which was held at the Radisson Blu hotel, Stansted. The company also recently triumphed at The Animal Health and Wellness Awards 2018 winning the- Best Small Animal Toys Design Company – UK

The HayPigs! product range can be purchased from haypigs.com, Amazon FBA (UK and Europe), Ocado Fetch and the company is signed up to one of the UK’s leading wholesalers, Pedigree Wholesale who supply independent pet shops throughout the country. They also supply Pets at Home and in Australia, the largest pet retail chain, Pet Barn. Their products are also stocked by Guinea Pigs Australia as well as PetCircle online over there.

As well as specialising in toys, feeders and accessories  designed for and tested by Guinea Pigs!™  which are original and innovative another aspect to the range is their collectability.

Rik says: “We'd like to think our range is quite luxurious and bit of a treat for our customers and of course, their piggies! It's been our aim to design high quality products that do the job they are designed for really well and with a HayPigs!® product, you'll be getting something that is durable and can be used every day. It is a premium, high-end product for piggies.

“Our theme adds a final twist as it's very collectible and giftable and will add a splash of colour and fun to your pets home! As a brand, we also have the option to change the theme in the future and add new ranges to our collection. This is a very exciting aspect.

“At the moment, our customer demographic is predominantly female, but we are very keen to change that. Interestingly, the number of boys into guinea pigs drops off dramatically as they become teenagers but we are seeing a re-emergence of interest in grown men, known affectionately as 'Pig-dads'."

Both Rik and Helen have very ambitious plans for the future of their brand.

“At present, we are very happy for our focus to be solely on our area of expertise; guinea pigs. While other small furries can enjoy our products, evidence to date is suggesting they are finding us organically. In terms of markets, we already have a strong presence in the UK and Australia and have had modest sales in mainland Europe. We think France and Germany would be the next obvious steps in Europe and that getting our products over to the US and Canada in the near future is a no-brainer. Further afield,  we also think that Japan and China would also be very interested in our products.”

HayPigs! currently uses two UK based sourcing companies to help produce the majority of their products in China. They are very experienced in ensuring that the range adhere to all the necessary standards and help with testing the products thoroughly before releasing to market.

Rik's background in product design clearly helped develop all the products from sketch to realisation but both he and Helen also used the help of their local guinea pig rescue centre, Blackberry Patch in Essex along with a network of other guinea pig experts around the world, including Guinea Pigs Australia and Guinea Pig Magazine to produce the range.

For further information please visit: www.haypigs.com or contact RikCridland at rik@haypigs.com

There was a time when a baby promoting a pack of cigarettes or dressed-up chimps hawking tea were viewed as par for the course. Now vets are hoping that similarly inappropriate images of pets disappear from our television screens, billboards and social media channels. 

The UK’s leading veterinary organisations say it’s time to address the irresponsible depiction of our furry friends across all forms of advertising to tackle the concerning normalisation of poor animal health and welfare.

British Veterinary Association (BVA) President Simon Doherty said: “Images of cute, funny and cuddly pets grab our attention and pull at our heartstrings, so it’s no surprise that advertisers use them to be the face of their brand. While the individual pets in the adverts might be well-cared-for, our concern is with the way they are often depicted and its impact on the wider pet population. 

“Often the welfare issues affecting the animals are not immediately obvious to an untrained eye, but we know vets and vet nurses are very concerned by issues such as the normalisation of potentially harmful or misleading behaviour and the use of popular breeds who suffer because of the way they have been bred. We hope all advertisers will adopt our new guidance, so that images of trampolining Boxers and flying pugs played for laughs will be relegated to advertising history books.”

To help companies big and small avoid similar pet promo pitfalls and harness the power of advertising to promote positive animal health and welfare across a range of species, BVA has launched an authoritative set of pet advertising guidelines today, with support from members of the Veterinary Animal Welfare Coalition.

BVA’s guidelines, Pets in advertising: A social concern, identify good practice guidance as well as common mistakes in portraying pets, whether real or cartoon and computer-generated (CGI), across each of the five animal welfare needs set out in the UK Animal Welfare Acts. These include the need for a suitable environment and diet, ability to exhibit normal behaviour, the need to be housed with, or apart from, other animals, and lastly, to be protected from pain, suffering, injury or disease. Thus, images of pets consuming potentially toxic food such as chocolate or raisins, children ‘riding’ dogs, rabbits housed in tiny hutches, teacup animals and dogs with cropped ears or docked tails are all examples that should be avoided.

Concerning statistics

Eight in ten vets in the UK (83%) say they are concerned about the inappropriate representation of animals in adverts, with insurance companies, pet food brands, supermarkets and banks topping the list of most-cited ‘bad-ad’ culprits by vets, BVA’s Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey reveals. More than two in five vets (44%) recalled seeing adverts over the past month that featured images of pet animals unable to exhibit normal behaviour, depicted in an unsafe scenario (31%), or shown in an unsuitable environment (24%), among other concerns. 

By far the most commonly cited adverts, seen by more than three-quarters of vets, were those that showed pets with exaggerated features or extreme conformation, such as pugs or Persian cats. BVA’s#BreedtoBreathe campaign this year has highlighted how sustained efforts by concerned members of the public and the veterinary profession can help, as big brands including Marks & Spencer, HSBC and Lidl have pledged not to use images of flat-faced dogs in ads or on social media in the future.

Simon Doherty added: “We know there’s a public appetite for responsible portrayal of pets in adverts, as witnessed by the success of our #BreedtoBreathe campaign and the high volume of complaints that the Advertising Standards Authority receives each year by viewers concerned about misleading, distressing or harmful depictions of pets in ads.

“Christmas has traditionally been a time when emotionally charged adverts featuring inappropriate portrayals of our furry friends flash across our television screens or social media timelines. We are pleased to see that so far this year the big brands haven’t gone down this road, and hope they’ll engage with our good practice guidelines and understand that pets deserve to be depicted responsibly this season and all year round.

“Our guidelines also give animal lovers and pet owners across the country an easy reference to assess portrayals of pets in ads, and we would encourage them to join us in alerting brands who inadvertently use inappropriate images in their campaigns.”

For members of public or the veterinary profession concerned by any adverts, BVA has developed a template letter to flag concerns to the brands in question.

How veterinary practices can engage with the campaign

In addition to asking advertisers to avoid inappropriate portrayal of pets, BVA believes veterinary practices can also play a role in encouraging responsible pet ownership and positive animal health and welfare outcomes through their marketing channels. 

The Veterinary Marketing Association (VMA) has announced that it will be adding BVA’s new pet advertising guidelines for consideration across its judging criteria for all future VMA Annual Awards.

If you are unsure of any of the guidance set out in this document or have a query that is not addressed, please contact BVA at policy@bva.co.uk.

Pets at Home has opened a new, pet-friendly head office called Chester House, named after the first Pets at Home store that opened in 1991.

The new building is the result of a £2m investment in an expansion of its Handforth headquarters that will help drive improved ways of working using the latest in technology and communications to provide a workspace that encourages collaboration and teamwork.

Chester House can accommodate up to 300 colleagues and includes 17 meeting rooms, all with their own unique design that reflects the history and achievements of the business.

The building also includes three kitchens, a library and a creative lab.

Along with a variety of spaces for working, the new office aims to enhance colleague wellbeing during the working day.

From private phone booths and enhanced lighting, to a tuck shop and areas for relaxation, Pets at Home has worked closely with its people team to create an environment that not only looks good, but offers comfortable and productive spaces.

Outside, Pets at Home has invested in a Pet Park, a fully enclosed, safe area designed with the welfare of colleagues’ pets in mind and, as such, is split into different zones and textures for inquisitive paws.

It includes toys, ramps, tunnels, water stations and a warm shower for muddy paws – and boots.

An internal competition to name the new building was won by Sue Richardson, a central data manager and one of the retailer’s longest serving colleagues, and Leanne Friar, development small projects manager, who chose the name Chester House in recognition of the first Pets at Home store that opened in 1991 in Chester.

Founder of Pets at Home, Anthony Preston, and his wife, Margaret, were invited to the opening of the new headquarters by group chief executive, Peter Pritchard.

Specialist retailer Orvis UK has launched a new range of dog treats.

Despite Orvis being well-known for producing luxury dog product,s including their memory foam dog beds, this is the first time the company has created dog food.

The treats are handcrafted in Britain, using sustainably sourced fresh ingredients, and air dried to maintain nutritional value.

The treats are available in: 

• Chicken Slices
• Game Slices
• Lamb Slices
• Fishcake Bites with Turmeric 
• Whole Dried Sprats

They are only available in the 18 Orvis UK retail stores, and priced at £3.50 for the fishcakes, and £4.50 for all other flavours. 

Three leading trade associations in the garden and leisure, pet product and home enhancement sectors – Gardenex, PetQuip and BHETA – are joining forces to host a conference on The Future for International Trade, ahead of the UK’s departure from the European Union.

The day long event will take place on March 12th, 2019 and will be held at the Stratford Manor Hotel in Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire.

Brexit marks the dawn of a new era for international trade for virtually all sectors of British business, both home and abroad. The aim of the conference is to shed light on the very latest intelligence from an array of top-level speakers to help UK companies to navigate their best routes to international sales in the future.

Delegates will hear practical information and advice from leading experts on the changes and challenges of trading internationally after the UK leaves the European Union. They will be inspired by practical case studies from successful exporters in the gardening and leisure, pet product and home enhancement industry sectors. Also invited to participate to provide further guidance and in-depth export information and advice will be a wide range of experienced service providers specialising in transport, logistics, IP, international business law, exhibition organisers, government advisors and many more.

Director General of Gardenex and PetQuip, Amanda Sizer Barrett, says: “We expect a huge take-up for this practical and timely event on March 12th, which will deliver the latest intelligence from an array of top-level speakers and export experts to help UK companies in navigating their best routes to secure international sales in the future.”

BHETA Executive Director, Will Jones commented: “BHETA is delighted to be working with the Federation of Garden & Leisure Manufacturers on this joint initiative; we are confident that the programme of presentations will provide delegates with expert information, practical advice and inspiration, while a wide range of export service providers will give face-to-face export guidance to delegates”.

The conference has a clear mandate to help suppliers understand and navigate the Brexit complexities and in addition, highlight the export support and opportunities available worldwide.

Leading export service providers will be on hand to provide delegates with practical advice throughout the conference within the ‘Ask the Expert‘ Zone.

You can reserve your places at this important conference now by contacting your appropriate association by telephone, email or via the associations’ websites.

Contact Gardenex or PetQuip on 01959 565995; email katie-mai@petquip.com or theresa@gardenex.com; or visit www.gardenex.com.

Contact BHETA  on 0121 237 1130, email nab@bheta.co.uk or visit www.bheta.co.uk

Members of Gardenex, PetQuip, CHA and BHETA can secure a preferential delegate rate of £69 per person at the conference. The event is also open to non-members at £149 per person (both plus VAT). 

Passionate About Pet Food Ltd is exhibiting at PATS Sandown in February on stand T16. The company is the UK distributor for Germany’s award-winning and carbon-neutral Josera and Green Petfood brands which launched into the UK during the Telford pet exhibition in September.

Simon Freear, director of PAPF, explains: “The PATS Telford showcase was the start of our communication with the pet trade in the UK. 

"The response has been strong from retailers interested in offering a range with top-notch eco-credentials that is exclusive to independent bricks and mortar stores. The range of recipes for all different life stages is wide-ranging, so we have something for every requirement.”

Josera manufactures superior quality, environmentally sustainable and socially responsible foods for cats, dogs and horses as well as agricultural feeds for farm animals. 

The brand holds internationally recognised awards and certifications of highest regard for ingredients, manufacturing ethos, environmental concern and best practice. 

Josera’s sister company produces human food so the quality control standards, laboratory and ingredients are all human food grade which is especially crucial for the meats, fats and oils. These facts together with the gentle steam-baking and slow drying mean the food is delicious and highly digestible. 

Josera is also carbon-neutral for all production and operations and is now working to offset its suppliers carbon in cannot influence also.  

Green Petfood is the ultimate in sustainable dog food with ground-breaking products in the range like InsectDog which is not only genuinely hypoallergenic; it is also much more sustainable as insect protein generates much less carbon than traditional meat protein sources.  Green Petfood VeggieDog is produced without soy which is banned from all Green Petfood recipes due to its poor carbon credentials and as a common allergy trigger.

www.passionateaboutpetfood.co.uk

Leading fresh, raw pet food company, Poppy’s Picnic has celebrated its second year in business with a beautiful poppy seed and lemon birthday cake made by Karen’s Cake Creations of Trowbridge.

The cake depicted the inspiration behind the brand, Chief Operating Dog and miniature schnauzer, Poppy (who also just celebrated her ninth birthday) sitting on top of a Poppy’s Picnic hamper.

In just two years the company has become firmly established as one of the leading players in the raw food market starting with an appearance on BBC 2’s Dragon’s Den when founder Dylan Watkins and Director Louise Mackintosh, received four investment offers from the Dragons. Since then, the company has managed to raise over £600,000 in crowd funding and gone on to win numerous trade and industry awards.

The company has benefited from participating in the NatWest Entrepreneur Accelerator programme and Dylan Watkins was also recently selected to join the esteemed Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses scheme and has been attending business seminars at the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School.

Poppy’s Picnic has ambitious plans for the future. A new production facility is currently being built in Wiltshire and the company is due to launch its new range of cat food early next year.

Dylan Watkins believes that simplicity - or RAWPLICITY as he calls it - is the key to Poppy Picnic’s success.

“RAWPLICITY is behind everything that we do at Poppy’s Picnic. From producing recipes that include the best quality, natural ingredients.

"Our aim from the start has been to make it easier for pet owners to feed the food nature intended and make a change to their dog’s life. Just as humans are advised to avoid processed to reduce the risk of disease and obesity, the same applies to dogs.

"We believe that any fresh food in a dog’s diet is better than none and our delicious products are easy to introduce, whether choosing to make a complete switch to raw feeding, or  add an occasional boost of freshness to dry or canned food. Our popular innovations such as perfectly portioned Meatballs, and our strong, stand out brand has helped us to achieve all that we have so far.”

Britain’s rabbit population is at serious risk from a recent and continued outbreak of fatal rabbit diseases. To help protect Britain’s rabbits, the UK’s leading animal welfare experts and organisations are urging rabbit owners to get their rabbits vaccinated against the latest strain of deadly Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic disease, RVHD2.

RVHD2 is a fatal disease that can kill rabbits within hours, with many rabbits displaying no symptoms until it’s too late. Vaccination is the safest and most effective way to protect rabbits against RVHD2 and a variety of other diseases, but research continues to show that not enough rabbits in the UK are protected.

Research from this year’s PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report showed 49% of rabbits in UK homes have not received a primary course of vaccinations when young, meaning almost half a million rabbits in the UK could be at risk from a variety of potentially fatal diseases.

Rabbits who have previously been vaccinated against RHDV only will not be protected against this strain of RVHD2, so return visits to vets are being encouraged – even for rabbits who have received a primary course of vaccinations when they were young as boosters are needed to ensure immunity.

Alex Thorne at Burgess Pet Care explains the importance of vaccination.

“RVHD2 is a relatively new disease which is massively on the rise in the UK. The RAW partners have already received calls and visits from distraught owners who’ve lost their rabbits to RVHD2. It’s possible that even rabbits who have been for vaccinations in the past aren’t protected against this new disease. For any owners seeking reassurance, we would strongly recommend that they contact their vets.

“We’re calling on the support of veterinary practices, owners, manufacturers and retailers across the UK to help spread this message to as many people as possible.”

Dr Richard Saunders BSc (Hons) BVSc MRCVS is one of the UK’s leading rabbit experts and helps guide the welfare and health strategy of the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWAF).

Richard was responsible for getting the vaccine for RHDV2 into the UK following its initial outbreak, helping to save the lives of an estimated 70,000 rabbits. Richard explains that as well as protecting against RHDV2, there are other diseases that rabbit owners must look out for.

"There are three fatal viral diseases of rabbits which can be vaccinated against. Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic disease 1 and 2, which kill a high proportion of the rabbits infected, often so quickly that there is no warning before finding them dead; and myxomatosis, which can result in a slow and painful death for rabbits suffering the worst forms of the infection.

“These diseases can be prevented by vaccination and it is absolutely vital to do this even if there haven’t been any outbreaks of these diseases in your area yet. These diseases can spread rapidly and by the time there is an outbreak in your area and your rabbits aren’t vaccinated – it may be too late.”

Regular visits to the vet are important as they can help identify any other potential health or wellbeing issues. The RSPCA has been involved with RAW since its inception and strongly encourages rabbit owners to visit their vets regularly to ensure their rabbits are kept healthy and happy.

Caroline Allen, London Veterinary Director at the RSPCA said: "As well as providing vital protection against killer diseases when you visit your vet for a vaccination your rabbit will be thoroughly examined for any other health issues. It's a great opportunity to have a 'health MOT'. Sadly, far too many rabbits are still dying from totally preventable diseases and regular vaccinations and health checks are a vital part of keeping your rabbits healthy and safe."

Information on this year’s Rabbit Awareness Week campaign will be announced at a later date. For updates, please follow @RabbitAwareness on social media platforms.

For more expert advice on rabbit welfare and top tips on responsible ownership, please visit www.rabbitawarenessweek.co.uk

*PDSA Animal Wellbeing Report 2018 (www.pdsa.org.uk/pawreport) – number of rabbits based on the estimated population of 1 million pet rabbits in the UK.

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A former pet shop in Sheringham, North Norfolk, which closed in September, is set to be turned into a store selling pies, sausage rolls and pasties.

Norfolk’s Pie Man has applied for a change of use at the site in Station Road. The pet shop shut down after 20 years without warning in September, to the dismay of regular customers and four staff members, who found themselves without jobs.

In a statement submitted with the plans, Mr Anthony Mattocks, who trades as Norfolk’s Pie Man, said: “The exterior of the heritage asset will not be changed, so there will be no negative impact. I intend to bring its appearance back to its former glory as it has recently been neglected and run-down.”

Cycling to gold medal-winning glory, riding in the Cheltenham Festival and a heroic attempt to climb Mount Everest are all part of Victoria Pendleton's passion for adventure. Now, this most illustrious of Olympians is set to appear at BETA International 2019, where she will share her past accomplishments and future challenges.

Victoria, who was made CBE in 2013, will attend the trade fair on Monday 21 January. She will be interviewed by Philip Ghazala at The Charles Owen Spotlight and enjoy a tour of the halls, meeting exhibitors and visitors.

One of Britain's most successful athletes, Victoria won gold at the Beijing 2008 and London 2012 Olympic Games for track cycling. She is also nine times world and Commonwealth champion. In 2015, three years after retiring from cycling, Victoria swapped saddles to become a jump jockey with the sole intention of competing at the Cheltenham Festival despite having never previously ridden a horse. She allowed herself only 12 months to prepare before successfully taking the challenge in her stride – coming fifth over a three-mile course with 22 fences in 2016.

Teaming up with Brendan Cole, Victoria delighted Saturday-night TV viewers of hit show Strictly Come Dancing as the pair tripped the light fantastic in a stylish attempt to salsa and tango their way to the top. Although the experience did not result in a trophy, it did highlight that Victoria is a great sport – no matter what the discipline.

Her recent attempt with Ben Fogle to conquer Mount Everest captured the nation's imagination when she appeared on ITV's Our Everest Challenge, which charted her effort to scale the huge and unforgiving mountain. Unfortunately, altitude sickness had a near-fatal effect on her and she followed medical advice to abandon her attempt on the summit.

“We are thrilled that Victoria is coming to the show,” said BETA International organiser Claire Thomas. “Her sporting career has been truly amazing and we have all been extremely impressed with her recent climbing challenge. She certainly has some stories to tell and we can't wait to hear them. We are sure that Victoria will be given a warm welcome by everyone.”

BETA International is the leading trade fair for equestrian, country clothing, outdoor and pet products. The 2019 show takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, from 20 to 22 January. Entry is strictly trade only, with free registration at www.beta-int.com/visit. For further information about the show, please contact Clair Webster, telephone +44 (0)1937 582111 or email clairw@beta-int.com

Over the past two years, Britain’s Henry Wag has been rapidly expanding its range of products focused on dogs for the UK and overseas markets. But at BETA International in January Henry Wag will launch its first product specifically designed for horses - its microfibre Equine Noodle Glove Towel.

As a lifestyle brand, Henry Wag focuses on improving the health and wellbeing of dogs and horses. All its products promote a more active outdoor lifestyle which brings about a closer relationship between humans and animals.

Whilst developing a similar product for dogs, research revealed that horse owners could see the proposed towel being useful for maintaining Equine health by removing mud and water. Louise, one of the team decided to see whether Henry Wag’s successful dog microfibre products would work with horses. And from that trial a new product range has been developed and tested with our end user panel and is ready for its 2019 launch. This focus explains why the launch of the equine range was brought forward to coincide with the BETA show.

The Equine Noodle Glove Towel has soft, highly absorbent microfibre noodles. This makes cleaning and drying simple and is effective in removing dirt and water from a horse's lower legs and head.

It’s ideal for use after wet, muddy rides or at events to reduce the risks of infection and sores. It can be used to dry around ears and eyes. The end user panel said it’s also great for cleaning sweat after removing the saddle. The soft noodles do not pull the hair and give a silky sheen to the coat.

The glove includes a central stitch to allow great control for the rider. Manufactured from high quality 80/20 microfibre the material is great at absorbing water and collection dirt.

It is washable and dries more quickly than regular towels. It measures 80 x 35cm and will retail for £17.99 A great addition to any rider’s grooming bag.

CSJ has again seen an increase in sales of its Focus! herbs.

Sales also boomed this time last year and CSJ say they put it down to competitors getting ready for the 2019 season’s competitions.

Known as ‘The secret training aid’, Focus! has become the ‘go to’ supplement for owners with dogs that are nervy, difficult or simply lacking in concentration.

The results speak for themselves in comments received from people like Martin Eubank of the Live Wires Flyball Team (3 x British Champions & former European Champions) who told them, "Focus! has made a real difference to my youngest 'excitable' high performance Flyball dog. After a short time on Focus! she was noticeably more controlled in the ring and concentrating significantly better on her racing. Focus! has significantly improved the consistency of my dog's performance, and I strongly recommend it."

With users across the spread of canine sports, and contestants looking forward for example to the Aviemore Sled Dog Race in January plus those taking part in Agility, Obedience, Show and Flyball at Crufts in March, CSJ are keeping stocks high to meet demand.

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

Law Print Pack, suppliers of flexible packaging to a number of industries including pet food, has been awarded the BRC Global Standard's highest grade following an extensive audit against its Agents & Brokers Issue 2 certification.

The Manchester-based company was awarded the AA grade following the audit on November 16.

The latest version of the accreditation goes into more depth than last year’s, with additional requirements to be met for product safety in line with EU regulations.

Law Print’s Quality Assurance Manager Kevin Langan said: “The accreditation provides customers with an increased confidence in the products we supply. Having the BRC’s top grade is vital for us, because understandably, everyone looks out for it – you need to know you can trust your packaging supplier especially when it comes to food-grade products. We are one of only a few operations, to maintain a BRC certified supply chain from source to delivery, within the UK”

The BRC Global Standard for Agents and Brokers has been developed to provide a framework for managing product safety, quality and legality for these non-manufacturing businesses in the food and packaging industries.

For more information, visit the BRC website here.

Law Print’s BRC AA Grade is effective from January 2.

Recently opened Bath Country Pets is already creating national interest – including coverage on the Daily Mail website – in its boutique dog hotel, which offers five-star accommodation. Owner Emma Edwards, who runs the business with husband Neil, takes Pet Trade Xtra on a tour of this unique pet store and hotel.

“Our life is very much about our kids and our animals and creating a positive and healthy environment for them to flourish in,” says Emma.  “We have always included dogs as part of our family and they have been the inspiration for us to launch our new business. 

“We felt there was a clear gap in the market for families like us, who have canine pets, but who would not feel comfortable leaving them in a traditional kennel environment.

“And finally, Autumn 2018 saw the official launch of Bath Country Pets’ luxury and very cool boutique dog hotel.”

Emma has a background in brand management, design and marketing while Neil has vast experience in the leisure industry, so the pair were well placed to create the perfect place for dogs to stay.

“We think our hotel for dogs is unique,” adds Emma. “We’ve taken the time to make sure that it oozes rural chic, from the American barn-style exterior with its clock tower and Labrador weather vane, around which swallows swoop, to the cosy interior.”

There are four acres of gardens and meadows for visiting dogs to enjoy outside, with fun and games and lots of attention on offer from the Bath Country Pets team.

Individual bedrooms, each named after a famous Bath landmark, are airy, spacious and clean with soft, naturally hypoallergenic and anti-microbial sheep’s wool-stuffed beds and a selection of well-designed and stimulating toys. Wood fuelled under-floor heating ensures that dogs will be warm and comfortable in winter, and natural sheep’s wool insulation keeps the building cool in warmer weather.

The cosy guest lounge features a wood burning stove/cooker, kitchen area, seating and tables for pet owners to enjoy a hot drink and socialise with other customers. Eventually this room will be used to host talks, seminars and other dog-related events.

“We believe in making each day for our guests different, rewarding and fun,” says Emma. “We go on ‘excursion walks’ in the lovely surrounding Cotswold countryside, where we encounter new smells, rivers, streams, woodlands and hills.  We offer a well-balanced and nutritious diet, featuring natural organic foods and carbon filtered water, and time for rest and peaceful sleep in our quiet rural location.

“Our attention to detail and comprehensive service is already becoming renowned. Owners can leave their dogs in our care with confidence – we’ll sort out all their requirements and keep them regularly posted on their stay.”

Overnight stays are priced from £46 per dog – the price dependent on seasonal demand – and the response from the pet owning public has been overwhelming so far,” adds Emma.

“We are attracting dog owners who have gone years without holidays, owners who are very anxious about their pets. Our customers regard their dogs as part of the family and are looking for that nurturing environment for their pets.”

One customer said this about Bath Country Pets: “We can’t thank you enough for the wonderful care you’ve taken of Florence and Wilf. They’ve obviously had a fantastic time, and what you’ve created is utterly fabulous. Leaving them always tainted our holidays, not any more. I now don’t worry about leaving them, just that they won’t want to come home!”

For more information visit www.bathcountrypets.co.uk

This week saw the official opening of a new 70,000 sq ft factory by Devon-based Forthglade. The new premises based at the Okehampton East Business Park will support the company’s ambition to become the UK’s leading natural pet food manufacturer and is set to increase the already 130-strong local production team to 150 staff over the next few years.

Established in 1971 and previously based in Winkleigh, Forthglade’s purpose-built factory will be crucial for the company to meet the high demand of its award-winning natural pet food, which last year produced 40 million healthy meals for dogs. The new factory is set to double this production figure.  

With local building expertise from Devon Contractors Ltd, the development took 15 months to complete. The new factory will ensure the highest standards of quality and food safety, as well as raise the company’s green credentials with the use of recyclable white trays and sleeves, recycling water and by using excess steam from the production process to also heat its offices.  

Forthglade’s Joint MD’s, Chris Brooking and Gerard Lovell, both with a background in food production, took over the once struggling business in 2011, with the successful business turnaround increasing production fourfold and soon creating an additional 71 local jobs.  

Today Forthglade’s 100% natural dog food is sold in major supermarkets including Waitrose, Sainsburys, Morrison’s and Tesco, as well as UK pet shops, online and exporting oversees to 11 countries.

“We’ve been planning the development of the factory for over five years now, so it’s fantastic to officially open it. Throughout the project we’ve received incredible support from Devon County Council, whilst Devon Contractors Ltd ensured a smooth build and seamless transition from the old Winkleigh factory to our new Okehampton home," said Gerard Lovell, Joint MD, Forthglade.

“We were keen to keep the factory in Devon to retain as many of our staff as possible, in fact we’ve kept almost 100% of them and soon the team will be growing again, as the sector of premium natural meals and treats for dogs continues to see huge growth.

Forthglade marked its new factory’s official opening by donating more than 6,000 meals to three local animal charities: From left to right, Veterans With Dogs, ARC Animal Rescue Centre and Blue Cross.

Councillor Rufus Gilbert, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills, said of the development: "It has been extremely positive to have Forthglade relocate to the Okehampton East Business Park and congratulations to them for officially opening their factory this week.

"We're pleased that the County Council has been able to play a part in supporting Forthglade's move, enabling the company to remain in Devon and grow. Its new home provides a great opportunity for the brand to continue its success story in Devon and for new jobs to be created in the area."

To celebrate the launch, Forthglade donated over 6000 meals to three local Devon charities that have dogs in their care. Veterans With Dogs,  ARC - Animal Rescue Centre and The Blue Cross.

Craig Maclellan, founder of Veterans With Dogs said of the day “It’s been wonderful to receive such a generous donation from Forthglade, it will really help nourish our young pups, many of whom are just starting their training before they go off and help transform a veterans life. Being a local Okehampton resident myself, it’s been fascinating watching the factory develop and of course wonderful to see so many jobs created as a result of Forthglade’s success."

A Forthglade team picture from the past.

The Pet Industry Federation has revealed the winners of this year’s PIF Awards.  

The Awards winners were announced on Tuesday at a themed black-tie dinner at the Whittlebury Hall, Towcester, Northamptonshire.

This year’s winners are

Retailer of the Year (sponsored by Agria Pet Insurance)

Winner (Independent): Redpaw Pet Supplies, Plymouth

Winner: Kennelgate – Pets & Friends, Lichfield

Finalists: Digbys Pets & Aquatics, Skegness; The Dog House, London; PetLondon, London; The Pet Experience, Weymouth

Manufacturer of the Year (sponsored by PATS)

Winner: Natures Menu

Finalists: Danish Design; Doodlebone; Marriages Specialist Foods; Naturediet; Perf1c Bybenji

Export Strategy Award

Winner: Benevo

Finalist: Wildwash

Grooming Business of the Year (sponsored by Jelf)

Winner: KD Grooming Studio, Wincanton

Finalists: Barkingham Park Pet Spa, Neath; Canny Cuts, Shrewsbury; Muddy Pawz, Wakefield; The Dog House, London

Kennel of the Year

Winner: Home from Home Pet Care Ltd, Hull
Finalists: Orchard End Kennels, Crediton; Quintessential Quarters, Stafford

Cattery of the Year

Winner: Mayfield Cattery, Mayfield

Finalists: Chequer Trees Cattery, Heathfield; Hedgerows Cattery, Norwich; Lea Wood Cattery, Gainsborough; The Cats Whiskers, Bedford

Dog Walking Business of the Year

Winner: Happy Hounds, Winchester

Finalists: Friends for Pets, Bristol Branch; Muddy Pawz, Wakefield; Woof Walkies, Wrexham

Home Boarding Business of the Year

Winner: The Pet Joint, Denbigh

Finalists: Barking Mad, Fife & Kinross; Friends for Pets, Bristol Branch; Holidays 4 Dogs, York; Woofies Pet Services, Abergele

Dog Daycare Business of the Year

Winner: Claire’s Comfy Canines, Burnham

Finalists: Buddies Doggy Daycare, London; Doodley Dogs, Crawley; Happy Hounds, Winchester; The Wag Club, London; Willow Tree K9, Biggleswade; Woof Walkies, Wrexham

Product Innovation Award

Winner: SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap Connect

Finalists: Naturediet Eco-Friendly Packaging Range; Peak Pet Products Pet Weighter; Pet Trade Innovations Doc & Phoebe’s No Bowl System; Poppy’s Picnic; Siccaro Supreme Pro Dog Drying Robe; The Groomi

Sustainability Award

Winner: Naturediet

Finalists: Marriages Specialist Foods, Pooch & Mutt, WaggleAntics, Wildwash

Special Achievement Award

Winners: Marion Stinton, Henry Bell & Co; Matthew Hood, Marriages Specialist Foods,

Lifetime Achievment Award

Winner: Karen Pickwick, pbwnews

Nineteen 87, a new, super premium dog food which uses UK sourced ingredients and supports the 'farm-to-bowl' ethos, has launched an new e-commerce website, meaning consumers and retailers can now buy directly from the source.

Having previously stocked solely on www.petshop.co.uk and Ocado, wholesalers and independent retailers can now register for a new account on the site, placing orders for Nineteen 87 stock at wholesaler prices.

Customers can now also purchase all of Nineteen 87’s super premium, baked complete, dog food and treats online through the new website. From Taster Packs, to 1.5KG boxes and Goat Bars to Duck Bites, the full range is now available to buy direct.

The website also has a new function giving customers and retailers the option to choose whether to purchase products as a one off or to have regular orders every one, two, four, eight or 12 weeks – to help with maintaining their supply of dog food and remove the worry of re-ordering.

The launch of the new website was celebrated at The Smith & Whistle, Mayfair. Joined by ‘Dogs of Instagram’ and their owners, Graham Wheeler, brand Founder and Pet Nutritionist, talked about the benefits of baked food and the new treats on offer from the website, including fan-favourites, Goat Bars and Duck Bites.  

Cooked using a gentle baking process, plus 50% fresh meat, poultry and fish in each product, Nineteen 87 sources ingredients from within the UK and only add natural carbohydrates, vegetables and botanical vitamins and minerals.

Graham, who has always had a passion in life to eat more natural foods and help his family, including his pets, do the same. For him this means cutting out complexity, using fewer ingredients and cooking with care, hence he built Nineteen 87’s bakery in St Asaph’s, North Wales.

For more information on Nineteen 87 visit www.nineteen87.co.uk