In This Issue
Public pressure forces Pets at Home to pull out of leasing Fulham Palace Garden Centre
Pets at Home board member in storm over garden centre
Luxury online department store launches for dogs and pups
Butch & Bess appear on TV-hit programme Dragons Den
Record number of companies will exhibit at PATS Harrogate
60% increase in entrants for PetQuip Industry Awards
RWAF urges retailers to sell an exercise run as well as a hutch
98% of pet vets say owners consult 'Dr Google'
Visitors set to fly into Coletta & Tyson after opening of 4Pets department
Lily's Kitchen story creates a frenzy on Twitter
Forthglade launches campaign to put 'nature' on the menu for the nation's pets
Ancol gets ready for best-ever PATS
PetDreamHouse set to launch new bowl designs at PATS Harrogate
Do walker finds Second World War grenade on a beach
The unluckiest names for pet cats and dogs
One-eyed Spaniel wins at Highland Fieldsports Fair
National Pet Show extends reach with NEC launch
Pet Trade Xtra New Products Guide
BETA introduces breed specific nutrition
 
The UK’s Number 1* normal nutrition specialist brand is proud to announce the launch of the new BETA Breed Specific Range.
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Public pressure forces Pets at Home to pull out of leasing Fulham Palace Garden Centre



Pets at Home have pulled out of leasing Fulham Palace Garden Centre in West London, owned by The Prince's Trust, following pressure from residents liiving nearby...




Pets at Home have pulled out of leasing Fulham Palace Garden Centre in West London, owned by The Prince's Trust, following pressure from residents liiving nearby.

The green-fingered neighbours celebrated after their petition forced the pet superstore to drop their bid to lease the garden centre from Prince Charles’s charity.

Pets at Home decided on Tuesday afternoon it would not be replacing the popular garden centre after nearly 2,000 users and nearby pet store owners signed a petition against the decision.

Tessa Darling, who lives opposite the garden centre and has been leading the campaign, said: “Prince Charles is a conservationist, I’m sure if he knew Pets at Home was going to lease the centre he would be against it.

“Luckily, this is wonderful news and I am so pleased with the success of our campaign.

“Did Pets at Home and The Prince’s Trust really think they could get away with it? They seriously underestimated the people of Fulham.”

According to sources who have seen an e-mail sent yesterday from Dennis Millard, deputy chairman at Pets at Home, one of the main reasons they pulled out was because independent non-executive director of Pets at Home, Amy Stirling, is also The Prince’s Trust’s chief financial officer.

The 4,157 sq ft garden centre is in a conservation area and users and nearby pet store owners were extremely worried Pets at Home planned to put a car park over the plant area and said a pet superstore belonged on a trading estate not a beautiful conservation area.

The Prince’s Trust refused to comment on whether Pets at Home was ever an option but confirmed the garden centre will still close at the end of the month as the charity needs to focus on supporting disadvantaged young people into jobs and training.

A spokeswoman said: “We are currently exploring options for the future of the centre, which is likely to be taken on by another business. As owners of the site, we are committed to working with future tenants to reflect the character of the local surroundings.

“There has been speculation locally that Pets at Home would be taking the lease, but they have confirmed they have no plans to acquire the centre.”

Pets at Home board member in storm over garden centre
The Prince’s Trust has insisted it acted appropriately over the planned lease of  Fulham Palace Garden Centre, despite an apparent conflict of interest with Pets at Home, who have now ditched their plan to lease the site. It's believed that the pet superstore got cold feet after it became common knowledge that one of its board members Amy Stirling (pictured left) was also chief financial officer of the charity...

The Prince’s Trust has insisted it acted appropriately over the planned lease of  Fulham Palace Garden Centre, despite an apparent conflict of interest with Pets at Home, who have now ditched their plan to lease the site.

It's believed that the pet superstore got cold feet after it became common knowledge that one of its board members Amy Stirling (pictured) was also chief financial officer of the charity.

A spokeswoman for the Prince’s Trust said: "The trust’s CFO has no influence over decisions being made – the whole process is being managed by an independent surveying company, Colliers International, in line with charity law.

"We are duty-bound as a charity to focus on our core activity of supporting disadvantaged young people into jobs and training. The decision to lease the site of the garden centre is based on the very best of intentions to help more young people to get their lives on track."

The spokeswoman said that the charity understood the concerns of local residents and would "work with any future tenants to reflect the character of the local surroundings".

A spokesman for Pets at Home said he could not comment on the situation.

The garden centre was formerly known as Fairbridge Garden Centre and became part of the Prince’s Trust when it merged with the youth charity Fairbridge in 2011.

The charity’s accounts for the year to 31 March 2012 show that the garden centre generated £941,000 of the Prince’s Trust’s £55.3m total income for the year. It had nine members of staff.

Luxury online department store launches for dogs and pups



Inspired by her own love of shopping in department stores, businesswoman Jane Hogan has launched Dog & Pup, an online store offering luxury gifts, treats, clothing and accessories from top UK and upcoming pet brands...



Inspired by her own love of shopping in department stores, businesswoman Jane Hogan has launched Dog & Pup, an online store offering luxury gifts, treats, clothing and accessories from top UK and upcoming pet brands.

Just a few of the established brands showcasing their products in the store are Mutts & Hounds, Hugo & Hennie, Pooch & Mutt and Lily’s Kitchen. In addition, Dog & Pup is the first start-up store in the UK ever to be allowed to sell Diamond Dogs’ luxury dog collars, and is currently featuring its brand new range.

Jane Hogan also has ambitions to help as many small dog charities as possible, by giving a unique code to any charities that would like to partner with the store. When supporters make a purchase using the code, 5% of the price of the item is donated to the individual charity. 

Jane said: “I came up with the idea for Dog & Pup because I love to shop in department stores, where I know that brands and products have been selected with a bit of thought and care and I trust them to introduce me to new brands. A lot of my friends with family dogs felt the same way. This is the third business I have started from scratch, it seemed like the natural thing to do.

“It’s been great fun to do – highlights for me have been having ten dogs in the studio at the same time to film the store’s promotional video, and having all the family involved. My six year old daughter Phoebe has a great grasp of products and she does ‘Phoebe’s Product Picks’ video reviews, while Caitlin her twin sister looked after the dogs we use for the photography and video sessions.

“I wanted to create something similar to John Lewis (my favourite department store), specifically for people with dogs in the family, as a one-stop shop for stylish, well designed products that will fit beautifully into their homes and their environments without compromising on functionality.

“I’m thrilled to have a number of top quality brands on board already, but I also love discovering and working with small artisan businesses. I’ve had a great reaction so far to the look and feel of the site and the product collections, and we’re adding the latest fashions all the time to ensure that Dog & Pup is the go-to place for stylish essentials, gifts and treats for modern dogs and puppies.”

Dog & Pup ships to customers in mainland Europe, the US and Canada and Australia and New Zealand.

Find out more at www.dogandpupstore.com, follow Dog & Pup on Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram @dogandpupstore, or ‘Like’ the Facebook page at facebook.com/dogandpupstore.

Butch & Bess appear on TV-hit programme Dragons Den
Butch & Bess, the natural pet grooming product company from Borehamwood, has made an appearance on the latest broadcast of popular BBC television programme, Dragons’ Den...



Butch & Bess, the natural pet grooming product company from Borehamwood has made an appearance on the latest broadcast of popular BBC television programme, Dragons’ Den. 

Founders Mark Hirschel and Jo Amit delivered a concise pitch about their range of essential oil based grooming products for consumers and professionals during a filming session in May.

Despite their best efforts, the duo didn’t secure investment from the show’s multi-millionaire dragons Peter Jones, Duncan Banatyne, Deborah Meaden, Kelly Hoppen and Piers Linney. 

“It was a once in a lifetime experience, but we were gutted with how the episode was edited in the end. We were only given a few seconds air time, and the full range of thoughts and opinions of the dragons weren’t broadcast,” explains Mark Hirschel.

“Our pitch included our own dogs wearing some of our very popular pet perfumes. Peter Jones took a sniff of my dog Roxy, and said it was the best smelling dog he had ever smelled! We would have loved that comment to make the final cut, but it wasn’t to be.”

Even though they did not get the result they hoped for, Jo and Mark say they were still glad to have gone on the show and still believe in their business and its products.

Jo Amit added: “We’re pleased we went on the show, but ultimately the participants don’t have any control over what is broadcast and what is not. But we know our products are valued very highly by pet owners and professionals across the country. It just confirms what we knew all along, our products are made for dogs, not dragons.” 

Butch & Bess was only established in November 2013, and since that time the company has developed a product range which consists of professional grooming conditioning shampoos, ready-to-use conditioning shampoos, daily coat sprays, natural pet perfumes, detangler sprays, as well as pet bed and car deodorisers. 

Visit www.butchandbess.com for further information about Butch & Bess products.

Record number of companies will exhibit at PATS Harrogate


PATS Harrogate has attracted a record number of exhibiting companies – 170 in total - to next month’s autumn showpiece, and looks set to be one of the most successful in the event’s six-year history...



PATS Harrogate has attracted a record number of exhibiting companies – 170 in total - to next month’s autumn showpiece, and looks set to be one of the most successful in the event’s six-year history.

An impressive total of 44 of the exhibitors will be first-timers at the Harrogate show on Sunday, September 14, and Monday, September 15, as more pet suppliers and manufacturers recognise that PATS is the perfect place to unveil their new products.

“We’ve been amazed at the demand for stand space at PATS Harrogate this year,” said organiser Annie Foord. “And it’s great to welcome so many companies who haven’t exhibited at our Harrogate show before.

“To accommodate everyone we’ve had to maximize the space available in Halls B, C and M, and we’re optimistic there will be a fantastic atmosphere over both days of the show.

“With so many companies exhibiting hundreds of new products, visitors will be spoilt for choice. There will be so many things to see and do, so if you haven’t registered to attend yet, my advice would be to do so now.

“Already, I sense a buzz of excitement and there’s still over three weeks to go before the doors are opened. There’s definitely a lot more confidence circulating through the industry, so when everyone comes together under one roof it should culminate in an event to remember.”

One of the most popular features at PATS is the New Product Showcase and Awards, and entries are flooding in to the organisers’ office. Manufacturers recognise that successful products have a great chance of becoming bestsellers because a panel of independent pet retailers decides the awards. And past winners admit that winning an award can certainly increase the profile of the products to the trade.

The Showcase is designed to help visitors to find the latest and most exciting products to hit the pet trade, as they are gathered together in one, extensive display in Hall B.

PATS-2012-077

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

The free-to-attend series of seminars will cover topics including: an insight into the life-saving abilities of medical detection dogs; pay-offs and penalties in the dog-human relationship; retailing RAW pet foods; 30 ways to improve your business in 30 minutes; and what customers are saying about your pet business online.

There will also be live grooming demonstrations from Groom Team England experts, and lots of show offers to complete two full days of activities for visiting retailers and buyers.

PATS features free entry, free catalogue and a free park-and-ride scheme. A full and up-to-date list of exhibitors is available on the website www.patshow.co.uk, where visitors can register to attend.

Opening times

Sunday, 14th September 2014: 9.00am-5.00pm

Monday, 15th September 2014: 9.00am-4.00pm

60% increase in entrants for PetQuip Industry Awards
A 60% increase in entrants for the PetQuip Industry Awards in 2014 reflects the vibrancy of the UK pet product sector, according to the PetQuip association. The award presentations and party are set to take place alongside the PATS exhibition in Harrogate next month and main sponsors this year will be Petface, PATS and STAX...

A 60% increase in entrants for the PetQuip Industry Awards in 2014 reflects the vibrancy of the UK pet product sector, according to the PetQuip association. The award presentations and party are set to take place alongside the PATS exhibition in Harrogate next month and main sponsors this year will be Petface, PATS and STAX.

Designed to bring together suppliers and retailers in the UK and internationally, the PetQuip Awards’ event was an unqualified success in its inaugural year in 2013.

“Winners of awards last year have reported that the accolades have contributed to their business success since their wins and this could have had a bearing on the rise in applications this year," said Pat Flynn, PetQuip’s trade association manager. 

“A recent well-publicised example is Pure Pet Food. The company used its success in winning the PetQuip Pet Product Innovation as part of its impressive pitch to TV’s Dragon’s Den team, and cited the fact that they had won the award from the world renowned trade body PetQuip as a factor in their successful development. Interestingly, the Product Innovation award category has attracted over 50 nominations this year.

“The sheer number of this year’s nominations made it a real challenge to choose which companies or individuals should go through to final judging," Pat added, “and the finalists list reflects the very high standard of the entries we have received."

PetQuip Awards Finalists 

UK Pet Retailer of the Year

Betty & Butch, Manchester; Melbicks Garden Centre Pets Department; Baytree Garden Centre;  Pets & Aquatics; The Pet Centre (Shirley) Ltd, Solihull; Pets at Home.

 

International Pet Retailer of the Year

Animalis, France; Meiko, Switzerland; Petco, USA; TiendAnimal, Spain.

Supplier of the Year

Burgess Pet Care; Dorwest Herbs; Hagen; Nature’s Menu; Pet Revolution.

 

Wholesaler of the Year

Bestpets; Collarways; Pedigree Wholesale; Peregrine Livefoods; Vital Pet Products.

 

Pet Product Innovation of the Year

Beaphar; Burgess Pet Care; Butch & Bess; The Canny Company Ltd; Christies Direct; Dorwest Herbs; Group 55 (Animology); Pet Munchies; Pet Revolution; Pooch & Mutt; Precious Pets; Sureflap; Town & Country Petfoods.

 

Exporter of the Year

Baggee & Doggee; Christies Global; Group 55 (Animology); Pet Revolution; Spotless Punch (Get Off); Tasty Bone

 

Lifetime Achievement Award

The winner of this award will be announced on the night.

The entries will be judged by an independent panel of judges during August and the winners will be announced at the PetQuip Awards Party at the Majestic Hotel, Harrogate on 14 September 2014. The event, being staged in association with Impact Exhibitions, the organiser of PATS, will combine a lively mix of industry competition with an element of fun that will include music from The Rockits, the resident band from the Cavern Club in Liverpool.

Tickets for the awards ceremony and party night are available from PetQuip’s trade association manager, Pat Flynn on telephone (+44) 07778 313623 or e-mail:  pat@petquip.com; or from the PetQuip secretariat on 01959 565995 or e-mail:  info@petquip.com

RWAF urges retailers to sell an exercise run as well as a hutch


The Rabbit Welfare Association and Fund (RWAF) is urging all retailers to ‘think run’ this summer, and make sure that they sell an exercise run as well as a hutch.



The Rabbit Welfare Association and Fund (RWAF) is urging all retailers to ‘think run’ this summer, and make sure that they sell an exercise run as well as a hutch. 

"There are lots of great products available on the market now and all retailers can source 6ft hutches and large exercise runs," said Rae Todd, of the RWAF.

"We recommend a floor space of 10ft x 6ft for a pair of rabbits (a single rabbit needs the same space as this!) so if your customers have a hutch already but no exercise run it is an opportunity to explain the benefits of allowing rabbits constant access to a safe exercise area, and make a sale! Good welfare is good business. 

"The RWAF is recommending that retailers get in touch with The Hutch Company who supply a 6ft x 4ft x 2ft exercise run. This is smaller than what we recommend as a minimum but we realise that retailers need to be able to cater for every budget and those customers who have the space and funds for bigger can join two together.

"Getting rabbits out of hutches and into exercise runs so that they can chose when they exercise and when they rest is a step in the right direction.   

"If you would like more information on the benefits of providing  rabbits with a secure exercise run you can download some guidance from the ‘A Hutch is Not Enough’ section of our website that you can display and provide to your customers."

Visit http://www.rabbitwelfare.co.uk/pdfs/Excerciseleaflet.pdf


 
98% of pet vets say owners consult 'Dr Google'
A nationwide survey of vets by the British Veterinary Association (BVA) reveals that 98% of respondents believe their clients’ behaviour is influenced by what they find online. Four in ten vets said the owners’ online research was unhelpful, with only 6% of pet vets finding it helpful...

Pictured: BVA President Robin Hargreaves, who says: “It worries me to hear that so many people are relying on guesswork."

A nationwide survey of vets by the British Veterinary Association (BVA) reveals that 98% of respondents believe their clients’ behaviour is influenced by what they find online. Four in ten vets said the owners’ online research was unhelpful, with only 6% of pet vets finding it helpful.

The BVA’s Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey of nearly 700 vets working with companion animals also reveals that skin conditions are the most common reason for pet owners to visit their vets, with 70% saying this is one of the most common problems they see. Other common problems include gastrointestinal disorders, such as vomiting, diarrhoea and digestive problems, (mentioned by 54%) and musculoskeletal problems, including lameness (45%).

Over 80% of these pet vets have clients who bring their pets in later than they should. Early treatment is often vital in preventing more serious health concerns.

Of the 81% who had seen animals they felt should have been presented earlier, most suspected financial reasons and a lack of understanding were behind the delay. Attempts to self-diagnose and treat pets – through medication kept at home, bought online or in supermarkets – were also reported as problems.

One vet who completed the survey commented: “‘Dr Google’ often results in owners misdiagnosing conditions, followed by the client being led to believe that there is a cheap and effective ‘treatment’ obtainable online or from a pet shop…And thus animals suffer far longer than need be…”

Another vet told how a client had checked Google on the phone during his consultation with the vet and how another client had refused an operation on her dog “only to come back with the dog minutes later in a blind panic because the internet had agreed with my advice.” This vet commented:

“It is frustrating that some people appear to genuinely believe that a veterinary degree and a quick search on Google are the same thing.”

BVA President and small animal vet, Robin Hargreaves (pictured), said: “It worries me to hear that so many people are relying on guesswork or unverified internet sources for health advice for their pets. While there is some useful information about pet behaviour and health available online, particularly from the established animal charities, the best source of information for animal health concerns will always be your vet who knows your pet.

“Given the number of animals with skin problems I see in my own practice I’m not surprised to hear how common they are. I’d strongly encourage owners to visit a vet early if their pet is scratching or licking themselves a lot or showing other signs of skin discomfort.

“Issues such as parasites, fungal infections and allergies are often easily treated but are difficult for owners to diagnose accurately at home. The outcomes are often good if they’re brought in early but can develop into more unpleasant conditions if left untreated.”

For more information on pet care from BVA vets, visit www.bva.co.uk 

For more information on the Voice of Veterinary Profession survey, visit www.bva.co.uk/voice

Visitors set to fly into Coletta & Tyson after opening of 4Pets department



Coletta & Tyson Garden Centre is fast becoming one of East Yorkshire’s most attractive visitor destinations. The Woodmansey-based centre has recently completed a major refurbishment of its café, expanded its retail offering and now features one of the best pet shops in the area...




Coletta & Tyson Garden Centre is fast becoming one of East Yorkshire’s most attractive visitor destinations.

The Woodmansey-based centre has recently completed a major refurbishment of its café, expanded its retail offering and now features one of the best pet shops in the area.

4Pets offers everything customers need to feed, house and care for their pets and its staff are passionate and knowledgable about the animals and products that it stocks.

It boasts a selection of small pets includes rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, mice, chinchillas, gerbils and hamsters.

Its live birds range is extensive and includes finches, lovebirds, ring necks, kakarkis, budgies and cockatiels. It also sells specialist feed as well as cages, treatments, toys and treats.

The department also features reptiles, aquatics and wildlife and birdcare.

Paul Tyson, of Coletta & Tyson, said: “The 4Pets department is a real feather in the cap of the centre and something we are really pleased to be able to offer our visitors.

“Coletta & Tyson has historically been about wholesale horticulture, but we want to offer much more than that. As well as growing both the wholesale and the retail sides of the business, we are endeavouring to offer local people a garden centre where they can come and enjoy a relaxing morning or afternoon.

“4Pets is an area we have been developing for some time and offers something a little different to the norm. Our 4pets experts are always around to provide some interesting stories and tell you more about the animals. The newly refurbished Oasis Café also overlooks the aquatics zone as well as having views across the centre.

“Visitors can now come to Coletta & Tyson, spend time exploring what we have to offer, learn about the animals and make a day of their visit.”

 
Lily's Kitchen story creates a frenzy on Twitter
A story about Lily's Kitchen pet food, which appeared in last week's Pet Trade Xtra, created a mass of interest on Twitter after TV presenter Kirsty Allsopp tweeted: "Very interesting points made. @lilyskitchen defends decision to sell new range in Tesco."
A story about Lily's Kitchen pet food, which appeared in last week's Pet Trade Xtra, created a mass of interest on Twitter after TV presenter Kirsty Allsopp tweeted: "Very interesting points made. @lilyskitchen defends decision to sell new range in Tesco."

In the story 
Henrietta Morrison, managing director and founder of Lily's Kitchen, defended the company's decision to launch a new range called Lily's exclusively in Tesco following criticism from independent pet retailers. 

"It’s about time we stood up for ourselves and stopped apologising here at Lily’s Kitchen," Henrietta told Pet Trade Xtra.

Kirsty Allsopp's tweeting helped to boost insterest in the story, which has become the most read item ever with more than 1,500 clicks.

 
Forthglade launches campaign to put 'nature' on the menu for the nation's pets
Natural pet food brand Forthglade has launched an integrated marketing campaign to promote its range of nutritionally balanced products for dogs and cats to pet-owners in the UK...

Natural pet food brand Forthglade has launched an integrated marketing campaign to promote its range of nutritionally balanced products for dogs and cats to pet-owners in the UK.

The high quality pet food brand, which is based in the heart of the Devonshire countryside, will use PR and retail marketing activity to encourage trial and purchase, ultimately driving the product range into more shopping baskets in the UK. The brand has appointed communications agency Bray Leino to champion Forthglade as the food of choice for healthy and happy pets. 

Currently available from Pets at Home (in-store and online) as well as most independent pet shops, Forthglade products are free from artificial flavours, colours and preservatives and use fresh meat that is responsibly sourced and *fit for human consumption. The all-natural ingredients are slow cooked to lock in goodness, providing a nutritionally rich meal for Forthglade pets.

The brand provides three ranges for dogs; ‘Natural Lifestage’, ‘Natural Menu’ and a frozen range, in convenient 125g and 395g SKUs, as well as 12x395g multipacks. They also provide a ‘Natural cat’ range in three 125g SKUs.   .

Gerard Lovell, Forthglade Joint Managing Director comments: “We believe that dogs and cats should be fed a wholesome and nutritious diet, which is why we’ve created a range of foods that are designed to help keep pets healthy and happy, and we can’t wait to share our products with more UK shoppers.

"We regularly attend trade shows, and know from speaking to pet-owners first-hand what a difference diet can make to everything from coat condition to digestive health. Like our customers, our pets mean everything to us, and that’s why we’re putting our passion into a marketing campaign which we hope will bring tasty, nutritious Forthglade dinners to dogs and cats throughout the nation.”

 For more infromation visit www.forthglade.com  

 
Ancol gets ready for best-ever PATS
This year’s PATS Harrogate will be special for Ancol as it will also be the first time the company is able to display all of its new products in one place...

This year’s PATS Harrogate will be special for Ancol as it will also be the first time the company is able to display all of its new products in one place. 

Sales Director Sarah Lane comments: “Our 2014 catalogue has been extremely well received and we have had an unprecedented level of positive feedback from retailers and customers. We are delighted that our retailers have seen an increase in sales this year, with our Small Bite range, Viva retractable lead and British made leather items being of particular interest.”

The main focus of Ancol’s stand will be the Small Bite display and showing how well the products within the range complement one another.

It will also feature the hugely successful Viva lead and demonstrate how the range is an excellent alternative to competitive brands. In addition, Ancol will be showcasing its new collars and leads, dog beds and ceramic feeding bowls. And the popular new toy range is sure to attract interest, as it has experienced a 75% increase in sales since its launch in May.

Sarah adds: “PATS is always a great exhibition for us. We look forward to sharing our new ranges with our customers and saying hello to our old friends.”

For more information on Ancol visit www.ancol.co.uk or talk to your local sales representative. 

 
PetDreamHouse set to launch new bowl designs at PATS Harrogate
PetDreamHouse has received fantastic feedback on the bowls it launched early this year, and has now improved the product images and packaging based on its clients' feedbacks to make them even better...


PetDreamHouse has received fantastic feedback on the bowls it launched early this year, and has now improved the product images and packaging based on its clients' feedbacks to make them even better.

The company will be showcasing some new designs at PATS Harrogate next month, and for the first time ever, pioneering a pre-order program which genuinely maximises the client's profit.

PetDreamHouse are on stand J19 at PATS Harrogate.

Do walker finds Second World War grenade on a beach
A dog walker playing fetch on a beach reached for a pebble to throw to her pet - only to find she had picked up a Second World War grenade...

A dog walker playing fetch on a beach reached for a pebble to throw to her pet - only to find she had picked up a Second World War grenade.

After picking up the dangerous explosive, Clair Watson, 41, called over to another walker and he phoned his son - who just happens to be an Army explosives expert.

He set up a cordon - averting a potentially deadly game of fetch - and called in a bomb disposal team to the beach at Dovercourt, near Harwich, Essex, on Monday.

Mrs Watson and her dog Bonnie found the fifth grenade in as many weeks on the beach, prompting the police to issue a warning to walkers.

Speaking of the heart-stopping moment, Mrs Watson said: 'I was going to throw it for the dog.

'It wasn't until I picked it up that I thought that is a weird looking stone.

'It didn't look like a hand grenade at all at first, but then I looked it.

'I said to my husband: "What the hell is that?". He said it looked like a hand grenade.'

A bomb disposal squad, police officers and the coastguard rushed to the beach and safely removed the explosive.

Inspector Paul Butcher, of Essex Police, said the grenades might have been in a crate that ended up in the sea during WWII.

He said: 'That crate might be breaking up or has been disturbed by dredging and has resulted in these devices being washed ashore along the same stretch of beach.

'We are asking people to be vigilant if visiting this beach and to dial 999 if they find any of these devices.

'Some of them have been covered in barnacles but the one yesterday looked almost as new despite being in the sea, possibly for many years.

'Anyone who finds a grenade should not touch it or move it but should call police immediately.'

Councillors are also considering a metal detector 'sweep' of the beach to search for any more explosive devices that could be hidden among the pebbles.

 
The unluckiest names for pet cats and dogs

If you have a cat called Felix or a dog called Megan, then you might like to check your pet insurance. For research shows that these are the unluckiest names for our pets...



If you have a cat called Felix or a dog called Megan, then you might like to check your pet insurance.

For research shows that these are the unluckiest names for our pets.

Smokey, Oscar and Kitty are also among the monikers that are bad luck for cats. For dogs, there is also Monty, Barney and Benji.

The results have been revealed by Saga Pet Insurance, which also shows what are the most popular names for our pets among the over 50s.

For cats, it's Molly, Oscar and Tigger - and Molly is also the top name for dogs, with Poppy and Max just behind.

The most popular cat and dog names for Britain’s over 50s:

Cat                       

Dog                    

1. Molly

1. Molly

2. Oscar

2. Poppy

3. Tigger

3. Max

4. Daisy

4. Charlie

5. Lucy

5. Alfie

6. Rosie

6. Jack

7. Tilly

7. Toby

8. Charlie

8. Millie

9. Smudge

9. Lucy

10. Poppy

10. Sam

The top 10 most unlucky names for cats and dogs:

Cat                        

Dog                         

1. Felix

1. Megan

2. Archie

2. Monty

3. Bailey

3. Tess

4. Amber

4. Henry

5. Holly

5. Misty

6. Smokey

6. Ollie

7. Oscar

7. Barney

8. Kitty

8. Cassie

9. Alfie

9. Benji

10. Oliver

10. Ellie

Records show that pets with these names have had an unusually high amount of claims/vet visits compared to other cats and dogs with a popular name.

The figures show that dogs called Megan are three times as likely to have a pet visit as the average dog. While cats called Felix are almost twice as likely to have to see the vet as the average puss.

Animal                   

Unusual names given to pets by over-50s owners                      


Cat


Lady Gaga, Madame Flutterby, Rawlplug, Schrodinger, Scampi


Dog


Frodo, Asterix, Gazza, Offy, Padme, Spigot, Dog


Guinea pig


Chaka Khan, Biscuit, Peppa, Whoopie, Dudley


Rabbit


Bilbo, Cognac, Thumper, Sweep


Parrot


Asbo, Porker, Fashion, Norma, Dougal


Parakeet


Baldrick, Pearly, Lulu


Hamster


Beyonce Beelzebub, Yoda


Tortoise


Theophulus, Gatsby, Speedy, Sheba


Rat


Squeak, Sausage, Snap, Jean

One-eyed Spaniel wins at Highland Fieldsports Fair
CSJ were surprised to hear a heart-warming story following the hugely successful Highland Fieldsports Fair, held at Moy, where they had sponsored the Spaniel events...

CSJ were surprised to hear a heart-warming story following the hugely successful Highland Fieldsports Fair, held at Moy, where they had sponsored the Spaniel events.

Martyn Ryan sent a note to CSJ thanking them for their sponsorship and added: “PS.  A nice wee story...Barbera Matheson, one of life’s really nice people, and a long-time supporter of our Moray Firth Spaniel events explained to me before the event that her dog Scott had to have an eye removed three weeks prior to the event due to a benign tumour. She did not want anyone to know, but told me in case it all went pear shaped on the day. ***Only went on to win the novice***! Go Barbera and Scott.”

Barbera and English Springer Spaniel, official name Beam Me Up Scottie came first in the Novice class  – it seems that Scott really lived up to his name!

 
National Pet Show extends reach with NEC launch
The National Pet Show will take place at the NEC, Birmingham on 20-21 September 2014, extending its reach to a UK-wide audience with the launch of a Midlands edition...


The National Pet Show will take place at the NEC, Birmingham on 20-21 September 2014, extending its reach to a UK-wide audience with the launch of a Midlands edition.

The public event, which will take place in Hall 20, will build on the success of the annual London Pet Show and is dedicated to animal lovers. Key messages include responsible pet ownership and animal welfare. 

“We’re delighted to welcome the National Pet Show to the NEC, enabling the organisers to benefit from the central location of the venue to maximise attendance figures,” said David Gallagher, the NEC’s New Business Development Manager.

“Not only do we have Birmingham Airport and Birmingham International Railway Station on our doorstep, but we’re situated at the heart of the national motorway network with 75% of the UK’s population within a three-hour drive time of the venue.”

Nicole Cooper, Group Show Director at Brand Events added: “Our London edition is a huge success, but we wanted to launch a truly national event and the NEC ticked all the boxes. The National Pet Show will offer a fantastic day out with hundreds of different animals to see and touch, amazing animal action displays and fun and informative talks and demos. It’s the perfect opportunity for animal lovers of all ages to have fun as well as picking up the latest information on keeping their pets happy and healthy.”

The National Pet Show is divided into key areas - Discover Dogs, Discover Cats, Discover Small Furries, Discover Ponies and Discover Animals - to make it easier for visitors to make their way around and to keep the animals safe and happy within their own zones.

Standout attractions include the SuperDogs Live competition with Ben Fogle and Channel 4 Supervet Noel Fitzpatrick featuring talented, entertaining and heroic dogs; rabbit show jumping, duck herding, and the opportunity to get up close with all of the animals from the cute and cuddly to the weird and wonderful.

 
BETA introduces breed specific nutrition
The UK’s Number 1* normal nutrition specialist brand is proud to announce the launch of the new BETA Breed Specific Range.



The UK’s Number 1* normal nutrition specialist brand is proud to announce the launch of the new BETA Breed Specific Range.  As dog breed groups have similar characteristics and needs, BETA Breed Specific products offer high quality and Complete Dry Dog nutrition tailored for the 4 most popular breed families – Spaniels, Shepherds and Setters, Terriers and Retrievers.

The Advanced Nutrition category is currently the only segment of the market offering tailored nutrition for a variety of different breed types.  Pet owners believe their dogs are special and those shopping for Normal Nutrition brands in the Specialist channel are likely to be looking for tailored, quality nutrition too.  PURINA, with its 85 years of expertise in dog nutrition and behaviour has carefully developed the Breed Group Specific range offering tailored nutrition for specific breed groups.

It is important for consumers to understand how each recipe is tailored to the individual needs of the different breed types and the new pack format allows simple communication of the benefits for each breed.  There is also a strong visual link on front of pack to the breeds they are developed for and the imagery used.

Here is a summary of how each recipe has been specifically formulated for each breed type:

  • Spaniels are lively by nature which means they need a food that will sustain their energy needs throughout the day.  BETA Spaniels is specially formulated with high levels of protein and fat to help them maintain their extremely active nature and vitality for life.  Also suitable for hunting dogs.
  • Shepherds and Setters are natural born explorers but they can be more prone to sensitive digestion.  BETA Shepherds and Setters is specially formulated with ingredients that are easy on dog’s intestines and contains all the right nutrients to help keep muscle mass in peak condition.
  • Terriers are always on the lookout for adventure and love a good run around in the hope of finding it.  BETA Terriers formula is a balanced mix of nutrients designed to replenish energy, help maintain muscle mass and help keep bones strong and healthy.
  • Retrievers love playtime – and they also love mealtimes.  BETA Retrievers is a specially balanced formula with all the nutrients needed for a healthy, active life but with reduced fat levels compared with BETA Adult to help keep optimal body condition.

For more information please contact your PURINA Business Development Manager or visit www.purina-beta.co.uk

*Reg. Trademark of Société des Produits Nestlé S.A.

*IRI value share – Total pet specialist w/e 9th Nov 2013 (excluding PAH)

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