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Don’t blame pet shops for puppy farm problems, says leading industry figure
Traditional pet shops have been wrongly tarnished during the debate on puppy farming, and any ban on the sale of puppies would only make matters worse. That’s the view of Nigel Baker, chief executive of the Pet Industry Federation, who told Pet Trade Xtra: “The only way to stop the ‘puppy farm’ and ‘imports’ from Central Europe and Ireland is for the UK to have large scale, properly regulated, puppy breeders...
 Traditional pet shops have been wrongly tarnished during the debate on puppy farming, and any ban on the sale of puppies would only make matters worse. That’s the view of Nigel Baker, chief executive of the Pet Industry Federation, who told Pet Trade Xtra: “The only way to stop the ‘puppy farm’ and ‘imports’ from Central Europe and Ireland is for the UK to have large scale, properly regulated, puppy breeders.
“The demand for puppies (circa 800,000 a year) won’t stop, and any ban will certainly drive the puppy traders underground as has been seen in the USA and Austria where bans have been trialed.
“In Austria, the ban on pet shops selling puppies was lifted after three years because the situation got so bad. More robust and better enforced regulations are needed, and these changes should be seen in the new licensing regulations.
“Anyone who sells a pet needs a pet shop licence (Pet Animals Act 1951). It does not follow that all traditional pet shops sell puppies! In fact less than 30 in the UK now do.
“However, there are over 80 pet vending licences issued for businesses that sell puppies. These are re-sellers of animals that are predominantly carrying on a business from their homes; they are not open and transparent for the public to visit, unlike traditional pet shops.
“Traditional pet shops have been tarnished with the ‘puppy brush’ for too long. Currently it is legal for a business (traditional pet shop or not) to obtain a pet shop licence to sell puppies. The new 2018 licensing regulations should tighten this up.”
In his interview with Pet Trade Xtra, Nigel also answered questions on the state of the pet industry and what he felt were the main challenges facing the trade.
How would you describe the state of the UK pet industry today?
We are seeing growth in the pet industry of circa 2% on pet foods, and a 13% growth over the last 5 years in accessories. Services such as grooming, dog walking etc continue to see very high growth rates.
What are the main challenges/threats facing the trade?
Brexit is probably the largest challenge as we import a lot of pet food ingredients and accessories and the pound has already significantly dropped against the Euro and Dollar. Expect to see more increases!
Where do the main opportunities for pet businesses lie?
Specialisation – pet shops should sell pets as a point of difference. Pet services are a large opportunity to add to retail or set up as standalone businesses. New products are the lifeblood of any business and visits to the trade shows both in the UK and oversees must be encouraged.
What would you like to see happen from the Brexit negotiations?
I think all manufacturers and retailers want to see some price stabilisation and no large barriers to trade across Europe. We already export a lot of pet products to the EU and these significantly help UK businesses amortise their overheads. Tariffs and custom barriers would be detrimental to UK businesses and there are no other western type markets in easy reach of the UK which UK suppliers could divert business too.
Do you think UK companies produce some of the best pet products in the world?
Yes we do, and we should do more, but we import many fad ingredients (rice, sweet potato etc) instead of using what we grow here. Most of the accessories we sell in the UK also come from the Far East. We are great inventors and traders but not so good at manufacturing (although there are some excellent manufacturers too)!
How much does European legislation currently effect the UK pet industry?
Our animal welfare legislation is similar to the EU and will continue post-Brexit to maintain parity with Europe – hopefully the big change will come on Pet Passports and better border controls to stop the illegal imports of puppies. Unfortunately, devolution has not helped as we are already seeing differences in legislation in Scotland, for example with Primary Authority partnerships, where most aren’t recognised in Scotland. The new 2018 Licensing Regulations will only be recognised in England and Wales which will cause issues for corporates with cross border outlets.
Do you think animal welfare standards are improving in this country?
We are a nation of animal lovers and on the whole we look after our pets very well. The majority of owners do not set out to be cruel to pets. It is estimated that under 1% of UK dogs actually need rehoming. The difficulty is extracting the true data from the welfare charities!
How are bodies like PIF influencing decision-making at Government level when it comes to animal-welfare and pet related matters?
PIF is actively involved with the new licensing regulations that come out next year and we sit on the DEFRA expert panel on this subject. We are also on the committee for writing Model Licence Conditions; PAAG (Pet Advertising Advisory Group) which looks at internet sales; Canine and Feline Sector Council (CFSG); the European Pet Organisation (EPO) – a collective of European Trade Association;, and the All Party Parliamentary Group on Animal Welfare (APGAW) as well as other committees. We represent the pet industry on these groups and set out to be the voice of reason amongst the welfare organisations.
Does the pet industry as a whole do enough to educate the public about responsible pet ownership?
The main issues about this are threefold. The wealthier charities could and should divert more funds to education; there should be better verbal information from trained staff when an animal is purchased (retail, breeder, rehoming centre) and there should be one central repository for animal care information which I am pleased to say that The Pet Charity is now undertaking through their pet portal (www.thepetcharity.org.uk). There should be more information pre-purchase about the cost, lifespan and welfare needs of acquiring an animal. Both PIF and The Pet Charity are very involved with education and information transfer to new pet owners.
Is there enough collaboration between the various trade bodies?
PIF already collaborates with OATA , REPTA and PFMA on a number of projects. The days of not working together to represent the pet industry are over and I believe we all have a much better understanding of the roles of each organisation and are working as one unified voice.
Have you achieved as much as you’d hoped since taking over at PIF?
Yes and no! I have been CEO for 4 years – membership has increased by 40% and members get more than ever before for their membership, we have increased our education offering with both the qualifications we offer as well as with our joint venture with Hadlow College dog grooming school which this year has seen over 160 students register for courses. We are opening another school with Hadlow in Greenwich in September; the annual PIF Forum and Awards has grown to over 250 people attending the Awards Dinner, and we represent the industry with government and local authorities to ensure that the pet industry is listened to. Whilst we have no doubt achieved much, there is always more to do!
Are you currently working on any exciting initiatives?
Up to now, PIF has largely been trade facing in the work it does. However, we recognise that as our members pay a membership fee, agree to our code of conduct and dispute resolution process, PIF should represent them as “stand out” businesses to the public. My Pet People (www.mypetpeople.co.uk) is our new public facing website which will launch in May where members can get a free listing on the site and the public can use it as the trusted place to go for pet businesses. We have received lots of support for this project and are looking forward to it coming to fruition. We are also working on the Greenwich Grooming School and working with The Pet Charity on the new “National Reptile Welfare Centre” which is a collaboration between industry, charity and education to rehome and discover how we can help prevent issues arising in this sector.
How will you celebrate PIF’s 70th anniversary this year?
We are planning some celebrations which will start over summer and culminate at the PIF Awards Dinner at Whittlebury Park, near Silverstone on November 29th.
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PIF leads the way and collars the market
The Pet Industry Federation successfully delivered its first professional dog walking course, the ‘Level 2 City & Guilds Certificate of Technical Competence in Dog Walking’ last week at its Bedford office...
The Pet Industry Federation successfully delivered its first professional dog walking course, the ‘Level 2 City & Guilds Certificate of Technical Competence in Dog Walking’ last week at its Bedford office.
The new 2.5 day course aimed at professional dog walkers, covers a range of practical activities and theory knowledge. It also covers emergencies, first-aid, lone working situations and legislation, giving dog walkers a solid basis for issues they are likely to encounter as a professional dog walker; and providing their customers with reassurance that their dogs are in the safest hands.
Course participants got to work with a range of dogs, assessing their behaviour and walking requirements, and then selecting and fitting suitable restraining equipment before demonstrating suitable control whilst out walking.
The course was assessed through a range of written tasks and practical assessments. An external assessor was in attendance and there was a 100% pass rate on the day. Students will receive a City & Guilds certificate showing their level 2 pass in Technical Competence in Dog Walking which they can then display to their clients.Last week’s inaugural course at PIF generated excellent feedback, with one student summing it up, stating: ‘This course has been invaluable to my dog walking business, I have learnt an extraordinary amount in such a small amount of time. I wish this course had been available when I started my business, I believe every walker should undertake it, it’s well worth the cost’. Following on from the success of the course, further dates have been planned, with the next intake being run at Hadlow College, in Kent on 14th-16th July.
PIF members receive a discount off the dog walking course fees. To register for the course; or for further details about it or about PIF membership, please email emma@petfederation.co.uk, or call 01234 273933. You can also visit the website: www.petfederation.co.uk.
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Pet food brand Webbox has teamed up with local brewery, Bowland Brewery, to create a festival ale for a charity Beer Festival.
The Lancashire-based businesses created the Mutts Nuts ale especially for Blackburn Beer Festival, a fund-raising event held By Blackburn Youth Zone.
A registered charity, Blackburn Youth Zone opens its doors to 3,000 members aged 8-18, offering them a safe and exciting environment in which to spend their spare time.
Webbox parent company, Pets Choice, has been patrons of the Youth Zone for several years, often working on many fundraising projects for the charity and has been a headline sponsor of the Beer Festival for the past two years.
In total the 2017 Blackburn, Beer Festival raised a fantastic £26,000, which will go towards raising hopes, aspirations and opportunities for the town’s young people, by keeping Blackburn Youth Zone open seven days a week.
Blackburn Youth Zone provides young people with somewhere to go, something to do and someone to talk to - for just 50p per visit.
Tony Raeburn, CEO of Webbox, commented: “We are glad to be involved in the Beer Festival for a second year as it’s such a great event for a great cause.
"We thought having a Webbox beer would be lots of fun and we held a competition for all of our employees asking them to name the beer and selected the best one.
"The competition created a buzz around the business and winners of the tickets enjoyed a fantastic day out at the Beer Festival.”
For further information on Webbox visit www.webbox.co.uk
Pictured: Bar & cellar manager Jason Menzies (left) with Tony Raeburn, CEO Pets Choice.
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 A 'Sun's Out, Tits Out' sign advertising wild bird seed at a Horwich pet shop in Greater Manchester has certainly caught the attention of local shoppers...
The sign, placed outside Lee Lane Pets advertised the store’s 80p deal on wild bird seed.
A picture of the sign was taken by 30-year-old Horwich resident, Linzi Sheader.
Linzi said: “I spotted it on Tuesday as I was driving to the local library and started laughing as soon as I saw it, so I parked up at the library and walked round to the pet shop to take the picture.
“Everyone seems to love it.”
Linzi’s picture was shared by the Horwich First Facebook page, where it continued to raise a few smiles.
Julie Derbyshire said: “Made my day when I passed it today. Made me chuckle, brightened my work day.”
Jason Lee added: “Haha. I drove past that yesterday, I almost went back to take a photo of it!”
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Luxury treat manufacturer, The Innocent Hound, is launching three new treats that are bursting with functional health benefits.
The superfood sausages contain targeted levels of natural active ingredients such as turmeric, spirulina and aloe vera. They give the products intense colours and flavours, but most importantly they can provide real health benefits.
Dog owners will know they are not only giving their dog a delicious treat, but one that is going to support their pet’s wellbeing.
The range targets three core areas of health support – dental, skin & coat and joints.
They are made with single proteins (70-80% ethically sourced, fresh, British meat or fish) and they are all air-dried, grain-free and hypoallergenic.
The Dental Support superfood sausage contains aniseed, (great for freshening breath), and citrus extract - a powerful antibacterial and antifungal remedy that helps prevent the build-up of plaque and tartar.
Chloe Heaton, of The Innocent Hound, explains: “I’ve lost track of the number of times I have been asked to produce a healthy alternative to mainstream dental chews. Our lamb sausages really could be the answer with these simple but effective ingredients.”
Skin and Coat Support sausages contain the soothing wonder plant, aloe vera, and a sprinkling of spirulina - a natural algae packed full of B vitamins, minerals and amino acids. It is great for helping support a healthy immune system and overall wellbeing.
The Joint Support treat is made with turmeric and ground black pepper. Turmeric contains curcumin and has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which are enhanced when mixed with ground black pepper. These sausages are an easy and delicious way of feeding a good dose of turmeric to dogs.
Chloe adds: “We have used exciting ingredients that are benefitting both humans and pets.
"What makes these treats different is that for our brand, it is much more than just a word on the packaging.
"We developed this range making sure the sausages contained the necessary quantities of active ingredients to really make a difference.”
These functional treats are available directly from The Innocent Hound woof@theinnocenthound.co.uk, tel: 01937 841175. The pouches contain 100g and RRP is £4.95.
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Ahead of this year’s Bring Your Dog To Work Day, the event’s founder HOWND has published guidance for HR departments of the companies who want to take part.
The natural pet product company has devised ‘7 HR Guidelines’ after being asked for advice from a number of office-based organisations:
- Written consent should be obtained from every office employee ahead of Bring Your Dog to Work Day.
- An accurate record of all dogs in the workplace should be kept.
- Each dog coming into the workplace should be kept on a leash while walking in the building, as well as outside, and should have an identity tag with the owner’s contact details.
- Dogs must be clean and well-groomed ahead of their day at work.
- Dogs should be well socialised i.e. good natured and comfortable around dogs and people.
- Each participating employee should bring a ‘Dog Packed Lunch’ - including treats, toys, a lead, water bowl, and food
- Each participating employee should also bring appropriate bedding for their dog, i.e. dog basket, mat or rug. Just so the working day is as comfortable as possible!
But isn’t this event just a novelty for workplaces? It might seem that way, but the benefits of allowing people to bring their pets to work have been studied in some depth by Virginia Commonwealth University The research showed an 11% reduction in the stress levels of employees which is significant enough to turn the heads of dog owners and team motivators in a range of companies.
“The presence of pets can substantially reduce a person’s stress level in the workplace. Increased job satisfaction, team cooperation and morale have all been reported in employees that spend the workday with their pets,” explains Jo Amit, co-founder of HOWND.
Raising Money for Charity
Raising money for animal welfare and promoting the benefits of bringing dogs into safe work environments are both aims of the event founder HOWND.
Businesses that wish to take part can do so as ‘Business Sponsors’. Previous years saw a wide range of businesses from across many industries getting involved and this is only set to increase. Companies such as Scottish & Southern Electric, Private Fly, Shore Capital, Henry Schein, as well as a host of UK pet businesses have all sponsored in the past.
The two official charities for 2017 are All Dogs Matter, which rescues and rehomes hundreds of dogs each year in the UK and Animals Asia, a charity foundation that saves dogs and cats from the corrupt meat trade in China and Vietnam.
“If you own or run a business, you can participate by making an online donation to become a business sponsor. In return for a minimum donation of £50, your company’s logo and website link will be displayed on the Bring Your Dog to Work Day website homepage. All the money raised will be split equally between All Dogs Matter and Animals Asia.”
Individuals can also make a donation whether they take their dogs to work or not. For a minimum online donation of £2, a picture of a person’s dog can be published in the ‘Dog With A Job Hall Of Fame’. Individuals that donate £5 or more online will automatically be entered into a prize draw to win £100s of goodies from our business sponsors.
Past Success
Bring Your Dog To Work Day has become a recognised calendar event, taking the national press and social media by storm over the past three years.
This has led to the initiative claiming bronze and silver ‘Marketing Campaign of the Year’ accolades at the annual PetQuip Awards.
“We’ve enjoyed incredible results on a shoestring budget. The day has been featured on national television and been the focus of a number of radio talking points around the country,” adds Jo.
Celebrities have got involved too, with the likes of Ricky Gervais and ITV’s Loose Women tweeting their support. This has helped the #BringYourDogToWorkDay hashtag trend on Twitter in both 2015 and 2016.
Become a movie star
Participants in this year’s Bring Your Dog To Work Day will also have the opportunity to contribute to its first official movie.
Through an award-winning app called Seenit Capture, those who take part can join the BYD2017 project, before recording and uploading clips of their dogs at work. These clips will be used to create a short film.
For further information about Bring Your Dog To Work Day visit the official website, or email hello@bringyourdogtoworkday.co.uk.
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Huxley Hound forges alliance with Natural Pet Products
Huxley Hound took another significant step in its ongoing mission to become a leading light within the UK’s growing ethical dog treat movement, by forging an alliance with holistic pet food provider Natural Pet Products Limited...
Huxley Hound took another significant step in its ongoing mission to become a leading light within the UK’s growing ethical dog treat movement, by forging an alliance with holistic pet food provider Natural Pet Products Limited.
Natural Pet Products have begun listing Huxley’s four veggie treat pouches – beetroot, sweet potato, carrot and parsnip.
According to Huxley co-founder Mike Deane: "We’re always on the look-out for like-minded partners with a strong ethical agenda.
"Natural Pet Products are a leading light within the UK’s holistic independent pet sector who can provide us with a national platform to promote our healthier treats message."
Huxley was set up in 2016 as an antidote to bland, nutritionally bleak treats and a rapidly escalating obesity epidemic.
Backed by the bio-science department of Nottingham University and accredited by the Vegetarian Society, this is one husband and wife team who are 100% committed to championing the nutritional benefits of a ‘veg- friendly’ diet.
Word is certainly spreading fast with Denmark becoming Huxley’s latest export destination.
More info: www.huxleyhound.com
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Eye-catching new packaging for LOGIC products
Ceva Animal Health, manufacturer of the leading range of veterinary supplements, has launched eye-catching new packaging for LOGIC EaseFlex for dogs, LOGIC EaseLife for dogs and LOGIC EaseBall...
Ceva Animal Health, manufacturer of the leading range of veterinary supplements, has launched eye-catching new packaging for LOGIC EaseFlex for dogs, LOGIC EaseLife for dogs and LOGIC EaseBall.
The new packaging offers improved convenience for both retailers and pet owners; the packs provide greater clarity when they are on display and they are also easier to stack to help maximise on-shelf presence and storage in the home environment.
Abigail King, LOGIC product manager at Ceva Animal Health, comments: “The striking new packaging for LOGIC EaseFlex for dogs, LOGIC EaseLife for Dogs and LOGIC EaseBall is more convenient for both retailers and pet owners and will help further enhance LOGIC’s market leading status.”
The tasty ‘soft chew’ LOGIC supplements contain high quality active ingredients, which have been specifically developed to ensure the high standards that owners expect for their pets. The supplements allow owners to ‘treat’ their pets, knowing they are contributing to the health of their pet and reducing the desire to give unhealthy snacks.LOGIC EaseFlex is a high quality super tasty joint supplement specially formulated to help soothe active joints and support long-term mobility.
The high quality ingredients in LOGIC EaseFlex include glucosamine HCL, to support the formation of healthy joint cartilage; chondroitin, to help maintain the elasticity of the joint cartilage and slow down its destruction and green lipped mussel, a high quality source of omega-3 fatty acids known to support and maintain joint function.
LOGIC EaseFlex should be given daily as a treat and comes in packs of 28 beef flavour, highly palatable soft chews, which provide up to eight weeks’ supply for a dog weighing up to 25kg.
LOGIC EaseLife is a super tasty supplement for senior dogs that has been specifically developed with a combination of essential nutrients to help support mobility, coat condition, mind vitality and alertness in senior dogs.
The high quality ingredients include glucosamine HCL, MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), a source of naturally occurring sulphur required as a building block in cartilage; omega-3 (DHA and EPA), necessary components of cells which help to support the immune system and vitamin E, a natural antioxidant which helps minimise damage and neutralise free radicals.
LOGIC EaseLife should be given daily as a treat and comes in packs of 28 beef flavoured highly palatable soft chews, which provide up to eight weeks’ supply for a dog weighing up to 25kg.
LOGIC EaseBall contains natural fish oils to lubricate the digestive tract and enhance the passage of fur through the gut. This reduces the occurrence of hairballs and can contribute to a healthy, shiny coat.
For reduction of hairballs, feed one super tasty chew per day. To assist in removal of existing hairballs, feed up to four chews daily until resolved. LOGIC EaseBall is available in packs of 28 salmon flavoured soft chews. For further information visit www.logicforpets.co.uk.
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Pooch & Mutt has launched its full range of products in three Kiwoko stores as part of a soft launch in Spain.Kiwoko, a Spanish pet shop chain, will be stocking all Pooch & Mutt products. The 2kg and 10kg grain-free dry dog foods will be available to customers, as well as the grain-free treats and wheat-free tube treats. The soft launch is part of Pooch & Mutt’s bid to gain more exposure in the international pet food market. Pooch & Mutt’s grain-free functional food range is made up of a 45% single protein source, with natural ingredients and supplements that are 'built in'. Function is at the core of the products. These powerful, active ingredients work very clearly to target current health concerns in the dog population, such as weight gain, excitable behaviour, and bad breath. For example, the Fresh Breath tube treats are formulated with peppermint and parsley in order to aid breath scent. “It’s our first venture into Spain,” said key account holder Hannah King. “We’re really excited to make the products available to Spanish customers. We’re looking forward to a long and successful relationship with Kiwoko.” To find out more about Pooch & Mutt’s full product range, visit www.poochandmutt.com or call 020 30 111 567.
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It's O-fish-al...fish are the most popular UK pet
Fsh are the most popular pet in the UK with around 33 million fish making up some of the 54 million pet owning households across the country, according to research by leading aquatics company Tetra...
- Out of 54 million pets in the UK, 33 million are aquatic
- Over half of Brits believe keeping fish calms children whilst boosting cognitive development
- Children with pets are more likely to exceed teacher’s expectations
Fsh are the most popular pet in the UK with around 33 million fish making up some of the 54 million pet owning households across the country, according to research by leading aquatics company Tetra.
This isn’t surprising when you consider the positive impacts fish can have on children including creating a relaxing environment, boosting development at school and improving social skills.
The Tetra research has found that children with pets perform swimmingly in school, meeting or exceeding teacher’s expectations by almost 10% vs children without any pets. When it comes to interacting with others, those with pets are also more confident and friendly.
The type of pet also has an impact on children’s performance outside of school with over half of parents believing that keeping fish had a calming effect on their child, whilst teaching them responsibility, developing social skills and encouraging cognitive development.
With SATS season around the corner, fish can make a particularly great pet for providing a relaxing environment in the home. Especially when you consider that the most common age for stress in children is between nine and 11-years-old, coinciding with exams in year six.
7.5 years old is the average age that children in the UK are given the responsibility for the day-to-day care of pets, with one in ten children owning a fish. Fishkeeping has doubled in popularity from 10 years ago, where only one in twenty pet households had fish. Brits are most likely to take up fishkeeping as they believe aquariums look good in the home, require little maintenance and create a relaxing environment.
Ashleigh Foster, Aquatics Marketing Manager at Tetra, comments: “It’s great to see how fishkeeping has grown in popularity over the years, especially with young children.
"At Tetra we’re dedicated to developing easy-to-use care products and solutions to help make maintenance easier than ever to allow fish fans to spend more time enjoying their aquarium whilst encouraging others to learn more about the fascinating hobby.”
With the two main reasons for not owning a pet being lifestyle - such as long working hours - and living in rented accommodation, fish make great, low-maintenance companions. Tetra provides a range of affordable aquariums from Peppa Pig themed tanks to introductory starter kits which include everything families need to kick start their new hobby.
For more information about Tetra, visit http://www.tetra.net/en
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Diabetic alert dog wins coveted PDSA Award
The 2017 PDSA Heroic Hound of the year is a dog being trained by Hypo Hounds. Phoebe, owner of award winning Teddy, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes 3 years ago and Hypo Hounds is completing the training of Teddy at Phoebe’s home.
The 2017 PDSA Heroic Hound of the year is a dog being trained by Hypo Hounds.
Phoebe, owner of award winning Teddy, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes 3 years ago and Hypo Hounds is completing the training of Teddy at Phoebe’s home.
Envirosmart, makers of Vitafeed, recently began supporting Hypo Hounds, the owner-based assistance dog programme for dog owners in the South East with Type 1 diabetes.
“This is an amazing programme,” says Nigel Bateson MD of Envirosmart. “With the support of a diabetic alert dog, people with diabetes can dramatically reduce their risk of experiencing a hypo or hyper, which makes a huge difference to their lives. Quite simply, these dogs are saving lives."
“Teddy will benefit from the brain and body boosting effects of having the optimum daily intake of essential Omega 3 supplied by Vitafeed,” says Jane Pearman, CEO of the Hypo Hounds charity.
“We are delighted that all the Hypo Hounds in training will be receiving this daily dose of goodness and the results it brings,"
To find out more about Hypo Hounds and to make a donation email info@hypohounds.co.uk
Pictured: Pheobe and her PDSA Heroic Hound 2017, Teddy
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Hot deals at Pedigree Wholesale’s Pet & Aquatic Trade Show
Pedigree Wholesale will be holding its annual Pet & Aquatic Trade Show on Wednesday, June 14, at Peterborough Arena, East of England Showground. Retailers who visit will be able to take advantage of the numerous extra special HOT DEALS...
Pedigree Wholesale will be holding its annual Pet & Aquatic Trade Show on Wednesday, June 14, at Peterborough Arena, East of England Showground.
Packed with lots of fantastic business opportunities there will be over 80 trade stands representing all of the market leading brands in the pet industry.
Retailers who visit will be able to take advantage of the numerous extra special HOT DEALS that will be available across many products EXCLUSIVELY AT THE SHOW.
The event is the perfect opportunity to meet suppliers and make new contacts, see the latest new products as well as generate ideas and inspiration as to what to stock over the coming months, including the dedicated Christmas area where retailers will be able to start planning to ensure they make the most of the busiest season.
Furthermore two lucky visitors will bag £500 and £250 cash respectively – to be in with a chance of winning visitors just need to visit 30 or more supplier stands. FREE bottles of Prosecco will also be handed out to all those who enter.
To help keep energy levels up a complimentary buffet lunch and refreshments will be available for all visitors.
Peterborough Arena is a versatile, multi-purpose venue, conveniently located just a stone’s throw from Junction 17 of the A1.
The event is open to all Pet Retailers. If you would like to visit, simply register your interest beforehand at http://tradeshow.petproducts.co.uk/If you would like any more information about the show or Pedigree Wholesale call 0115 982 3900 or e. info@petproducts.co.uk.
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A pet shop owner has been banned from trading for five years after he unplugged a goldfish’s oxygen supply to charge his mobile phone.
Jewan Shikho killed the fish when he pulled the plug to give his phone life at Pets Place in Salford, Greater Manchester, in August last year.
Four other fish were rescued from the tank after the oxygen pipe was left without power.
Following a tip off, council environmental health officers carried out an inspection on the property – which they said was in ‘appalling condition’.
A parakeet was also found dead in piles of excrement and baby rabbits were seen roaming around the filthy shop because their hutches were not secure.
According to town hall bosses, Shikho ‘cared nothing for the welfare of the animals, only for his profits’.
In a report, they said parakeets had been crammed into a makeshift aviary with insufficient perching space and were having to cling to the sides of the cage, while one bird lay dead.
A baby rabbit was left without access to water and three others roamed freely round the mouse-infested premises.
All of the rabbits were removed by the RSPCA because they were in poor health.
A follow-up inspection a week later found Shikho had removed the aviary.
The 25-year-old owner breached 23 conditions of his pet shop licence, including having no documentation to show where the animals had come from or who he had sold them to, the court was told.
Shikho of Cheshill Court, Marlborough Road, Salford, pleaded guilty at Salford and Manchester magistrates court to failing to comply with pet shop licence conditions as prescribed under The Pet Animals Act.
He was ordered to carry out 80 hours of unpaid community work, his pet shop licence was revoked and he was disqualified for five years from keeping a pet shop.
He was also ordered to pay court costs and a victim surcharge totalling £940.
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Thief Lee Pemberton stole £1,400 worth of dog leads and collars from Pets at Home in Stoke-on-Trent. He was captured on CCTV taking 77 items from the Festival Park store.. The 38-year-old was captured on CCTV taking 77 items from Pets at Home before leaving the Festival Park branch. Magistrates heard 38-year-old Pemberton, of Wilton Court, Hanley, was spotted on cameras going around the store with another man on April 4.
Henry Skurdra, prosecuting, said: “The two males entered the premises and were essentially going around and taking the goods. “Following the review of CCTV by police, he was arrested and in his interview answered 'no comment'." However, during a hearing at North Staffordshire Justice Centre, Pemberton admitted theft from a shop. Magistrates were told the value of the items was £1,415. Pemberton was due to be sentenced today (Thursday).
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- One quarter of owners are regularly greeted with urine, vomit and faeces in the home
- However one in ten never wash their sofa covers whilst 17% never wash their carpets
- Despite this, a shocking 79% are aware of the bacteria that pets can bring into their home
 There’s no denying that we’re a nation of animal lovers with around 16.5 million dogs and cats being kept as pets in the UK1. However, it appears the love that we have for our four-legged friends doesn’t stop there.
New research by carpet cleaning experts, BISSELL, has revealed key insights into the cleaning habits of UK pet owners. In a survey of 1,500 UK dog and cat owners, BISSELL found that muddy footprints, and spilt food and drink are the most common messes for UK pet owners to clean up with a further 25% regularly facing urine, vomit and faeces.
However, what is shocking is that despite 79% of pet owners being aware of the bacteria that pets can bring into their home, one in ten have never washed their sofa covers, a popular place for animals to relax, whilst a further fifth have never washed their carpets.
Dr Pixie McKenna, who has teamed up with BISSELL, comments: “Pets make a great addition to the home; however we need to make sure that we clean up after them properly to keep our family safe. Dogs and cats enjoy the outdoors and during their little adventures, they can pick up dirt and germs which they then transfer indoors on their paws.
“Carpets are an area of the home where germs can lurk especially if pets tend to toilet on them as cats and dogs can transmit parasites, bacteria and fungal infections in their faecal matter. Escherichia coli for example is a bacteria found in animal faeces.Whilst severe infections tend to be most frequently seen in cows, sheep, goats and deer, domestic pets can also carry it.
“If pets contaminate carpets and children are playing on the floor this can be a potential source of infection, something that can be very severe in children under 5 or the elderly. So cleaning up after pets is about far more than odour and appearance, it needs to be thorough to reduce potential ill health.”
Although ignorance may seem like bliss, it’s important as a retailer to educate pet owners on the benefits of regular cleaning to eliminate nasty bacteria and remove excess dust and pet hair as although soft furnishings like carpets, sofa covers and mattresses may look clean, it doesn’t mean that they are.
BISSELL’s range of vacuums and carpet cleaners offer powerful solutions for keeping homes clean and families happy and healthy.
The Pet Hair Eraser in particular makes cleaning up after pets a breeze thanks to its Tangle-Free Brush Roll which removes embedded hair and SmartSealAllergen System which captures allergens helping those who suffer with pet hair allergies.
The InstaClean Pet and StainPro 6 carpet cleaners also work to wash away dirt and pet messes on carpets, stairs and upholstery removing old spots and stains with the power of the OXY formula included in the cartons. To top it off, all of BISSELL’s solutions are safe to use with pets!
For more information please visit www.bisselldirect.co.uk. You can also tweet us @BISSELL_UK and like us on Facebook.
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Hy range backs BETA International 2018
The Hy range from leading wholesaler Battles is set to make a big splash at BETA International when it returns as visitor bag sponsor for the 2018 show...
The Hy range from leading wholesaler Battles is set to make a big splash at BETA International when it returns as visitor bag sponsor for the 2018 show.
This is the fourth year of support from the popular equestrian brand of essential products for horse and rider.
Its distinctive Hy logo will feature on bags handed out to visitors on arrival, securing a high-profile presence throughout the halls.
“We are delighted to be supporting BETA International once again and really looking forward to showcasing lots of new Hy brand products,” said Battles commercial manager Anna Clarke.
BETA International organiser Claire Thomas added: “We are thrilled that Hy is returning to sponsor the visitor bags for another year. We have always enjoyed a great working relationship with the Battles team and it's fantastic news that we are going to be joining forces once again.”
The sponsorship will see the Hy brand take its place among fellow sponsors Equestrian Trade News (ETN), Shires Equestrian, Schockemöhle Sports, Toggi and main sponsor Neue Schule.
BETA International is the world’s leading trade exhibition for equestrian, country clothing, outdoor and pet products.
The 2018 show will take place at the NEC, Birmingham, from 21 to 23 January. For further information about exhibiting, contact James Palmer, telephone +44 (0)1937 582111 or email jamesp@beta-int.com.
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A diploma in dog therapy: Your new career path?
Galen Myotherapy founder Julia Robertson runs diploma courses teaching her unique remedy to pet owners, vets, veterinary and other canine professionals, along with human therapeutic practitioners.
As man’s best friend, dogs have been living by our side for thousands of years. And for those with a passion for helping our canine companions there are courses galore teaching us how to train, groom and care for them.
Dog therapy, however, is a relatively new frontier but a canine expert is urging people to consider it – especially if they are thinking of a career change.
Julia Robertson is the founder of Galen Myotherapy – a hands-on muscle treatment used to treat dogs with arthritis and underlying pain – and runs diploma courses teaching her unique remedy to pet owners, vets, veterinary and other canine professionals, along with human therapeutic practitioners.
Since establishing the Galen Therapy Centre in 2002 she has treated thousands of dogs and trained hundreds of people, via her diploma course, who now work as myotherapists across the UK and abroad.
Julia added: “When I set up my therapy centre my aim was to help as many dogs as possible suffering in silence through arthritis, musculoskeletal pain and underlying conditions. I am extremely proud of all the myotherapists I have trained and work alongside.
“Through them, Galen Myotherapy is able to reach and support dogs from across the UK and further afield. They have all been through the diploma and are now working for themselves.”
Julia has been running her externally accredited diploma courses for more than 10 years, which is open to people from all ages and backgrounds. Students with an anatomy and physiology background can go straight onto the diploma while those without can take an introductory course beforehand.
“Myotherapy training demonstrates how dog’s posture is relevant to muscle pain, alongside teaching an in-depth knowledge of canine anatomy and physiology plus our specific empathetic handling by giving dogs choice. These components help to arrest chronic muscle pain and helps to reverse that dreadful chronic pain cycle” Julia said.
“With this understanding we can better spot signs that our pet may be in pain or discomfort so we can get them – or give them – the necessary treatment as quickly as possible”
“Working with dogs every day is totally rewarding – nothing says thank you more than a dog demonstrably enjoying their life more – and knowing that you are helping them makes the job completely satisfying and worthwhile. Our diploma course is an ideal step for people keen to work with dog’s in one of the most rewarding ways possible.”
For more information about Galen Myotherapy and the diploma course visit www.caninetherapy.co.uk/courses/canine-myotherapy-diploma/
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