Pets at Home has unveiled its new ‘store of the future’ concept in the retail chain’s Stockport and Chesterfield centres with the aim of offering customers a “fully immersive experience”.

The stores include revamped veterinary practices and groom rooms, while the retail sectors have been transformed into what Pets at Home describes as pet villages with dog washing stations, selfie spots and pet care classes.

The stores also have special event areas where customers can learn about dog grooming through live demonstrations, participate in monthly breed socials, or see how fast their dog is on an agility course. Customers will also be able to book free food consultations with a nutrition adviser and conduct weight checks for their pets.

Pets at Home group chief executive Peter Pritchard said: “I am delighted to announce the launch of our new store of the future format in Stockport and Chesterfield. We’ve always known that our stores are much more than just a convenience shop for pets and now we’re providing them with the million-pound makeover they deserve.” 

He added: “The store of the future is a destination for all pet lovers to shop, learn and pamper. The retail industry is constantly evolving, and many retailers are only targeting resources towards online platforms. We believe that this competitive landscape requires a combined online/offline offer to ensure the ultimate in convenience and personal service for our customers.

“Our store of the future boosts our offering for pet owners – with people, personality and most importantly – pets – at the centre of our business.”

Children are also well catered for in the new stores with interactive tunnels for them to crawl through and a range of child-friendly events including the chance to host birthday parties.

Working in partnership with the RSPCA, the stores will also see the launch of Pets at Home’s first cat adoption lounge. 

Dogs with sensitive stomachs, special dietary requirements or those who are simply fussy eaters can be difficult to satisfy. Owners often struggle to find the right food to meet their pet’s needs.

At Different Dog, we’re committed to changing dogs’ lives through real food. Every recipe is designed by our vet and nutritionist and then carefully hand-prepared using fresh, natural, locally sourced ingredients. We have even created special recipes that specifically cater for dogs who are feling under the weather. These include:

• Comforting Chicken – a restorative complete dog food that’s is gentle on the stomach and packed with superfoods and vitamins and minerals
• Bone Broth – A complementary nourishing drink that be served as tasty nutrition boost

One of the most satisfying aspects of running Different Dog is hearing about the transformation in a pet’s health after being introduced to our food, here’s a small selection of comments from happy customers... because when your dog is out of sorts it is distressing for you, the owner too:

• My Standard poodle loves the food! He has suffered with stomach upsets with regular visits to the vet, the Comforting Chicken seems to have sorted him out.
• Unfortunately, we have a dog with food allergies, food has become a real trial with her eating the bare minimum to survive. Since having Different Dog she scarfs down 95% of her meals, which is amazing! 
• This is a Company that really cares about the dogs (and worried owners!) My old Rottie lady is on palliative care and was refusing her regular raw diet. From the first mouthful she has loved every recipe. I recommend this food to anyone. Wholesome, nutritious, and balanced.
• My dog experienced kidney problems when she was on kibble. I tried many well-known brands both raw and cooked but she hated all. The only brand she loved is Different Dog.
• Dog likes it enormously and it clearly does her good (bowel function much improved!)
  

We exist to make our dogs, family and planet healthy and happy. Find out more from our friendly team. Contact 01743 384 562 or feedme@differentdog.com

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

Innovative UK pet products from Pet Rebellion and Henry Wag have been judged winners on a new day-time BBC1 TV series called ‘The Customer Is Always Right’...

The show, presented by Lucy Alexander of 'Houses Under The Hammer' fame, has featured several pet products, including the Car Seat Carpet from Pet Rebellion and the Noodle Glove Dog Drying Towel from Henry Wag.

In each show some of Britain’s best entrepreneurs are seen putting their precious products to the customer test. Customers unbox, test and score the products to find a winner of each show.

Pet Rebellion sales director Tommy Weedon said: “We filmed here at our HQ in Pewsey and I then flew up to Glasgow to film in the studios. It’s a great new series with a Gogglebox/Dragons Den theme on innovative products.”

Tommy and the company’s Car Seat Carpet was featured in the show’s 11^th episode, which was aired on BBC 1 on Bank Holiday Monday.

Meanwhile, the Henry Wag Noodle Glove Dog Drying Towel was presented by Grant Rogers, managing director of 3P Enterprise  last Friday.

The Henry Wag Noodle Dog Towel was created by Grant, to overcome the wet and dirt which is a feature of rural dog ownership. The highly absorbent microfibre towel features gloved ends for greater control of the dog and the towel during drying.

During the TV show, the product was tested for use on dogs and humans, in a range of real life scenarios, and judged for price, innovation, design and usability.

During the making of the show the TV film crew visited Grant at his home in the beautiful Wye Valley to understand the story behind the creation of the product.

“Living in the country presents its own challenges for dog owners. Dirt and water are a fact of life and can be a barrier to regular exercise,” commented Grant.“ I set out to create a range of products to remove these barriers so enabling regular exercise for dogs and owners and the building of closer relationships.”

If you missed the programmes you can now view both of them on BBC iplayer.

Pet Rebellion's Car Seat Carpet:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0004w20/the-customer-is-always-right-series-1-episode-11

Henry Wag's Noodle Glove Dog Drying Towel 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0004pp6/the-customer-is-always-right-series-1-episode-10

Natures Menu has received an award from the Sunday Times HSBC International Track 200 after being placed at 95 out of 200 of the league table.

The 10th annual Sunday Times HSBC International Track 200 ranks Britain’s mid-market private companies with the fastest-growing international sales.

Natures Menu was just one of three pet food manufacturers listed in the whole of the UK.

Retailers wanting to find out more information about Natures Menu and their range can email trade@naturesmenu.co.uk, phone 0800 0183770 or visit

www.naturesmenu.co.uk.

By registering for a trade account, retailers can gain access to hassle-free online ordering, great value freezer deals and point of sale, plus free training and the option to become a qualified Raw Advisor.

Pictured (left to right): Peter Roy, Craig Taylor and James Langan of Natures Menu collect the Sunday Times HSBC International Track 200 award).

Natures Menu has made a significant investment at its factory in Snetterton, Norfolk, resulting in over 20% of the building’s power will now come from renewable solar PV panels.

The solar PV panels now cover the roof of Natures Menu’s production site.

The company tweeted this week ‘Let the sun shine!’

A large number of UK pet product suppliers and manufacturers have been experiencing a busy Zoomark in Bologna, Italy, this week, while exhibiting as part of the British group organised by the PetQuip.

New product innovations have been displayed across most areas of the pet sector.  Pet foods and treats take high priority in the list of exhibits with new veterinary formulated varieties, tinned and wetfoods, grain-free natural dog foods, locally sourced fish treats, new bones with human grade flavouring, gluten-free sausages, new dental ranges of dry foods and meat-free and vegan chews.

Two unusual and innovative products are new lickable frozen yoghurts for dogs and ostrich based dog treats.  Included in other pet product sectors are the latest chicken coop accessories, de-stress and calming sprays and wipes, shampoos and balms, cat and dog repellents and aquarium products.

For the benefit of visiting buyers, PetQuip has also organised a British pet product industry information stand (Hall 26, Stand B37) and also hosted a drinks reception for exhbitors and buyers.

PetQuip's Trade Association Manager Pat Flynn (right) also gave a talk to visitors on the first day of the show, focussing on the attractiveness of the UK pet market along with its business opportuntiies.

Companies wishing to learn more about the comprehensive range of services offered by PetQuip to British manufacturers and exporters of petcare products should contact the association on: 01959 565995; e-mail: info@petquip.com  or visit the PetQuip website on www.petquip.com

Here's a gallery of pictures from the show...

With sales of its highly popular cakes for dogs more than doubling in the past year, The Barking Bakery is now aiming to go international. Managing director Michelle Turnbull is meeting prospective distributors whilst visiting  Zoomark in Bologna, Italy, this week...

Pampered pooches are enjoying everything but a dog’s life….with canine treats sales literally going through the kennel roof...!

The Barking Bakery Limited based in Kirkham, UK is the only manufacturer of low calorie pawlicking doggylicious woofins, birthday and occasion cakes, cheesy biscuits and flavoured popcorn for dogs..and is reporting major increase in sales with woofins and pawty cakes for dogs more than doubling compared with sales last year.

“There is a definite rise in trend towards upmarket and bespoke treats” explained founder and managing director of The Barking Bakery Michelle Turnbull…”This may be a valentines cake or personalised birthday or pawsome iced woofins and even flavoured popcorn….all made from human grade ingredients whilst being doggy friendly…these are all my  best sellers.  Owners love to treat their dogs Michelle added “and as a society we are becoming increasingly aware of giving them the right treats……

The Barking Bakery was set up in 2012 by Michelle and her pet pooch Spot….after much research and testing, she launched onto the high street in 2014 and now supplies numerous pet shops, garden centers across the country….Booths ,Ocado supermarkets and Pets at Home stores are to name just a few.

The Company is going from strength to strength, and we really need more stockists throughout Europe as people see our doggylicous treats often whilst on holiday and then get disappointed when they cannot buy them locally when they get home.  

We are actively looking for wholesalers throughout Europe to join our selected distribution group.  Michelle is meeting prospective distributors  whilst visiting  Zoomark Bologna, if you are interested in hearing more about The Barking Bakery please email michelle@thebarkingbakery.co.uk or contact our office direct +44 1772 671911 to secure a meeting with Michelle whilst she is at the show.

Pet Brands has announced it is the latest licensee to partner with the British brand Cath Kidston. The new collection of pet products combines pet specialist knowledge and two distinctive prints to create a range of beds, blankets, collars and leads and ceramics that puts the fun into functional.

The range is being exhibited for the first time at Zoomark in Bologna this week ready for an in-store launch in September.

Cath Kidston, a thoroughly British brand, has become synonymous with British charm and wit. The new range will use quality fabrics with colourful prints – the hugely popular Provence Rose design and a Novelty Dog print in a fresh new colour – to create high quality pet accessories.

The full range is on display in the British Pavilion at the trade show and with capacity to place pre-orders, is expected to generate substantial interest from the pet specialist trade and garden centres.

Taking an imaginative approach embodied in the Cath Kidston brand, the range will include high quality breathable cotton fabrics which are used in soft blankets, comfortable pet beds and striking outfits – including a hooded rain mac and a reversible jacket that’s waxed on one side for walkies and lined with quilted cotton print for those drier days when you just want to show off your stylish pooch.

The ceramic products include feeding bowls and treat jars which will blend in beautifully with the home interiors of Cath Kidston fans or for those who just want to add a more homely touch.

Product Manager, Rachel Barrass, explains that the range stays true to those all-important Cath Kidston values, “In developing this range we’ve taken to heart the practical and down to earth ethos and stayed true to ethical, honest, approachable and inclusive credentials. This wonderful range is truly authentic and will sit proudly alongside home and fashion wears in Cath Kidston shops, as well as add a stylish and unique twist to pet stores and garden centres all over the country.”

Retailers can see the range at Zoomark on the Pet Brands stand or book an appointment to see it in the Pet Brands show room in the UK. Pre-orders can be taken now for the Autumn Winter 2019 launch of the collection.

To find out more about the range, book an appointment, or place a pre-order, email Cath.Kidston@petbrands.com.

Frozzys has announced the launch of a fresh new flavour in its frozen yoghurt portfolio. Rich in nutrients and antioxidants, the new flavour – peach – is available from this month to coincide with the upcoming warmer months.

Frozzys was established in 2013 when founder and director Noel Conlon struggled to find a healthy and nutritious, low calorie and long-lasting treat for his beloved dog Juno to enjoy.

Wanting to create a product which had many nutritional and practical benefits, Noel partnered with fellow director, Michael Hunt, and has since developed a portfolio of inspiring frozen yogurt products.

The existing product portfolio consists of four great-tasting flavours: original, strawberry, blueberry and cranberry, all of which have been thoughtfully chosen for their nutritional properties, their taste profile and the popularity of these flavours in the human yogurt category.

Humanisation in the pet food industry has resulted in a remarkable increase in pet food products which feature human-quality ingredients, flavours and benefits. This direction has been instrumental in the development of the Frozzys portfolio. The latest new variety – peach – is a popular summer fruit flavour, which is extremely rich in vitamins, minerals and beneficial plant compounds.

With canine nutrition and enjoyment being of paramount importance, all Frozzys recipes are expertly formulated with the support of Senior Food Technologists at CAFRE (College of Agriculture, Food & Rural Enterprise).

The entire portfolio is lactose-free for easy digestion, naturally rich in calcium for strong teeth and bones, and the nutritional content is boosted with a carefully formulated multivitamin premix. Further to this, the treats are low-calorie, low-fat and have no added sugar - meaning they are the perfect solution to battling the obesity epidemic that is becoming increasingly evident in the canine world today.

“At Frozzys, we are committed to bringing healthy and nutritious, low-calorie treats with natural ingredients to the marketplace," comments Jackie Kirk, Marketing Manager for Frozzys.

“We really pride our portfolio on how versatile and multi-functional each treat is. The concept of our frozen yogurt in a perfectly portioned tub means that the product is ‘lickable’ and takes more time to consume, providing maximum enjoyment and mental stimulation for dogs.”

Frozzys frozen yogurts are made with fresh cows’ milk and natural flavours at a long-established dairy farm in northern England, where yogurts for humans are also produced.

“Like most dog owners, the team at Frozzys treat their own dogs as members of the family. We want to give them foods which include recognisable ingredients which we deem natural and healthy ourselves. This ethos is fundamental to our ingredient selection, recipe formulation and production process,” Jackie adds.

From a commercial standpoint, Frozzys has developed dedicated marketing channels and point of sale accessories (including fully branded freezers) for in-store promotion and selling.

To obtain a full marketing pack or to find out how you can stock Frozzys in your retail store or food service establishment, please contact sales@frozzys.com

Fish4Dogs - which has one canine colleague to every four of its human workers - is supporting other workplaces in how to become dog-friendly with a free downloadable booklet to guide them through the process.

The premium pet food company, which is a keen supporter of Bring Your Dog To Work Day on 21 June, has between 11 and 20 dogs at its offices, near Drowich, Worcestershire, everyday throughout the year.

‘Canine Colleagues – Your guide to creating a dog-friendly workplace’ has been produced to share the benefit of its experiences, outlining the benefits of having dogs in the office and how to prepare and manage four-legged newcomers to the work environment.

Fish4Dogs has welcomed dogs at its offices since it was established in 2004 but as the company grew, so did the need to formalise arrangements so that all members of the team had suitable guidelines.
 
It has established the pastoral role of ‘Dog Mother’ to look after the needs of the office dogs and their owners, alongside workers without their pets in the workplace, to address any issues that may  arise.
 
Jo Little, Head of Marketing, is one of the Dog Mothers, and has outlined her top tips for having happy dogs in the office. These include establishing a ‘best practice’ framework and consulting staff in order to establish a considerate way of working.
 
“You can’t have dogs in an office environment and still work effectively without guidelines. We considered a whole raft of issues such as socialisation, animal welfare, health and safety, hygiene and workflow to formulate key guidelines which are given to every new member of staff,” she said.
 
“For the owners, it’s much nicer to be able to bring your dog to work but being a dog-friendly workplace also has benefits for the organisation as a whole. It’s great for team-building and morale, having the dogs there reduces stress and encourages us to exercise, ensuring that the dogs get regular toilet breaks and lunchtime walks .”
 
The free booklet is available to download via www.fish4dogs.com/caninecolleagues and Fish4Dogs social media channels.

Bring Your Dog To Work Day returns on Friday 21st June so it’s time to start planning for this fun event, which raises much-needed funds for animal welfare charities.

Now in its sixth year there is no doubt that this annual event has captured the imagination of our dog loving nation. It has become a highlight in the UK calendar - people love taking their best friend to work with them, it's great fun and there are some seriously positive mental health benefits of having four-legged co-workers at work. 

Celebrities such as Ricky Gervais, Lorraine Kelly, and many more including dog lover Peter Egan all promote the event through their twitter feeds.  Top media outlets, like the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and broadcasters have dogs on their radio and TV programmes and also tweet about it. The hashtag #BringYourDogToWork always trends at number one and last year reached millions of users.  Even the Disney company made a special animated tweet of all the famous Disney Dogs.

The time to get involved is now, put a big red circle on the calendar to make sure your company doesn't miss out on Britain's favourite doggie charity day. If you're the boss take a look at our  HR guidelines and the Media Success Pack 2018 , and if you're an employee and want to persuade your boss to have dogs at work on Bring Your Dog To Work Day download our Info Pack to help make the day run as smoothly and enjoyably as possible.

Bring Your Dog To Work Day is raising money this year for two animal welfare charities: All Dogs Matter and Animals Asia. Official event sponsors can also choose to raise funds for their own animal welfare charities.  Bring Your Dog To Work Day was founded by multi-award winning pet care brand HOWND and has raised thousands of pounds for animal welfare charities over the past five years.

In return for a business making a minimum £100 donation, its company logo and website link will be displayed on the homepage, and it will receive a thank you shout out on social media from the organisers and the two charities.  The organisers will share all Bring Your Dog To Work Day official sponsors in-house fundraising events, competitions and activities in its social feeds.  All companies have to do is use the hashtag #Bringyourdogtoworkday.

. 

Jo Amit, co-owner of HOWND and founder and organiser of Bring Your Dog To Work Day says:

"Having dogs around the office has so many benefits. It is well known that the presence of dogs can help reduce stress levels and blood pressure and it's great for staff morale. It is not too early to start planning for 21st June - this "pawtastic" day out for our furry friends and their owners with thousands of companies taking part throughout the UK. We love the response the event gets each year - it's a real highlight for us to see so many happy dogs and owners at work together."

Sponsorship is open to any business. Previous sponsors have included a diverse range of businesses from across the UK and Europe, with high profile brands from the pet sector, white goods companies, law firms, hospitality, private jet companies, luxury sectors, TV shows, comedians, and more taking part.  

For dog owners, a "pooch selfie" of a dog at work in the home or office, in the shop, in the cab of a lorry, or wherever it is safe to have a dog in the workplace, can be uploaded to the "Dog With A Job Hall of Fame" for a minimum £10 donation.  Anyone that donates £10 or more will be automatically be entered into our Bring Your Dog To Work Day annual prize draw with a chance to win £100s worth of goodies from the official business sponsors. See competition page.

Beaphar UK is again highlighting the importance of worm awareness, with this year’s consumer campaign focussing on how easy it is for cat and dog owners to get effective worming treatments from the pet shop.

And to make it even easier, the company is also including a money-off voucher for Beaphar WORMclear in a leading UK dog magazine for dog-owners to redeem in-store.

Dr Sue Huggett, UK Business Manager, said: “Many pet-owners believe that the only place to get an effective wormer is from their vet, when in fact they are available over the counter from pet retailers. This year’s campaign really focuses on the ‘easy’ aspect of worming. Our point-of-sale and online activity is all based around highlighting to pet-owners that worming their pet doesn’t need to be a difficult or time-consuming task. By increasing their knowledge about worming and the worming products available, we can drive them into pet shops, thus increasing sales for retailers.”

Central to the campaign will be the new videos, which highlight how Beaphar WORMclear is easy to get, easy to afford, and easy to give.

“We feel it’s really important to highlight these three facts, as all of them can be potential barriers that prevent pet-owners from worming. If they feel that worming their pet is too difficult, too expensive or too much trouble, then the health of both their pet and their family can be at risk, as some worms can be transmitted from pets to people.

“It is essential that adult cats and dogs are wormed at least once every three months in order to remain healthy and happy. Beaphar WORMclear kills roundworms and tapeworms – the two most common worms that cats and dogs in the UK suffer from – and is just as effective as many veterinary brands. The tablets themselves are a delicious meaty flavour, meaning most cats and dogs readily accept them.”

The videos, alongside worming related blogs and facts, will shared across Beaphar’s social media platforms. To further incentivise pet-owners to get into pet shops, Beaphar are also running a voucher scheme in Britain’s best-selling dog magazine, Your Dog, offering money off Beaphar WORMclear. Beaphar have also created a new section on their website devoted to worming, placing videos, blogs and a whole host of worming information in an easy-to-use format for consumers – beaphar.com/en-gb/worm.

Beaphar’s complete marketing support package continues in-store, with point-of-sale materials designed so that pet-owners will readily recognise the ‘worming made easy’ message seen across social media.

To stock up on Beaphar WORMclear and arrange to have your point-of-sale material delivered, contact your local Sales Executive, call our award winning Customer Services Team on 0333 0066236 or email info@uk.beaphar.com.

Beaphar’s complete marketing support package for Beaphar WORMclear includes posters, shelf barkers, a consumer leaflet and digital assets. Digital assets can be used across websites and all social media platforms, and can be downloaded from the Beaphar Trade Zone at beaphar.com.

Multi award-winning pet care brand Animology is entering the dog fragrance spray market with the introduction of three new ‘alcohol-free’ body mists for dogs.

Launching in May, the three new 150ml products will be added to the highly successful Animology range. Designed to a leave a lasting scent that lingers on the coat for longer, there is a choice of three distinctive fragrances.

• Animology Cloud K9 is a masculine fresh and lively fragrance, with notes of Bergamot and Oakmoss.
• Animology Heaven Scent offers a feminine floral perfume, with Neroli and Peony.
• Animology Star Pups provides notes of Shea and Vanilla, for a soft and gentle fragrance.

Supplied in a 150ml atomiser spray, these new additions to the Animology stable feature eye-catching, premium, metallic foil label designs that guarantee the immediate shelf presence for which all Animology products are known.

The products carry a keen suggested retail price of £5.50, in keeping with the rest of the Animology range.

Speaking about the launch of the new lines, Group55’s Sales Director for Pet Care, Martin Breen commented: “We are delighted to launch these exciting new products, which further enhance our already hugely successful Animology product range.

"Most dog fragrance sprays contain alcohol, some in significant volumes that can be harmful to the hair and skin of a dog. We have responded to the demand from our customer base for a fragrance spray by developing a completely new set of formulations that deliver great fragrance levels and linger but most particularly with the health of the dog as our primary focus.

"These Animology body mists look and smell amazing, and as a brand that is synonymous with keeping dogs looking and smelling at their best, they are a perfect fit for our product range.”

For further information email mbreen@group55.co.uk or call 01772 786 864.

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Tesco is offering its 19 million Clubcard holders discounts of between 15% and 50% on selected products, including pet food, as part of its centenary celebrations.

Running throughout May, the ‘Clubcard Prices’ will be available in-store and online. To get the discounts, in-store customers are required to tap their card or scan the Clubcard app at the till, while online shoppers get their discounts applied automatically.

Alessandra Bellini, Tesco chief customer officer, said: “Clubcard continues to be the most rewarding loyalty scheme in the sector. As we are celebrating 100 years of great value, we wanted to say a big thank you to our millions of loyal Clubcard customers with special lower prices just for them.”

Award-winning dog food, treats and herbs company CSJ says it is working hard towards sustainability.

“With an ethos of producing natural products for pets it’s an instinctive step for the company to take, commented owner Ceri Rundle.

The company's popular Puppy Packs, which typically contain food and treats samples and a money off voucher, will be made of cardboard, and likewise for the Winners' Packs, which are given to successful competitors in the many CSJ-supported canine activities.

Wendy Walker wrote in to say: "Just a note to THANK you for the FABULOUS puppy packs. Over the years I have used puppy packs from several leading dog food manufacturers.  And I have to say these are the best I've seen. All my puppies will go with these in future!."

The company also donates ‘Goody Bags’ for various events and these will in future be made from paper.

Ceri cadded: “We are committed to doing our best for the environment and are constantly looking at ways to help the environment, from strict office recycling practices to distribution methods."

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

The all-new 07 series marks the seventh incarnation in nearly four decades of Fluval’s top selling canister filter family worldwide.

Not only does the latest generation incorporate the power and reliability you’ve come to expect from the leader in aquatic filtration, but it also features several new performance upgrades that make it up to 25% quieter and more robust, energy efficient, flexible and easier to use than ever before.

eTEC (Efficient Technology) is at the heart of the 07 series. It’s a synergistic process where forward-thinking design, cutting edge materials, and state of the art manufacturing processes come together to deliver powerful pump performance, reduced energy consumption and ultra-quiet operation.

Fluval has redesigned and enhanced several maintenance features of the 07 series, including new ergonomic AquaStop valves (which permit instant hose disconnection), as well as a fiber-reinforced priming handle (for effortless start-ups) and single action dual locking clamps (for quick motorhead detachment). These components are more substantial and effortless to use than ever before, which is sure to please users during maintenance time.  And speaking of simplicity, Fluval has also integrated EZ-Lift media baskets into the 07 series, which includes a new center handle design for simplified and simultaneous removal of the main media stack.

The intelligent 07 design utilizes every square inch of available canister volume, positioning media resourcefully to maximize media space without any gaps in a compact size that most aquarium cabinets can easily accommodate. An independent pre-filter cartridge includes 4 separate chambers for quick and convenient access and features a unique vertical foam orientation that grants more filter surface area than most horizontal layouts. The pre-filter area will also feature Fluval’s new Bio-Foam Max, which is highlighted by a rippled pattern that creates up to an additional 30% surface area to efficiently trap waste and debris.

Several other media products will complement the existing Fluval range, including the all-new BIOTERRA natural biological clay, and the Phosphate, Nitrite and Ammonia removers that are now offered in a convenient pad format.

Key new features include:

• Easy to use fiber reinforced quick primer
• Less complicated set up with factory pre-assembled impeller cover
• New EZ-Lift media baskets for quick access & less mess
• New 30% larger prefilter surface area for better filtration
• Larger vibration-dampening feet stabilizers for filter case protection
• Ergonomic Aquastop valve & raised lip for making it stronger
• Fiber reinforced lift lock clamps for quick release
• Re-engineered, precision-crafted pump making the filter up to 25% quieter
• Expanded authentic media offering

The new Fluval 07 Canister Filter Series will be available from 18^th March.

Premium dog gear brand Ruffwear has launched an exciting initiative - the Ruffwear Passpawt - to help support local businesses, in one of the most dog friendly places of all – Keswick, Lake District.

Ruffwear's mission is to build products to enhance and inspire outdoor adventures, like hiking, climbing and running for dogs and their human companions and this campaign is all part of that mission.

Starting in May and running in to mid-June, the Passpawt encourages guests to Keswick to visit local businesses and will offer discounts to several restaurants, hotels and retail stores in the town. And of course, dogs are more than welcome, in fact, they’re actively encouraged to come along.

Some of Keswick’s favourite establishments including; Nordic Outdoors, George Fisher, Podgy Paws, The Dog & Gun, The Wainwright, Ravenstone Manor, Derwent Water Mania and Inn on the Square will all be taking part in the campaign.

On visiting each location, proud owners of a Ruffwear Passpawt will receive a stamp in their booklet and will be able to take advantage of a range of offers including money off real ales, food and activities.

Accapi Group Managing Director, Rob Hughes commented on the campaign: “We’re proud to be able to support local businesses in Keswick with the Passpawt campaign. As a town that is so dog friendly, we felt like our values align perfectly, so when picking somewhere to do the Passpawt, it instantly jumped to mind. We hope this campaign can help drive significant footfall to businesses in Keswick and has a positive impact on the local community.

“We also hope that it introduces a few more people to the incredible gear Ruffwear® have to offer and encourages more people to get active and share adventures with their four-legged friends.”

Passpawts can be collected, completely free of charge, at any of the venues listed above and one lucky winner will even have the chance to win a bundle of goodies from Ruffwear.. To enter in to the prize draw entrants must hand in their completed Passpawt at Nordic Outdoors.

As part of the campaign, there will also be the chance to attend the Ruffwear Ramble, a walk organised by a Keswick favourite, Kerry Irving, along with his canine companions; Max, Paddy and new addition to the gang Harry. The walk will take place on Sunday 18 May, starting at 12:45pm and all the proceeds received from ticket sales will go to the charity Mind to support its ‘Mountains for the Mind’ initiative.

Kerry was excited to be involved in the campaign and spoke about the walk; “I think this is a great initiative from Ruffwear. I have been an advocate of the brand for a long time now and they are always looking for ways to support the relationships between dog and human. Keswick is such a wonderful place to visit with dogs as they are so accommodating and friendly, the perfect place to share the kind of adventures Ruffwear encourage.

“I am really looking forward to meeting lots of friendly faces on the walk, and to be able to support the incredible work Mind are doing, is an added bonus.”

To learn more about Ruffwear visit https://ruffwear.co.uk/

Learn more about Kerry’s walk and buy tickets here: http://wfsr.co/ruffwearramble

Fluval is launching the ultimate product in aquarium plant care, Plant Gro Plus. This all-in-one micro-nutrient formula is optimised for strong roots and lush plant growth with added iron for rich colour and health.

Why Choose Fluval Plant Gro+?

Essential for growing and maintaining vibrant aquarium plants, Plant Gro+ is a balanced supplement containing important chelated nutrients for easy absorption. It’s fortified with Vitamin B to enhance long-term colour and health

Key Features

• Prevents mineral deficiencies
• Promotes disease resistance
• Safe for fish & other tank inhabitants
• Promotes strong roots

Fluval Plant Gro+ will be available in all good aquatic retailers from mid-November.

Following the recent appointment of Emma Sharp, Companion Consultancy, PR and marketing agency, has announced the launch of a new training and development service.

Emma, whose background includes over 20 years of experience working within sales, will head up the new training division. On offer will be a diverse range of courses for all levels of business within the retail and animal health sector.

Companion Consultancy believes that training is key to the success and growth of any business, and as a result the company is excited to be able to add this service to its business. It will offer a range of training courses from sales focused subjects such as overcoming objections and influencing skills to more general courses such as customer service skills and understanding learning styles.

It is widely considered that the pet retail industry is one of the most competitive sectors in the UK. It is therefore essential that businesses utilise their best asset, their employees, to set themselves apart from their competitors. If employees have been trained to sell products effectively, change preconceived ideas and deliver consistent, professional customer service, overall sales will ultimately improve.

Companion Consultancy will also offer a range of managerial courses such as Interviewing techniques, team management and performance development skills to help facilitate strong leadership, staff retention and job satisfaction. All courses will be tailored to the client’s needs and can be delivered within the client’s offices or independent venues.

Emma joined Companion Consultancy in February this year. Her background includes working on iconic brands such as Horse & Hound, Marie Claire and Country Life. In recent years she has worked within the Animal Health Care sector, relaunching a magazine and website dedicated to the SQP market. She launched the National SQP Awards in 2017 as well as various conferences around the UK. She feels passionately about investing in people to help them reach their full potential and is keen to include more courses to the company’s training schedule in 2019.

Emma says, “Investment in people and the commitment a business makes to support and develop staff creates an environment where job satisfaction is at its highest. When people feel happy and supported, there are significant results. Productivity is high, quality of work is good and staff turnover is low. The current economic climate is unpredictable and very competitive so focusing on the assets a company has is critical.”

Managing Director and founder of Companion Consultancy, Susan McKay said, “Emma brings with her a wealth of experience in sales and marketing. She has extensive experience in training sales teams as well as all levels of management. Her passion for developing people is evident. We think she will be a great asset to the Companion team and we look forward to her delivering fantastic courses and workshops in the coming months.”

For more information on courses go to www.companionconsultancy.com or to talk about bespoke workshops, contact Emma Sharp at emma@companionconsultancy.com

The UK distributor of Swedish premium pet food brand, FourFriends Pet Foods, has struck a promotional deal with Toad Hall Cottages based in Devon. This deal will help to introduce the brand to the ever-increasing dog friendly hotel/holiday cottage market by offering visitors a money-off discount and samples of the range.

Toad Hall Cottages currently has over 400 self-catering holiday cottages that accept dogs across the South West which is an ideal location for dog friendly activities with some of the best beaches in the UK and tailored walks across rolling hills, mystical woods, and stunning reservoirs as well as hundreds of miles of moorland. The area also boasts two National Parks in the region.

Adrian Wilksinson, Director of FourFriends Pet Foods in the UK is a keen Otterhound owners and his dog, Flo was recently featured on the Crufts TV coverage sharing the sofa with presenters Clare Balding and Supervet, Noel Fitzpatrick.

The Swedish brand that he distributes in the UK is synonymous with quality ingredients. Only the muscular parts of the chicken, gently dried to meat meal are used in the dry complete food range. Up to 92% of the total amount of protein in both the dry and wet food ranges comes from animal origin. The range uses chicken, lamb, duck, wild boar and turkey - and in some products, a combination of them.

A well known botanical plant, Aloe Vera is a key ingredient in FourFriends complete food recipes. Used for centuries around the world, Aloe Vera is crammed full of amino acids, vitamins and minerals making it one of nature’s most effective cleansers. It is especially effective in the cleansing of the dog’s or cat’s intestine. It is also great as an anti-inflammatory. Being rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, zinc, selenium and potassium it is excellent for the skin and coat.

All FourFriends products are manufactured in accordance with Formula Security Scandinavia, guaranteeing the quality of each product. Customers also have access to excellent advice from FourFriends own pet nutritionist, Meri Hakkarainen in Sweden.

 “At FourFriends we have genuine interest in animal health both in Sweden and here in the United Kingdom. We know what's best for your animal!

"The idea of ​​FourFriends is to make a food that makes your cat and dog healthy, strong and radiant - from the inside out because we know that stomach and health go hand in hand. We only use high quality raw materials and there is no ingredient in the recipes that is unnecessary such as fillers.

"Dogs are carnivorous animals, i.e. carnivores and we have taken that into account and have a lot of muscle meat in our recipes. Because we love all dogs, we add Aloe Vera – a natural ingredient that is kind to your pet.

"We are absolutely delighted to be setting up this deal with Toad Hall Cottages and it will give us the opportunity to introduce the brand to holidaymakers and hopefully a new family of FourFriends Pet Food customers.”

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

The Catit Play Treat Puzzle is a slow feeder with 6 fun activities to encourage your cat to work for their food! Place treats or kibble in the different puzzle parts and let the fun begin!

This interactive cat toy is are sure to keep you kitty on their toes, providing mental stimulation and exercise whilst helping them to maintain a healthy weight. The Catit Play Treat puzzle allows your cat to stimulate their natural hunting instincts and ability to catch food with their paws, keeping them healthy and happy.

Key features include:

• Smart toy that stimulates your cat to work for their food
• With 6 fun activities
• Made of BPA-Free materials

The Catit Play Treat Puzzle is available to order now.

An award-winning pet store has installed a specially-designed ‘mega’ freezer called the ‘Beast’ to cope with the growing demand for raw food.  And Devon-based Redpaw Pet Supplies is already reaping the benefits with increased sales.

Owner Sammie Hunt told Pet Trade Xtra: “After Redpaw won the PIF Independent Retailer of the Year, I wanted to do something to push and grow my business even more.

“With customer demand for raw food increasing every week, I spoke to Cold Store Rentals, who I already had a walk in freezer with, about building something that would fit these customers’ demands along with my storage requirements.

“They came up with a brilliant design. Our freezer is 6m x 2.4m x 2.4m which is called the ‘Redpaw Beast’ but CSR can do whatever the retailer needs and can suit individual budgets. 

“For Redpaw it means we can have more products on display and allow customers to easily see our huge choice. It has given our shop a fresh modern look, which many customers have already said they love.

“Moving with the times and keeping up with what customers like, has led to increased sales, as well happy customers and happy pets.“

Cold Store Rentals Ltd/Misa UK CSG Ltd said the company is excited to bring to the raw pet food industry the latest in glass fronted point of sale cold storage. 

“The glass fronted units are available in both a chiller and freezer option and come complete with gravity fed shelving and LED lighting,” said a spokesperson.

“Combined with additional storage at the rear, this allows for great stock holding and rotation, as well as an improved customer experience, and boosted sales. 

“The units start in a 3 glass fronted door option, and can be purpose built to any size, to meet the growing needs of the booming industry. 

“We offer flexible rental terms complete with peace-of-mind service and maintenance.”

Cold Storage Rentals will be showcasing one of its units at PATS Telford in September, but if you would like any more information or to arrange a visit from one of the team, get in touch on ‪0800 1223308 or email info@misaukcsg.co.uk.

A dog owner from Cornwall is still in shock after her beloved Cavalier King Charles Spaniel “almost died” after a visit to her local Pets at Home store.

Karen Roebuck, of Canonstown, near Hayle, said what should have been a routine grooming session turned into a harrowing ordeal as her three-year-old dog Molly’s tongue went purple and she struggled to breathe.

She took Molly to the Groom Room at Pets at Home, Penzance, on Tuesday, April 23, at 9am for a grooming session.

Karen told Cornwall Live that she picked her pet up at 11.30am: “As I was taking her home she was panting heavily and struggling to breathe. She was making terrible noises – even the bus driver asked if she was okay. She really was fighting for every breath."

A Pets at Home spokesperson said: “We do recognise the distress that Mrs Roebuck would have experienced which is why we offered to cover the cost of the vet bill as a goodwill gesture and we are glad to hear that Molly has now made a good recovery.”

Click here for the full Cornwall Live story

There has been at least one winning pet product on the new BBC1 day-time hit show 'The Customer Is Always Right'. Find out by tuning into BBC iplayer...

Episode 1:

Rollabowl – Andrew Hibbert, Easypets.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0004hbt/the-customer-is-always-right-series-1-episode-1

Episode 3

GPS cat tracking device – Jeremy Price, Pawtrack

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0004j90/the-customer-is-always-right-series-1-episode-3

Episode 6

Innovative dog lead – Jen Ives, Grippy Leads

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0004psx/the-customer-is-always-right-series-1-episode-6

The Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association is urging people to refuse to accept prize live fish at fairs and is calling on local authorities to support its position that fish should not be given away in this way at places like fairgrounds.

As the fair season approaches, the UK trade body which represents the tropical fish industry is asking local authorities to check the terms of any licences issued to these businesses to make sure they comply with animal welfare standards.

OATA does not condone the use of live fish such as goldfish as prizes at places like fairs, says its Chief Executive Dominic Whitmee.

“Fish are like any other pet and should never be taken on as an impulse, such as winning it from a fairground stall,” said Dominic.

“Fish are vertebrate animals which means they have the same protection from cruelty as other animals like dogs and cats. As the season for these forms of travelling entertainment starts to gear up we would ask local authorities to use their powers to prevent fish from being given away as prizes to an unprepared public.

“More importantly we would urge the public to refuse these fish if offered them as a prize because that may be the best way to stop this unsuitable practice for good.

“We know that in the past winning fish in this way may have been an introduction to the great hobby of fishkeeping but the world moves on. Goldfish are great for those with big tanks or garden ponds but they live for a long time so they are quite a commitment to take on. Winning one at a fair is not the right way to take on a fish which can live for 20 years if well looked after.

“There are plenty of beautiful and better ‘first’ fish to be found in a proper fish shop where you’ll also get expert advice and a helping hand to create a welcoming and properly matured tank ready to take on your new pets, which a prize fish won at a fair certainly won’t get.

“We feel strongly that anyone offering fish to the public should at least meet the conditions applied by the local council to pet shops in that area, such as stocking, holding and water quality criteria. We cannot see how these conditions can be achieved in a fairground situation so would urge local authorities to use what powers they have to stop this practice continuing in their area.”

The full position statement from OATA can be found on its website at http://www.ornamentalfish.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Fish-as-prizes-apr-2015.pdf