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Poundland has launched an investigation into claims that a cat nearly died after wearing a PetStar flea collar bought from one of its stores.Adele Ankers bought two of the PetStar products from Poundland in Maidstone – one for her cat Lewi and another for Yorkshire terrier Meeko. But within hours of putting on the £1 collar the 13-year-old cat started having seizures, while her dog was left with a burned neck. The 51-year-old, from East Park Road in Aylesford, told the Kent Messenger newspaper: “Lewi’s head was thrashing, she was frothing at the mouth. Her legs were going and I held her safe. “I wouldn’t wish it on anybody, it was horrible to watch. My animals are everything to me.” Mrs Ankers called the PDSA and Lewi was admitted as a priority to their Gillingham pet hospital the following morning, where she was kept on a drip for two days. She was readmitted for a further two days after having another major fit at home the evening she was discharged. Mrs Ankers was told it was touch and go if Lewi would make it, but fortunately she is now recovering well. The PetStar products warn that they should be removed if the cat or dog becomes drowsy, listless or struggles to breathe. A Poundland spokesman said: “The product in question is widely available in a number of other retailers, and after speaking to the supplier they are not aware of any current issues with the product. “We are in contact with the customer and a full investigation is underway so that we can bring this matter to an acceptable conclusion.”
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American company has launched a GoBone, an app-controlled dog toy designed to keep a pet preoccupied while the owner is away.
GoBone is essentially a ‘smart’ chewy toy that can be programmed to whiz around the floor on its own.
The tough rubberised toy can be loaded with treats and has a battery life of eight hours, meaning it can be set it off before an owner leaves the house.
PulsePet claims the GoBone can adapt its play style to suit each individual dog, making it suitable for dogs of all ages, breeds and sizes. According to the company, the toy can be programmed to alternate between a ‘sleep’ and ‘wake’ mode throughout the day, allowing a dog to interact with the GoBone while at the same time providing enough breaks in between to allow it to rest.
The GoBone's shell is FDA-approved, pet-safe and machine washable, and can be replaced when necessary without having to buy a new device.
There's also a manual mode that gives owners control of the GoBone and lets them play various games with their animals, including hide-and-seek.
Santiago Gutierrez, CEO and founder of PulsePet, said the GoBone could be used to improve the lives of dogs in rescue centres. As an added boon, PulsePet believes its smart bone can help resource-stretched shelters provide each dog with sufficient exercise and mental stimulation without needing to hire more staff.
Watch it in action in the video below.
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Leading pet food manufacturer Pets Choice has been crowned this year’s Hive Business Award winners in the ‘Made in Blackburn and Darwen’ category.
Organised by the Hive business leader’s network, the Hive Business Awards celebrate the very best of business in the Blackburn with Darwen borough and nominations featured over 45 businesses across 12 categories.
The accolade celebrates manufacturing in the Blackburn and Darwen area and is a triumphant win for the pet food manufacturer.
Judges commented on Pets Choice: “This business has a proud Blackburn heritage and display excellence in manufacturing. They invest significantly and source products through local supply chains. Their reward is double digit growth and ambitious acquisition and export plans.”
Tony Raeburn, CEO of Pets Choice, said of the win: “This is a fantastic achievement for Pets Choice as we are very proud of our Blackburn heritage and our UK manufacturing. The award is testament to the hard work and commitment of the Pets Choice team and we are excited by the continued growth of the business within the Blackburn area.”
Winners of the awards were announced at the ceremony attended by representatives of Pets Choice at Blackburn Cathedral.
Pictured (left to right): Margaret Hudson, Administration Manager/PA to CEO; Scott Campbell, Finance Director; David Sharpe of award sponsors Pierce Accountants; and Melanie Eastwood, PR & Social Media Manager.
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4 in 5 vets give up time to work with animal charities
The majority of veterinary surgeons in the UK give their time and veterinary expertise at a reduced rate, while more than 2 in 5 work unpaid with animal charities and rehoming centres to treat thousands of abandoned, mistreated or injured animals each year...
As this year’s extended Volunteers’ Week kicks off, the British Veterinary Association is shining a spotlight on the majority of veterinary surgeons in the UK - more than 4 in 5 (84%) - who give their time and veterinary expertise at a reduced rate, while more than 2 in 5 work unpaid with animal charities and rehoming centres to treat thousands of abandoned, mistreated or injured animals each year.
The charitable contributions that vets make to assist animals are highlighted today with results drawn from the Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey by the British Veterinary Association (BVA), which asked vets about the arrangements they have with charities.
The results show that across the UK:
- 72% have formal arrangements with charities to provide veterinary services at a reduced fee with the figure rising to 84% when including less formal set-ups
- 43% of vets do unpaid work for animal charities or other animal welfare organisations
Charitable activities vary from practice to practice and vets and vet nurses often work with local animal rehoming centres and national animal charities to provide a range of pro bono or reduced fee services, such as health checking, medicating and treating, neutering and vaccinating.
Many vets and vet nurses give up their time providing veterinary care at animal rescue and rehoming centres to improve the health and welfare of animals in need, ranging from treating injured wildlife to caring for abandoned and mistreated dogs and cats.
Many veterinary practices provide veterinary advice to homeless people and those in housing crisis, and care for their dogs as part of the Dogs Trust Hope Project. Vets also support other projects, such as the Freedom Project, which temporarily fosters animals belonging to families fleeing domestic violence.
Overbreeding of cats and dogs contributes to thousands of unwanted and neglected pets each year. Vets help reduce the numbers and help improve animal welfare by teaming up with charities, some of which provide neutering vouchers to owners on limited incomes.
Over 300 veterinary practices undertake work for the veterinary charity PDSA, providing treatment to animals of owners on means-tested benefits. The scheme ensures some of the most disadvantaged people in society can access veterinary treatment to keep their pets healthy.
Commenting, BVA President Sean Wensley, said: “Behind these statistics are countless stories of veterinary teams – who already often work long, demanding hours – giving their time for free to support animal rescue staff and charities to care for abandoned, injured and neglected animals, as well as help owners to keep and care for much loved animals in times of hardship and crisis.
"The UK’s network of animal charities and rehoming centres do a fantastic job protecting wild and domestic animals each year.
“Animal welfare legislation is clear that animal keepers and owners are responsible for meeting their animals’ needs, and prospective animal owners must be aware of the cost and time commitment involved in animal ownership.
'But we appreciate people’s circumstances can change and that vets volunteering their time and expertise contributes not only to animal health and welfare but also to human wellbeing and our communities.”
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Almost two thirds (58%) of children between 3 and 14 are worried about going to school, with friends, bullies and teachers alike causing rising panic amongst British youngsters.
The research highlights the most common age for stress in children is between 9 and 11 years old coinciding with SATS exams in year 6.
Tell-tale signs from this age group include getting upset, becoming ‘clingy’ to you or their pet. A third of parents (33%) claim that spending time with a pet helps their 9 to 11 years old unwind and relax.
 The new research by Tetra, leader also reported children in pet households are meeting and exceeding teacher’s expectations more than non-pet households. And are more confident when interacting with others.
The type of pet also has an impact on children’s performance at school with over half (51%) believing that keeping fish had a calming effect on their child, whilst teaching them responsibility, developing social skills and encouraging cognitive development.
Dr Angharad Rudkin, Child Psychologist and Tetra Spokesperson said: "It’s concerning to hear that children as young as three are suffering from stress and it’s not surprising this peaks as they reach year six when the pressure of SATS exams becomes apparent.
"Keeping fish is a great and safe introduction into the world of pets for young children helping to teach important, transferrable skills that will benefit them throughout school and into adult life.
“Not only are different species fascinating to watch but they also provide the perfect opportunity for children to learn about various types and their behaviour. Introducing a pet to the family helps development in young children and creates a calming atmosphere in the home, benefiting the entire family.”
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With temperatures expected to soar this summer, pet owners are being warned that fleas will be making hay while the sun shines, potentially bringing misery to both pets and family members.Retailers can make the most from this unfortunate situation by ensuring they have stocked up on vet strength flea control products that will reliably solve their customers’ problems, making them both friends and profits at the same time. FIPROtec is the fipronil spot on for cats and dogs from pet healthcare experts, Beaphar.
Launched in 2015, FIPROtec promises pet owners vet strength flea control at affordable prices.
Manufactured in-house by Beaphar, FIPROtec also offers better margins to retailers than other over-the-counter fipronil products.
Counter and Floor Display Units are available, while stocks last, together with point of sale materials to help customers locate FIPROtec in store. Throughout the summer, Beaphar will be delivering a comprehensive campaign to pet owners via printed and social media, and presence at major pet shows. For further information about FIPROtec and Beaphar’s other flea control products, visit fiprotec.co.uk, email info@uk.beaphar.com, or contact your local Sales Executive or the award winning Customer Care Team on 0333 0066236.
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Spectrum Brands makes £100,000 food donation
Spectrum Brands, owners of the IAMS and Eukanuba brands in the UK and Europe, has made £100,000 of charitable donations to three animal rescue charities as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to animal welfare...
Spectrum Brands, owners of the IAMS and Eukanuba brands in the UK and Europe, has made £100,000 of charitable donations to three animal rescue charities as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to animal welfare.
Local shelters across the UK for the Retired Greyhound Trust, RSPCA and Pebbles Legacy will benefit from the generous donation of IAMS and Eukanuba cat and dog food. Both brands offer cats and dogs 100% complete premium nutrition appropriate for breed and life stage, providing them with the high quality nutrition they deserve.
Annaliese Reekie, Managing Director of IAMS and Eukanuba UK and Ireland comments: “We are delighted to be able to support these three incredible charities by feeding hundreds of rescue animals across the country.
"These charities work relentlessly to rehome and protect animals in vulnerable situations and we wanted not only to make a large food donation but also to raise awareness of the work they do and show our support.”
Kellie Ceccarelli, Veterinary Training Manager for IAMS and Eukanuba personally visited local shelters for the Retired Greyhound Trust and RSPCA.
Speaking of her experience, Kellie said: “It was really touching to be able to visit the local shelters and see first-hand the hard work and commitment that the employees and volunteers put into running the rescue centres. With hundreds of cats and dogs in need of good homes and care, it’s so important that rescue charities are given the support they need to continue.”
The Retired Greyhound Trust rehome approximately 4,000 retired racing greyhounds every year and help hundreds more through its network of over 1,000 volunteers.
Lisa Morris-Tomkins, Chief Executive of the Retired, commented: “We would like to thank everyone at Spectrum Brands for supporting our local shelters by giving our dogs a high quality, nutritious diet to enable them to achieve their full potential to live a long, happy and healthy life with their new family.
"The food donation from Spectrum Brands means that we can invest funds into other areas to enable us to help even more dogs that are in desperate need for a new, loving home. “
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Meet the next generation of Fluval U Filters
Fluval U, the world's most popular underwater filter range, has been improved to maintain its reputation for ease of use and quality, and retailers can make sure the products stand out in store with an eye catching shelf display...
Fluval U, the world's most popular underwater filter range, has been improved to maintain its reputation for ease of use and quality, and retailers can make sure the products stand out in store with an eye catching shelf display.
So why has Hagen, the company behind Fluval, changed a winning formula?
"We believe that no product is perfect and from analysing customer reviews and customer service data we have identified four key areas to make the best even better," said a spokesperson.
The four key areas are:
1. Intuitive impeller cleaning
To raise awareness on the importance of cleaning your filter's impeller, a hanging tag has been added to clearly show where the impeller is and to remind users to remove and clean it before use to reduce the amount of unnecessary product returns.
2. Improved media offering
The Biological cartridge has been re-purposed as a bio-chemical cartridge to house the new Clean & Clear cartridge, packed with special high performance resins, proven to reduce phosphate and nitrate to prevent the spread of algae.
3. Re-designed media container
The re-designed media cartridge can hold up to 10 times more debris than before and significantly reduces the volume of debris that escapes when the cartridge is removed.
4. Easy Motor Access and lead removal
The majority of power clips have now been removed to allow easy motor removal while the motor has been redesigned in a blue finish to make it clearer to users that it may be removed.
The new Fluval U filter range are packed with some great new features and have been redesigned with a sleek new look.
Retailers can transform their shelves with the Fluval U display, which makes sure the products stand out.
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Cotswold RAW’s summer roadshow gets under way
It may only be eight months since its inception but rural start-up Cotswold RAW has wasted little time establishing its own premium portfolio of ‘countryside inspired’ pet food...and the company has just embarked on a series of summer roadshows...
It may only be eight months since its inception but rural start-up Cotswold RAW has wasted little time establishing its own premium portfolio of ‘countryside inspired’ pet food.
With the all-important county roadshow having just started, Cotswold RAW has decided to respond to the ever-growing deluge of customer requests who’ve been requesting the presence of a meticulously fine chicken mince recipe for puppies.Co-founder Mark Lewis said: "We’ve always understood that no pet food portfolio is complete until it includes something for young pups looking to make the all-important transition from their mum’s milk to solid food.
"Raw is a very instinctive way of life that has served dogs well since the dawn of time, so the sooner a puppy can embrace such a nutritiously sound diet the better.
"Our Puppy proposition is based on our 80/20 recipe with the ideal calcium to phosphorous ratio for young tummies. The finer cut is ideal for smaller mouths and also includes our natural worming supplement - Diaturm - Diatomaceous Earth and Turmeric, which works alongside pumpkin seeds to provide an all-natural deworming alternative to unsavoury toxic chemicals." The latest innovation from the Cotswold RAW stable has been enthusiastically road tested by the team’s eclectic collection of pets – in this instance Chris’s latest litter of adorable Cocker Spaniels.
From Day.1 intuitive thinking has sat at the very heart of the Cotswold RAW offer which is why the Broadway based producer was the first to champion a full-bodied sausage as a convenient, portion-controlled entry point for new ‘raw recruits.’
Cotswold RAW also embraces the sort of stylish identity that’s specifically geared at pet emporiums, garden centres and farm shops looking to give raw an extra push by openly displaying the product whilst providing a welcome respite from the jumble of faceless ice cream tubs that have historically littered the raw fixture.
The Cotswold RAW’s summer roadshow includes: - Suffolk Show – 1st-2nd June
- Three Counties Dog Show – 9th-12th June
- Dogs Trust Day Out Ragley Hall – 18th June
- The Cotswold Show – 2nd- 3rd July
- Game Fair Stoneleigh Park – 23rd-24th July
- The Pet Show at Stoneleigh Park – 23rd-24th July
- Game Fair Ragley Hall – 28th-29th July
- PATS Telford (debut) 25th-26th September
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Dogrobes, one of the UK’s leading dog coat manufacturers, has announced a new partnership with dog rescue charity All Dogs Matter. The organisation helps rescue and rehome dogs in Greater London, in addition to rehoming dogs nationwide.
“It’s exciting to partner with Dogrobes, a company that clearly recognises the importance of rescuing and rehoming vulnerable dogs,” explains Ira Moss, general manager of All Dogs Matter.
“Every year we take in hundreds of unwanted dogs from kennels, homes and death row pounds. So any funds we receive from this partnership will help us treat, rehabilitate, feed, neuter, vaccinate and chip these dogs.”
The announcement comes after Dogrobes played a key part in The Great Hampstead Bark Off on Sunday 15th May, an annual event which raises money for All Dogs Matter.
Margaret Reynolds, the director of Dogrobes, was the appointed judge for the ‘Golden Oldies’ category at the event’s dog show.
“All Dogs Matter is a fabulous charity that does amazing work for vulnerable dogs. The Great Hampstead Bark Off demonstrated this wonderfully to all that attended. It’s no wonder they have the support of the dog-loving general public and celebrities,” explains Margaret Reynolds, director of Dogrobes.
“That’s why we’ll donate a percentage of our profit from all online and event sales to All Dogs Matter. This has proven to be an exceptionally effective model for raising regular funds for our partner charities in the past, so we’re excited about its potential.”
For further information about Dogrobes, visit www.dogrobes.co.uk or email info@dogrobes.co.uk
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Agria Pet Insurance's Contact Centre is celebrating after becoming the proud recipient of awards given out by the Call Centre Management Association (CCMA).
The company's achievements are all the more remarkable given the size and reach of the other nominated companies. who include household names like British Gas, Sky, BUPA and Sage.
The company's biggest winner on awards night was Ibrar Hussain who was announced as the Outbound Team Manager of the Year (Bronze award winner). Ibrar was singled out not for his personal success in his job but also for his ability to coach, lead and motivate his team.
Danni Parsons-Moore, who heads up the contact centre, said: "The commitment and dedication Ibrar demonstrates is outstanding and is reflected in his teams performance."
Managing Director Simon Wheeler believes the awards reflect Agrias emphasis on personal contact.
"Were delighted to be acknowledged for what we think matters the most," said Simon. "We place huge importance on talking to customers to make sure the policy they buy reflects their needs and provides sufficient cover for their pet.
"This is a very different experience from selecting the cheapest policy found on the Internet and finding that it doesnt measure up to expectations or could even compromise the cover offered by any alternative policy in the future."
Agria was also represented by team member Louise Hooper who was finalist in the Quality Manager of the Year category. Helen Finnie was shortlisted to the second stage for the Customer Experience Champion award and Megan Lamont was shortlisted to the second stage for the Learning & Development Champion award.
The awards were announced at The Brewery in London and attended by over 700 customer care professionals. The winners were chosen based on a rigorous selection process which includes an assessment of the initial nomination, followed by face to face interviews carried out by the judges. The nominees, their managers and their direct reports are all interviewed and only the best people progress to the shortlist for the final awards.
Danni says the team has put in tremendous efforts to get to this point
"Our programme of training has included workshops, external training, attending conferences and seminars and best practice visits.
"Everyone has really worked very hard and appreciates that the health of a much loved pet is partly in their hands. To be able to provide the very best service we need to be the best at what we do. These awards demonstrate that we really are succeeding in that."
Pictured (left to right): Perry Sanger (awards judge), Agria winner Ibrar Hussein, and Ann-Marie Stagg (CEO of CCMA and awards judge).
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ACANA adds puppy products to Heritage range
With the recent launch of the ACANA Heritage range that replaces most of the ACANA Classics there are three new puppy products with enhanced ingredients: ACANA Puppy Small Breed, Puppy & Junior and Puppy Large Breed...
With the recent launch of the ACANA Heritage range that replaces most of the ACANA Classics there are three new puppy products with enhanced ingredients: ACANA Puppy Small Breed, Puppy & Junior and Puppy Large Breed.
Biologically Appropriate ACANA Heritage puppy food boasts more meat, more fresh meat, and are carbohydrate-limited and grain-free.
ACANA Heritage puppy foods are all prepared with 70% nourishing meat inclusions, all from animals passed fit for human consumption.
Fresh free-run chicken and eggs are sourced from prairie farms and wild flounder are caught from Vancouver Island, all local to the kitchens of Champion Petfoods where ACANA is prepared.
The ingredients are in whole prey ratios of meat, organs and cartilage to deliver nutrients naturally without the need for supplements.
Free of grains, potato, tapioca and starch ingredients, ACANA limits carbohydrates to 30% and glycaemic load to just 9. While carbohydrates are recognised as a leading cause of obesity and diabetes, conventional dog foods often exceed 50% carbohydrates.
To support a short and intense growth period ACANA Heritage Puppy Small Breed is rich in animal protein and fat whilst ACANA Puppy & Junior features extra inclusions of free-run chicken, nest-laid eggs and wild-caught fish.
ACANA Heritage Puppy Large breed supports the slow growth period of large breed puppies with a diet rich in meat and protein, yet limited in carbohydrates and calories to manage body weight and reduce stress on developing bones and joints.
- ACANA Heritage Puppy Small Breed is available in bag sizes 340g, 2kg & 6kg. Prices range from £3.29/340g to £29.99/6kg.
- ACANA Heritage Puppy & Junior is available in bag sizes 340g, 2kg, 6kg & 11.4kg. Prices range from £3.29/340g to £48.99/11.4kg.
- ACANA Heritage Puppy Large Breed is only available in 11.4kg bags with an SRP of £53.99.
For more information contact sales@BernPetFoods.co.uk or call Bern Pet Foods on 01737 767679.
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The Royal Collection Trust has launched a range of pet accessories under the Buckingham Palace brand with products ranging from toys to dog beds.A Buckingham Palace Crown Dog Toy will cost £4.99 while a Buckingham Palace Dog Bowl retails at £25. Nuala McGourty, the Trust's retail director, said: "We are pleased to launch another new retail range, this time taking inspiration from the well-known royal love of dogs. We hope that dog owners will enjoy spoiling their pets with these smart accessories." The 11-piece range also includes a double sided grooming brush (£9.95), an accessory pouch (£14.95), a handmade tartan fleece blanket (£60) and pet beds (£65 to £75). The range can be viewed at http://www.royalcollectionshop.co.uk/gifts/pets.html
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A greedy Dalmatian was left needing emergency vet treatment after gorging on buns, chocolate and 36 dog chews while her owner was out.
Mischievous Molly (8), from Middlesbrough, sniffed a bag of food shopping that owner Kerry Buck had put away safely – or so she thought. Molly gobbled up 36 Dentastix, eight sultana buns and a packet of mini eggs. When Kerry (28) returned home she was horrified to find her beloved Dalmatian seriously ill with sickness and diarrhoea.
Kerry said: “I’d only popped out for 25 minutes. When I got home, it was absolute chaos – Molly had been sick everywhere. I rushed over to her, she was frothing at the mouth and very lethargic. I could see what food she had been eating so I rang PDSA straight away.”
Not only did the stolen food stash make Molly unwell, but her very life hung in the balance as sultanas and chocolate are highly toxic to dogs.”
Molly was given immediate treatment at PDSA's Middlesbrough Pet Hospital to stabilise her condition.
Steph Williams, Head Nurse at PDSA Middlesbrough, said: “Molly ate a potentially lethal cocktail of ingredients. Sultanas affect kidney function and can lead to organ failure, while chocolate contains a substance called theobromine, which attacks the central nervous system and can be life threatening.
“It never ceases to amaze me how pets can get themselves into trouble and get their paws on food – even when it’s supposedly out of reach. Thankfully for Molly, seem to be no lasting effects and she has made a great recovery.”
 Molly’s treatment was funded by PDSA, which provides free vet care for sick and injured pets belonging to people in need. The charity only exists thanks to the support from animal lovers around the country.
Kerry added: “I’m really grateful to PDSA. Molly means everything to me and without them I wouldn’t be able to keep her. I’ll certainly be keeping a very close eye on her in the future and will make sure any food is locked away!”
To make a donation to support PDSA’s life-saving work text PAWS to 70111 to donate £3*.
PDSA is the UK’s leading veterinary charity, treating nearly 500,000 pets annually across its 51 Pet Hospitals. The charity strives to improve all pets’ lives through education, preventive care and emergency treatment. For more information visit www.pdsa.org.uk.
*See website for terms and conditions
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 Eukanuba has launched a campaign around its key life stage offering – the Eukanuba Puppy range. This range provides puppies with the key high quality ingredients they need for optimal development, offering a host of health benefits to support them for life.
Getting a new puppy is a hugely exciting time, however it can be daunting. We know that owners want to do their very best for their new addition and rely on expert recommendation to help inform them. By identifying the health benefits of the range, Eukanuba aims to reassure new owners that they’re providing their puppy with a strong foundation for their future.
Eukanuba knows that puppies have very specific requirements, and so the puppy range includes the key benefits they need, providing them with a complete and balanced diet so there is no need for any additional products or supplements. As well as providing puppies with the best nutrition, Eukanuba’s puppy formula nurtures smooth digestion through the natural fibres used.
The tailored levels of calcium encourage healthy growth for all breeds, while the inclusion of DHA from fish oils supports brain development. The natural blend of antioxidants have been identified as helping to build a puppy’s natural defences and omega 3 and 6 essential fatty acids promote a healthy skin and coat.
Eukanuba has been pioneering tailored nutrition for puppies since 1969, being the first to discover that enhanced levels of dietary DHA benefits the neurological development of puppies resulting in improved trainability. Among other innovations, the brand was also the also the first to introduce a formula targeting the calcium and energy needs that promote appropriate skeletal growth in large-breed puppies.
Kellie Ceccarelli, Eukanuba’s Veterinary Training Manager commented, “We are proud to be a brand that breeders continuously trust and recommend as being the best for their puppies, and we are now excited to be able to share and educate consumers about the premium quality of our products.
"From the moment a puppy moves to solid food we provide tailored animal protein based nutrition, incorporating many of our nutritional innovations, to meet their needs, which is something that helps to differentiate us within the market.”
Eukanuba is passionate about providing extraordinary nutrition for these extraordinary beings and helping new owners feel confident about raising their puppy.
That’s why the brand has also created engaging point of sale materials to help educate customers in-store and provide retailers with all the information they need to help prospective owners make the right choices for their new puppy. Information packs on how to care for a puppy are also being distributed to key breeders and veterinarians to share with their customers.
All materials communicate the ‘supporting your puppy for life’ message, which emphasises the importance of choosing high quality nutrition for puppies from the outset to help them develop and be the best they can be.
As the Kennel Club’s partners in pet nutrition, Eukanuba is recognised for providing high quality nutrition.
Caroline Kisko, Secretary for the Kennel Club comments: “At the Kennel Club, we understand that high quality puppy nutrition forms the foundation of a dog’s long-term health and well-being. We have been ‘Partners in Pet Nutrition’ with Eukanuba since 2009 because we believe that excellent nutrition gives your puppy the best chance of achieving their full potential.”
The full Eukanuba Puppy range includes: - Eukanuba puppy dry dog food for small breed – Chicken £42.99* for 12kg
- Eukanuba puppy dry dog food for medium breed – Chicken £42.99* for 12kg
- Eukanuba puppy dry dog food for large breed – Chicken £42.99* for 12kg
- Eukanuba puppy dry dog food for small and medium breed – Lamb and rice £49.99* for 12kg
- Eukanuba puppy dog treats – healthy biscuits for all breeds £2.99* for 200g
The range is available to buy from specialist pets shops or for more information visit the website www.EUKANUBA.co.uk
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CSJ Specialist Canine Feeds has again sponsored the World Agility Open Championships, which took place in England last month. Competitors came from as far afield as Australia, Japan, Canada and Argentina to compete and the Wales Team got a rousing cheer from for winning Silver in the Team Event. The World Agility Open Championship, held annually, is the first international agility event created and managed by agility competitors (Greg Derrett and Monica Percival) and there’s more information on http://www.worldagilityopen.com/ Greg and Monica’s aim was to hold an event designed to: - Provide the ultimate in dog agility competition where speed, efficiency, and consistency are all necessary for success
- Showcase the highest level of agility training, human/canine partnership, and athleticism
- Acknowledge the dog as an athlete and equally important member of the agility partnership
- Enable all dogs, whether pedigreed or not, to compete in an environment that is solely focused on the sport of agility
- Promote the design of better and safer agility equipment, new technology to improve the sport, and better show management processes.
Amongst the diverse breeds competing this year were a Kerry Blue Terrier, Crossbreed, Staffie, Miniature Pinscher and Miniature Poodle, and the photos and videos on CSJ’s website: http://www.csjk9.com/news/world-agility-open-championshi_p1527.html and on https://www.facebook.com/World-Agility-Open-Championships-135722146470311/
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Despite pampering pets, two thirds of owners never take their pets to the groomers. In a new survey, FURminator, leaders in professional pet grooming at home, have discovered that we’re a nation of ‘pet parents’ with four in five owners admitting to taking their pets almost everywhere they go.
Of the 2,000 Brit’s questioned, almost half (46%) said they wouldn’t dream of visiting friends and family without their four legged friend. The research also revealed that more than a quarter (27%) of pet owners take their pets shopping, with a further third (36%) taking their pooches on holiday.
Despite the fact that many owners spend an average £1,113.32 on their pets per year, only one in three (35%) owners would take their pet to a professional groomers.
Giuliano Buccino, Head of Marketing at FURminator (UK & Ireland), comments: “More people than ever are viewing their pets as an extension of the family as the humanisation trend continues to soar, and so it’s not surprising to see that we like to take pets everywhere we go.
"What is surprising is that grooming happens infrequently or not at all. As a retailer it’s crucial to educate pet owners on the importance of regular grooming sessions to help combat health issues such as hairball accumulation, as well as excessive shedding around the home, and to strengthen the bond between owner and pet.
Grooming is no longer an expensive or time consuming task thanks to professional grooming solutions like the FURminator deShedding tool which provides a quick and effective solution to removing the undercoat and loose hair from fur without cutting or damaging pets’ skin or top coat.
What’s more, FURminator reduces shedding, and unwanted, loose pet hair by up to 90%*, meaning pets can be healthy and happy through an effective and easy at home grooming regime.”
Available in a range of sizes to cater all pets from rabbits to Great Danes, the FURminator deShedding tool is available from £26.50.
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Independent laboratory tests commissioned by SureFlap have revealed that wet cat food left in a SureFeed Sealed Pet Bowl retained 99.8% of its moisture over 12 hours.
In comparison, the same cat food kept in a conventional open bowl lost more than 20% of its total moisture over the same period.
This is particularly pertinent as many owners feed their cats twice a day, leaving food out in open bowls for up to 12 hours.
Moreover, as the warm summer weather approaches it is not only food drying out that can be a problem; unpleasant pet food odours in the home and flies on their pet’s food are also common concerns.
“Cats are natural grazers and often eat between 10 and 20 small meals a day, meaning that food should ideally be left out for them,” comments Jon Bowen, leading veterinary behaviourist at the Royal Veterinary College.
“In the wild, cats prefer food that is moist like meat or dry and crunchy like insects and in a domestic environment this often means that wet food kept in a conventional bowl dries out and rapidly becomes unappealing. The SureFeed Sealed Pet Bowl prevents wet food from drying out and ensures that food is kept fresher for longer.”
SureFlap recently exhibited its innovative range of SureFeed pet feeders and its award-winning range of microchip pet doors in the British Pavilion at Interzoo.
The company showcased its new range of SureFeed accessories including a stainless steel bowl and a bundled bowl and mat set available in four colours. The new accessories will be available later in the summer.
The SureFeed Sealed Pet Bowl features a motion-activated lid that opens when a pet approaches to reveal the food bowl containing the pet’s food; the lid then closes onto the sealed bowl when the pet moves away after eating.
Suitable for use with wet and dry food, the SureFeed Sealed Pet Bowl features a unique integrated seal to lock in moisture and help keep food fresher for longer. It also prevents wet food from drying out and reduces pet food odours in the home while preventing flies from settling on the pet’s food and laying eggs. The Sealed Pet Bowl is ideal for single pet households with cats or small dogs.
The SureFeed Sealed Pet Bowl comes with one grey bowl, but it is also compatible with the coloured range of SureFeed pet bowls available separately in blue, pink and green. The bowl and lid can easily be removed for cleaning and the rest of the unit is wipe-clean. The Sealed Pet Bowl runs on four C cell batteries that typically last for six months.
For further information on the SureFeed Sealed Pet Bowl (RRP £49.99) or the company’s microchip operated pet products which include the SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder or its innovative SureFlap microchip pet doors, please visit http://www.sureflap.com, phone 0800 912 7114 or email trade@sureflap.co.uk.
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 An exciting new communications service, EMC PR, has been launched by the organiser of BETA International. The venture is set to breathe fresh air into the industry by operating on an individual-assignment basis without the need for binding contracts or costly monthly retainers.
It has been developed by BETA International sales manager James Palmer in response to demand for professional, affordable and accessible PR.
“We have become increasingly aware of the real need for a service like this,” he said. “Many companies, particularly those that do not want to be tied into retained PR arrangements, can often miss out when it comes to promoting their news and products in the media. EMC PR offers the perfect opportunity for them to secure first-class editorial as and when they need it.” James, a business graduate with a wealth of experience in the equestrian sector, takes responsibility for business generation and the day-to-day running of EMC PR. He is joined by journalist and BETA International press officer Deborah Hayward, who will lead the creative team.
“We love nothing more than helping companies to secure the recognition and reward they deserve by writing compelling and engaging copy that ticks all the right boxes and has enough bells and whistles to make it stand out from the crowd,” she said. “We have a fabulous range of products, from a standard press release to a bespoke package for more complex requirements.” EMC PR is owned by Equestrian Management Consultants, part of the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) group.
Commercial manager Claire Thomas said: “I am thrilled to welcome a PR service to our extensive portfolio, which includes Equestrian Trade News magazine and BETA International, the world's leading trade fair for equestrian, country clothing, outdoor and pet products. “EMC PR has a fabulous pedigree in the equestrian industry, which we as a company have been part of for more than 35 years. It is wonderful that we are now able to help businesses become even more successful with this new communications initiative and, what's more, all the profits we make in the process are ploughed straight back into the trade.”
Companies wishing to find out more about the services offered by EMC PR should contact James Palmer, telephone 01937 582111 or email jamesp@beta-int.com.
Pictured: the EMC PR team of Claire Thomas, James Palmer and Deborah Hayward.
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Vets stride out with Pride for the first time
Vets from across the UK will be formally part of the Pride in London Parade for the first time this year, when the recently formed British Veterinary LGBT+ group and supporters stride out with other Pride Parade groups on Saturday 25 June...
Vets from across the UK will be formally part of the Pride in London Parade for the first time this year, when the recently formed British Veterinary LGBT+ (BVLGBT+) group and supporters stride out with other Pride Parade groups on Saturday 25 June.
Vet Mat Hennessey started the group after noticing a medics banner at the Pride in London Parade last year and realising that there was a need for representation and support for the LGBT+ community amongst vets.
BVLGBT+ is open to anyone who wants to support lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender rights within the veterinary professions, whether studying or working, and since its launch in late 2015 it already has 430 members. Officers of the British Veterinary Association (BVA), including the President Sean Wensley, will join BVLGBT+ at the Parade.
Mr Hennessey said: “Seeing that banner brought to the fore something that I had been aware of for some time – the need for a visible and supportive community for veterinary surgeons and nurses, practice managers and other colleagues who are lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender and the colleagues who want to support us and promote equality.
"The launch of BVLGBT+ last year and our first AGM in April of this year are landmarks. But joining the Pride Parade really puts LGBT+ vets on the map. We are delighted to be part of this celebration of the LGBT+ community and its friends.
“However, as we join together for the Pride in London Parade, we would also like to include in spirit vets who may be working in remote, rural regions, without a LGBT+ community to plug into as this can be a lonely and isolating experience. Our message to these colleagues is – ‘We are here for you too, ready to listen and to support you.’”
Sean Wensley BVA President commented: “BVA is proud to have supported BVLGBT+ in its inaugural year and to be walking with our LGBT+ colleagues in the Pride Parade. This is an important moment for the profession as a whole, as well as our LGBT+ colleagues, showing the world that the veterinary profession is one that is open, diverse and supportive.”
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