Natures Menu takes a stance against puppy farming
Award-winning pet food company Natures Menu has taken a strong strance in the fight against puppy farming by stating it will only directly serve retailers who have a 'no puppies or kittens for sale' policy in their stores.
Award-winning pet food company Natures Menu has taken a strong strance in the fight against puppy farming by stating it will only directly serve retailers who have a 'no puppies or kittens for sale' policy in their stores.
In a statement on its website, Natures Menu said:
"We outlined in a previous post that Natures Menu completely support the campaign to stamp out puppy farming and the intolerable suffering it causes the animals we love so much.
"We are a natural pet food company who prides itself on its ethics, and our aim will always be to provide high quality produce to loving pet parents either directly from us or via specialist pet stores across the UK who dedicate themselves to the pets and pet parents who chose to buy products from their stores.
"As we educate ourselves further on the puppy farming industry Natures Menu has chosen to make it a policy of our brand to only directly serve retailers who can also demonstrate their commitment to anti-puppy farming by not selling puppies or kittens in their stores.
"Natures Menu is committed to encouraging the adoption of puppies and kittens from the many responsible, ethical and reliable sources that allow new pet parents to enjoy the loving relationship a pet companion can bring and we will continue to support the many charities, rescue homes, breeders and pet professionals who provide this valuable service."
TV Vet and anti puppy farming campaigner Marc Abraham described Natures Menu's announcement as "groundbreaking and a potential game changer for 'ethical' brands."
You can read the Natures Menu statement in full by visiting http://www.naturesmenu.co.uk/blog.aspx
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Entrepreneurs looking to start a new business in 2016 should turn to posh pet food, according to a new survey.
An annual report by online business resource Startups.co.uk predicts businesses specialising in producing posh pet food will be on the up this year after it was named in the Top 16 of a ‘What business to start in 2016’ study.
The report combines in-depth research and analysis of emerging business and consumer trends, insights from leading market research bodies such as Mintel and Euromonitor, as well as interviews with, and commentary from, industry experts.
Startups.co.uk's 16 best business ideas for 2016 are:
- Gin
- Fermented food and drinks
- Pottery
- Instapreneur
- Live music festival
- Women's sportswear
- Posh pet food
- Fittech
- Natural and organic beauty
- Gourmet burgers
- Edtech
- Online watch shop
- Activity bar
- Fitness franchise
- Venue booking platform
- Smart products
Visit Startups.co.uk for more information.
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PIF seeks views on ground-breaking licensing review
The Pet Industry Federation has welcomed the government’s consultation on the review of animal establishment licensing, announced by the Department of Environment, Food & Rural Affairs at the end of 2015...
The Pet Industry Federation has welcomed the government’s consultation on the review of animal establishment licensing, announced by the Department of Environment, Food & Rural Affairs at the end of 2015.
The far-reaching consultation is seeking the views of stakeholders on a number of questions which include licensing of all types of animal establishments, the sales of pets, primary authority, dog breeding, inspection schemes and voluntary regulation.
PIF represents a range of businesses which will directly affected by the outcome of the review; pet retailers and boarding establishments primarily, but there is also scope in the review to cover other areas such as pet grooming. The Federation will be representing the pet industry in its response to the consultation and will be submitting views which will help ease the regulatory burden on business and ensure that animal welfare is the prime consideration.
To help it formulate its response, PIF has put together an online survey and is asking pet businesses to take a few minutes completing it in order to put forward their views and ensure that their voice is heard.  Nigel Baker (left), PIF’s chief executive said: "The licensing consultation offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to overhaul a range of legislation regulating pet businesses that is outdated and not in keeping with pet-owning habits in the 21st century.
"It is essential that we get it right and create a regulatory environment which underpins animal welfare through the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and removes the inconsistencies and anomalies that the various legal frameworks over the decades have created.
"PIF represents the pet industry on two major groups that report directly to DEFRA. We will therefore be submitting our views to the consultation not only through those groups, but also directly to government through close collaboration with other industry stakeholders.
"We are asking all pet businesses, whether currently licensed or not, to visit our survey and spend a little time writing down their thoughts. Most pet businesses will be affected by any new legislation, either directly or indirectly, so it’s vital that they take advantage of this opportunity to engage with the consultation." Visit: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ZVJCNYC to access the online survey, which will close at 5pm on Friday 19 February 2016.
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The duo behind Beco Pets, Britain’s biggest manufacturer of eco-friendly pet products, attended a VIP reception in the City of London hosted by Europe’s top business awards.
Beco’s Co-Founders Toby Massey and George Bramble were on the guest list after being shortlisted and named ‘UK National Champions’ in the 2016 awards.
Around 50 other shortlisted entrepreneurs were also there, but Beco Pets was the only UK pet trade company to enter the awards and was therefore the industry’s sole representative.
Business leaders at the reception, held at The London Stock Exchange, were told that across Europe, 32,000 businesses from 33 countries had applied to the awards.
Adrian Tripp, CEO and Founder of the European Business Awards, now in their eighth year, told delegates that to get this far in the competition marked a significant achievement.
“You should feel proud of what you have done in your businesses,” he told them. “You are also contributing to society. Unless we create a strong business community, there won't be a future for our children who come after us.”
Robert Coles, Master of Ceremonies at the reception, told shortlisted UK companies (pictured below), including Beco Pets: “As National Champions, you should be very proud to have got to this point.”
European Business Awards judges have previously included some of the world’s top business, economic and political leaders, such as Christine Lagarde (Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund) and the former Prime Minister of Spain Jose Aznar.
Organisers of the awards have praised Beco Pets as “a top business in Europe”, telling the company: “You are a flag bearer for your country and a case study for European business success. Companies like yours will continually raise the standard benchmark for business excellence across Europe.”
To be in with a chance of making it through to the awards final in Milan this summer, Beco Pets have asked their supporters to vote for them by visiting: http://bit.ly/1PRUxEA
George Bramble (pictured above, second right with Adrian Tripp, far right), said: “The quality and calibre of companies across Europe and the UK set the benchmark very high, and we feel excited and very proud to have been awarded a UK National Champion status.
“Beco Pets’ ethos of producing environmentally-friendly pet products and accessories using recycled and degradable materials is winning new customers worldwide and being recognised by these awards is a great vote of confidence for us.”
Co-Founder Toby Massey, (top picture, second left) added: “This is a tremendous honour for us and a well-deserved reward to our hard-working UK team and all our European distributors.”
Beco, which is set to unveil a major new product range at the PATS Sandown show in March, sells products in 43 countries, with markets including Denmark, Slovenia, Slovakia, Spain, New Zealand, Iceland, Austria, Lithuania, Latvia, Germany, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Portugal.
The company recently launched their 'Project Poop Bag' campaign (Campaign motto: 'We Love Poop!'), inviting independent pet retailers to register to become a Beco bag stockist. Beco have now sold 10 million bags to 15 countries around the world.
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Ethical pet retailer Pets Corner is to provide the first ever pet and human first aid training course to their team of 600 shop floor staff.
The family run pet shop, which has over 100 stores across the UK, has teamed up with First Aid Support Training and The Canine First Aid Company to develop the specially tailored course, which will be rolled out across the company from January.
The full day course will cover two parts with the first half focused on humans and the second stage on canine and feline first aid. Topics covered will include a variety of day to day scenarios that require first aid skills such as dealing with minor injuries, shock and unconsciousness, and administering CPR.
Lucy Ross, Head of Training at Pets Corner, said: “We have always strived to apply a genuine and ethical approach to everything we do and this includes having the best trained staff in the industry.
“As well as our human customers we also welcome animals into our stores including hosting a regular ‘Puppy Hour’ session at each of our shops every Saturday - so it makes sense that our staff’s first aid knowledge extends beyond the standard expectations.
“It’s our mission to provide all of our staff with the tools and knowledge they need to feel confident in helping both pets and people and for our customers to always be in safe hands when they visit any of our shops.”
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 PitPat has been flying the flag for British innovation, officially unleashing its activity monitor for dogs at the world’s largest consumer electronics show (CES) in Las Vegas.
PitPat, an innovation devised and manufactured in the UK, provides dogs and their owners with a device that has been designed to track activity, rest and play 24/7. The device attaches to any dog’s collar and with its sleek, lightweight and compact design it is set to be the go-to gadget for dogs of any shape, size or breed. Officially launched to pet retailers at PATS Telford in September, PitPat has already made a huge impact in the UK, racking up features on The Gadget Show and in The Daily Star. Now, following exhibiting at CES, which attracts over 170,000 tech professionals and enthusiasts - PitPat has also gained international attention, being featured in a host of CES product round ups including; the BBC, i, The Telegraph, Sunday Times Ireland and USA Today. Andrew Nowell, CEO of PitPat, comments of the show: “our debut at CES was a great success and the overwhelming interest we’ve received in PitPat just goes to show that wearable technology for pets is increasingly becoming an essential item for those wanting to ensure their pets are happy and healthy.”
 Competitively priced at RRP £39.99, PitPat also boasts best in breed technology with a year-long battery life and waterproof design, meaning it can stay attached and continue tracking all the time and unlike other wearable technology products, there is no inconvenience or downtime for recharging. Pedigree Wholesale is the exclusive distributor of PitPat in the UK and Managing Director Steve Brown comments: “we’re incredibly excited to be the exclusive distributors of PitPat in the UK. The level of interest that we have already had from retailers has been great and the marketing opportunities are equally exciting. As the appetite for technology products that help owners keep their pets healthy grows, we’re sure this will be a very busy and very successful year for PitPat.” Accompanying the PitPat device is a free iOS and Android app, which allows owners to keep an eye on their dog’s activity levels from the intuitive dashboard. One simple press of the button on the device enables the activity data to be instantly transferred to the PitPat app, where owners see a breakdown of their dog's walking, running, playing and resting and how this activity compares to a daily exercise guideline based on its age, breed and weight. For retailers interested in stocking PitPat, please contact Pedigree Wholesale or for more information visit www.pitpatpet.com.
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Significant sales growth for Vitalin Pet Food
Vitalin Pet Food reports significant annual growth since the re-launch in 2014. Both the UK and export markets are thriving which is largely down to the addition of the Super Premium Hypoallergenic and Holistic Natural Range...
Vitalin Pet Food reports significant annual growth since the re-launch in 2014. Both the UK and export markets are thriving which is largely down to the addition of the Super Premium Hypoallergenic and Holistic Natural Range.National Sales Manager, Sean Cox says: “Sales are up 46% for Vitalin which is excellent. We invested in a rebrand for Vitalin with our best seller being grain-free Vitalin Adult dog food which has proved popular both in the UK and overseas. “2016 is set to be an exciting year for Vitalin as we continue to develop the range and welcome new products later this year. With a comprehensive PR and marketing strategy in place, we are providing increased support for our dedicated stockists and would like to thank the trade for helping to make the Vitalin brand so successful.” The Vitalin Super Premium Range is available in 2, 6 and 12kg bags and is priced at £7.29, £17.95 and £32.95 respectively. For further information about the Vitalin Super Premium Dog Food Range call +44 (0) 844 800 3347 or visit www.vitalinpetfood.co.uk.
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There has been growing concern among vets and rabbit owners that a new variant of the deadly disease Rabbit VHD is causing a wave of deaths among rabbits in several outbreaks across the UK.
The lethal new strain, known as RVHD2, is 'immune' to the UK's current 'combi' vaccine but the Rabbit Welfare Association and Fund (RWAF) is now able to announce that it is introducing into the UK a new vaccine, Cunivak RHD, which offers protection.
Dr Richard Saunders, the RWAF Specialist Veterinary Adviser, has been working with others* on behalf of the RWAF in putting together a disease risk assessment and making it possible to import the new vaccine - Cunivak RHD - to tackle RVHD2. The RWAF has now successfully established a Special Import Certificate (SIC) for Cunivak RHD and has ordered a small number of vaccines to establish an ordering system into the UK. This means UK vets are able to order or import the new vaccine themselves for the protection of pet rabbits.
Dr Saunders says: "RVHD2 is a growing and deadly problem - a new strain of an already lethal disease that sidesteps our existing vaccines and appears to be spreading in the UK. Thankfully, we've found an answer in the vaccine Cunivak RHD and have been able to jump through the necessary hoops to enable vets to bring it into the UK.
"Cunivak RHD is not a replacement for the combi vaccine so my advice, and the advice of the RWAF, is that vets and rabbit owners should keep on using the combi vaccine and add the second vaccine to their annual vaccination schedule to give their rabbits full protection against both deadly diseases, as well as Myxomatosis."
The RWAF urges rabbit owners to discuss the new vaccine with their own vet and holds a list of rabbit savvy vets: anyone who would like to know of rabbit savvy vets in their area can email hq@rabbitwelfare.co.uk.
Vet practices that would like to be considered for the RWAF list or would like the RWAF's information sheet on RVHD2 can also email hq@rabbitwelfare.co.uk.
* Dr Richard Saunders created the RVHD2 disease risk assessment, on behalf of the RWAF, with the valuable assistance of the APLA, Ann Pocknell (Finn Pathologists), Mark Stidworthy and Daniela Denk (IZVG) and Tariq Abou-Zahr (Great Western Referrals).
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Pedigree Wholesale has recognised the special efforts, commitment, hard work and achievements of staff at its Company Awards with over 50 individuals receiving nominations.
The awards, which were presented at a special ceremony at the DoubleTree By Hilton Nottingham Gateway Hotel, were split into five award categories; Customer Focus Award, Salesperson of the Year, Driver of the Year, Production /Warehouse Operative of the Year and an Award for Outstanding Contribution.Two employees received the Customer Focus Award – Jessica Marley, a member of the customer services team at the Midlands depot in Nottingham, and Helen Shaw, administrator and credit controller at the North Depot in Leeds. Colleagues quoted: “Jessica and Helen were always able and willing to help customers resolve queries quickly.” Salesperson of the Year Award was presented to Paul Stainsbury, Relationship Manager for the East of England. Colleagues quoted: “Paul’s sales performance is excellent and he is a great ambassador for Pedigree.” Dean Dabell was presented with the Driver of the Year Award with colleagues stating: “Dean has an excellent attitude to work and always aims to get the best out of his vehicle.” Joanne Wade, a relatively new member of the team, received the Production / Warehouse Operative Award. Extremely flexible and hardworking colleagues quoted: “Joanne has a fantastic work rate and is always willing to help.” The Outstanding Contribution Award was presented to Chris Hindson for his outstanding dedication to the business. Colleagues quoted: “No-one works harder for the company. Chris is a committed, focussed and hardworking all-rounder.” Pedigree Wholesale’s Managing Director Steve Brown said: “I would like to take this opportunity to say many congratulations to the award winners and thank you to everyone who voted. We had a tremendous response and it’s great to see such positive feedback.” If you would like more information about Pedigree Wholesale call 0115 982 3900 or e. info@petproducts.co.uk.
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Lily's Kitchen targets patriotic dog owners
Inspired by the Queen's 90th Birthday this summer, Lily’s Kitchen is launching Coronation Chicken, a limited edition recipe for dogs, to provide a seasonal, regal and patriotic offering for pet owners...
 Inspired by the Queen's 90th Birthday this summer, Lily’s Kitchen is launching Coronation Chicken, a limited edition recipe for dogs, to provide a seasonal, regal and patriotic offering for pet owners.
Lily’s Kitchen’s latest release is packed with delicious and natural ingredients, including freshly prepared, delectable chicken, juicy cranberries, apricots and squash, warmed by a pinch of turmeric. The recipe will supply pet owners with a unique and patriotic offering to help celebrate a landmark occasion in British history.
Coronation Chicken will join the brand’s 69 strong product family and is further evidence of the company’s continued commitment to inventive new recipes within its category.
With the Queen’s 90th year a major event in the UK consumer calendar, this product will allow retailers to capitalise on this seasonal demand, by providing an offering that will not only appeal to pet owners but also drive incremental sales and excitement in-store – many independent retailers have been so inspired by this recipe that they are building window displays around the product.
Comments Ruth Mordell from Fetch Pet Shop in Bradford –on-Avon: “We love the new Coronation Chicken recipe and have a small pyramid of the new tins on our counter. The shiny gold lettering along with the gold re-usable lids to top them off makes it a real eye-catcher of a display. And it works, we sold through our first delivery in a week and are a good way into our second order of the tins already. It helps of course that Sparky the Shop Dog has given it his 'bowl licked clean' seal of approval sowe can confidently tell customers that their dogs will love it too. Top marks to Lily and the team for raising the bar once more!”
Like all of Lily’s Kitchen’s recipes, this Limited Edition has been created alongside vets and nutritionists, ensuring that it doesn’t just fill stomachs but feeds the overall health of each pet. The natural nourishment provided within helps to promote a shiny coat, healthy skin, fresher breath and healthy digestion.
Renowned for changing the way pets eat, Lily’s Kitchen’s consistent product inventions challenge the market’s biggest pet food companies by combining the brand’s approach to producing naturally nourishing pet food with innovations that provide a unique offering compared to existing products on the market.
CEO and Founder Henrietta Morrison, continues: “As a British brand, we’re hugely patriotic at Lily’s Kitchen, so we wanted to mark this occasion by creating a tempting recipe that allows your dog to join in the regal celebrations too, while also providing a nutritious recipe so that all dogs can benefit from Lily’s Kitchen’s stately nutritional standards. The Queen also loves her canine friends as much as we do and we are really excited to be launching a product that will allow dogs to enjoy a specially prepared dish fit for any corgi or any patriotic pooch!”
The new Coronation Chicken recipe, RRP £2.49, is available now and will be sold in independent pet shops, health food shops, Waitrose and on the Lily’s Kitchen website www.lilyskitchen.co.uk.
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Tetra has refreshed its specialist food range with the relaunch and extension of the Wafer range. The range includes new ingredients that will appeal to bottom-feeding fish species even more.
The Wafer range aims to help consumers select the right kind of food for the fish in their aquariums allowing them to remain healthy and nourished.Bottom-feeding fish require rapidly sinking food which keeps hold of vitamins and are not all eaten by surface and midwater feeding fish leaving only small fragments available. Although bottom-feeding fish will feed on other fish waste and algae in the aquarium’s walls, plants and stones it will not provide them with all the nutrients they need. Tetra’s new family wafer offers high quality and specialist bottom feeder food which are highly appealing and nutritious. The updated range now includes the following products in a new pouch bag design to increase ease of use and lock in freshness: - Tetra Pleco Wafers – premium staple food for herbivorous bottom fish. Tetra Pleco Wafers now as 2in1 Veggie Wafers and Algae Wafers. The complete feed for all herbivorous bottom-feeding fish, enhanced with a biologically balanced 2in1 formula and essential fibres for easy digestion.
- Tetra Pleco Algae Wafers - for algae-grazers - nutritionally balanced vegetable food with essential Spirulina algae protein to meet the specific nutritional needs of algae-grazing fish and enhanced immunity. Available in 3 feeding sizes: 42, 85g and 150g pouch bags.
- Tetra Pleco Veggie Wafers - pure vegetable feeding - containing courgette which are rich in minerals for improved well-being and vitality. Available in 42g pouch bag
- Tetra WaferMix – premium staple food for omnivorous bottom fish. This supreme food mix for bottom feeding fish guarantees a varied and optimal nutrition. The complete, balanced mixture contains Shrimps for healthy growth, as well as Spirulina Algae for improved resistance. Available in two feeding sizes: in 68g and now in 10g pouch bag as a trial pack.
- Tetra CoryShrimp Wafers – a feast for Corydoras. Brand new 2in1 formula specifically developed for Corydoras: contains 10 % Brine Shrimps and is rich in essential omega-3 fatty acids for healthy growth. Available in 42g pouch bag
Céline Rignault, Trade Marketing Manager Tetra comments; “At Tetra we are dedicated to providing fish keepers with specialist food and equipment which is vital for ensuring fish live a happy and healthy life. Bottom-feeding fish require rapidly sinking food which retains vital vitamins on its way down which is why we’ve ensured our new range is nutritionally balanced and includes key ingredients to correspond to the needs of these species.”
For more information about Tetra, visit http://www.tetra.net/en
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Ocado launches pet technology centre
Fetch, the online pet store from grocery delivery service Ocado, has launched what it is billing as the UK's first dedicated pet innovation centre...
Fetch, the online pet store from grocery delivery service Ocado, has launched what it is billing as the first dedicated pet innovation, or ‘Petnology’ Centre.
The purpose of the online hub is apparently to help pet owners care for their pets and build a better understanding of their needs through inventions which use cutting-edge technology.
Fetch is also giving its customers the opportunity to decide which invention it will develop into a real working prototype. The voting is now live at fetch.co.uk/petnology until 8th February with the winning idea to be announced shortly afterwards.
A prototype will then be developed and the product could even be manufactured.
From a long list, the ideas from Fetch were eventually whittled down to the following Petnology shortlist:
- WhatsYapp: A communications system between pooches and their pals. It works by analysing your dog’s sounds, movements and activities through a smart collar that talks to WhatsYapp on your phone and lets you know what your dog is thinking.
- CatQuest: An interactive 3D projection gamestation for cats which can be activated remotely via an app, turning your home into a play centre for cats.
- PetPounds: PetPounds uses SmartBand technology to encourage children to play with their pets to earn rewards. By walking, running or playing with pets, children can earn vouchers, days out or time credit on mobile devices.
“We initially launched the Petnology Centre internally to challenge our team to come up with ideas and innovations and they certainly rose to the challenge," says Rachel Comerford, Head of Commercial at Fetch.co.uk.
"We can’t wait to see which idea is going to appeal to our customers and hopefully we can get it put into production and who knows, even sell it on our site!”
For more details on each concept and to cast your vote for which prototype you would like to see brought to life please go to: fetch.co.uk/petnology
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Pets Corner has opened a new store in Wokingham creating four new jobs.
The store, which is located inside the Heathlands Garden Centre on Heathlands Road, opened its doors to the public for the first time last Saturday.
The company’s focus is on providing the best possible advice to help customers care for their much loved animal family members through knowledgeable and friendly staff, great products that last and the best animal welfare in the industry.
 The store will stock a selection of live animals and an extensive range of naturally sourced, quality items for a variety of furry, feathered and scaly companions including a small home farming range. Free parking is available, as well as a free health club providing nutritional advice for pets.
Scott Sherriff, Regional Manager at Pets Corner, said: “We are delighted to be bringing our animal expertise to Wokingham.
'Everyone at Pets Corner is incredibly passionate about animals and we are committed to delivering the highest quality of service and care to all of our customers and their pets.
"The whole team has been trained in giving advice that will help make pets’ lives as safe and happy as possible. We are looking forward to meeting our Wokingham customers and helping them with all their pet related requirements.”
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 James Romaine has been appointed as Johnson’s Veterinary Products' new Area Sales Manager, replacing Richard Morgan who will be retiring during 2016.
Richard has dedicated the past 25 years to supporting Johnson’s customers in the East Anglia and Home Counties area of the UK.
His forthcoming retirement opens the opportunity for Johnson’s to bring a fresh approach to the area, with James joining the company from the independent high street retail giftware trade where, as a sales manager, he experienced 10 years successfully supporting a large customer base.
Richard’s retirement will be phased in during 2016, and he will remain with the company on a part-time basis to temporarily look after a number of larger accounts in the area. James lives in Bourne, Lincolnshire, with his wife, Steph, and two children along with their dog ‘Charlie’ a Cockapoo, a recent addition to the family and luckily already a "Johnson’s" dog, choosing to use the Manuka shampoo. James looks forward to continuing to develop the excellent trading relationships which Johnson’s have enjoyed for many years, maintaining the company’s policy of personal attention and reliable service, dedicated to the independent retail pet trade.
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McAdams, a new dog food brand made using whole British free range chickens, recently launched a search in the Brighton, Hove and Shoreham area to find a special canine to be the recipient of its ‘Most Deserving Dog’ award. The local community was invited to nominate a special pooch that had gone above and beyond simply being man’s best friend.
English Springer Spaniel Oscar was chosen as the lucky winner of Brighton’s ‘Most Deserving Dog’ award. Mrs Robins, Oscar’s owner, was understandably going through a very difficult time after the passing of her husband when Oscar came into her life. This very special pooch helped her though her grief and gave a new found happiness and purpose to her life.
Oscar has won a McAdams food hamper and dog toys as well as a grooming session courtesy of Shoreham-based dog parlour Just Paws Grooming.
Mrs Robins commented: “I am so thrilled that Oscar has won the Most Deserving Dog award. He is the reason I get up in the morning and even though it’s been difficult training a new dog, Oscar has been an absolute delight. He helped me through a really difficult time in my life and has so much love to give; everyone who meets him says what a lovely, friendly dog he is.”
Neil McAdam, creator of McAdams Pet Foods, said: “Oscar is a very special dog whose love and loyalty has made him a worthy winner for the ‘Most Deserving Dog’ award. He has certainly gone above and beyond and we’re really happy to have the opportunity to treat him and give him the recognition he deserves.”
Emily Mulholland, Head Stylist at Just Paws Grooming, added: “Oscar was an absolute star when we were giving him his grooming treat, very relaxed and happy. We’re really pleased to have been involved with the McAdams Deserving Dog award and treating Oscar to a special pampering session.”
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Online pet healthcare retailer MedicAnimal is warning owners to take action against pet obesity, with one in three pets in the UK now considered obese.
A Pet Food Manufacturer’s Association’s (PFMA) 2015 report found that 73% of vets believe the problem of obesity is getting worse and pet owners are seemingly unaware of the life-limiting effects of obesity.
The main cause of obesity in pets is generally too much food and too little exercise. The PDSA’s 2015 Animal Welfare (PAW) report states over 2.6 million dogs receive scraps or leftovers as their main meal and 27% of cat owners continue to rely on ‘common sense’ when deciding how much to feed their cats; the resulting obesity can reduce an animal’s lifespan by up to two years.
While the PAW report shows that 58% of the public believe that severely overweight pets should be removed from their owners, MedicAnimal highlights that the feeding problem is also due to too much love. Many pet owners give treats as a sign of affection and it can be difficult to refuse those ‘puppy-dog eyes’ begging for treats.
Andrew Bucher, co-founder and Chief Veterinary Officer at MedicAnimal, commented: “Obesity in animals carries with it a whole host of health problems. From cancer and heart disease to degenerated joints, overweight pets are more likely to suffer from a number of related diseases and will die early.
"We are pleased to see that this message is having an impact on UK pet owners; in January 2016, MedicAnimal has seen a clear uplift in sales of pet diet products compared to other months.
"With a staggering one third of the 58.4 million pets in the UK considered as obese, it is essential that we act now.
“There are a number of scientifically formulated nutritional products designed to help with healthy and safe weight reduction, but pet owners should also consult their vet first, as they will be able to provide a full health check and weight management plan suited to your animal.”
Just like with overweight humans, obesity in animals carries with it significant health issues. Pet obesity significantly increases the risk of major chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, arthritis, hypertension, and heart, kidney, and respiratory disease. It can also create faster degeneration of joints, cause urinary bladder stones, and complicate anaesthetic procedures in surgery as overweight animals become less heat tolerant.
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 Pooch & Mutt was featured in the Business section of the Telegraph last Friday (January 22).
The article focused on the company’s unique marketing strategy of collaborating with other likeminded, British brands to achieve their mission of helping dogs lead happy, healthy lives.
It highlighted Pooch & Mutt’s collaboration with Shaken Udder, makers of natural, British milkshakes. Both companies are proud to not use any artificial colours, preservatives or flavours in their products.
Jodie Farran, co-owner of Shaken Udder, said: “Though our products are very different, our companies share similar backgrounds and business ethos. We’re both similar-sized companies that were created from a drive to produce high-quality products for a specific market." Pooch & Mutt look to find other companies who create premium, natural and ethical products regardless of their sector to partner with for social media partnerships.
Passion is a key component of any collaboration and a desire to produce superior products for the British population.
Samantha Southwell, Pooch & Mutt’s Communication Coordinator, added: “We are very pleased to have been featured in the Telegraph and represent the UK pet industry. It was a big win for new, British brands who aim to create premium products in their sector." Pooch & Mutt’s bestselling range of grain free, natural and ethical foods are available in five varieties to help with specific problems dogs may have including Calm & Relaxed, Fresh Breath, Move Easy, Slim & Slender and Health & Digestion. The foods are available in 2kg and 10kg bags. To read the full article click here
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 A Guide Dog, which was funded and named by Worcestershire’s Webbs Garden Centre customers, has ‘changed the life’ of his partially sighted owner.
Haydn Callow says the golden Labrador, he calls Superstar Webster, has transformed his life and given him the confidence to go out and about since he arrived in 2014.
Generous Webbs of Wychbold customers had raised over £5,000 for the charity Guide Dogs, giving them the opportunity to name the puppy Webster and sponsor it for the first year of its life.
Webster has become a local star in Somerset including visiting BBC Radio and recently was taken into a school assembly by Mr Callow, along with his daughter Jo Andrews who is running the London Marathon in April to raise money for the charity Guide Dogs.
Jo chose to run the marathon in support of Guide Dogs after seeing how her dad has benefited from having Webster.
She said: “The charity does amazing work throughout the UK and helps to change the life of so many partially sighted and blind people. I was watching dad struggle before he had Webster, and I can see now just how much having him around has changed dad’s life. Before, he didn’t want to leave the house, and now he is happy to walk around town with Webster.
“Webster is an amazing working Guide Dog and when his harness is on and when it is off he is just the most loyal and loving dog you could ever wish for. He is truly part of the family.”
Mr Callow said he was hugely proud of Jo for what she was doing, and added: “I have a progressive condition called Retinitis Pigmentosa which results in me seeing what's in front of me but little else around. This made busy places no go areas but my life has changed completely since having Webster.
"He is so clever he knows exactly what I need and he has given me back my confidence. I would like to pass on my thanks to all concerned and let them know how much their fundraising means to people like myself who have limited vision. “
Webbs Chairman Ed Webb said: “It is always heart-warming to hear the impact of the money our kind customers raise for charity. We’re all delighted to know that Webster has had such a huge difference on improving every-day life for Haydn.
"Last year our customers raised enough money to pay for a second Guide Dog puppy, named Webster in our competition, who is currently undertaking specialist training.”
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