Two of Crufts’ main sponsors, Royal Canin and James Wellbeloved, have told staff to stay away from the world’s biggest dog show which started today amid fears of coronavirus.

According to a report on the BBC News website the brands’ parent company Mars Petcare said its representatives should stay away from major events unless it was business-critical.

A spokesperson for Mars Petcare is reported as stating the company had a "responsibility" to protect the health of its staff and prevent the spread of the virus. 

As a result, the company had "decided to restrict international travel and not participate in large events through March 31 unless it is business critical."

The firm said it remained committed to Crufts, and hoped to be participating as usual in the future.

Meanwhile, the Association of Pet Dog Trainers said they had decided not to attend "given the unprecedented and unpredictable situation."

Crufts opened as usual today with the Kennel Club stating: “Following the outbreak of novel Coronavirus in China, the Kennel Club and the NEC will be taking enhanced measures to help protect our visitors, exhibitors, clients and staff at Crufts 2020.”

Bira – the British Independent Retailers Association – is calling for the Treasury to set up an emergency business fund to help those affected by coronavirus.

The plea comes as part of Bira’s statement to Chancellor Rishi Sunak ahead of next Wednesday’s Budget.

Bira is calling for a number of measures to support small retail businesses through the coronavirus emergency including:

• An immediate increase in the business rates discount to 75%, and extended to more businesses until this emergency has passed
• Tax holidays to support cash flow in businesses that will see significantly reduced sales – this could include reduced VAT, rates for larger businesses, etc
• Support for retailers when dealing with employees who are required to self isolate.

Andrew Goodacre, Bira’s CEO, said: “We need immediate action to support the economy.”

Bira is also hoping Mr Sunak’s first Budget will include strategy for comprehensive reforms of the unfair and outdated business rates system, reducing the burden on high street retailers.

There also needs to be more ambitious plans for the new Digital Services Tax with online companies making a much larger contribution to the cost of running a business in the UK.

Andrew added: “We have all seen images from towns and cities in Europe that show deserted high streets and empty shops. The Budget needs to support the economy and we must ensure that the high street receives some of that support.”

With seven months still to go before opening its doors to visitors, PATS Telford has announced that 121 companies have confirmed they will be exhibiting at PATS – the UK’s Number One Pet Industry Event.

As the pet industry comes together under one roof, PATS Telford exhibitors can expect to welcome quality UK and international buyers on to their stands at the Telford International Centre on Sunday September 27^th and Monday September 28^th. 

According to Sammie Hunt, owner of award-winning Redpaw Pet Supplies in Plymouth, if you have an interest in the pet trade, then you have to visit PATS.

“PATS is a must-visit twice-a-year exhibition for me – it's the best way to see and try new exciting products, as well as being able to meet the faces behind the companies,” said Sammie. “It gives great opportunities to build working relationships, along with offering exclusive show deals.”

Sammie’s thoughts were echoed by Laura Palmer, of Mutleys Pet Supplies in Norfolk, who said: “PATS is a great platform to find new products, get inspired, find out the latest fads and trends and network with companies new and old.”

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

Natures Menu successfully exhibited at the recent PATS Sandown exhibition and the company is already looking forward to Telford. “Both PATS shows are good for delivering the right level of visitor. It may be still seven months away but our thoughts have already turned to Telford,” said director Peter Roy.

And Liam Goodwin, of Goodchap’s, said: “Both PATS shows are great for promoting Goodchap’s, and our eco-friendly products are always very well received. The exhibitions are perfect for catching up with our existing customers, and we never struggle to make new contacts. We always come back with new and exciting opportunities.”

Rowena Caesar, of Fold Hill Foods, added: “PATS Sandown was such a fantastic show, and we can’t wait to see everyone again at Telford.”

As well as a growing number of new exhibitors, Westland Pet and Pets Choice will be returning to PATS Telford where both will be showcasing their popular brands.  

PATS has been held at the Telford International Centre for over five years and this year’s event will grow in size with expansion into a third hall. The extra space will be used essentially to improve the visitor experience. As well as providing additional catering and seating, key visitor features like the Grooming Workshops, Seminars and International Buyers’ Centre will now be relocated into Hall 3.

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

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

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

All the latest news about PATS Telford plus a full list of exhibitors can be found on the new-look website www.patshow.co.uk, where visitors can also register for free entry.

Mackle Petfoods, the Northern Ireland based owners of the multi award winning brands Naturo, Brandy and Cat Club has taken its business to a new level developing its first ever freeze-dried food for pets.

‘Norsh’ is a freeze-dried snack made for both cats and dogs to enjoy.  ‘Norsh’ is the ultimate in natural pet nourishment and has 2 ranges – ‘Salmon Skin Twirls’ and ‘Chicken with Fruit and Vegetables’ both of which are for sale online and via a number of local retailers.

The new brand is part of Mackle Petfoods overall growth strategy to explore new and emerging trends and markets globally, bringing their skills and expertise to the fore whilst responding to their existing customers and market demands.  In the USA, the freeze-dried market for pet foods accounts for nearly $100m in sales annually.

Created from 100% natural foods including sustainably farmed Scottish salmon, chicken, superfoods blueberries and sweet potato, carrots, peas, dried kelp and rosemary extract, ‘Norsh’ combines the latest in pet nutrition and innovative technology.  Boasting only the best in healthy ingredients, the treats are freeze-dried so as to preserve the nutrients and flavour meaning that pets are enjoying them almost as fresh as the day they were harvested.  

The process of making Norsh is unique to Mackle Petfoods manufacturing in Ireland and is created by removing the moisture from frozen raw ingredients when mixed together, over a slow period. By applying minimal heat whilst under high vacuum, the moisture in the form of ice becomes vapour, a process known as ‘sublimination’. This vapour is drawn away from the product slowly and gently, meaning the product retains maximum nutrients, and is then packaged, locking in its freshness.  At this point, some 2.5 days from start to finish, the tasty treats are ready for pets to enjoy. 

Commenting on the new brand, Sarah McFarland Product & Business Development Manager for ‘Norsh’, said: “Norsh is a perfect healthy treat which can be provided as a snack or added to an existing pet food as a mixer.  It is suitable for raw feeding (can be used immediately) without the need for freezing or refrigeration. 

"We source only the highest quality sustainable Scottish salmon skins and locally source our chicken. The vegetables we use are harvested and frozen at their peak, retaining maximum nutrition for the treats, and ultimately benefitting the pets, it really is the best of both worlds for pets.”

Sarah who set up the entire ‘Norsh’ business at Mackle Petfoods, added: “As a product development manager I am normally used to creating new ideas, however having been handed this project in its entirety in the last year I have managed to set up the business within all of its legal requirements, create a brand, develop the manufacturing process, source all ingredients and machinery, and make sure the product meets all legally required standards. 

"Now I am working to secure sales, so I am well out of my comfort zone as a food engineer, however I am really relishing the challenge and am excited about the potential for Norsh and this process for petfood.”

Norsh which comes in compostable pouches can be resealed to preserve freshness. The two ranges are grain free and free from all artificial colours, preservatives and flavouring. The product will be distributed in Ireland by local company Heather Lee and in the UK by Kennelpak and retails at £3 a pouch.  Visit www.norshpetfoods.com

Pictured: Sarah McFarland launches Norsh with Holly, Mackle Petfoods’ chief taster.

This exciting deal brings Aquarium Systems, Reptile Systems, Bird Systems, Dr Tim’s Aquatics and Mega Ray into Peregrine Livefoods portfolio on an exclusive basis.

Aquarium Systems is recognised by aquarists all over the world for their unique knowledge of ornamental fish keeping and breeding for both public aquariums and aquarium hobbyists. 

For 50 years, Aquarium Systems has proved its expertise worldwide, sharing a rich history of quality and innovation.  Their initial product, Instant Ocean Sea Salt, was the first commercial salt that was widely accepted by the scientific community, and it remains the standard for scientific research today.

Launched in 2018, Reptile Systems is built upon the very same principles of Aquarium Systems and provides quality and innovative products that are sure to become the industry standard in helping create the perfect environment for any reptile.

This new and exciting deal allows existing Aquarium Systems UK customers the ability to order through the Peregrine Livefoods network and share the benefits that brings. For Peregrine Livefoods as the leading reptile specialist wholesaler in the UK, it ensures that we continue to provide the greatest choice to our customers with the highest quality brands.

All products are in stock and available to order immediately. To request a full catalogue and price list, please call your local sales manager or call our office on 01279 438 459.­­­

Nylabone has developed two new teething products to add to its puppy chew toy range.

The first, a Puppy Freezer Bone With Washcloth is an interactive toy that also offers relief from the discomfort associated with teething. Designed to be soaked in water and then frozen the textured bone features soft bristles that help soothe gums. Suitable for puppies up to 11kg in weight the bone has an allergen-free peanut butter flavour and includes small wells that can be filled and frozen to create further interest. 

The second addition is a Puppy Chill & Chew. Designed to be frozen the chew features colour changing technology to show when it’s ready. Created in Nylabone's signature souper shape it’s made with material designed just for teething puppies and features textured dental nubs which help clean teeth and prevent the build up of plaque and tartar. Featuring a delicious lamb and apple flavour throughout it is suitable for puppies up to 11kg in weight.

The products are available to order now via Interpet’s new trade website https://trade.interpet.co.uk/

Keswick resident, Kerry Irving, has won a national award to celebrate his fundraising efforts for vet charity PDSA.

Kerry is the proud owner of Cumbrian canines turned social media stars, Max, Paddy and Harry. He was presented with the PDSA Fundraising Volunteer of the Year Award during a walk he organised in aid of the charity, which took place at Thirlmere, Ambleside, last Saturday (29 February).

Kerry and his clan of pooches are known for the life-changing role his dogs played in helping Kerry overcome crippling depression after a car accident left him in chronic pain. In 2018, Max and Paddy were honoured with a PDSA Commendation for providing support, comfort and joy to thousands of people.

Since then, Kerry and his beloved dogs have been travelling up and down the country, fundraising and raising vital awareness for the charity. Kerry has drawn upon their huge following of loyal social media supporters – which has risen to an astonishing 102,000 fans on Facebook alone – to arrange numerous charity walks, all of which have been sell-out events, for PDSA. He also holds an annual birthday walk for his ‘miracle’ Max, which last year raised over £4,000, with a further £1,110 generated from Facebook birthday donations. Kerry’s story has just been released as a book – ‘Max the miracle dog: The heart-warming tale of a life-saving Friendship’, which is storming up the charts.

Sally Prior, who works as part of the fundraising team at PDSA, said: “Kerry and his four-legged fundraising friends Max, Harry and Paddy are an inspiration to us all – he was the stand-out winner for our panel of judges and hugely deserving of this award.

 “His commitment to PDSA has been unparalleled. Not only has he directly fundraised for us but he’s also travelled the breadth of the country – supporting us at annual events such as Crufts, BBC Countryfile Live and DogFest. His presence at these events resulted in queues of people waiting to meet him and the boys, encouraging many donations to PDSA. He goes to great lengths for the charity putting together his own fundraising events, he even did a jetty jump with his three dogs, which raised an incredible £4,200!

“We were so pleased Kerry was able to see exactly where his vital funds were going when he visited our PDSA Pet Hospital in Gateshead, seeing the many pets in need of our life-saving care.

“Kerry really is a wonderful ambassador for PDSA. He is an impassioned fundraiser and an innovative awareness-raiser, and we are so grateful to him and his amazing canine companions. A huge thank you and congratulations Kerry, Max, Harry and Paddy on your award!

Speaking about his award, Kerry said: “I’m honoured to have been recognised with PDSA’s Fundraising Volunteer of the Year award. We were thrilled when Max and Paddy were awarded the PDSA Commendation back in 2018 for the role they have played in bringing comfort to those who need it most, and I wanted to give something back.

“We’ve had a great time fundraising and raising awareness of the charity through our many walks and events, and I’m so proud of everything the boys have achieved, so it’s wonderful to receive this award in recognition of them. The support we have had has been remarkable.

“PDSA is an amazing cause, and I’ve seen first-hand the great work its vets and nurses do, caring for people’s pets when they can't afford vets’ bills. I'm extremely grateful to everyone who donated to this wonderful charity.”

If you’re interested in fundraising for PDSA, visit: www.pdsa.org.uk/fundraise.

PDSA Pet Fit Club 2019 winner Oscar before and after.

The UK’s largest and most successful pet slimming competition – which has helped 143 overweight animals lose a staggering lose 513kg (80st 12lb) – is on the hunt for more contestants.

The closing date for PDSA Pet Fit Club entries is fast approaching - owners needing to sign up their dumpy dogs, flabby felines and rotund rabbits by this Sunday, 8 March.

Now in its 15th year, the competition aims to help tackle the UK’s pet obesity crisis – as the charity’s stats reveal up to half of UK pets (46% of dogs, 34% of cats and 30% of rabbits*) are believed to be overweight or obese.

The most common reasons given by UK vets and vet nurses for excess weight in pets are: owner’s lack of recognition that their pet is overweight, feeding ‘treats’ or human food, and inappropriate portion sizes*.  All of which could be leaving our four-legged friend’s health, happiness and life-expectancy at serious risk.

To help fight the flab PDSA has launched its annual Pet Fit Club competition and is inviting owners of overweight and obese pets to take part. The competition is a six-month diet and exercise programme, tailored and overseen by expert PDSA vets and nurses. The charity will select a group of overweight dogs, cats and rabbits from across the UK to participate.

The charity, which provides free and reduced cost veterinary care to pets in need, is urging owners to enter their pets at: pdsa.org.uk/petfitclub.

PDSA Vet Nurse, Nina Downing, said: “Pet obesity has been a huge problem in the UK for many years and sadly there is no sign of improvement, with nearly one in every two pets seen by vets and vet nurses overweight or obese. This is a serious health issue, one of the biggest currently threatening pet wellbeing across the UK.  

“Pets who are overweight or obese are much more likely to develop health problems such as arthritis and diabetes. Being overweight can also seriously aggravate other health problems, such as heart disease. For example, Pugs and French Bulldogs already struggle to breathe because of their flat faces, but carrying excess inches can make this much worse.

“Research has also shown that carrying too much weight can reduce a dog’s life expectancy by up to 2 years and 6 months**.”

Luigi was PDSA's Pet Fit Club champ in 2017.

About PDSA Pet Fit Club

Since its launch, the 15 pets crowned ‘Pet Fit Club Champ’ have lost a total of 130.35kg (20st 8lb).

Up to 20 overweight pets (dogs, cats, rabbits and rats) from across the UK will be chosen to participate in PDSA Pet Fit Club.

Selected pets are placed on a six-month diet and exercise programme, individually tailored to their needs and overseen by vets and vet nurses at their local PDSA Pet Hospital.

Participants receive free diet pet food for the duration of the competition, and the overall Pet Fit Club Champ, crowned at the end of 2020, will win a year’s free pet food and a pet friendly holiday.

Pet Fit Club has helped 143 pets lose 513kg (80st 12lb) - equivalent to a polar bear

• 89 dogs, 44 cats, 8 rabbits and 2 rats have taken part in the diet
• The 15 Pet Fit Club Champs have lost over 130.35kg (20st 8lb).
• The biggest ever ‘loser’ Oscar lost 39% of his bodyweight

“We know that we are a nation of animal lovers,” continues Nina, “but unfortunately a lot of pet owners show their love and affection using food.  And as the waistlines of the pet population have expanded, our understanding of a ‘healthy shape’ has become distorted – seeing overweight pets becomes normal. Recognising a healthy body shape – and if there is a problem – is the first step to making a positive change for your pet’s health.

“Most pets would be just as happy with extra attention – an extra walk or playtime - than food. And ‘treats’ of human food or too-large portions can be very bad for them. They should be fed a complete pet food suitable for their age and weight, with only occasional healthy treats, such as a few slices of carrot for dogs and a small piece of white fish or meat for cats. Our pets also need regular, varied exercise, suitable for their age and health, to keep their bodies and minds stimulated. 

Nina concludes: “Pet Fit Club helps transform the UK’s fattest pets into fit and healthy animals. Pets that could barely walk, climb stairs or fit through cat flaps will be given a new lease of life.

“Prevention is always better than cure, but it is never too late to make a change. With the right advice, a good diet, suitable exercise and a bit of willpower, owners have the ability to make a real difference to their pet’s lives.  So we’re urging owners who have overweight pets to enter today.”

PDSA Pet Fit Club joint winner Sadie.

*British Veterinary Association (BVA) and British Veterinary Nurse Association (BVNA) Voice of the Profession Surveys (included in the PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report 2018) showed that on average vets and vet nurses estimated that 46% of dogs, 34% of cats and 30% of rabbits that they see in their practice every week are overweight or obese. www.pdsa.org.uk

** Salt C et al (2018) Association between life span and body condition in neutered client-owned dogs. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 2018; 1-11.  

Pooch & Mutt has chosen Crufts 2020 to showcase its exciting new look. The brand refresh was done with brand agency Elmwood, the people behind the looks of some of the UK’s other fastest-growing, most exciting brands, like Heck!, Saucy Fish and Wicked Kitchen.

The refreshed look perfectly reflects Pooch & Mutt’s unique position in the pet food market, as the brand that is both functional and friendly. The new logo beautifully combines the Pooch & Mutt name with a dog’s face, and cleverly uses the ampersand as both the dog’s nose and tongue. It makes you smile just to look at it! The logo itself was created by the illustrator behind some of the most famous UK logos including The Wimbledon Championships, Carling, Rowse honey and many more.

Guy Blaskey, Pooch & Mutt’s founder says, “All the packaging and brand design work to date I’ve done myself. The work has been hugely successful both in terms of the growth and recognition of the brand and the awards that we have won for it, but 7 years after the current designs were launched, I knew we could take it to the next level. We chose to work with Elmwood because unlike some other agencies, who are just interested in making things look pretty, they are focussed on doing what’s right; so that customers understand the brand and the products better, so that the stores who sell our products will sell more of them and so more dogs can benefit from the products.”

Each product function now has it’s own pattern to make the range easier to understand for your customers. They will clearly be able to identify each product in the different ranges as ‘Calm & Relaxed’, ‘Joint Care’ etc to make it easier for customers to find the right combination of products for their pooches.

At Pooch & Mutt’s Crufts stand (Hall 4 stand 82). You will be able to see a selection of the products in the new brand, with more being added over the next few months. Along with the brand work are developments in the range itself. The Pooch & Mutt Superfoods, which have been a huge success, despite only selling in 1kg boxes, will now be available in 7.5kg bags. A new flavour of wet food is being added to their environmentally friendly TetraPak wet food range and many more changes are set to be launched throughout the year. 

Johnston & Jeff, the premium bird food manufacturer, has launched a limited edition no mess, no grow wild bird blend to celebrate its 140^th anniversary.

The new blend – called No Mess, No Grow Wild Bird Food – is the first to introduce Johnston & Jeff’s new GERMI-NOT^TM ingredients, as well as containing sunflower hearts, berry suet pellets and peanut granules.

The mix has undergone a series of processes to prevent seeds from germinating, including kibbling, flaking, shelling and heat treatment. 

No Mess, No Grow Wild Bird Food enables people who love their gardens but also want to feed the highest quality bird food available to do so without having to compromise. 

Maddy Johnston, Marketing and Media Manager and fifth generation of the Johnston family, said the new blend has all the high nutritional values, cleanliness and palatability that the company’s products are famous for. 

It contains the right levels of carbohydrate, proteins and fats to make it suitable for all almost species of garden bird, she added. 

Maddy said: “There has been a lot of research and work gone into creating this blend. 

“We know that many people who care about birds are also keen gardeners, so don’t want unsightly weeds growing in their well-kept lawns, beds and borders.

“But they also care about feeding the highest quality food available. 

“So, we knew there was a gap in the market. Other no mess, no grow products do exist of course, but most compromise on nutritional values or product cleanliness to fulfil the ‘no grow’ aspect. 

“That’s where we believe our blend is different – by including our GERMI-NOT^TM ingredients we have created a perfect blend for people who care about their garden and the birds in it. 

“It is an exceptional blend that lives up to the quality Johnston & Jeff is synonymous with.” 

The food is packaged in more sustainable retro-style brown paper sacks which carry Johnston & Jeff’s new logo. 

This is part of a drive by Johnston & Jeff to be even more environmentally conscious. 

Maddy added that 2020 was already shaping up to be a busy year for Johnston & Jeff as the company celebrates 140 successful years of business. 

“Launching our No Mess, No Grow Wild Bird Food is just the start,” she said. 

“We’re delighted with the product and the packaging and we think trade and retail customers will love it too. 

“But we’ve got a lot of other initiatives going on throughout 2020 – new products, new packaging, new branding, and a whole range of different activities for people to get involved in. 

“It’s an exciting time at Johnston & Jeff and we’re looking forward to sharing it with everyone.”

Johnston & Jeff’s No Mess, No Grow Wild Bird Food will be available from March at a fantastic promotional price.

To find out more about it or to place an order, email enquiries@johnstonandjeff.co.uk.

Why do we feed our dogs treats? That was the question that led Fish4Dogs to clearly categorise its extensive treats range into easy to define categories.

The move – part of a wider brand refresh – will see more than 20 Fish4Dogs treats products ‘say what they do on the bag’.

They have been categorised into four groups: Dental, Love, Support+ and Training – helping customers decide on which treats may be best used for a particular purpose. 

Said Jo Mulgrew, Head of Marketing for Fish4Dogs: “People feed their dogs treats for all sorts of reasons: to assist and maintain health and wellbeing, to reward and nurture – the act of feeding a dog by hand can be emotive and increase the bond between dog and human. Taking that food is an act of trust and considerably strengthens the relationship between the two.”

Although most of Fish4Dogs treats can be used in wide variety of situations, some have specific benefits and are better used in certain situations.

This is how the team arrived at grouping them together for ‘best purpose’. Its popular range of Sea Jerky – dried fish skins in a variety of shapes and sizes – is now flagged as Dental. Customers can choose from six varieties to best suit the size and breed of dog and for the primary purpose of helping keep teeth clean and reducing tartar.

The Support+ group includes ‘Morsel’ products with oil properties, vitamins and minerals, to assist digestion, skin and coat and will be joined by Fish4Dogs best-selling Salmon Oil.

Superstars and Freeze-Dried White Fish, which are frequently used as ‘bite-sized’ rewards, are now included within the Training category. These products are produced as smaller pieces which to allow them to be used during a training session and still keep the dog coming back for more.

The Love group is the most extensive category with includes products that previously fell within the Fine Dining sub-brand. These include “emotionally rewarding” premium treats such as Squid Bites, Calamari Rings, Salmon Cookies and Redfish, Lavender & Chamomile Crunchers. Fish4Dogs popular wraps – in Sweet Potato, Apple and Banana flavours – are also found within this group.

The good news for customers is that the change in packaging removes unnecessary cardboard sleeving that used to accompany Fine Dining products and many bag weights have increased.

The groups have colour-coded tops in jade, lilac, silver and yellow to depict the Dental, Love, Support+ and Training accordingly.

The Fish4Dogs brand will be the first thing that an expected 165,000 visitors to Crufts will see this week.

The premium pet food manufacturer is sponsoring the event’s programme sellers for its 2020 event at the NEC, Birmingham, between 5-8 March.

The team of 40-50 greeters, who are located around the entrances to the halls, are wearing branded polo shirts in Fish4Dogs vivid blue and yellow colours to sell the Official 2020 Crufts Programme.

The company will also be making its presence felt in the exhibition zone - having moved to a stand with a higher profile position - Stand 66, Hall 3 – and more space.

On display with be, Fish4Dogs refreshed brand which has given the it the chance to modernise the look and feel of its product range as well as making customer-led improvements including on-pack information, pack construction, clear categorisation of ranges and product names.  

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A man has been banned from selling animals for four years and ordered to pay more than £1,000 for failing to have licence to run a pet shop.

Burnley Council took Ben Allen Jones (24), of Countess Street, Accrington, and his business Bensons Aquatics & Pets, to court after officers found he was illegally selling animals, including a budgie nicknamed Sid, from a shop in Hebrew Road, Burnley.

Jones and Bensons Aquatics together admitted a total of 12 counts of selling animals as pets, without a licence, in contravention of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Blackburn Magistrates Court was told that the council was alerted to the fact that budgies and turtles were being sold to the public from the shop, without a licence to do so. The business was listed as being involved in the “retail sale of flowers, plants, seeds, fertilisers, pet animals and pet food” and also had a Facebook page with several posts selling animals with a price alongside.

A council licensing officer visited the shop and spoke to the defendant who denied he was selling animals. A further visit was carried out which found numerous animals on shelving around the shop, including a cage with six of seven budgies in it. The council officer undertook a test purchase and bought a budgie from the defendant.

Jones was later interviewed by a council officer and said he wasn’t aware he needed a licence. He said he had opened the business in order to create a better life financially for himself and his partner. Jones said he couldn’t afford a licence and was in the process of shutting down the shop when the second visit occurred, and he sold the budgie as he knew he wasn’t going to sell anything afterwards.

The shop closed in December 2019 and the business is no longer trading.

John Clucas, a council licensing and compliance officer, said: “Laws are there to protect customers’ rights and it is not fair on those businesses that do put in the effort of complying with the law and paying for a licence to have someone down the road ignoring the legislation and undercutting them on price.”

Jones was ordered to pay £600 costs. He is currently under a separate suspended sentence order which was extended for three months. He was also ordered to carry out 10 hours rehabilitation requirement days. Bensons Aquatics was ordered to pay a £300 fine, £32 victim surcharge and £100 costs.

The budgie bought by the council officer and nicknamed by officials as Sid has been rehomed and is healthy and content with his new owner.

A popular pet store near Glasgow faces closure if the present owners can’t find a buyer before the end of the month.

The owners of Wagtail Pet Supplies in Kirkintilloch pet store announced on Facebook that were giving up the business after 20 years to spend some time with their family.

A post on the shop’s Facebook page announced the news to customers.

“Thank you to all our customers and to the customers we think of as family. I am going to miss you all – take care and I hope to see you around. 

“If no one takes over the shop we will still be selling the just natural raw food from home so I will give out my mobile phone number nearer the time of closing.”

In a further post, the owners said: “We would like to sell our business as a going concern as it’s the only pet shop left in Kirkintilloch. If you are genuinely interested in purchasing our shop please pm our Facebook page. Thank you.”

Natalie Langdon, of Holmefield Veterinary Clinic, has received the Veterinary Nursing Award in the recent Askham Bryan Apprenticeship Star Awards.

The practice has also been recognised and has been named as the Askham Bryan Veterinary Nursing Employer of the Year. 

Natalie did her work experience at Holmefield in 2013. After leaving school and completing a Foundation Degree in Animal Management and Science, she re-joined the team 4 years ago. A year later she enrolled at Askham Bryan College and began her training on a day release basis, so was working in practice gaining practical experience 4 days a week and then spending 1 day a week at college getting classroom based training.

Natalie excelled with assignments but found the exams challenging. Despite some setbacks on the way, her determination to succeed and continued support from her clinical in-practice coach, Lisa Elliott, saw her qualify in 2019. She loves all aspects of veterinary nursing but has developed particular interests in the fields of anaesthesia and in-patient nursing.

Louise Davison, Clinical Director at the practice, said,

“Natalie has shown real commitment and determination in her resolve to be a veterinary nurse and her recognition with this award could not be more deserved. She is a great asset to our team, has a real empathy with our patients and her care of our in-patients, an area I know she is particularly fond of, is second to none.

She went on to say,

“Working with enthusiastic young nurses allows our practice to not only share the expertise and enthusiasm of our experienced staff, but also keeps us all on our toes through embracing new techniques and technology and ensures that the care we offer our patients is the best it can be.”

Holmefield Veterinary Clinic have supported veterinary nurse training on an on-going basis for many years. Emily Knight RVN is currently studying towards an Emergency and Critical Care Certificate, having completed her original nurse training at the practice in 2015.

Eleanor Ames and Eleanor Nottingham have qualified, with the support of the team at Holmefield. Eliza Empson and Megan Pattison have enrolled on the Askham Bryan VN course and should qualify in 2021.

Sydney Guscott is working with them this year – she is undertaking a degree in Veterinary Nursing at Harper Adams, so is with them for a 52 week placement to learn practical skills.

As a practice, Holmefield are committed to VN training as it helps young people in their area, with a genuine love of animals, to achieve qualifications and gain skills in something they are passionate about, giving them access to a rewarding career path.

Head Nurse Alex Clifton is instrumental in co-ordinating the training needs and ensuring that the trainee nurses get exposure to and can learn from a wide variety of cases and situations, whilst at the same time making a huge contribution to the smooth running of the practice and the care their patients receive. It really is a team effort as, whilst their trainee nurses obviously spend the majority of their time learning from all their qualified nursing team, they also work closely with the vets and receptionists to hone their skills.

The team at Holmefield recognise that it is important to inspire the vets and nurses of the future and regularly get involved within their community to try and spread the veterinary word. They take part in careers visits and talk to students in years 9 and 11 at local schools and welcome local children completing their Duke of Edinburgh Awards, where gaining experience in practice can help towards achieving the skills section of their award.

Head Nurse, Alex Clifton said,

“We have always encouraged nurse training and have worked with a number of local colleges over the years and had a steady throughput of trainee nurses - indeed all our nursing staff are either RVNs, trainee nurses or have completed the Animal Nursing Assistant qualifications and of the RVNs, a number are undertaking additional training in areas of their own interest.”

Holmefield are always keen to work with newly qualified vets too and have 3 vets currently on the IVC Evidensia Graduate program (1 in year 2 and 2 in year 1) and are looking at welcoming another New Grad later this year.

Louise Davison says,

“Our strength lies in having a very clear vision of the standard of care we would like our own pets to receive and in making sure we deliver it, whilst at the same time focusing on the needs of our clients and supporting them in every way we can.”

A dog’s nose, containing around 300 million scent receptors, is so powerful that it can detect all sorts of things that humans can’t – even the smell of disease.

That said, there are still a lot of things that humans can smell! To test how human noses compare to super-powered canine senses, Medical Detection Dogs are inviting adventurers to the Escot Estate, where on Sunday 5^th April they’ll be placing six secret scents at sniffing stations located around the beautiful grounds of the estate.

Adults, children, and their dogs are all invited to come along and sniff out the puzzling perfumes. For the teams who can correctly identify the most smells, there will be prizes including a family voucher for Wildwood at Escot.

This fun and unique adventure will take place between 10am until 1pm on Sunday 5^th April and will cost a donation of £20 for a family adventure (two children and two adults), or £8 for an adult or £4 for a child under 16. All proceeds will go towards supporting the work of Medical Detection Dogs.

Donations can be made on the day or in advance; there’ll only be space for a limited number of adventurers, so get in touch with Rebecca at rebecca.pearce@medicaldetectiondogs.org.uk to reserve a place.

Escot Estate is near Ottery St Mary, Devon, EX11 1LU

The 20-year-old boss of a growing pet food business has featured in an episode of ‘Young, Welsh & Pretty Minted’ shown on BBC Three.

The series follows young Welsh entrepreneurs finding success through a variety of unconventional means. 

It is no surprise that Wales’ Young Entrepreneur of the Year winner Callum Griffiths, owner of Clydach Farm, was selected, 

Callum began the pet food business venture at just 13-years-old, and the programme follows the story of his rapidly expanding pet food business.

The episode documents the process of Clydach Farm’s food for dogs, from sourcing partnerships with ethical producers to packing and delivering award-winning recipes to 13 countries.

Clydach’s range of high meat, digestible recipes support UK farming and agriculture by not only sourcing the best ingredients, but by building lasting relationships with farmers across the British Isles.

The episode of ‘Young, Welsh and Pretty Minted’ aired on Sunday 23rd February and is available to watch on BBC iPlayer. Click here to view. Callum’s story begins about six minutes into the programme

The owners of innovative pet product company Groomi, which supplies a unique grooming tool for dogs, cats and horses, are set to appear in the new series of Dragons’ Den when the hit TV programme returns to BBC2 next month.

Husband-and-wife team Chris and Charlotte Wright will be seen entering the Dragons’ Den on Sunday, March 8, as they make a pitch for investment.

“Although we produce a fairly unique product, we never dreamed that our application to appear on the show would be accepted,” said Charlotte.

“But when we were told that we would appear we were both excited. The whole process took a lot of planning and it was nerve-wracking.”

Charlotte said she made the pitch for investment in the Dragons’ Den while Chris handled the numbers side of their presentation.

But she remained tight-lipped of how Groomi was received by the Dragons. To find out tune in to BBC2 on Sunday, March 8.

Su-Bridge Pet Supplies has expanded its dog bed range by partnering with Yorkshire-based company Hot Dog Pet Products, with a deal that gives the wholesaler exclusive distribution rights. 

Hot Dog Pet Products is a family owned business that hand crafts all of its products using only the finest of fabrics and designs to suit the modern home.

The entire range of products are luxurious thermal and central heated dog beds made in Britain. Ethically sourced, sustainable and highly durable materials are used throughout our entire manufacturing process.

Su-Bridge Pet Supplies saw the excellent craftsmanship and manufacturing quality of each product and instantly knew it wanted a partnership.

Hot Dog beds provide that much needed aid and comfort to support dogs who suffer from joint problems, a poor circulation or have recovered from a surgery in their earlier years.

"We could see the gap in the market for such an amazing product, by working together we can make sure this is readily available for every dog who needs one," Lynne Hopwood, National Sales Manager.

As a nationwide wholesaler Su-bridge Pet Supplies can add value throughout the supply chain, to ensure the maximum exposure of the full product range.

Two young entrepreneurs from Devon have set out ambitious plans for the growth of their budding pet treat company, Aniimal Industries Ltd.

With their eyes firmly set on global expansion, these producers of natural pet treats for dogs, wild birds, caged birds and small animals are looking to expand their retail trade and wholesale base in the UK and overseas as well as introducing a new range of vegan pet treats for dogs.

Tom Robinson and his partner Tammy Francis set up the business in January 2019 and have already hit the ground running securing one large customer who is selling into Pets at Home all over the UK. They are also supplying a growing number of independent retailers with their own brand of dog treats called Tayla’s Kitchen, together with other ranges for birds and small animals. 

Tom said: “Myself and Tammy Francis have worked and been around animals all of our lives. I worked in the pet trade for over 10 years in multiple roles and Tammy, as an experienced dog walker and trainer. She is also a big supporter of an animal rescue charity fostering dogs at her home until they are found new loving families.

"Our pets at the moment are Tayla, the Borador who was our first pet together as a couple and the inspiration of Tayla's Kitchen. Then we have Peg, the Border Collie who we rescued from a very bad situation giving her a new life in the Devon countryside. Finally we have Hugo our indoor rabbit who helps us develop our small animal range. 

“We manufacture all of our treats with human grade ingredients and no hidden nasties in our own bakery on the farm. We try to ensure all of our treats have extra benefits such as turmeric for joint pain, tuna for dogs with sensitive tummies etc. and we package our products into environmentally friendly paper bags and our labels are printed with water based inks.”

Aniimal Industries Ltd. has recently invested £100K in a bespoke automated seed and grass treat production line which will enable the business to develop vegan dog treats which is a growing trend in the pet food and pet treat markets. They are hoping to also expand own label products to other pet food manufacturers and grow the business further in the UK and overseas particularly focussing on the USA and Asia with a range of unique products.

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