A couple who started a ‘healthy dog food’ business by making home-cooked dishes for their cocker spaniel have secured a £1.5m business loan to complete the fit-out of their new premises in Telford.

The loan – one of the largest to date from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II – will enable Different Dog founders Charlie and Alex Thurstan to create a new state-of-the-art kitchen to meet growing demand. 

The company, which creates freshly prepared food from natural ingredients, has tripled its revenue in the last three years and has plans for further growth.

Different Dog was founded in 2017 after Charlie, who held a senior role with a leading pet retailer, became increasingly concerned about the quality of commercial dog food, which is typically made from ultra-processed ingredients, fillers and additives, and cooked at high temperatures.          

The couple initially started cooking food at home for their own dog and then began selling online. To date, they have raised more than £15m of equity investment from private investors.

Different Dog now employs around 120 staff, has B Corp status and offers 11 nutritionist-devised recipes. Customers subscribe online and the food is delivered directly using carbon-free couriers. The company currently feeds more than 20,000 dogs every day.

Alex Thurstan, co-founder of Different Dog, said: “We give our children home-cooked food every day. Good nutrition helps them thrive and grow – and dogs are no different. We set out to change dogs’ lives with real food and our customers tell us every day about the impact our food is having on their dogs’ health and wellbeing. The new kitchen is a big step forward for us, and will help us change the lives of even more dogs.”

Ryan Cartwright of Frontier Development Capital added: “Alex and Charlie are passionate about their vision to change dogs’ lives and have built a fantastic business with a strong and committed team. The new premises will give them a larger, more modern facility with capacity for future growth. We are pleased to support them in their mission.”

David Tindall, Senior Investment Manager at the British Business Bank, said: “Supporting businesses with their next phase of growth is exactly what the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II was created for. With a proven successful model, Different Dog is an excellent example of how businesses can benefit from external finance to scale up and succeed further.“    

Henry Mounsey and Niamh Moody of Key Finance in London provided fundraising advice to the company.

The £400m Midlands Engine Investment Fund II covers the entire Midlands region and provides equity investment up to £5m and debt finance from £25k to £2m to help a range of small and medium sized businesses to start up, scale up or stay ahead.

The purpose of the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II is to drive sustainable economic growth by supporting innovation and creating local opportunity for new and growing businesses across the Midlands. The Midlands Engine Investment Fund II will increase the supply and diversity of early-stage finance for smaller businesses in the Midlands, providing funds to firms that might otherwise not receive investment and help to break down barriers in access to finance.

A former Royal Navy serviceman has turned personal tragedy into motivation, launching a new business in honour of his beloved late pet.

Following the sudden loss of his four-year-old cocker spaniel Monty in a tragic accident during a storm in 2024, 31-year-old Ed Woolcott has founded Monty’s XI in his memory – a brand that brings together two of Ed’s greatest loves: dogs and sport.

A £20,000 Start Up Loan, secured with support from the Start Up Loans programme specialist ex-forces partner, X-Forces Enterprise, helped the company start. Monty XI offers a range of dog walking accessories inspired by classic football kits from the 1990s, combining vintage colourways with modern, high-performance materials.

The products are designed to celebrate the loyalty and passion people feel for their dogs - emotions Ed believes closely mirror the devotion fans have for their football teams.

“Anyone who’s loved a dog will understand the hole Monty left behind,” said Ed. “Suddenly there was no pitter-patter of paws, no one greeting us at the door, no hopeful eyes when the cheese came out of the fridge. Creating Monty’s XI became a way to turn that grief into something positive - something that keeps his name alive.”

The initial Monty’s XI range includes collars, harnesses, leads and poo bag holders, available in five retro-inspired designs based on classic colour schemes from Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United, Newcastle United and Liverpool. While the designs don’t feature club badges, they draw on the instantly recognisable sponsors and colours that defined football culture in the 90s. 

Ed identified a clear gap in the market while developing the brand after noticing that many dog accessories are heavily targeted towards a female audience, with limited options aimed at men.

A percentage of every sale will be donated to animal charity Blue Cross, which supported Ed through its pet bereavement helpline following Monty’s death. The partnership will allow the business to give back to a charity that played a crucial role during one of the most difficult periods of his life, helping support animals in need.

To bring the business to life, Ed secured a £20,000 Start Up Loan in July 2025. The funding covered branding and design, website development and coding, and initial stock.

“Without the loan, this business simply wouldn’t exist,” Ed said. “My wife and I have a toddler, another baby on the way, and a puppy, so draining our savings just wasn’t an option. The loan meant we could spread the cost over time and still protect our family financially. It’s been a lifesaver.”

Ed, who previously served in the Royal Navy before moving into project management, was drawn to the Start Up Loans programme because of its government backing and dedicated support for ex-forces entrepreneurs. He also plans to take up the free mentoring offered as the business grows.

Monty’s XI is launching while Ed continues to work full-time, supported by his wife Meg - who works in marketing - during her maternity leave. The couple are also juggling life with a 20-month-old daughter, a baby due in the spring, and their new cocker spaniel puppy, Paddy. 

“We had a baby and a puppy at the same time,” Ed laughed. “We clearly like a challenge. I know the next few months are going to be hard work but to see my vision come to life - the products, the photoshoot, everything - has been incredibly emotional,” Ed added. 

“Monty’s XI started as a pet project, but I hope it grows into something that brings joy to dog owners who spend hundreds of hours walking, just like we did with Monty.”

While the business has just launched, Ed already has plans to expand into other sports-inspired designs in the future.

Jessica Phillips-Harris, Senior Manager for Wales at the British Business Bank, said: “Monty’s XI is a powerful example of how entrepreneurship can turn personal loss into something meaningful and positive. Through the Start Up Loans programme - and the dedicated specialist support we offer to entrepreneurs from the Armed Forces community – we’re able to help people like Ed turn an idea into a viable business, even while balancing full-time work and family life. We’re proud to have supported Ed on his journey.”

The British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme provides government-backed loans of up to £25,000 per individual, alongside free mentoring and support for new business owners across the UK.

Premium luxury dog bed brand Baker & Bray is expanding into the retail sector, following significant success through its direct-to-consumer (D2C) channel, and the South Wales-based company is now actively seeking independent pet specialist retailers to join its growing network of stockists.

Having sold more than 15,000 beds online, Baker & Bray has built a dedicated customer base and is known for their outstanding quality, durability, comfort and design. The company has also established a visible presence at leading pet and trade exhibitions across the region and is now poised to bring its award-winning range to bricks-and-mortar retail partners.

Baker & Bray’s hypoallergenic dog beds are crafted with orthopaedic memory foam to provide superior comfort and support. Manufactured in Europe using recycled and sustainable materials, the beds combine premium construction with responsible sourcing. The range has been recognised as “Best Dog Bed” by The Telegraph for three consecutive years.

The collection is available in nine stunning colours in four sizes to suit any dog or home décor requirement. Featuring a removable central mattress that can be used in crates or when travelling all covers are interchangeable covers offering added flexibility for customers as lifestyles change. All beds are supported by a 30-day trial period, allowing purchasers to claim a full refund if not completely satisfied a guarantee that retail partners can confidently extend in store.

To support its retail network, Baker & Bray offers a comprehensive 90-day stock guarantee. Retailers can return any unsold products after 90 days for a full refund, providing a risk-free introduction to the range. In addition, the company operates a fulfilment service that enables retailers to earn commission on sales of products not physically stocked in store, ensuring access to the full collection without additional inventory commitment.

The brand’s best-selling large beds retail at £154.99, reflecting its premium positioning within the market.

Managing Director Neil Taylor commented: “We are incredibly excited to partner with forward-thinking pet stores and garden centres ready to offer their customers something truly exceptional. Today, pets are not simply animals they are cherished members of the family. Modern pet parents seek the same standards of quality, comfort and design for their four-legged companions as they do for themselves.

“As the luxury pet market continues to experience significant growth, this represents a genuine opportunity for retailers to meet rising demand with a premium product that stands apart not one that saturates the sector, but one that elevates it.”

Independent retailers interested in becoming a Baker & Bray stockist are invited to get in touch to discuss limited partnership opportunities. Email bark@bakerandbray.com

A young entrepreneur behind a popular independent pet shop has announced her decision to close the business to allow her more time for her personal life and family.

Rachelle Mackin, who opened Pet Domain in Armagh when she was only 20, informed customers of her closure decision on the store’s Facebook page.

She posted: “With a heavy heart, I’ve made the decision to close Pet Domain. Running a small business has meant long hours – often 70 hours a week – and as anyone who’s self-employed knows, that comes at a cost to personal and family time. After a lot of thought, I’ve decided it’s time to open a new chapter.

“I want to sincerely thank all of my customers for the amazing support over the years. I’ve truly enjoyed the journey and getting to know so many of you.”

The shop has remained open as normal throughout February, and will be open weekends (Saturday and Sunday) during March as well as one or two days during the week. 

“I’ll do my best during this time to help guide pet owners on continuing with the same pet food their pets are used to,” added Rachelle.

“My reason for closing is simply to gain more personal time and spend more time with my family. Thank you all for your understanding and support.”

Customers expressed their sadness on social media, with one saying: “Sorry to hear this news Rachelle but can totally understand your reasons. You did a great job building up a wonderful business, but a work/life balance is important. Wishing you well for the future.”

Picture taken from Pet Domain’s Facebook page.

The owner of an independent shop has warned pet lovers to support local retailers or they face losing them.

To emphasise the point, Hannah MacKenzie, of Kirkham Pet Centre, near Preston, has put a’ BUY LOCAL OR BYE BYE LOCAL’ poster in her shop window.

Posting on the shop’s Facebook page, Hannah said: “I am deeply, deeply disappointed. We work very hard, far above and beyond the opening hours of the shop.

“I recently spent over 15 minutes speaking with one individual, chatting about diet, what they were worried about, and what they wanted. I offered information, resources and just did my usual thing.  We saw them a little while later to be told they’d ordered the food on the internet – in spite of us offering free local delivery.

“I would love to be able to give stock away or have prices that could compete with billion-dollar companies, but we are one family, we are small and we need to be supported or you will lose us.”

Picture taken from Kirkham Pet Centre's Facebook page.

Burgess Pet Care has been awarded Investors in the Environment (iiE) Bronze accreditation for its ongoing commitment to improving environmental performance and sustainability across the company. 

The recognition from the national environmental accreditation scheme marks an important milestone in Burgess’ sustainability journey. As part of the iiE programme, the leading pet food manufacturer focusses on practical initiatives to reduce waste, improve resource efficiency, and increase awareness of environmental responsibility across teams.

Upgrades at the company’s Goole site have included solar panels, packing lines that accommodate more recyclable packaging, enhanced energy monitoring, new silos, refurbished offices and a growing electric vehicle fleet, delivering measurable improvements in throughput, material recovery, and sustainability performance. 

Suzanne Moyes, Deputy Managing Director at Burgess Pet Care, said:” Achieving the iiE Bronze Accreditation is a positive step forward for Burgess Pet Care and reflects the commitment of our teams to making meaningful environmental improvements. The iiE framework has helped us turn ambition into action, providing clear guidance and accountability as we continue to develop our sustainability strategy.” 

Looking ahead, Burgess Pet Care will build on the foundations set through iiE with a focus on continuous improvement and developing further environmental initiatives as part of its long-term sustainability goals. 

iiE aims to help organisations on their sustainability journey to make a real impact. It has been running for over 15 years, and in that time has helped hundreds of organisations from all sectors and sizes to improve their environmental performance. 

The accreditation forms part of Burgess Pet Care’s ongoing sustainability strategy, which aims to reduce waste, increase recyclable packaging, and cut carbon emissions across its operations.

To find out more about the iiE journey and the accreditation scheme, head to: www.iie.uk.com. 

Pet Remedy is hosting the first Emotional Wellbeing in Animals Conference in Torquay on 30-31 March 2026.

The conference format has been designed to be immersive, engaging, and deeply connected, with more time for meaningful learning and social interaction.

Discussions about the difference between welfare and wellbeing are a hot topic in animal behaviour science at the moment, and this will be the theme that weaves through this conference.

A world-class speaker line-up includes Dr. Robert Falconer-Taylor, Dr. Amber Batson, Chloe Scoones, Daniel Shaw, Victoria Stilwell, and Andrew Hale.

Andrew Hale, a Certified Animal Behaviourist and Behaviour Consultant for Pet Remedy, said: “We are finally acknowledging that animals feel the world in incredibly rich and meaningful ways. 

“Their emotional experiences influence everything, from behaviour to physical health to relationships with people. For years animal care research was focused almost exclusively on physical welfare, but now we are recognising that emotional wellbeing is just as essential. 

“This conference is about helping people understand that difference and giving them practical tools to support their animals in a compassionate way.”

For more information click here

Multi-award-winning Northamptonshire-based accessories manufacturer Trinkety Paws, has been busily preparing to launch new designs on its stand at Crufts (Hall 2 Stand 156).

Trinkety Paws was recently recognised by The Independent newspaper in its IndyBest column for the Splattered Biothane Dog Lead and Biothane Dog Training Lead with both products coming in the top 10 dog leads tried and tested by industry experts.

According to company founder, Nadine Berger, the stand at Crufts will be focused on the core Trinkety Paws range of premium waterproof BioThane collars and leads, the Easyfit Harnesses, and the Premium Rope Collection.

 “We will also be showcasing a brand new printed Dog Collar and Lead Range and Splatter Collections which will feature 4 new exiting Designs and will be running a show-exclusive promotion with discounts across all our product lines at the event,” says Nadine.

Nadine started the business as a hobby when she spotted a gap in the market for dog accessories that were not only stylish and vibrant but were also practical for her two dogs, Ozzie a Weimaraner and Labrador Cross and Cooper, a German Shorthaired Pointer.  During Nadine’s research she came across BioThane© a brilliant material that was waterproof, easy to clean and available in a whole rainbow of colours. It was also adaptable enough to incorporate different designs and patterns. Her hobby eventually turned into an award-winning business.

Nadine added: “At Trinkety Paws, we blend function and fashion to create high-quality, durable dog accessories that are as bold and joyful as the dogs who wear them. Every item is expertly handmade in our workshop using only premium materials, such as our waterproof BioThane© webbing, and premium Rope. Both waterproof, easy to clean, and built to last. 

“BioThane is smooth, vegan, odour-free, and strong enough to handle the most adventurous dogs, while our rope is lightweight, quick-drying, and resistant to mould and dirt. Whether your pup loves muddy trails or wild swims, our accessories are made to keep up and look great doing it.”

Trinkety Paws’ typical customers are passionate dog lovers who want high-quality accessories that match their pup’s personality and lifestyle. They range from adventurous explorers who put their waterproof gear to the test, to stylish urban dog owners who love bold colours, style and fashion-forward design. They can cater for every size and breed—from tiny toy breeds to giant breeds and with over 50 collar and lead designs, they offer something for every pup and every walk—from rugged countryside trails to polished city strolls. Products are recommended by dog walkers, trainers, and vets and Trinkety Paws also work closely with many SEND customers and wheelchair users to create custom-fit solutions that meet their individual needs. 

Trinkety Paws has gone on to win countless industry awards having been recognised by prestigious industry bodies such as PetQuip and the Pet Industry Federation.

For further information visit:

www.trinketypaws.co.uk (consumer)

www.trinketypaws-trade.co.uk (trade)

London-based Waita Pets is gearing up for Crufts at the NEC Birmingham next week (Hall 1, Stand 124) by launching four new varieties of its popular freeze-dried treats for cats and dogs.

Waita Pets’ products stand out from the crowd due to a commitment to quality, transparency, and innovation in pet nutrition. At the core of the range is freeze-dried technology, which preserves the natural nutrients, flavours, and textures of real ingredients without the use of high heat or artificial preservatives. This process ensures that pets receive the full nutritional benefits of raw food, in a safe, convenient, and shelf-stable form.

“Our product development is grounded in rigorous research and a strong commitment to nutritional integrity. We began by thoroughly studying species-appropriate diets, focusing on the natural nutritional needs of dogs and cats. This involved reviewing current scientific literature on raw and freeze-dried feeding, consulting veterinary nutrition guidelines, and analysing ingredient functionality to ensure our formulations deliver balanced, bioavailable nutrients,” says Bolun Li, co-founder of Waita Pets alongside his business partner, Wendy Wang.

All products are 100% natural with no added colouring, preservatives or additives and ingredients are supplied from researched, tried and trusted suppliers for their quality, freshness and manufacturing facilities.

Waita’s new treats include:

• Waita Freeze-Dried Pigeon Neck is a 100% single ingredient made from whole pigeon neck, including soft bone and cartilage. This novel protein is a natural source of calcium, phosphorus, and collagen, which support strong bones, joint health, and dental hygiene.
• Waita Freeze-Dried Goose Trachea is made from 100% goose trachea, a natural chew loaded with collagen and chondroitin to support joint health, cartilage repair, and skin elasticity. Its hollow, slightly crunchy texture also helps promote dental cleaning through chewing.
• Waita Freeze-Dried Ostrich Liver is made from 100% pure ostrich liver, offering a hypoallergenic organ treat for pets with sensitivities. As a novel protein, ostrich is an ideal option for elimination diets and allergy-prone pets, while providing high-quality protein, iron, and vitamin A for cellular health and vitality.
• Waita Freeze-Dried Beef Kidney is made from 100% pure beef kidney, a powerhouse organ meat naturally rich in iron, selenium, and B vitamins. These nutrients play vital roles in energy metabolism, red blood cell production, and immune support. Gently freeze-dried to preserve its nutritional profile, this single-ingredient treat is a clean and functional choice for dogs and cats.

You can see the full range of Waita Pets’ treats and food on their stand at Crufts NEC Birmingham 5-8 March Hall 1, Stand 124. You also have the opportunity to enter a free prize draw to win a bundle of goodies not only from Waita Pets but also from other exhibitors from Hall 1 by visiting Waita Pets’ social media pages. Enter before 3 March.

For further information on Waita Pets’ products, please visit: www.waitapets.co.uk

For trade customers visit: www.waitapets.co.uk/pages/wholesale-contact

Pooch & Mutt will be exhibiting at Crufts, revealing its new look which launched earlier this year.

Visitors are invited to stop by Stand 134, Hall 3, to explore Pooch & Mutt’s full range of food, treats, and pet health favourites. The refreshed look, built around ‘for all breeds & needs’, is designed to make the menu easier to shop - helping retailers and pet owners navigate by breed and size, life stage, and specific needs.

Available exclusively at Crufts, Best-in-Show Bangers are sausage-flavoured, grain-free dog treats combining an indulgent smoky taste with functional benefits.

Made with high-protein Pork, and enriched with Collagen and Postbiotics to support skin and coat health and a balanced gut - Best-in-Show Bangers give Crufts visitors the first chance to try this 50g limited-edition launch, not currently sold online or through retail.

The brand will also be offering a sneak peek of a major product reveals happening later this year, signalling further expansion and innovation across new categories in 2026.

Paul Dennison, CEO of Pooch & Mutt, comments: “Crufts is where you really feel the momentum in the dog world. You hear in real time what owners are struggling with and what retailers are prioritising”. 

“It’s the perfect place to show how our rebrand works harder for customers and retailers. It’s clearer, quicker to shop, and built around real needs across life stage, breed, and size. We’re also using the show to trial something fun and functional with Best-in-Show Bangers and give visitors an early look at what’s coming next.” Dennison concludes.

Visitors can also expect celebrity ambassadors at the stand across the four day event.

Crufts 2026 is set to welcome an impressive 18,698 dogs to the NEC Birmingham from 5-8 March, marking a notable rise of 123 entries on last year. The world’s greatest celebration of dogs continues to thrive, with the vast majority of exhibitors proudly homegrown from across the UK, while also achieving a record-breaking level of international participation.

More than 200 pedigree breeds will compete for the coveted Best in Show title, to be awarded live on Channel 4 on Sunday 8 March in the BP Pulse LIVE arena. Audiences can enjoy 17.5 hours of Crufts coverage across Channel 4 and More4, showcasing the very best of British dog breeding, training and handling alongside the event’s vibrant global community.

This year’s show reinforces Crufts’ international appeal, attracting 4,299 overseas entries – the highest in the event’s history. France leads the international contingent with 538 dogs, followed by Italy (436), Germany (425) and the Netherlands (353). Strong entries have also come from Ireland (335), Poland (288), the Czech Republic (231), Belgium (227), Sweden (180) and Spain (166), each contributing to the event’s growing global reach. At the other end of the scale, there are 14 countries represented by a single competitor with dedicated entrants travelling from as far away as New Zealand, Peru and Argentina.

Crufts 2026 is celebrating a particularly encouraging turnout for the 39 British and Irish native breeds listed as vulnerable, with an impressive 2,602 dogs entered across the breed rings. At

a time when these historic breeds face declining population numbers, such a strong presence highlights the dedication of UK breeders, owners and enthusiasts who are working hard to secure their future. Just some of the vulnerable breed entries include 100 Miniature Bull Terriers, 66 Greyhounds, 124 English Setters and 104 Old English Sheepdogs - all testament to the growing commitment to preserving the nation’s canine heritage. Their visibility on the world’s biggest dog stage offers an invaluable opportunity to raise awareness, inspire new admirers and support the long-term survival of these much-loved native breeds.

The Labrador Retriever tops the table with the highest entry in the show with 547 dogs making 586 entries, up 62 on last year. Close behind, the Golden Retriever continues its popularity with 529 dogs making 608 entries, maintaining its position as one of Crufts’ most beloved breeds. The Komondor has the fewest number of dogs entered with 3 dogs represented.

The highest number of dogs in a single breed set to compete in each group are:

• Working: Siberian Husky – 156
• Pastoral: Border Collie – 310
• Terrier: Staffordshire Bull Terrier – 393
• Hound: Whippet – 403
• Utility: Dalmatian – 265
• Toy: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – 282
• Gundog: Labrador Retriever – 547

Additionally, the following breeds have dogs exceeding 250; Cocker Spaniel (409), Flat Coated Retriever (330), and Shetland Sheepdog (265).

Celebrating 76 years of being televised, Channel 4 and More 4 will broadcast over 17.5 hours of the event across the show’s four days.

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A pet trader from Rugeley in Staffordshire, who made hundreds of thousands of pounds illegally selling endangered animals from his home, has been jailed for 32 months.

Robert Gillan was also banned from dealing in animals for ten years after he admitted a string of offences relating to the keeping and trading of animals following an investigation by Cannock Chase District Council.

Animals were found dead when Environmental Health Officers from the District Council, Staffordshire Police, and a specialist veterinary surgeon raided Gillan’s property. They discovered 162 animals inside the house - exotic birds, guinea pigs, mice, sugar gliders, and tortoises were among the species found.  Officers found 27 animals to be ‘suffering or likely to suffer.’

Sentencing him Judge Avik Mukherjee said the crimes had been “fraudulent from the outset” and it was the “cynical exploitation of animals”.

Gillan,40, of Upper Cross Road, Rugeley appeared at Stafford Crown Court for sentencing on Friday (13 February) having pleaded guilty to participating in a fraudulent business carried on by a sole trader, failing to ensure the welfare of animals, and offering endangered species for sale without valid certificates.

The court was told he had been trading as Staffordshire Pets from his Rugeley address since 2016 and it was estimated he made more than £300,000 through the illegal sale of animals - including endangered species such as African Grey parrots, Hermanns tortoises and Macaws.

Mark Jackson, prosecuting for the council, said: “This was an illegal pet breeding and selling operation where the care and welfare of the animals offered for sale was, in many cases, woefully deficient.

“There is evidence that the defendant sold animals that were in poor health, and that animals died in his care.”

A catalogue of poor living conditions for the animals was outlined to the court such as:

• No water, heating or proper food
• Soiled plumage
• Large amounts of faeces
• Rat activity in aviaries

And several animals had infections with no signs of having received veterinary care according to a vet specialising in zoo and wildlife medicine.  

Mr Jackson added: “The vet found that lots of the animals experiencing the psychological stress of being closely confined in an environment that prevented the majority of normal behaviours.  Many showed the physical detriments of a lack of food and water. There was also the significant potential for traumatic or electrical injury due to the unsafe conditions. The conditions constituted unnecessary suffering. The conditions were wholly preventable.”

All surviving animals were rehomed after being examined by a vet and are now said to be doing well.

In an interview, Gillan said he “did not have a clue” about the Animal Welfare Act but denied the conditions failed to meet the needs of the animals.

In mitigation, Rashad Mohammed, said the defendant had a ‘genuine love’ for animals. “He deeply regrets his actions and has learnt his lesson. This will come as a shock to him and to his family."

Sentencing him, Judge Mukherjee said Gillan had showed a clear disregard to rules and regulations and there had been a large number of victims of both animals and customers - with significant harm to animals.

“You have never held a licence. It was fraudulent from the outset….this was the cynical exploitation of animals.”

After the case, Councillor John Preece, Portfolio Leader for Environment and Climate Change said: “I would like to thank the officers for all their hard work in bringing this case to trial. This sentence shows the enormity of the case and sends an important message that the illegal sale and poor treatment of animals will not be tolerated in Cannock Chase. Animal welfare is taken extremely seriously, and we will continue to work closely with our partners to investigate concerns, protect animals from harm and take enforcement action.”

Hill's Pet Nutrition has announced the appointment of Amalia Londono to Executive Vice President of End-to-End Supply Chain. 

Londono, an experienced supply chain professional with over 25 years of experience at CP, recently transitioned into this global leadership role. She succeeds José Borrell, who has been named CP’s Executive Vice President, End-to-End Supply Chain, Latin America. 

“I am energized by the opportunity to lead the Hill’s supply chain during such a transformative time,” said Londono. “My career has been defined by a passion for developing talented, diverse teams and building efficient networks. I look forward to leveraging digital innovation and sustainable practices to support our powerful mission of enriching the relationships between people and their pets.”

Londono will lead the transformation of Hill’s global supply chain ecosystem – which includes 12 manufacturing plants around the world and dozens of warehouses and distribution centers – into a digital, resilient and sustainable network. Under Londono’s leadership, the Hill’s supply chain will focus on leveraging state-of-the-art manufacturing locations with robust planning systems built around intelligence and synchronization to deliver uncompromising safety and quality along with superior customer experiences. 

“We are thrilled to have Amalia lead our global supply chain operations,” said Yvonne Hsu, President of Hill’s Pet Nutrition. “Her rich experience across domestic and international markets, combined with her pragmatic business leadership skills, will be vital as we transform our network to better serve pets and their families worldwide.”

Throughout her distinguished career, Londono has held diverse roles ranging from working on the factory floor to procuring raw materials and designing complex logistics networks. She began her journey with CP at a manufacturing plant in New Jersey.

Research from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has been shortlisted for the prestigious STEM for Britain 2026 award in recognition of its work applying artificial intelligence (AI) to improve fracture detection in animals.

By successfully applying an advanced AI system to equine fracture cases and evidencing its cross-species capability, the findings identify opportunities to strengthen diagnostic accuracy and efficiency in veterinary practice and support animal welfare.

Fractures are a leading cause of injury in Thoroughbred racehorses, significantly impacting both their welfare and racing careers. Approximately 10% of racehorses sustain a fracture during training, with bone injuries occurring at a rate of 1.3 per 1000 starts in flat racing. However, despite their impact, fractures can be difficult to diagnose. Assessment relies largely on radiographs, yet variations in image quality and projection, combined with the difficulty of identifying subtle bone changes, can limit diagnostic accuracy.

Improving early and reliable fracture detection is therefore critical to support horse welfare and prevent fatal injuries. This study by the RVC marks the first step in a longer-term research programme focused on identifying early bone changes before they progress to serious or career-ending fractures.

Led by Ruby Chang, Associate Professor of Statistics at the RVC, the study was carried out by Dr Hanya Ahmed. The team compiled a databank of images, including 100 equine fracture cases from two UK equine hospitals and published literature; 70 feline cases from hospital databases; and approximately 4000 human fracture images from a public database.

Using this combination of images, the researchers built an AI system that works in three stages. First, it identifies the type of scan, such as an X-ray, CT or MRI, then it recognises the image angle, before detecting and precisely locating any fractures.

The study revealed that the AI system was able to detect and localise fractures in horses using knowledge gained from thousands of human fracture images. This approach, known as “transfer learning”, enabled the model to be trained on a large human dataset before being adapted for veterinary use. As a result, the system achieved fracture localisation accuracy of between 71 and 84% without requiring an unrealistically large number of equine images.

The findings demonstrate the potential for AI-assisted tools to strengthen fracture diagnosis across veterinary practice. Faster and more reliable detection could help reduce uncertainty in clinical decision-making and enable earlier treatment, with clear benefits for the welfare and recovery of racehorses and companion animals. More broadly, the study shows how advances in AI developed for human medicine can be successfully adapted for animal health and help to deliver safer and more consistent care across species.

Building on this work, the team has expanded its collaboration with the Hong Kong Jockey Club to explore whether AI can identify early bone changes in racehorses before a fracture occurs. If successful, this approach could support efforts to prevent catastrophic injuries, marking an important step toward using AI to not only diagnose, but to help prevent fractures before they happen.

Dr Ruby Chang, Associate Professor of Statistics at the RVC, said:“I am delighted that research from our team, led by the outstanding work of Dr Hanya Ahmed, has been selected as a finalist for the prestigious STEM for Britain 2026. Dr Ahmed has brilliantly translated expertise in medical image analysis to the veterinary field, developing a novel AI system to detect fractures in racehorses. This exceptional work has now also been published in Bioengineering. This dual recognition is a testament to Dr Ahmed's skill and dedication, and a wonderful celebration of our team's collaborative effort to advance diagnostic technology.”

This research was funded by the Horserace Betting Levy Board.

The RSPCA has welcomed Professor Ian Jacobs, a highly experienced leader across the health, education and charity sectors, as its new chair.

A lifelong animal lover, Professor Jacobs has devoted his career and volunteer work to improving social welfare and human wellbeing through health and education and now wants to lend his expertise to advance the cause of animal welfare. 

Professor Jacobs will join chief executive Jo Rowland, who took on the role in December last year, at the 201-year-old charity at a critical time for animal welfare.

RSPCA Chief Executive Jo Rowland said: "We're pleased to welcome our new RSPCA chair Professor Ian Jacobs, a highly experienced leader across health, higher education and civil society, who has the skills and expertise to drive forward our ambitious strategy for animals. A specialist in women’s cancer treatment, he has driven life-changing work improving the health of women. Ian has devoted his life to improving the welfare of society and now he brings that passion and dedication to the cause of animal welfare.

"As we enter our third century, we are at a critical time for animal welfare and Ian’s expertise and inspirational leadership will be crucial as we enter our next important chapter. We are focused on delivering the greatest impact for animals and I am looking forward to working closely with him to bring the whole organisation together behind our ambitious goals. I would like to thank Stuart Howells and Amanda Bringans for their skilled leadership, stepping into the role over the past year." 

Professor Ian Jacobs has devoted his career and volunteer work to improving social welfare and human wellbeing through health and education and brings huge expertise in governance and strategic transformation. 

He has chaired the boards of a number of high-profile and complex institutions, and is currently chair of Barts Health NHS Trust and City St George's University in London. A specialist in the surgical treatment of women’s cancers at St Bartholomew’s Hospital and University College Hospital in London, for the past 40 years, he has led life-changing work on early detection and risk prediction of cancer. 

In 2005, he established the Uganda Women’s Health Initiative. He is a former President of the British Gynaecological Cancer Society and the European Society of Gynaecological Oncology and a Trustee of the Eve Appeal charity, which he founded in the 1980s.

Professor Ian Jacobs said: "I am honoured to have the opportunity to become chair of the RSPCA. My wife Chris and I have had a lifelong love for animals and our two dogs Jamie and JoJo, are a huge part of our lives. Throughout my career and volunteer work, I have been committed to advancing the welfare of our society, through healthcare, research and education. I’ve been fortunate to have opportunities to lead large and complex organisations focused on human welfare and wellbeing. It is an enormous privilege to now have the opportunity at the RSPCA to use that experience to advance a cause I am passionate about – animal welfare.

"I am inspired by the quote attributed to Gandhi that ‘the greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated’. Over the last two centuries the RSPCA has played a key role in taking our society on a journey to improve animal welfare, making the case both ethical and practical to advance the cause of animals. Sadly, there is much, much more to do and this a critical time for animal welfare. So, I join the efforts of Jo, our Trustees, the executive team and RSPCA supporters in branches and centres across the nation, with a determination to create a better world for every animal."

Find out more about the RSPCA’s ten-year strategy, Together for Animal Welfare.

The pet industry has seen the opening of a number of new independent retail shops recently, including a natural dog treat and raw food store in Horsham, West Sussex.

Bruno’s Dinner officially launched at Piries Place in the town on Tuesday with the store announcing on its Facebook page: "Whether your dog is a picky eater, a treat-motivated pro, or just a very good boy or girl, we’ve got the goods to keep those tails wagging. Come say hi, sniff around, and maybe leave with a new favourite snack. We can’t wait to meet the four-legged legends of Horsham."

Bruno’s Diner was established in 2015 with a shop in Crawley, said to be the biggest and best RAW dog food store in the South.

Meanwhile, a new reptile and pet shop called Cold Blooded Ltd, has officially opened in Wellington, Shropshire. The business, owned by local entrepreneur Kyle Roy, has been operating in a limited capacity in recent months but is now fully trading. The store was officially opened by the town’s mayor Cllr Reg Snell.

And a couple have opened a Middlesborough pet shop called Paws and Treats. Mark and Debbie Jordan opened  the store following a decade in the dog care industry, including experience breeding basset hounds. Paws & Treats had been run as a mobile business, with the couple’s living room doubling as a storage depot for pet food, bowls, beds and treats.

Picture taken from Bruno's Diner Facebook page.

Manager Adam Davis took the opportunity to propose to his partner during the opening of a new pet superstore on Valentine’s Day.

Adam got down on one knee and asked Angela Raine to marry him – and she said yes. Adam and Angela, who live in Bishop Auckland, have been together for 12 years and share two sons, Alfie and Jack.

The manager welcomed customers to the new Jollyes store, which has created eight new jobs in Hartlepool. 

As well as Adam’s marriage proposal to Angela, local dog lover Jessica Hecker and her cocker spaniel Ginny won a competition to have their special bond blessed by a local celebrant. Eileen Temple-French led the heartwarming blessing with a personalised sermon which was accompanied by a live accordionist, playing romantic songs.

Adam, formerly of Jollyes’ Newcastle store, said: “We’re delighted to finally open the doors and welcome customers to our new store in Hartlepool.

“We know people are mad about their pets, and today was all about celebrating that bond with the pet blessing between Jessica and her cocker spaniel Ginny.

“It was a truly heartwarming day, filled with wagging tails, happy faces, and a little bit of love.

“The whole team here is excited to bring their pet expertise alongside the kind of value that’s been making a real difference to pet parents right across the UK.”

Performing the official red ribbon cutting was Councillor Pamela Hargreaves the leader of Hartlepool borough council, alongside MP Jonathan Brash, members of the Jollyes management and store team and their mascot Jolly.

Joining them was special guest Nash a retired police dog supported by the National Foundation for Retired Service Animals (NFRSA) – Jollyes’ national charity partner, who bit through a string of sausages, alongside her owner Tony and Rona Malessa to mark the occasion.

Nash, a Belgian Malinois was a serving police dog between 2017 and 2025. During her career she safely detained many dangerous suspects and located countless vulnerable missing people.

The NFRSA helps support the care, well-being, and welfare of retired service animals from across the emergency service family - the police, fire, border force, National Crime Agency, NHS and prison services.

So far this year, Jollyes has opened stores in Blackpool and Ponders End, and is due to open in Whitehaven on Friday 27 February.

Over the past three years Jollyes has almost doubled the number of stores across the UK, becoming a clear challenger brand in the UK pet retail market. It was named as one of The Sunday Times’ best big companies to work for in 2024, and in 2025 won the Retail Week Award for Head Office Heroes following its highly successful raw frozen food roll out.

Gallery of pictures from the Hartlepool store opening below...

The Pet Bus is to end its transportation service between the UK and the Channel Islands, blaming rising operating costs and the loss of a regular inter-island link.

The family-run service, based in Banbury, Oxfordshire, is owned by Lesley and Gary Form and has been transporting pets between the mainland and the islands for several years.

Posting on its Facebook page, The Pet Bus announced: “After many years of helping pets travel safely between the UK and the Channel Islands, we will sadly be ending our pet transport services to the Channel Islands from the end of March 2026.

“This is an incredibly emotional decision for us. Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of meeting so many wonderful pets and the people who love them. We’ve watched nervous travellers settle into our arms, celebrated joyful reunions, and shared countless moments that reminded us why we do what we do. These journeys have never been “just trips” to us — they’ve been stories, families, and memories we’ve been honoured to be part of.

“Unfortunately, challenges have made it increasingly difficult for us to continue, including:

• Rising operating costs

• The loss of a regular, reliable inter‑island transport link, which has made the service impossible to sustain.

“We want to say, from the bottom of our hearts, thank you. Thank you for trusting us with your pets. Thank you for your kindness, your loyalty, and the warmth you’ve shown our team. Serving this community has been one of the most meaningful parts of our work, and we will always be grateful for it.”

All trips scheduled and booked up to and including March 2026 will continue as planned.

Picture taken form The Pet Bus' Facebook page.

Antinol Joint Care Pro has supported world-champion canine athletes for years. It is the joint supplement of choice for canine sporting champions, with over 25 podium places going to Antinol athletes at Crufts 2025.

Antinol has been quietly working away behind the scenes, supporting athletes and organisations throughout the canine sports world. But now it’s time for this champion joint supplement to take centre stage.

Antinol has announced it will be an official sponsor of Crufts, including the Agility and Flyball events. Crufts takes place on 5-8 March, NEC Birmingham.

Antinol Joint Care Pro is a powerful, rapidly absorbed, 100% natural Green Lipped Mussel extract that’s backed by over 25 years of research – always focused on keeping dogs active and agile. This powerfully potent omega-3 supplement is a favourite of Crufts winners, including the 2025 Crufts Agility Champion, an eight-year-old Border Collie named Lemon, who scooped multiple wins across last year’s event.

Owner and trainer Naarah Cuddy commented: “Lemon is my absolute dog of a lifetime; she’s taken me so far. We tried some other supplements before, but then our nutrition expert recommended Antinol for Lemon and our other dogs. Now I always recommend it! I believe it’s the ‘Formula One’ of joint supplements.” 

So, the secret to winning mobility is out. But, make no mistake, Antinol isn’t just for athletes! Antinol’s vision is to keep happiness in motion for all dogs, no matter what their age. From bounding puppies to golden oldies, the science that keeps these champions winning will help keep your dog at the top of their game, whatever the day brings, from everyday walks to their next big adventure. 

But it isn’t just another joint supplement, it is the peak of scientific research, extracted and purified using a unique ‘CO2 Supercritical Extraction technique that delivers a capsule of oil packed with over 90 essential fatty acids, and concentrated Omega-3’s. It’s powerful, 100% natural, and rapidly absorbed, maintaining not only joint health and mobility but also healthy skin and a lustrous coat, normal cognitive function, and a strong immune system, helping dogs stay happy, comfortable, and agile.

Antinol’s spokesperson Emma Leeke commented: “We have been working closely with the UK’s incredible canine sports community for years now, so we are excited to be joining them at Crufts 2026, as an official sponsor. We’ll be there celebrating in the crowd, and bringing happiness in motion to Cruft’s visitors and their dogs from our stand in Hall 3.” 

Discover more about Antinol and speak with the brand’s experts in Hall 3, Stand 78.

For further information contact: Eloise Collins, Technical Advisor: eloise@vetzpetz.com