Leading pet food manufacturer, Pets Choice, has made its first acquisition of 2019, expanding its brand portfolio with the addition of Rufus Foods.

The sale, which completed 25th February 2019, saw Pets Choice acquire the Rufus Foods brand, boosting Pets Choice’s brand portfolio to a total of 10.

Rufus Foods has produced nutritious and flavoursome meals for both dogs and cats of all ages for over 30 years. The brand offers a range of complete foods for dogs and cats. 

Tony Raeburn, Pets Choice CEO, comments: “We are excited to announce the recent addition of Rufus Foods to our portfolio. It compliments our existing brand set perfectly, as it has a lot of heritage and great loyalty amongst its customer base.

“Moving forward, we will continue to supply Rufus Foods to its existing customer base, but, in line with our growth plans, we are also looking to build on the brand and the solid base that it already holds.”

Pets Choice’s portfolio now comprises 10 brands which offer a variety of products for pets and wild animals, including well-known brands Meatiful, TastyBone and Webbox. 

Mitchell Todd, from Rufus Foods, said: “With its industry-leading position and expertise, Pets Choice is the perfect company to elevate the Rufus Foods brand to the next level.”

With the addition of Rufus Foods, Pets Choice combined industry knowledge spans 165 years. Each brand offers a unique insight into animals from dogs to ducks and produces high-quality products that cater to a wide variety of consumer needs.

For further information about Pets Choice and its brand offering please visit www.petschoice.co.uk

The pet food market is evolving rapidly. At Different Dog, we’re committed to changing dogs’ lives through real food, and working with retailers to deliver even greater choice.

Achieving this goal means that we’ve taken an uncompromising approach to creating nutritionally balanced meals using fresh, natural ingredients from local suppliers.  All our recipes are designed by our vet and nutritionist and then carefully hand-prepared by our team of dog-loving chefs.

New recipes are introduced regularly, so even the fussiest four-legged friend is kept excited at mealtimes. Say ‘goodbye’ to the same old boring processed meals and ‘hello’ to shiner coats, better digestion and wagging tails.

At PATS, we revealed our new look branding, plastic free packaging and hosted a ‘dog food first’ cookery demonstration. The buzz on the stand was fantastic, with retailers keen to source our high-quality, healthy meals for dogs.  

The feedback speaks for itself:

• "This is the future of pet food."
• “A truly original product.”
• "This is what the pet food market has been missing."          
• "The food looks absolutely delicious." (At least one store owner tried it!)

Check out our 5-star reviews on TrustPilot and see why pets and their owners love Different Dog.

So what makes us different?

• We make real food
• Our meals are created by hand
• Our products are loved by vets
• We use fully compostable, cardboard pots

We exist to make our dogs, family and planet healthy and happy – adding greater value to the retail sector.

During March, Different Dog will feature at the world’s greatest dog show – Crufts at the NEC and as a sponsor of the first ever London Dog Week (24^th-31^st March). We hope to see you there to sample our expanding range.

Alternatively, contact our friendly team to discuss freezer offers for Spring or to arrange a store visit: 01743 384 562 or feedme@differentdog.com

Help us to change the world, one dog at a time.

The Arden Grange Sensitive product range has recently grown with the addition of Puppy/Junior and Light/Senior life stage diets, offering an easily digestible, low-allergen diet for dogs of all ages.

The expansion of the grain free Sensitive range is a result of the ever-increasing consumer demand for such diets and serve a very useful purpose for dogs with delicate digestion or sensitive skin.

Arden Grange Sensitive Light/Senior is an ideal choice for older or overweight dogs with particularly sensitive skin or digestion. This gentle recipe excludes grains and cereals, and contains fresh ocean white fish and sweet potato, making it gentle on the digestive system.  The new recipe is lower in calories compared to Arden Grange adult maintenance diets and benefits from significantly higher levels of joint supplements helping keep dogs mobile into their senior years.  

Why choose Arden Grange Sensitive Light/Senior?

• It contains higher levels of joint care supplements, glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM compared to Arden Grange adult maintenance diets.
• The diet is lower in calories compared to the Sensitive Adult recipe.
• Suitable for all breeds.
• Grain free recipe, ideal for older or overweight dogs requiring a low–allergen, cereal free diet.
• It includes fresh white fish offering great palatability and high nutritional value.
• A combination of sweet potato and white potato provide a slow and steady release of energy.
• It benefits from prebiotics FOS and MOS for immunity support.
• It is high in omega-3 which is great for skin and coat condition.

This new product is available in both 2kg and 12kg bags and will join the already popular Sensitive product range comprising: Sensitive Adult dry dog food, Partners Sensitive wet dog food, Sensitive dry cat food and Crunchy Bites Sensitive dog treats.

Just like all Arden Grange products, the Sensitive range is naturally hypoallergenic, not containing; wheat gluten, beef, soya or dairy products, thereby offering further peace of mind to customers that have a dog or cat with the most common food sensitivities. 

For more information, call 01273 833390 or visit www.ardengrange.com.

"This show always delivers…it’s a brilliant event…a great place for networking…there is so much to see.” These are just some of the many fantastic comments received from visitors to the recent PATS Sandown.

The two-day pet trade exhibition, which attracted a record-breaking 1,993 visitors to Sandown Park in Surrey, was hailed as a great success after hundreds of new products were launched during the show.

Now the attention has turned to PATS Telford, which takes place on Sunday and Monday, September 22nd-23rd 2019.

According to Tina Quest, senior buyer at award-winning Redpaw Pet Supplies in Plymouth, if you have an interest in the pet trade, then you have to visit PATS. ““This show has everything – a great selection of exciting new products and a wide variety of exhibitors. As retailers we are spoiled for choice. Sandown was a brilliant show and I’m certain Telford will be just as impressive.”

Tina’s thoughts are echoed by Robert Barrington-Jones, of Pet Swansea Ltd, South Wales, who said: “We’ve been coming to PATS now for many years and always find something of interest. We like to look to see what’s new to offer our customers and we particular like the PATS show offers.”

With more than six months to go before opening its doors to visitors, PATS Telford is set to be another ‘sell out’ event. It will be the fifth time the show has taken place at Telford International Centre, and nearly 100 companies have already confirmed they will be exhibiting.

Regular exhibitors like Anco, Beco Pets, Bern Pet Foods, Danish Design, flexi, Inspired Pet Nutrition, James & Steel, Johnson’s Veterinary Products, Marriages, Natures Menu, PJ Pet Products, Pedigree Wholesale, Royal Canin, Sky Pet Products, Trixie and Versele-Laga will be joined by a growing number of companies making their first appearance at Telford.

Natures Menu successfully exhibited at PATS Sandown, winning a New Product Award in the process, and the company is already looking forward to Telford. “Sandown was brilliant for us, a really excellent event. It may be still six months away but our thoughts have already turned to PATS Telford,” said Peter Roy.

And George Bramble, Co-founder of Beco Pets said: “Sandown was the busiest-ever PATS show for us, and I’m over the moon with the result. Let’s hope PATS Telford can be just as successful.”

PATS is the UK’s No 1 pet trade show and the only exhibition where the entire industry comes together under one roof.

One of the major successes at PATS shows over the years has been the New Product Showcase, sponsored by pbwnews. Last year at Telford a record number new products – over 300 in total – were on show in the designated area.

As well as seeing an unrivalled array of new pet products and speaking to top suppliers and manufacturers, visitors will also be able to witness demonstrations from the country’s leading dog groomers and listen to talks from prominent industry figures.

Leading trade association PetQuip will again be working with PATS to tempt international pet retail chains and distributors to the Autumn showpiece, and will be hosting the International Buyers’ Centre where visitors can sit down and meet prospective new suppliers at the event. PetQuip team members will also be available to provide business services, sourcing advice and arrange introductions to UK pet companies.

The association’s involvement doesn’t end there because it will be staging its prestigious PetQuip Awards after the first day of the exhibition. During an evening when outstanding success in the industry is celebrated, the PATS Telford New Product Awards will also be presented.

Pat Flynn, Trade Association Manager of PetQuip, said: “The PATS events are always well run with lots of excellent exhibitors displaying new and innovative products. It is a pleasure to publicise the shows to our wide database of international buyers, and this is beneficial for our members who exhibit too. The PetQuip Awards are also an ideal fit alongside an innovations show such as PATS Telford.”

Parking is free at the Telford International Centre, and everyone will receive free tea and coffee, and a free show catalogue.

A full and up-to-date list of exhibitors is available on the website www.patshow.co.uk together with information on how to reach the venue and regularly updated show news

BSB Products, the exclusive importers and distributors of Carnilove, Intersand and Martin Sellier, be searching for a Carnilove brand ambassador at this year’s Crufts.

The new ‘Carnilove Dog’ will showcase how Carnilove’s grain- and potato-free dry, wet and fresh dog food and treats perfectly supports them at work, play and rest.

Taking place exclusively at Cruft 2019, owners will need to complete a form, which can be either downloaded in advance or collected at the stand, to enter. The form must be submitted in person at the Carnilove stand in Hall 2, Stand 40.

Colin Rodger, Director at BSB Products, says: “We are looking for our first-ever Carnilove Dog to showcase how our food fulfils a dog’s nutritional needs, whilst giving them a tasty eating experience across a number of foods and treats.

"Our brand ambassador will exemplify just how a superior diet fuels an active and happy routine, whether they’re recovering from a challenging start in life, or fuelling a busy working day.”

The HERO BOWL is the ideal solution for health-conscious pet parents, multiple pet households, raw feeders, dog owners with young children and anywhere cross contamination might occur. The HERO Bowl is scientifically proven to prevent the growth of over 99% of microbes, including common bacteria, mould and fungi, MRSA and E.Coli. Since microbes cannot build up on the surface of your bowl, your pooch’s face may even stay cleaner too, helping reduce beard and tear stains.

The HERO Bowl is the world’s most hygienic dog food & water bowl and is launching at Crufts (Hall 4-153c and Hall 5-183b).  It has been invented by the multi-award-winning brand HOWND that are once again disrupting the pet care market with innovative products.  Made from some serious clever tech, the HERO bowl is set to be a game changer in the dog bowl market, and it looks good too.

Made from smart silver ion antimicrobial technology that is guaranteed to perform for 25 years, the HERO Bowl’s gives unparalleled 24-hour protection and is a superior alternative to stainless steel, ceramic, glass and unprotected bowls. It is made from recyclable polypropylene.

There’s some clever science behind the design of this bowl; the HOWND team, worked with BioCote®, a world leader in antimicrobial technology to create a dog bowl that ensures antimicrobial protection even if scratched or chewed. The BioCote® protection will last for the expected lifetime of the bowl and cannot wash off or wear away.

Studies have shown that 67% of dog bowls coming out of the dishwasher still have Salmonella present on their surfaces*. A superior alternative to a stainless steel and other untreated surfaces, the HERO Bowl has 24-hour protection because the technology works constantly to reduce microbes by over 99% on the protected surface. If a surface isn’t continuously resistant to bacteria, the germs continue to thrive and multiply. The HERO Bowl eliminates the build-up of microbes which start multiplying from the moment you finish washing it by hand or in the dishwasher. While washing cleans the surface of your bowl temporarily, the HERO Bowl prevents the bacteria from coming back.

With its cool ergonomic design for easy feeding, the bowl has a non-slip base, is dishwasher safe and is available in five colours in 2 sizes in a range of on-trend colours, with appealing names like Raspberry Rose, Lavendar Blush, Urban Grey, Ocean Blue and Spring Green.

Leading pet accessory company, Oscar & Hooch has teamed up with the charity Medical Detection Dogs and will be donating 10% of the sales of their Black and Red Medical Detection collar and lead to the charity on their stand at Crufts (Hall 5 stand 142).

Oscar & Hooch have been partners to the charity since 2012 and continue to donate money to the charity through the sale of this particular range..

Medical Detection Dogs (Hall 3 Stand 94 at Crufts) are trained to detect the odour of human disease. It is at the forefront of the research into the fight against cancer and helping people with life-threatening diseases.

The Bio-Detection Dogs are trained to find the odour of diseases in samples such as urine and swabs. The Medical Alert Assistance Dogs are trained to detect minute changes in an individual’s personal odour triggered by their disease and alert them to an impending medical event. The charity receives no government funding for the work they do and rely entirely on the generosity of donations from trusts and the public.  

The dogs are a mixture of breeds including Labradors and working spaniels and are chosen according to their ability and it generally takes 6-8 months for a dog to reach a good level of performance. All the bio-detection dogs live in homes as part of a caring family with fantastic volunteer fosterers, and lead normal, happy lives as pet dogs. They are dropped off in the morning and picked up in the evening from the centre in Great Horwood near Milton Keynes.

The fundamental training method is a reward based one using clicker training for all bio-detection work. Dogs are rewarded with a food treat or tennis ball play when they make an accurate assessment of the samples they are working on. It is hoped that in the future the dogs will be able to provide second line diagnostic support for cancers that are currently difficult to diagnose reliably, such as prostate cancer. The charity’s research will also inform and enable the development of electronic systems using the information that the dogs have told the researchers.

Clare Guest CEO of Medical Detection Dogs said,

Claire Guest, CEO Medical Detection Dogs, said: “We are proud of the work of our dogs, their ability to detect human disease and save human lives is becoming better recognised every day. Partnering with Oscar & Hooch means our dogs wear a high quality lead and collar in colours that people now associate with our work. We are so grateful for the support of Oscar & Hooch in helping us to achieve our goals.”

Medical Alert Assistance Dogs are currently trained to assist people living with Type 1 diabetes, Addison’s, severe nut allergy, and PoTS. The charity also considers individuals with other life threatening conditions. Dogs are trained using samples collected from the client when they are experiencing an episode. The dogs are trained to identify the unique odours. The type of alert will vary depending on the needs of the client.

The total cost of training and placing a Medical Alert Assistance Dog is £29,000. The average annual cost of a bio detection dog project is approximately £150,000.

Medical Detection Dogs recently had a special visit from their Patron and avid supporter of the charity, HRH The Duchess of Cornwall.

Elaine Steckler, Founder of Oscar & Hooch alongside her husband Paul said,

“At Oscar & Hooch we are very proud to be partners with Medical Detection Dogs This fantastic charity work tirelessly in undertaking groundbreaking research and training medical assistance dogs, allowing them to identify dangerous health conditions with the people they live with. For every dog that qualifies as a medical assistance dog, they will receive an Oscar & Hooch collar and lead. We also donate some of the proceeds for every sale of our Medical Detection Dog collar and lead range so come along to our stand at Crufts and take a look at our exciting range and help to support this amazing charity.”

Style, comfort, practicality and durability are the hallmarks of the Oscar & Hooch brand. All collars and, leads are machine washable and are handmade in luxury soft suedette made right here in the UK.  For the owner, Oscar & Hooch also manufacture luxury treat bags made from the same suedette as the collars to carry those tasty treat morsels in. Together, they make an attractive and stylish ensemble for any pooch whilst they are out and about on their favourite walk.

On the stand at Crufts, Oscar & Hooch will also be displaying their luxury pet beds and stylish coats.

The Medical detection Dogs will be doing demonstrations in the Main Arena at Crufts on Friday and Sunday.

For further information about Oscar & Hooch visit: www.oscarandhooch.com

For further information on Medical Detection Dogs visit : www.medicaldetectiondogs.org.uk

Melksham based fresh, raw dog food manufacturer, Poppy’s Picnic will be flying the flag for the South West Region in the Best Rural Start-Up Category at The National Rural Business Awards, sponsored by Amazon, which are being held at Chateau Impney in Worcestershire this evening (Thursday 28 February).

Poppy’s Picnic celebrated winning the South West heat back in October at a ceremony held at Bath Racecourse. Founder, Dylan Watkins is thrilled to be amongst the nation’s greatest rural businesses coming together at the national finals.

He said, “We are a proud Wiltshire business and celebrate being rural. From our food that's handmade by fourth generation butchers using local produce, to our upcoming new production facility that will provide local employment opportunities, our rural heritage is at the heart of the business and will stay that way. To be at the national finals representing the South West is a great achievement for us. We have our fingers and paws crossed for the big win!”   

Poppy’s Picnic’s award-winning wholesome recipes have been lovingly crafted with the help of canine nutritionists and fourth generation butchers. With no hidden nasties, the balanced meals contain all the goodness a dog needs for optimal health and wellbeing. The mouthwatering Mince, Meatballs and Treats can be purchased online and delivered frozen to an owner’s door or from independent pet shops around the UK. The company also ships to Hong Kong and was the first raw fresh food manufacturer to supply supermarkets in the Far East.

Dylan recently appeared with his miniature schnauzer, Poppy on Channel 4’s Couples Come Dine With Me where he showed how easy it is to make fresh food that both humans and dogs can enjoy together. He has since gone on to appear on This Morning with Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford where he cooked up fresh recipes live on air. He is also appears regularly on BBC Radio Wiltshire and has appeared with The Barking Blondes, Jo Good and Anna Webb on BBC Radio London’s The Barking Hour.

Poppy’s Picnic has seen phenomenal growth over the past two years following their appearance on BBC2’s Dragons Den. They have since gone to raise over £600,000 in crowd funding and have won 8 regional and national awards.

To find out more about Poppy’s Picnic visit their website: www.poppyspicnic.co.uk

Rapidly expanding fish-based pet treats company Wild Ocean Omega3 Fish Snacks Ltd., trading as WOOFS, will be showcasing and testing a catch of fishy treats on their stand at Crufts this year.

WOOFS is one of the only few UK pet food companies to hold the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certificate, which means that all the fish that goes into the manufacture of the treats is from fully traceable and sustainable sources and that the WOOFS’ fishery has been independently assessed on its specific impacts to wild fish populations and the ecosystems surrounding the areas where the fish are caught.

The treats are packed full of Omega 3 and have many health benefits for dogs. In addition, WOOFS accesses all of the raw material used in its manufacturing bases, ensuring that the best quality fish is utilised in all of its current and future products.

WOOFS currently produce Cod Cookies, Cod Fingers, Cod Crunchers, Cod Cubes, Dried Sprats and Granola which are available in different sized packs and beautifully crafted kiln jars and are set to increase their treat range by introducing new products in 2019.

Samples will be available on the stand at Crufts for visitors to try. The company is also looking to develop a premium dry food and is working with leading pet nutritionist, Moddie Lambert to introduce a range of fish-based raw food recipes. WOOFS are also in a position to offer retailers high quality whole fresh frozen fish to cater for raw feeders.

WOOFS have also joined forces with leading pet accessory company, Oscar & Hooch at Crufts and visitors will have the chance to enter a free prize draw to win a range of WOOFS treats and a stylish collar and lead from the Oscar & Hooch Signature Range and a Treat Bag all made from luxury suedette.

Packed full of  Omega 3, an essential fatty acid that must be supplied in the diet because it cannot be created by the body, WOOFS tasty treats help support healthy vision, joint mobility and can help heal sore, flaky, damaged or itchy skin. The brittle nature and rough texture of the fish skin, is also great for reducing tartar and plaque, which creates healthier teeth, gums and a fresher breath. Fish is a great, easily digestible protein source for dogs and is ideal as a snack for overweight dogs who are trying to lose weight or dogs with allergies or intolerances. It also makes an excellent dog training treat so it is ideal for use in the show or agility ring and can also be used to train gun and working dog breeds.

Stewart Irvine Co founder of WOOFS alongside David Judd said,

“We are delighted to be exhibiting at Crufts this year. We feel that it will provide an excellent platform to promote the benefits of feeding fish to dogs.”

For further information visit: www.woofs.co.uk

Ceva Animal Health, manufacturer of the leading behaviour products ADAPTIL and FELIWAY, is launching the first ever Pet Anxiety Month in March.

The nationwide campaign aims to educate pet owners on the signs of anxiety in cats and dogs, help identify the cause of the problem and encourage changes both in and out of the home environment to support anxious pets.  Pet Anxiety Month will be supported by a #PawsForThought initiative to highlight the issue of anxiety in pets and encourage pet owners to share their stories on social media.

The launch of Pet Anxiety Month follows research from the PAW (PDSA Animal Wellbeing) report¹ that revealed that over half of veterinary professionals believe that they have seen an increase in dog behavioural issues in the last two years, with over three-quarters of dog owners saying that they would like to change at least one behaviour displayed by their dog and nearly 90% of owners reporting that their cat is afraid of at least one thing.

A high-profile dog-loving celebrity will be appearing on the ADAPTIL stand at Crufts on Thursday 7 March to launch Pet Anxiety Month and will act as an Ambassador for the campaign.

To support the initiative, Ceva Animal Health will be running a TV advertising campaign for ADAPTIL and FELIWAY from 7 March until 21 April, which directly targets dog lovers during More4’s Crufts’ programmes (from 7 to 10 March).  The advertisements will also air on Channel 4, Channel 4 partner channels, Sky and Sky partner channels.  Both advertisements are 30 seconds long.

Ceva is producing a marketing pack to raise awareness of Pet Anxiety Month containing eye-catching display materials and a social media toolkit.

Abigail King, senior behaviour product manager at Ceva Animal Health, comments: “More and more people are identifying anxiety and behavioural issues in their pets.  Pet Anxiety Month will highlight signs of anxiety in cats and dogs that perhaps an owner is unaware of, help identify the problem and encourage changes both in and out of the home to make the household a happier place.”

For further information, please visit www.petanxiety.co.uk or Pet Anxiety Month on Instagram or Facebook.

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Company of Animals founder Dr Roger Mugford is stepping down as CEO of the business this spring to grow a new venture, Animal Insights Limited.

Paul Nolan, formerly operations director at Company of Animals, will move into the role of CEO.

Delegates at the one-day The Future for International Trade conference on 12^th March will benefit from hearing top level presentations covering every aspect of exporting, from mega trends in retailing worldwide to finding new and developing export markets and how to ease the path of exporting in the post-Brexit era.

In addition, experts in all aspects of exporting will be on hand throughout the day to answer the questions your company has on international trading and how you can benefit from increased sales internationally.

The event, which is being organised by leading trade associations, Gardenex, BHETA and PetQuip, and is being sponsored by Glee, is aimed at companies in the home enhancement, garden and leisure and pet product sectors.  Senior personnel from UK brand names including Smart Garden, Burgon & Ball, Ames Companies UK, Fothergills Seeds, Burgess Pet Care, Interpet, Charles Bentey, Dexam, Rollins, Creative Tops, Trend Machinery, Rosewood Pet Products, Nutriment and Concept Research, will be attending the day conference at the Stratford Manor Hotel in Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire, which is easily accessed by road and rail.

In addition to inspirational case studies on how they are developing and expanding international sales from successful exporters WHAM (What More UK), Spear & Jackson, VegTrug and Group 55, the packed line-up of speakers will be giving delegates an intriguing behind-the scenes insight into all the current Westminster manoeuvrings, valuable practical information on export procedures and compliance and a worldwide economic forecast including predictions on potential currency fluctuations.

An expert on international business law will provide pointers on how best to prepare for trading globally and delegates will gain an insight into how British businesses can harness digital channels to expand international sales. There will also be plentiful opportunities for companies to ask Q&As, network with industry colleagues and participate in ‘ask the expert’ meetings.

The speakers taking part are:

• John Arnold, Northern Universal; UK Government Lobbying                  
• Tim Hiscock, Strong & Herd - Export Procedures and Compliance
• Lord Ivo Darnley, Rathbones - Worldwide Economic Forecast
• Dechert Solicitors - Legalities of International Trade for Businesses
• Stefano Botter, Euromonitor International - Retail Megatrends
• Sarah Carroll - Drive International Growth via Digital Channels
• Stephen Turner, Group 55
• Brett Russell, Spear & Jackson
• Joe Denham, Veg Trug
• Tony Grimshaw OBE, Whatmore UK Ltd

Among the international trade service providers taking part in the Ask the Expert Zone are Velta Freight, The Translation People, Strong & Herd, Infinity Blue Marketplaces consumer trend consultancy, GovGrant, plus representatives from the Department for International Trade; exhibition organisers Ambiente and Glee, the conference’s industry sponsor, will also be represented. 

BHETA Executive Director, Will Jones says “We have a varied and stimulating agenda comprising an array of top-level speakers and export experts which will help UK companies to develop and expand international sales in the future.” 

Director General of Gardenex and PetQuip, Amanda Sizer Barrett, commented “Gathering all these top-level experts and industry representatives at a single day event offers delegates a great industry networking opportunity and invaluable insights, inspiration and practical advice on securing, developing and expanding international trade.”  

Places can be reserved at this important conference by contacting any of the organisers.  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, BHETA and CHA 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).

Raiders broke into a Somerset pet shop overnight using a medieval looking object, according to the 'heartbroken' owner.

Charity tins and a safe were stolen from the Little Wings and Sudwoofers pet shop in Martock on the evening of February 24, said Louise Clarke.

The front door was smashed using a rusted object, leaving shattered glass all over the floor.

Read the full report here

Tics, fleas, ticks and lice have been hating CSJ’s herbal supplement Billy No Mates since its introduction in 2006, but customers and their dogs and cats love it!

"Fantastic!" A Brookes says, “This is so much better than trying to give tablets & so much better for delicate tums too. I wouldn't use anything else now.”

"Brilliant stuff!!"  Malikiah Patrick says, “I have been using Billy No Mates now for 3 months and I have noticed the difference in my dogs. It took around 3 weeks but after that we have not had any itching or flea sightings. Another bonus is that it smells nice.”

"Works a wonder" Emily Schwanz says, “Since we've been using we've hadn't had any trouble with fleas (which has been an issue) without having to use chemical flea spot-on treatments, which has been really great.”

Billy No Mates is an aromatic combination of mint, seaweed, fenugreek, neem leaves and lemon balm and is simply sprinkled over the dog or cat's food.  

CSJ recommend that as it is a natural product it can take up to 6 weeks to become totally effective so it’s a good idea to start using it in early March - although it can be used year round - adding that if owners suspect their dog or cat already has fleas they should consider using their Skinny Dip Shampoo and Skinny Spray first.

Because Billy No Mates is so well trusted and popular CSJ recently introduced a 1kg foil pouch as an option to the original 325g line and say, “As word continues to spread sales just keep growing and we’re delighted to be able to help pets with such an easy to use, effective and natural product.”

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

Leading holistic vet, Dr Vince MacNally BVSc VetMFHom MRCVS, a veterinary surgeon from Southport with over 30 years experience, has developed two new clinically proven pet remedies to help detoxify and Spring Clean pet cats and dogs.

Dogs and cats today are exposed to an eye-watering number of chemicals which are capable of damaging internal organs and harming health. It is important therefore, for a long, healthy and happy life, that these organs are supported, and the body eliminates these and similar toxic substances as effectively as possible.

 Vince says,

“There are literally tens of thousands of chemicals used in the home, industries, agriculture and food production, with the number increasing by 2000 new compounds per year according to The Natural Environment Research Council.”

These chemicals include:

• pesticide residues and chemical additives in food 
• herbicides on pavements, in parks and on fields
• poisons in products used in and around the home
• nerve toxins and similar compounds used in tick, flea and worming products
• hormones, antibiotics and other drugs employed in meat production
• industrial waste and petrochemicals virtually everywhere

Many environmental and dietary chemicals have been linked to a wide range of health problems such as:

• corruption of DNA which can increase the risk of cancer
• destruction of healthy gut flora leading to digestive and immune system disturbances
• bone marrow disruption, resulting in bleeding disorders and susceptibility to infections
• inflammation of the bowels (as in Inflammatory Bowel Disease, for example)
• disturbance of the nervous system (muscle weakness, incoordination, tremors and fits)
• damage to major organs (especially the liver, kidneys and bowels)
• abnormal hormone production and / or regulation
• weakening of the immune system

Vince continues,

“The harmful effect of environmental chemicals is magnified in dogs and cats because of their relatively small size, and the fact that they swallow substances that collect on paws, fur and skin during self-grooming.

“Regular use of toxic drugs used to kill worms, fleas, ticks and mites, are particularly likely to harm health over time and given the large number of environmental and dietary chemicals most dogs and cats are exposed to daily, a great strain is placed on the body's ability to break down and eliminate these substances before they harm health in some way. This burden largely falls on the main organs of detoxification (the liver, kidneys, bowels and skin).

Regular cleansing is therefore, important to:

• support the normal, healthy functioning of internal organs (the liver, kidneys, bowels and skin in particular) for as long as possible
• prevent the build up of toxins in the body
• minimise the risks posed by toxic chemicals
• maintain overall health and well-being

“A simple, gentle, natural and effective cleansing regime is to give the Vince the Vet’s Intestinal Cleanse and Organ Cleanse. Several drops taken twice daily for 7-10 days and added to a pet’s drinking water will help to cleanse the body’s organs.”

As part of a Spring Cleaning campaign Vince is also keen to educate pet owners on what to avoid when it comes to protecting cats and dogs from harmful chemicals. He says that it is possible to prevent contact with some of the most toxic substances by:

1. Feeding a fresh, additive-free, natural diet, in preference to highly processed and adulterated pet food. 
2. Avoiding non-organic fruits and vegetables, which are notoriously high in pesticide residues.
3. Testing for parasitic worms instead of worming 'blind' unnecessarily.
4. Using natural flea and worming products in place of tablets and drops applied to the skin / fur containing nerve poisons and other toxic compounds

Vince also offers advice at his clinic for any pet owner that wants to follow a more holistic approach to pet care. 

To find out more about the products of becoming a stockist, visit www.vincethevet.co.uk

A veterinary medicine specialist based in Cambridge has raised £8m in Series A funding.

PetMedix is applying 30 years of antibody research and the scientific work of two of its founders, Professor Allan Bradley and Dr Jolyon Martin, to develop new pet therapeutics against a wide range of diseases.

The fundraising, led by founder and chief executive Dr Tom Weaver, will be used to establish operations, grow the team, continue to build the platforms, and begin drug discovery.

The investment was led by Digitalis Ventures (NYC) with Parkwalk Advisors (London) as its syndicate partner.

"Digitalis is thrilled to be a part of this journey to bring these innovative therapies to market and excited to work with the talented team that has been assembled at Petmedix," said Cindy Cole, a technical partner with Digitalis Ventures.

Supermarket chain Aldi has launched a new range of dog accessories, featuring slalom poles, hurdles, hoops and tunnels, ahead of Crufts next month.

The products, which make up the Dog Agility Course sets, retail at £9.99, and go on sale in store today (Thursday).

Aldi are also selling dog beds in four sizes and three designs with prices ranging from £7.99 to £18.99, plus a range of toys fro both dogs and cats.

Julie Ashfield, Managing Director of Buying at Aldi, said: “We know how important pets are to families and we want to make sure they are as happy and healthy as can be – without breaking the bank. 

"This range has everything from agility courses, to luxury beds and a fantastic range of toys, to ensure our shoppers can maintain a high standard of care and quality of life for their furry friends.”

An Edinburgh pet store has announced it will no longer stock pets amid animal welfare concerns.

“You look at how many pets are up for adoption and how many pets go unwanted. It sat a little bit funny with me for a while,” said Craig Davidson, co-owner of Dofos on Leith Walk.

So Craig and brother Ross plan to team-up with animal shelters to free up more space and find abandoned and mistreated pets homes in a Capital first.

Having recently opened a second branch in Morningside, the brothers hope their radical approach could pave the way for others to follow suit.

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Picture taken from Dofos Facebook page.

Premium dog food brand Billy + Margot is to showcase their exclusive new product range to visitors at this year’s Crufts.

Billy + Margot, official sponsors of the dog show for the first time this year, will use the opportunity to unveil its new range of products ahead of the official launch into the UK market later this year. 

Products vary from the exclusive iced-treats range through to feeding solutions across dry, wet, chilled, and raw.

This latest range of unique recipes uses high-quality protein and a superfood blend that has been carefully selected for the health and wellbeing of dogs. As well as using single animal proteins, the new range also offers exciting novelty wild meats, including wild boar.

Canine nutritionist and founder of the Billy + Margot range, Marie Jones, said: “I’m delighted Billy + Margot will be returning as official sponsors of Crufts this year; it’s an important platform from which to showcase our new range. I will be based at the Billy + Margot stand (Hall 3, Stand 20), and look forward to giving visitors a first-look at our exciting new products”.

The new products will be available to sample, buy and order from the show stand, with exciting exhibition deals available on the day.

As part of the Crufts visitor experience, Billy + Margot will also be holding a ‘Dogs’ Dinner Party’ at their stand, on each day of the show. This sensory dining experience, put on especially for invited dogs and competition winners, will allow a range of breeds to taste meals inspired by Billy + Margot’s new products. Dinner will be accompanied by detailed explanations from Marie Jones on the health benefits of specific ingredients for dogs’ complex dietary needs and aims to support consumer knowledge on the importance of a healthy and balanced diet for dogs.

Billy + Margot will announce full details of their exciting new products as part of their official UK launch later in Spring. The full range will be available to buy from UK retailers from Summer 2019.  

While insect protein is still trying to overcome the yuck factor among consumers, there’s an opportunity for pet food to focus on the health credentials and environmental benefits of insects, according to Mintel analyst Alice Baker.

Alice says: “Insects are a complete protein that contains all nine essential amino acids as well as important minerals, making it nutritionally comparable with meat and fish. Additionally, they are being touted as the future for sustainable proteins. This is because insect farming is significantly less demanding on the environment compared to traditional meats: it uses less water, needs less land and generates fewer greenhouse gases. Insects are thus well placed to sate the current strong consumer demand for protein-rich foods from a nutritional and sustainability point of view – both for them and their pets.

“Start-up Yora launched the UK’s first dog food made from insects in January 2019, with insects making up 40% of the product’s protein. Other ingredients include oats, potatoes and ‘natural botanicals’.

The current version comes in the form of dried pellets, with plans to launch wet food later in the year. Yora promotes the use of insects as a more environmentally sustainable option, citing a scientific study that estimates that pets account for 20% of global meat and fish consumption.

“A handful of brands in Germany, such as Yummeez Solo and Green Petfood, have also launched insect-based pet food products. (Green Petfood and Yora were both showcased at PATS Sandown).

“Pet food would seem to be an obvious fit for insect protein, being less likely to trigger feelings of disgust than such products made for human consumption. However, interest is still low – partly due to lack of familiarity with the concept. Mintel research on pet food shows that in the UK, only 11% of pet owners are interested in buying pet food made with insect protein, rising to 16% of under 35s. This suggests manufacturers will need to push the merits of using insects in order to win over consumers.”

To read the full report visit http://www.mintel.com/blog/food-market-news/is-insect-protein-the-future-of-pet-food