Natural Instinct is recalling its Wild Venison (Natural Cat Food) because some of the ingredients were not inspected in line with EU requirements. The absence of inspection means the safety of the product cannot be confirmed and may therefore carry a potential risk.

On the Foods Standards Agency website it states that the food recall is Northern Ireland and Wales specific.

In its Product Recall Notice, the company stated:

"Natural Instinct has been informed by the Foods Standards Agency that our supplier of the venison offal used ONLY in our Wild Venison Natural Cat Food 250g & 500g has not had the offal inspected in line with legal requirements.

"The absence of inspection does not mean that the product is unsafe but means the safety of this product cannot be confirmed.

"Natural Instinct takes its obligations regarding pet food safety very seriously and requires its suppliers to comply with the appropriate legal requirements.

"Natural Instinct has therefore agreed with the Food Standards Agency to undertake a recall out Wild Venison Natural Cat Food product."

Point-of-sale notices will be displayed in all retail stores that are selling this product. These notices explain to customers why the product is being recalled and tell them what to do if they have bought the product.

In its risk statement the Foods Standards Agency said: "Some of the ingredients were not inspected in line with EU requirements. The absence of inspection means the safety of the product cannot be confirmed and may therefore carry a potential risk."

More details can be found on the Foods Standards Agency website:

https://www.food.gov.uk/news-alerts/alert/fsa-prin-65-2018

The owner of a pet store admits that a raid on his premises in the West Midlands, which resulted in £60,000 worth of supplies being stolen, has had a ‘devastating’ affect on the family-run business.

Mike Burke, owner of The Big Pet Store in Halesowen, told the Express & Star newspaper: “It’s upsetting. The loss of the stock and money is one thing but it’s upsetting to find someone has done that to you in the first place. Who would want to do that? 

“Our customers have been great, but it really knocks you back and it makes you think – why do you bother?

“We can go through the insurance company but to come here and see the door smashed in, your heart drops. 

“We’re coming back – we’re strong. There’s a reason to do what we do.” 

The pet store, which has been built up from a market stall, moved into its current location in 2005. 

As well as pet products being stolen from the store, a number of fish died after the burglars poured bags of fish food into the tank.

A police investigation is currently taking place.

To read the full Express & Star story click here

PATS Telford is on track to attract ever-stronger numbers of international buyers in 2019.

Leading trade association PetQuip will be taking part in PATS Telford once more. Its multi-lingual personnel will be manning the International Buyers’ Lounge, providing information on the UK market and suppliers to the international buyers attending the show.

The PATS team is also taking a stand within the PetQuip-organised British Pavilion at Zoomark in Bologna, Italy, next May, to promote the Telford event, which is ever-increasing in popularity with international pet product buyers.

Four PATS exhibitions have been held at The Telford International Centre to date, with each event attracting more than 2,000 visitors. Last year 75 of these were from Europe, with an additional 17 from the rest of the world.

Leading international trade association PetQuip has again confirmed that its members have tasked the association to help attract overseas pet retail chains and distributors to the Autumn showpiece. The PetQuip team will be hosting the International Buyers’ Centre, where PATS exhibitors will have the opportunity to meet and sell to invited buyers and can also seek advice on all aspects of international trade.

In addition, the prestigious PetQuip Awards will take place following the first day of the exhibition. During an evening when outstanding success in the industry is celebrated, the PATS Telford New Product Awards, sponsored by pbwnews, will also be presented.

Show organiser Gordon Thomas said: “We are delighted to be working alongside PetQuip on our international buyers’ programme, which is proving to be a huge benefit to PATS exhibitors. I am looking forward to welcoming an increasing number of international buyers to Telford next September.

Amanda Sizer Barratt MBE (left), Director General of PetQuip, said: “Our team is working hard to help UK suppliers to begin exporting, open up new distributorships or expand their international sales into new and developing markets, and PATS provides a welcome opportunity for PetQuip to deliver information, advice and new sales leads to exhibitors and to help international buyers find the best products to add to their ranges.”

A big attraction for international visitors is the large number of exporting companies taking stands at PATS Telford, a fact backed up by Henrik Siig, of Whesco Trading, Denmark, who made the trip to the 2018 show. Henrik said: “PATS is a great event because it gives us access to all the new products from UK suppliers. The show is easy to get around and has a nice intimate feel to it.”

Another international visitor, Michel Carbone, from Italy, added: “UK pet companies launch some of the most innovative products in the world and PATS is the best place to see them.”

PATS Telford 2019 is shaping up to be one of the most successful events in the show’s history, and regular exhibitors acknowledge it delivers the right calibre of visitor from both the UK and Europe.

“Each year the exhibition seems to get busier and better. We chose to launch our new products at Telford in September and it proved to be an inspired move. We were busy throughout the whole show,” said Suzanne Rothman, of Pet Munchies.

Anne Wood, of Broadreach Nature+, commented: “This year's PATS Telford was the best one yet for us. Having launched Broadreach Nature+ at the show in September 2015 it was amazing to go back and get so many positive leads. It was lovely to see a number of international buyers looking to expand their ranges and gain new contacts.”

And pet shop owner Jamie Gleave, of Paws and Claws, Cheshire, summed up why the show is a must-visit for retailers: “PATS Telford never fails to impress! The Telford International venue is perfectly suited for this important event in the pet trade calendar, particularly with its central location, easy access and free parking.”

More than 200 companies are expected to exhibit at PATS Telford 2019 and leading firms who have already booked include: Bamfords, Broadreach Nature+, Burgess Pet Care, Eden Pet Foods, flexi, Forthglade, Inspired Pet Nutrition,Johnson's Veterinary Products, Kruuse, Lennox, Loving Pets, Marriages, Natures Menu, Petlife International, Trixie and Versele-Laga.

Visitors to PATS Telford can expect to see an unrivalled array of new pet products and speak to top suppliers and manufacturers. They will also be able to witness demonstrations from the country’s leading dog groomers and listen to talks from prominent industry figures. For all the latest news on PATS visit www.patshow.co.uk

Pet product entrepreneur Andrew Nowell, founder of PitPat, has been crowned ‘Internet of Things Founder of the Year’ at the inaugural BMW i UK Tech Founder Awards, coming out on top above the likes of TechSixtyFour, JCC Bowers and Limbic AI.

The awards, held at Bloomsbury Big Top in London, celebrated the outstanding entrepreneurial journeys of those who create, disrupt and innovate within the UK’s rapidly changing tech landscape.

Nowell created PitPat in 2014 following years working in a leading engineering consultancy within the wearables and smart home markets. He saw PitPat as the opportunity to combine his two biggest passions - dogs and technology - and PitPat is now the bestselling dog activity monitor in the UK.  

Of his win, Nowell comments: “I’m honoured to have been recognised alongside so many inspirational entrepreneurs within the tech scene. When we launched our first prototype in 2016 we didn’t know what the future held for us, but since then our product has helped to keep thousands of dogs happy and healthy. Our PitPat Pack together have achieved a staggering 1 billion minutes of activity.”

Whilst 50% of all start-ups are estimated to fail within the first two years of inception, the UK has continued to lead the way for funding activity in the European technology sector, according to figures revealed by Stripe, Tech.eu and Techstars last month.

Nowell continues: “We’re exceptionally proud to manufacture our product here in the UK and support local jobs. This award win and the success of PitPat as a product is proof that entrepreneurs can succeed in what is a very challenging market.”

Francesca James, founder of the BMW i UK Tech Founder Awards added: “As a first year Awards programme, we have been blown away by both the number and quality of applications from across a broad spectrum of niches. It is always an achievement in itself to be named a finalist in any Awards, perhaps more so within the thriving tech space. But special congratulations go to our winners.”

Winners were revealed in 13 other categories across the ceremony, hosted by The Gadget Show’s Georgie Barrat, from a range of tech industries, including AgTech, HealthTech and FinTech.

Pictured from left to right: Andrew Nowell (PitPat Founder), Georgie Barrat (The Gadget Show, hosted the awards), Michael Bateman (PitPat advisor).

https://www.pitpat.com/

Leading UK pet food manufacturer Symply has again turned to Law Print for its packaging needs, this time to help with its Canagan brand ‘refresh’.

Symply recognised that the time was right for a refresh – rather than a full re-brand – of the existing bags, and Law Print, which has provided Canagan’s packaging since 2012, was more than happy to assist.

Manchester-based Law Print was able to offer expertise on materials and manufacturing, pack format optimisation, pre-and post-press quality management and print management – as well as managing supply chain logistics.

Carole Bayne, Director of Sales and Marketing for Law Print, said: “When such a well-established pet food brand as Canagan decides to go through a revamp, it can be a huge risk. Needless to say, we were delighted to be part of the journey and it is evident that the benchmark has been set even higher with the new packaging.”

James Milbourne, Director at Symply, said: “Having recently undergone a complete packaging refresh across our entire Canagan brand, we have found the process to be fast and efficient as always from Law Print. Whenever we undertake a large project such as this, it is imperative that our partners are quick to respond and fast to implement and that has been true throughout our refresh.

“The packaging quality is of utmost importance to us as each year we sell over one million bags of our award-winning food and the feedback we receive from our clients across the world is overwhelmingly positive.”

Symply took the opportunity to introduce two new lines – Highland Feast and Dental – two specially-formulated grain-free formulas with a selection of vegetables and botanicals.

For more information about Law Print, visit www.lawprint.co.uk

WHIMZEES – the all-natural daily dental treats for dogs – is making the leap from alligators to Christmas shapes! Its first ever seasonal shapes, which hit pet stores in the UK this December, feature a snowman and a Christmas tree.

Fun from the first bite with unique shapes that help ensure proper blood flow through dogs’ gums and help prevent plaque, tartar and bad breath; WHIMZEES uses limited, all-natural ingredients and no artificial ingredients, colours, flavours, preservatives, GMOs, gluten, or meat - perfect for daily use.

Recent scientific studies also show that WHIMZEES are 80% more effective in reducing plaque than leading competitors and have a three times longer chewing time for three times more fun!

Available at your local pet specialty store, the new shapes come in red and green and are available in small, medium and large sizes, so every dog can festively freshen their breath. Like all of WHIMZEES daily dental chews, the Christmas shapes are made with a vegetable-based texture to help remove plaque and tartar as your dog chews. They’re also high in fibre and low in calories and sugars.

To help celebrate the arrival of WHIMZEES snowman and Christmas tree, WHIMZEES is giving away a ‘sleigh full’ of its natural daily dental chews through a social media competition this month; asking pet owner across the U.K. to post a picture of their dog decked out for the holidays.

Whether it’s ‘Santa-Paws’ costumes, reindeer antlers, or your dog enjoying a Christmas play around, post your photos on  Facebook, Instagram or Twitter using #xmasdressup and tagging @WHIMZEESUK for a chance to win a one-month-supply of WHIMZEES holiday shapes. The closing date is 26.12.18.

WHIMZEES has also released its first holiday video starring adorable dogs wagging their bell-equipped tails to the tune of “Jingle Bells.” Pet parents have spent the year treating their dogs and making their dental care a top priority, and WHIMZEES and its dogs wanted to return the favor with a treat of their own. Pet parents will be able to enjoy the video all season long by visiting WHIMZEES on Facebook.

“Our alligator and toothbrush shapes are always popular during the holidays, but this year, we wanted to give pet owners something special to stuff their dog’s stocking with. Our new shapes bring the same fun and function WHIMZEES is known for, but in festive seasonally-inspired shapes,” said Kristof Vlaeminck, senior director of global brand marketing for WHIMZEES.

“And in the spirit of the season, we wanted to launch the new shapes by giving something back to pet owners who give their dogs the gift of dental health. Our social media giveaway and holiday video are our way of saying ‘thank you’ to those who know that one WHIMZEES dental chew a day can mean a healthier, happier holiday season—and more—for our furry friends. We invite dog parents to make every day a holiday and celebrate dental health year-round with WHIMZEES.”

To watch the WHIMZEES holiday video click here

Global pet product expert PetSafe Brand has announced a further expansion of its popular Play & Challenge range with the addition of two new dog toys. This latest release highlights the brand’s continued focus in this area and follows the introduction in September of four new items to the range.

Every Play & Challenge toy is designed to redirect bad behaviours like chewing and jumping into positive play, keeping pets busy while also challenging them mentally to keep them actively engaged and alert. The toys are suitable for all ages and come in a range of sizes.  

The following new additions are available to consumers this month from the PetSafe Brand website and other selected retailers:

Jewel Pop Treat Holding Dog Toy, from £3.99 – shaped like a sparkling jewel ring, this fun toy holds an irresistible PetSafe® Brand rawhide treat ring that can be replaced again and again. The ring component is made from tough nylon while the jewel is made from sturdy thermoplastic rubber, the same material that makes the soles of running shoes durable. Treats are easy for pet owners to add; they simply unscrew the jewel, slip one rawhide treat ring onto the post and screw the jewel back on for long-lasting engagement with a tasty reward. Available in three sizes, the toy comes with four PetSafe® Brand rawhide treat rings.

Forever Bone Treat Ring Dog Toy, from £5.99 – this durable bone-shaped toy is a fun way for even the toughest chewers to entertain themselves.  Made from thick nylon and strong vanilla-scented rubber, the toy uses innovative SnapFit™ treat-holding cups to store two delicious all-natural rawhide treat rings to help entice dogs to play longer. The raised nylon nubs and rubber ridges provide a variety of textures to appeal to different types of chewing. The toy is available in three sizes.

Angela Critchley, International Marketing Director, PetSafe Brand, said: “Our Play & Challenge range continues to go from strength to strength and is a key business focus this year and beyond.  At PetSafe® Brand, we believe every pet deserves to have fun and our team of designers are focused on making products that ensure longer lasting playtime and hours of stimulation to pets. We’re really proud to be launching these two fun new toys and are confident they’re going be popular with pet owners.”

petsafe.com/UK 

The Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association is re-launching its industry training packages with new online courses after gaining City & Guilds accreditation.

The trade body has revamped and updated the course contents of its Foundation and Advanced Training programmes which have now been assessed and accredited by City & Guilds.

The programmes offer the only in-depth aquatics specific training designed by industry experts which retailers can use to demonstrate to local authority inspectors across the UK the required species appropriate staff training they need to get a pet shop licence.

“We’re pleased our courses are accredited by City & Guilds because we believe that makes them even more attractive to people within our industry to have on their CV,” said OATA’s Chief Executive Dominic Whitmee.

“Having well-trained staff, knowledgeable about the particular species they sell, is a key element of pet shop licensing across the UK. Our training programmes have always been well-recognised by the UK aquatics industry and local authorities so we believe this is an excellent time to invest in staff development with these new and improved online accredited courses.”

The two training programmes – which offer both an introduction and more in-depth look at water quality, filtration, fish biology and fish health - will now be delivered online, making it easier for students to work their way through the courses at a time and on a device that suits them.

The industry-recognised courses continue to be home study, completed at the student’s pace, and are now able to be studied on a computer, tablet or mobile phone, making it much easier to fit in periods of study around work, travel and home life.

The Foundation Training Programme is ideal for new recruits who may not have a lot of knowledge about fishkeeping while the Advanced Training Programme takes a more detailed look at the four subject areas, so will be good for managers or those wanting to develop their knowledge and demonstrate professional development.

Find out more about the two training programmes at https://ornamentalfish.org/training/. OATA members get discounted course fees.  

A leading UK vet has issued a winter warning to owners of water-loving dogs over the dangers of potentially-fatal canine hypothermia, as Storm Deirdre threatens to bring a Nordic blast of cold to the UK.

As the weather gets colder so do our rivers and lakes, and while many breeds can cope with close-to-freezing temperatures it can be particularly harmful to others.

Even on a hot day, bodies of water can be cold enough to send a canine’s body into shock, which can cause them to gasp and start swallowing water.

Many pet owners are aware of the dangers of heatstroke, but top vet Iain Booth warns cold weather conditions such as hypothermia are not as well-known.

Ian Booth, the managing director and resident veterinary surgeon at VetUK said: “In summer, we warn about dogs dying in hot cars, in winter the message is very much about staying safe around water.

“A dog’s normal body temperature is around 38.3-39.2°C, and it only has to drop a few degrees to enter the danger zone.

“Mild hypothermia in dogs occurs between 32 and 35°C, moderate hypothermia between 28 and 32°C, and severe hypothermia is anything below 28°C.

“Because most dogs have fur coats, we tend to think of them as being quite hardy and resistant to the cold — even more so than their owners.

“But external factors, like being wet on a freezing day, can cause body temperature to fall quickly, which can be potentially fatal for our pets.

“Cold water in particular can be very dangerous and can send dogs into shock quite quickly. During the winter months it might be advisable to kit out more adventurous of animals with a life jacket, have a thermometer close to hand, and keep them on a lead when close to water.

“If you think your pet is in trouble, whatever you do, don’t dive in to help them. Seeing your beloved animal in distress is horrible to watch but call 999 instead of risking your own life as well.

“Many animals are able to get themselves out of cold water eventually — unlike a lot of humans.”

He added: “If you are worried about your dog after falling into cold water, there are a few warning signs you can look out for such as lethargy, stiff muscles, and pale or grey gums.

“Pet thermometers are available to check your dog’s temperature, so it is handy to have something like that to hand in winter.

“Anything below 35°C should be a cause for concern.”

As in most other animals, hypothermia occurs in dogs when the body is no longer able to maintain a normal temperature. This in turn causes a depression of the central nervous system.

The condition can also bring respiratory, immune and cardiovascular risks.

Founded in 2003, VetUK is a market leader in cost-effective own brand products that are cheaper than big brand high street names.

The company offers an alternative to owners being obliged to take their pets to vets for similar but more expensive treatment.

Growth has been rapid, and in July it recorded its three millionth internet order and grew turnover to £100m.

The business, which employs over 30 people and is a UK licensed supplier of pet medications, sells over 7,500 items.

Full information on VetUK is available by visiting www.vetuk.co.uk

Devon-based Redpaw Pet Supplies were crowned Independent Pet Retailer of the Year at the Pet Industry Federation Awards. This week Pet Trade Xtra finds out from owner Sammie Hunt what makes the company stand out from the rest…

When did you open the pet store?
I opened my first shop in 2014 and moved to the current location in 2016, I started my business in 2013, running trade stands at dog shows and agriculture shows.

Was there a pet shop there before?
No, I choose an area in Plymouth which I felt was convenient to customers – but I did not want to be on the high street.

How many people work in the store?
Two full time and one part time – Nadine, Jaycee and Yas.

What's your background?
After working within the animal industry all my life, I became frustrated working for other companies and when my mother became very ill and sadly past away, she inspired me to do what I wanted to do. I'm passionate about animal health and nutrition, and this is where I have some 25 years of experience. When attending dog shows (showing my whippets) I noticed no-one sold natural foods and treats. This is where I started, running at first a small stand selling only quality natural treats. Soon this was doing so well, my poor house was taken over by products and although my dogs were in heaven, I needed my front room back. I then began to look for a storage unit and whilst looking found my first shop. This then grew so quickly, I soon had to move to a bigger unit, where we are now. My experiences in employment includes Ministry of Defence Dog Handler, Dog Training, Animal Nutrition, Meat Production Industry, Health & Safety, Animal Management & Welfare and Animal Grooming.

How do you attract new business?
I strive to stock a great range quality products at sensible prices. I go above and beyond to help customers with nutritional issues, I work with some local vets, behaviourists and dog trainers to help pets with health issues related to nutrition and allergies. It is very important to me, for customers to feel they can come somewhere they can get advice without being pressured into purchasing products. As an independent business it is very important to offer a service that others don't. I'm always researching products and my customers know I'm always up to date with the market.

Do you offer other services as well as selling pet products?
Yes, we do microchipping, nail clipping, and bath and drys. We offer nutritional advice, help with weight loss/gain.

What sets you apart from the rest?
I've stuck to my guns and stayed true to what I believe, that Redpaw is hear to help owners have the most healthy, happy pets possible.

What's the secret of your success?
I drive to be different from our competitors and be the best possible. Launching my own brand products helps me ensure the items we sell are to the highest standards.

What does this award mean to you?
The absolute world. I've worked so hard building my business from a tiny table of treats to what we have grown into in just five years. I never believed we could win, but I'm so proud of my business and team achievements. It has definitely made all the low and very hard moments worthwhile.

What advice would you give to other independent pet shop owners?
Look for the gaps in the market, do your research to what your customers want, and be active with engaging with customers.

Final-year students at the Royal Veterinary College have stripped naked for a 2019 calendar in support of charity.

All the proceeds from calendar sales – priced at £10 each – will be donated to Vetlife, a charity providing  emotional, financial and mental health support to the veterinary community.

Photos on the calendar show the wannabe vets posing some of the animals they’re going to be taking care of in future.

The theme for the 2019 calendar is 'Vets in Action' and final-year student Ben Alexander Smith, who took the photos, said: “I wanted to take photos that would reflect a stripped back representation of the various careers vets in practice have. I’m really happy with the artistic look of the calendar and they are flying off the shelves."

The calendar can be bought here: https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/254001512830

Pets at Home has opened a new, pet-friendly head office called Chester House, named after the first Pets at Home store that opened in 1991.

The new building is the result of a £2m investment in an expansion of its Handforth headquarters that will help drive improved ways of working using the latest in technology and communications to provide a workspace that encourages collaboration and teamwork.

Chester House can accommodate up to 300 colleagues and includes 17 meeting rooms, all with their own unique design that reflects the history and achievements of the business.

The building also includes three kitchens, a library and a creative lab.

Along with a variety of spaces for working, the new office aims to enhance colleague wellbeing during the working day.

From private phone booths and enhanced lighting, to a tuck shop and areas for relaxation, Pets at Home has worked closely with its people team to create an environment that not only looks good, but offers comfortable and productive spaces.

Outside, Pets at Home has invested in a Pet Park, a fully enclosed, safe area designed with the welfare of colleagues’ pets in mind and, as such, is split into different zones and textures for inquisitive paws.

It includes toys, ramps, tunnels, water stations and a warm shower for muddy paws – and boots.

An internal competition to name the new building was won by Sue Richardson, a central data manager and one of the retailer’s longest serving colleagues, and Leanne Friar, development small projects manager, who chose the name Chester House in recognition of the first Pets at Home store that opened in 1991 in Chester.

Founder of Pets at Home, Anthony Preston, and his wife, Margaret, were invited to the opening of the new headquarters by group chief executive, Peter Pritchard.

Targets are a major source of discontent amongst today’s sales people, says recruitment specialist Lynda Ward, who has urged pet product suppliers to set achievable goals to their staff.

The founder and owner of Pet Trade Solutions said: “Sixty percent of the calls I’ve had in the past three months were from people unhappy about targets set by their current employers.

“Having seen both sides of the equation - from having set and being given targets - I understand the pitfalls that business owners or managers have to contend with and also the frustration and demotivation that can be felt by those on the receiving end.”

Lynda explains: “Targets should be achievable with effort, measured, timed and perhaps above all FAIR.  The management that consistently sets unachievable numbers, vastly increases them without justification or makes them easier for favoured members of a salesforce will soon have discontent and even falling sales as a result.”

She suggest: “The best way for ensuring that targets are a motivation (especially if they are to rise) is to spend a little time with each recipient, showing how the calculation for the forthcoming period was done and highlighting positive factors such as planned marketing activity, new products etc., then discussing ways to overcome any potential perceived difficulties on the area – that way the salesperson feels they are meaningfully involved in the process, has the tools to achieve and is not being given an impossible task which is not worth striving for.”

Lynda is always happy to personally advise on any aspects of recruitment and marketing strategy and can be contacted on 07946 743784 or at lyndaward@pettradesolutions.com

Bestpets, the specialist pet care division of Bestway Wholesale, was named as Wholesaler of the Year at the Pet Industry Federation awards, for the second year in a row.

This year has been busy for Bestpets and being voted ‘Wholesaler of the Year’ for a consecutive year is testament to the continued success of the company in partnership with its’ pet customers.

This year Bestpets looked at their range by category and introduced new suppliers, particularly to offer customers a premium choice with products such as Go Native and True Instinct. Old favourites were not forgotten either, with the reintroduction of James Wellbeloved. Combining the new product range with the brand new not-to-be-missed prices in the Bestpets Bonanza Trade Weeks, the company has been able to provide customers with the products they need at a competitive price.

Further improving the service to customers, Bestpets opened a customer contact centre earlier this month, available Monday to Friday for customers to call or email with any queries they have and in October Bestpets was the headline sponsor of the British Dog Grooming Championships.

Collecting the Wholesaler of the Year award was Peter Brame, Director of Trading - Pet, Mike Bailey, Head of Bestpets, and Billy Milburn, National Pet Sales Manager.

On winning the award, Brame commented: “Being selected to win this award for a second year in a row is a fantastic achievement for Bestpets. We work in partnership with our customers from independent pet retailers to professional pet groomers, to help develop their businesses. We seek to offer customers the very best product range and service for a fair price and this accolade is testament to the hard work of the team which has resulted in us achieving national recognition for our efforts. Thank you to all of our customers for shopping with Bestpets and for recognising us with this award.”

Brame added: “This year we opened a customer contact centre which we hope will support customers daily and we have updated our ranges and introduced special prices at our trade days. We will continue to work with customers to develop our offer in 2019, listing new suppliers and providing more convenient ways for customers to shop with us with a new digital platform – hopefully this will lead us to a hat-trick for this award next year.”

Specialist retailer Orvis UK has launched a new range of dog treats.

Despite Orvis being well-known for producing luxury dog product,s including their memory foam dog beds, this is the first time the company has created dog food.

The treats are handcrafted in Britain, using sustainably sourced fresh ingredients, and air dried to maintain nutritional value.

The treats are available in: 

• Chicken Slices
• Game Slices
• Lamb Slices
• Fishcake Bites with Turmeric 
• Whole Dried Sprats

They are only available in the 18 Orvis UK retail stores, and priced at £3.50 for the fishcakes, and £4.50 for all other flavours. 

Natures Menu has been crowned Manufacturer of the Year after achieving the highest score on the criteria set by the judges of the Pet Industry Federation Awards.

Craig Taylor, Natures Menu Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to be named Manufacturer of the Year. It’s an honour to receive such an accolade and to be recognised in this way. We’re proud of all that we have achieved since our launch, growing from a small family-run business to now delivering hundreds of tonnes of quality raw and natural pet food every month to satisfied customers across Europe. We would like to thank all the team for their tireless commitment and hard work in helping us to achieve this award.”

Nigel Baker, CEO of the Pet Industry Federation, adds: “Natures Menu has experienced phenomenal success and we were thrilled to award them with one of our biggest accolades of the night. We were extremely impressed with the company’s growth and development, investment, innovation, strong customer service and staff training, making them worthy winners. We would like to pass on our congratulations to the Natures Menu team.”

Natures Menu specialises in raw dog and cat food made with fully-traceable quality meats and fish, blended vegetables, fruits and healthy carbohydrates, and uses British suppliers and ethical product sources wherever possible. 

For more information about Natures Menu visit www.naturesmenu.co.uk.

A former pet shop in Sheringham, North Norfolk, which closed in September, is set to be turned into a store selling pies, sausage rolls and pasties.

Norfolk’s Pie Man has applied for a change of use at the site in Station Road. The pet shop shut down after 20 years without warning in September, to the dismay of regular customers and four staff members, who found themselves without jobs.

In a statement submitted with the plans, Mr Anthony Mattocks, who trades as Norfolk’s Pie Man, said: “The exterior of the heritage asset will not be changed, so there will be no negative impact. I intend to bring its appearance back to its former glory as it has recently been neglected and run-down.”

Britain’s rabbit population is at serious risk from a recent and continued outbreak of fatal rabbit diseases. To help protect Britain’s rabbits, the UK’s leading animal welfare experts and organisations are urging rabbit owners to get their rabbits vaccinated against the latest strain of deadly Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic disease, RVHD2.

RVHD2 is a fatal disease that can kill rabbits within hours, with many rabbits displaying no symptoms until it’s too late. Vaccination is the safest and most effective way to protect rabbits against RVHD2 and a variety of other diseases, but research continues to show that not enough rabbits in the UK are protected.

Research from this year’s PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report showed 49% of rabbits in UK homes have not received a primary course of vaccinations when young, meaning almost half a million rabbits in the UK could be at risk from a variety of potentially fatal diseases.

Rabbits who have previously been vaccinated against RHDV only will not be protected against this strain of RVHD2, so return visits to vets are being encouraged – even for rabbits who have received a primary course of vaccinations when they were young as boosters are needed to ensure immunity.

Alex Thorne at Burgess Pet Care explains the importance of vaccination.

“RVHD2 is a relatively new disease which is massively on the rise in the UK. The RAW partners have already received calls and visits from distraught owners who’ve lost their rabbits to RVHD2. It’s possible that even rabbits who have been for vaccinations in the past aren’t protected against this new disease. For any owners seeking reassurance, we would strongly recommend that they contact their vets.

“We’re calling on the support of veterinary practices, owners, manufacturers and retailers across the UK to help spread this message to as many people as possible.”

Dr Richard Saunders BSc (Hons) BVSc MRCVS is one of the UK’s leading rabbit experts and helps guide the welfare and health strategy of the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWAF).

Richard was responsible for getting the vaccine for RHDV2 into the UK following its initial outbreak, helping to save the lives of an estimated 70,000 rabbits. Richard explains that as well as protecting against RHDV2, there are other diseases that rabbit owners must look out for.

"There are three fatal viral diseases of rabbits which can be vaccinated against. Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic disease 1 and 2, which kill a high proportion of the rabbits infected, often so quickly that there is no warning before finding them dead; and myxomatosis, which can result in a slow and painful death for rabbits suffering the worst forms of the infection.

“These diseases can be prevented by vaccination and it is absolutely vital to do this even if there haven’t been any outbreaks of these diseases in your area yet. These diseases can spread rapidly and by the time there is an outbreak in your area and your rabbits aren’t vaccinated – it may be too late.”

Regular visits to the vet are important as they can help identify any other potential health or wellbeing issues. The RSPCA has been involved with RAW since its inception and strongly encourages rabbit owners to visit their vets regularly to ensure their rabbits are kept healthy and happy.

Caroline Allen, London Veterinary Director at the RSPCA said: "As well as providing vital protection against killer diseases when you visit your vet for a vaccination your rabbit will be thoroughly examined for any other health issues. It's a great opportunity to have a 'health MOT'. Sadly, far too many rabbits are still dying from totally preventable diseases and regular vaccinations and health checks are a vital part of keeping your rabbits healthy and safe."

Information on this year’s Rabbit Awareness Week campaign will be announced at a later date. For updates, please follow @RabbitAwareness on social media platforms.

For more expert advice on rabbit welfare and top tips on responsible ownership, please visit www.rabbitawarenessweek.co.uk

*PDSA Animal Wellbeing Report 2018 (www.pdsa.org.uk/pawreport) – number of rabbits based on the estimated population of 1 million pet rabbits in the UK.

The circus comes to town for two Essex-based entrepreneurs as their Big Top inspired pet accessories for guinea pigs hits the big time, wins industry awards and helps to improve animal welfare.

Who would have thought that adopting a pair of male guinea pigs from a local rescue centre could have sowed the seeds for a successful new pet accessory business but that is exactly what happened to Essex-based entrepreneurs, Rik Cridland (36) and his wife, Helen (35).

HayPigs, the company that they went on to form, has gone on to win many industry awards and plaudits with its innovative circus inspired range of accessories for guinea pigs which are not only fun, bright and colourful but are also designed to improve the lives and wellbeing of these popular pets. The range also picks up on the currently popularity of all things to do with circuses at the moment following the success of the film “The Greatest Showman.”

Having truly caught the guinea pig bug, Rik and Helen went on to adopt another seven and having bought them every toy and accessory on the market, they soon became very frustrated at the lack of choice, quality and specialism there was for guinea pigs in pet shops.

As Rik explains: “It seemed strange that guinea pigs had no dedicated section in a pet shop and were simply bundled together with other small animals such as rabbits, hamsters, chinchillas and rats. We noticed that people actually bought products that weren’t even suitable for guinea pigs, simply through bad labelling or a lack of welfare knowledge. We were also astounded at how many guinea pigs ended up being ‘surrendered’ to rescue centres, because people were ‘fed-up’ with them or hadn’t expected them to grow so big, or live so long.

“Creating a brand for guinea pigs seemed like a great opportunity to raise the profile of these small animal pets and their welfare needs, while enhancing and enriching the everyday lives of small furries and their humans.”

With Rik's background running his own business as a product designer (Stir Design Ltd.) combined with Helen’s artistic skills honed in the theatre having been a trained dancer, choreographer and dance teacher  and a desire and drive to start their own family business, HayPigs! was born.

HayPigs! started trading in April 2017 on World Circus Day following nearly two years design, development and planning preparation. Since then the company has gone on to receive many accolades.  It is in partnership with Guinea Pigs Australia, it has exhibited at many trade and pet shows across the UK, it has won the Best New Small Animal Product Award at PATS Telford in 2017, was twice finalist at the PetQuip Awards (2017 and 2018) and was finalist in the Pet Product Innovation Category at the Pet Industry Federation Awards in 2017. 

HayPigs! has since reached the finals of the SME National Small Business Awards in the New Business Category which will be presented at a gala event at Wembley Stadium on 7 December and recently won the New Company Award at the Essex Business Awards which was held at the Radisson Blu hotel, Stansted. The company also recently triumphed at The Animal Health and Wellness Awards 2018 winning the- Best Small Animal Toys Design Company – UK

The HayPigs! product range can be purchased from haypigs.com, Amazon FBA (UK and Europe), Ocado Fetch and the company is signed up to one of the UK’s leading wholesalers, Pedigree Wholesale who supply independent pet shops throughout the country. They also supply Pets at Home and in Australia, the largest pet retail chain, Pet Barn. Their products are also stocked by Guinea Pigs Australia as well as PetCircle online over there.

As well as specialising in toys, feeders and accessories  designed for and tested by Guinea Pigs!™  which are original and innovative another aspect to the range is their collectability.

Rik says: “We'd like to think our range is quite luxurious and bit of a treat for our customers and of course, their piggies! It's been our aim to design high quality products that do the job they are designed for really well and with a HayPigs!® product, you'll be getting something that is durable and can be used every day. It is a premium, high-end product for piggies.

“Our theme adds a final twist as it's very collectible and giftable and will add a splash of colour and fun to your pets home! As a brand, we also have the option to change the theme in the future and add new ranges to our collection. This is a very exciting aspect.

“At the moment, our customer demographic is predominantly female, but we are very keen to change that. Interestingly, the number of boys into guinea pigs drops off dramatically as they become teenagers but we are seeing a re-emergence of interest in grown men, known affectionately as 'Pig-dads'."

Both Rik and Helen have very ambitious plans for the future of their brand.

“At present, we are very happy for our focus to be solely on our area of expertise; guinea pigs. While other small furries can enjoy our products, evidence to date is suggesting they are finding us organically. In terms of markets, we already have a strong presence in the UK and Australia and have had modest sales in mainland Europe. We think France and Germany would be the next obvious steps in Europe and that getting our products over to the US and Canada in the near future is a no-brainer. Further afield,  we also think that Japan and China would also be very interested in our products.”

HayPigs! currently uses two UK based sourcing companies to help produce the majority of their products in China. They are very experienced in ensuring that the range adhere to all the necessary standards and help with testing the products thoroughly before releasing to market.

Rik's background in product design clearly helped develop all the products from sketch to realisation but both he and Helen also used the help of their local guinea pig rescue centre, Blackberry Patch in Essex along with a network of other guinea pig experts around the world, including Guinea Pigs Australia and Guinea Pig Magazine to produce the range.

For further information please visit: www.haypigs.com or contact RikCridland at rik@haypigs.com

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