The PetFellas, a new distributor of premium pet products to the independent and wider pet retail sector, has announced its second major distribution partnership – this time with US-based Logical Brands, the creators of the innovative Playology range of dog and cat toys.

Launching in Q1 2026, this partnership marks a significant milestone in The PetFellas’ mission to bring world-class pet products to UK retailers.

Playology dog toys are scientifically engineered to engage a dog's strongest sense - smell. Using patented scent embedding technology, each toy is infused with natural scents that are released during play, keeping dogs engaged longer. Built from durable materials, these toys deliver lasting enrichment, mental stimulation, and fun for dogs of all ages and play styles.

Playology cat toys bring out a cat’s inner hunter with lifelike movements, bright colours, and unpredictable action that mimic real prey. Designed to stimulate a cat's natural hunting instincts, these toys provide endless entertainment and promote healthy, active play.

With Playology, playtime becomes more than just fun - it's scientifically enriched engagement for happier, healthier pets.

“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Logical Brands to introduce Playology to the UK market,” said Gerard O’Mahony, Director of The PetFellas. “Playology is a standout brand that combines science, durability, and fun—perfectly aligned with our commitment to offering innovative, high quality products to independent pet retailers.”

“As a leading innovator in dog and cat toys, we – Logical Brands – are delighted to be starting this

partnership with The Pet Fellas as our distributor in the United Kingdom,” said Petra Honeck, VP of International Sales at Logical Brands.

“Their strong reputations, industry expertise, and distribution network make them the ideal partner to help us grow and bring our fantastic brands (Playology, Grrreen & Hound20), to the UK pet consumers and customers.

“This appointment reflects our commitment to expanding globally and delivering innovative, premium pet products that enrich the lives of pets and their owners.”

The PetFellas will begin distribution to select UK retail partners in early 2026, with a full rollout planned throughout the year. Retailers interested in stocking Playology can contact The PetFellas directly for pre-launch information and ordering.

This announcement follows The PetFellas’ successful start of their partnership with Earth. Animal and reinforces its position as a dynamic new player in the UK pet distribution landscape.

My Anxious Dog, the small business helping anxious and reactive dogs get the space they need, has been featured on BBC One’s Escape to the Country – bringing national visibility to the movement supporting 'dogs in yellow'.

Sarah Jones and her husband Matt, from Binfield in Berkshire, appeared on the popular property programme as they searched for a new home in Herefordshire, a move they never imagined making until life circumstances made it necessary.

“After Matt lost his arm in a cycling accident, we realised we needed to make some big changes. Moving wasn’t a choice it was something we had to do to rebuild a life that worked for both of us,” said Sarah.

Having lived in Berkshire all their lives, the idea of leaving was daunting. But their new home needed to support Matt’s health needs and the continued growth of My Anxious Dog – the brand Sarah created to help anxious dogs, inspired by their own Cocker Spaniel Bella, be seen, respected and safe in public spaces.

“Because of Matt’s accident, we had very specific needs when it came to finding a new home,” Sarah explained. “He lives with chronic fatigue and pain, and only has the use of one arm, so everything – from mowing the lawn to navigating the house – needs to be simple and manageable. We were looking for a property without steep steps or awkward layouts, and with easy access for the business too, as Matt can’t carry heavy boxes or equipment.”

The episode begins with a close-up look at My Anxious Dog's range of bright yellow space awareness products. Viewers were given a behind-the-scenes look at the business, with cameras capturing footage inside the My Anxious Dog office, including shots of awareness posters, product displays, and the awards the brand has proudly received over the years.

“It felt very personal, letting the cameras into our workspace,” Sarah shared. “But they really captured the heart of what we do — from our messaging and product design, to the wider mission of making life safer and less stressful for anxious dogs and their owners.”

One of the most meaningful moments of the episode features Bella herself, walking calmly down the road in her yellow harness and lead designed by Sarah — a powerful visual reminder of why My Anxious Dog exists in the first place.

Filming also included one of the business’s Yellow Space Zones at a dog show — calm, supportive areas where overwhelmed dogs can retreat from the hustle and bustle of events. These zones are part of a growing initiative to make dog-friendly events more inclusive for sensitive dogs and their owners.

“It was really special to have My Anxious Dog included,” Sarah said. “The yellow products, the Yellow Space Zones — even Bella herself — it all reflects what we’ve built this brand around. 

Although branded clothing wasn’t allowed during filming, Sarah proudly wore her yellow hoodie as part of her marketing campaign #DogsinYellow,  a national awareness day she founded to help the public understand why some dogs wear yellow and what it means.

While juggling filming, travel and dog shows made the process hectic, Sarah said the experience has been transformative.

“We’ve been living with my mum for the last few years while trying to sell our house. Finally being able to search for a home that suits both our personal life and the business gave us real clarity. We fell in love with the village of Wellington, and we’re hopeful that’s where we’ll be able to build our next chapter.”

Most importantly, she hopes the episode will raise awareness for dogs in yellow and the people walking beside them.

“My Anxious Dog is about more than just products – it’s about giving anxious dogs a voice. Being featured on Escape to the Country is a huge step forward in helping people understand that sometimes, all a dog needs is space and compassion.”

Sarah and Matt’s episode of Escape to the Country aired on Monday (13 October) on BBC One and is now available on BBC iPlayer – Series 26 epside 8.

Seven licensing officers from across Wales have become the first in the country to achieve the VetSkill VTEC Level 3 Award in the Licensing of Selling Animals as Pets, a new qualification developed by Animal Focused in partnership with Vetskill and Animal Licensing Wales.

The qualification marks a major milestone in improving the consistency and professionalism of animal licensing across Wales, ensuring that officers responsible for inspecting and licensing pet shops have the knowledge and confidence to apply welfare standards fairly and effectively.

Until now, there has been no recognised qualification for licensing officers working in this area, with learners previously achieving an accredited certificate. The new award provides practical and theory training in key topics such as implementing the legislation, understanding species-specific needs, and assessing compliance with the guidance.

Vicky Skinner, Founder of Animal Focused, said: “This qualification is about giving licensing officers the tools and understanding they need to apply the guidance consistently and confidently. It’s a huge step forward in protecting animal welfare and ensuring pet sellers across Wales are held to the same high standard.”

Animal Licensing Wales Project Manager, Zoe Phillips believes this is a key step in improving animal welfare across Wales; “Licensing officers play a crucial role in ensuring animal welfare standards across licensed premises, being able to offer such comprehensive training really helps drive home the responsibility these officers have. The assessments ensure the officers really understand how to apply the guidance accurately and consistently to meet their legal obligations.”

The first group of officers completed their training at Bridgend College earlier this year, with further cohorts now being planned.

PetQuip has produced a special digital magazine showcasing all the winners of the PetQuip Awards 2025 and gauging their reaction to picking up such a prestigious honour.

Click on the link below to view the digital magazine...

https://isu.pub/1xiWZm6

The Pet Industry Federation has published valuable new content on its website to support pet businesses across the UK.

Two new online courses are now live on the PIF Education platform: ‘How to Make Your Retail Space Stand Out’, an online course on merchandising products in store, looking at customer psychology, seasonal changes, colour, and store layout; and ‘Dog Grooming Welfare’, designed to help pet groomers better understand canine behaviour, stress signals, and handling techniques with a focus on animal welfare. Both courses come with an exclusive 20% discount for PIF members.

Ahead of crucial tax changes taking place from April 2026, which will affect small businesses, including sole traders, PIF has also uploaded a new Making Tax Digital for the Self-Employed fact sheet to its Members’ Area. This important update explains the 2026 tax changes that will affect businesses with annual sales over £50,000, helping members prepare now for digital record-keeping and quarterly reporting.

These new resources join a growing range of support tools, training, and business guidance available exclusively to PIF members: from legal templates and compliance checklists to discounted learning and networking events.

To access these benefits and become part of the UK’s leading community for pet businesses, visit www.petfederation.co.uk

The Competition and Markets Authority has proposed a wide-ranging set of remedies to address these issues, including the requirement of vet businesses to publish comprehensive price lists.

The CMA has published the provisional decision in its market investigation into the UK’s £6.3 billion veterinary services market.

The market investigation – which is principally into vet businesses, not individual vets – identifies concerns, including that pet owners:

• are often unaware of the prices of commonly used services and whether their local practices are part of large national chains
• have no effective way of comparing vet prices when they get a pet or move areas
• may be paying twice as much for commonly prescribed medicines from vet practices than they could pay online, amounting to hundreds of pounds more than they need to pay
• often receive no written estimate for courses of treatment running to hundreds – or even thousands – of pounds
• are often unable to tell if they are getting good value for money from pet care plans
• may be overpaying for individual cremations
• often have no effective means of complaining when things go wrong

These factors are market wide and mean consumers do not benefit from strong competition between vet businesses. Average vet prices across the market rose by 63% between 2016 and 2023 – well above the rate of inflation.

The CMA also found that pet owners pay 16.6% more on average at large vet groups than at independent vets. For at least 3 of those large groups, average prices increased faster at practices they bought than at practices that remained independent. For a substantial part of the market as a whole, profits are much higher than they should be if competition was working well.

In addition, the CMA has found that the current regulatory system is not fit for purpose. It only regulates individual veterinary professionals and not vet businesses, despite the majority of practices being part of a large corporate group.

Given its market-wide concerns, the CMA’s independent expert inquiry group has provisionally decided that a far-reaching package of 21 measures is required to address the above concerns and reinvigorate competition in this market.  

Martin Coleman, Chair of the Inquiry Group, said: "Pet owners are often left in the dark, not knowing whether their practice is independent or part of a chain or what a fair price looks like. They are sometimes committing to expensive treatment without understanding the price in advance. And they do not always feel confident asking for a prescription or buying medicine online – even when it could save them hundreds of pounds.

"Even where pet owners could access some of this information, it is difficult for them to compare prices and services – despite the fact that, in most of the country, there are several local practices they could choose between.

"We are proposing major reforms aimed at bringing about a transformation in the experience of pet owners and empowering them to make the best choices for their circumstances.

"We believe that our proposals would enable pet owners to choose the right vet, the right treatment, and the right way to purchase medicine – without confusion or unnecessary cost."

CMA’s proposed remedies

The CMA is proposing a wide-ranging set of remedies to address these issues, including:

• Requiring vet businesses to publish comprehensive price lists, be clear if they are part of a large group, and make sure that their policies and processes allow vets to act in the best interests of pets and pet owners. These measures will give pet owners the information they need to choose the right practice and treatment options for them.

• Making it easier for pet owners to access cheaper medicines online, including by requiring vets to tell pet owners about savings they make by buying medicines online and, where a medicine is likely to be needed frequently, automatically providing a written prescription to enable the pet owner to purchase the medicine elsewhere (unless the pet owner chooses otherwise), and capping the price of providing prescriptions at £16. These measures will help prompt consumers to consider buying medication online and protect them from having to pay excessive prices for the prescriptions they would need to do so.

• Requiring vets to give pet owners clear price information when they are choosing a treatment, with prices in writing for treatments over £500 and itemised bills. This will make it easier for consumers to consider different treatment options and providers.

• Requiring the RCVS to enhance its Find a Vet website to include pricing data drawing on the price lists vets will be required to publish; this data can also be used by third party websites and apps. This will allow consumers to compare vet prices much more effectively, for instance when they first get a pet or move areas.

• Requiring vets to give clear price information to pet owners arranging a cremation. This is important to allow pet owners to make the best decisions for their circumstances, at an especially emotional time.

• Requiring vets to give pricing breakdowns for pet care plans. This will allow pet owners to better decide if these would provide good value for money in their own circumstances.

• Recommending that the government urgently prioritises a new Veterinary Surgeons Act and updates regulation to include veterinary businesses, as well as individual vets and nurses, and give the regulator powers to set and enforce requirements and standards for these businesses. Reform is needed to make sure pet owners’ interests are protected and there is an effective complaints handling route if things go wrong.

The main focus of the inquiry is into veterinary businesses, not individual vets. The CMA is concerned to hear that some vets and vet nurses face abuse from frustrated clients – they deserve respect, not hostility. The proposed remedies would be good for vets, further enhancing trust in the profession and protecting clinical judgment from undue commercial pressure.

Implementation

The CMA’s final decision will be published by March 2026. The reforms would be implemented through a legally binding CMA Order and could see some measures coming into force before the end of 2026. Small vet businesses will be given additional time for implementation.

Vet businesses can make changes that would benefit their customers in the meantime, and the CMA encourages them to consider doing so.

The CMA fully recognises that the proposed changes would require businesses to adapt systems or make other changes which would incur some administrative costs. The CMA’s provisional view is that the benefits to consumers of these measures would far outweigh the costs to businesses.

Next steps 

The CMA will now consult on the Provisional Decision. All interested parties are welcome to respond to the provisional conclusions by the deadline of Wednesday 12 November 2025 via our consultation page.

The British Veterinary Association, which represents more than 19,000 vets across the UK, has responded to the Competition and Markets Authority’s ‘provisional decision’ following its market investigation into UK veterinary services for household pets.

The report was clear that ‘veterinary professionals work hard, act ethically, and put animal welfare first’. It also set out 21 measures that it believes will improve ‘information on prices, treatments, medicines and ownership; introduce a price cap on written prescriptions; deliver a new comprehensive price comparison website; and highlights that the current regulatory system is not fit for purpose and must be modernised to keep pace with commercial practice and ensure pet owners are protected.’ 

Responding to the CMA’s provisional decision, British Veterinary Association President Dr. Rob Williams said: “At first glance, there’s lots of positives in the CMA’s provisional decision that both vets and pet owners will welcome, including greater transparency of pricing and practice ownership; reform of the outdated regulatory framework; and support for our calls for regulation of vet businesses. The CMA also recognises that vets and vet teams are highly professional, and ‘work hard, act ethically, and put animal welfare first’.  

“However, we do have concerns that some of the measures outlined will impact how services are delivered. In particular, we need clarity on the proposed introduction of comprehensive price lists, because how vet care is delivered is varied and complex and unless the CMA gets this right, it could end up creating greater confusion for consumers, which in turn could have a negative impact on animal welfare.”

The Federation of Garden and Leisure Manufacturers has announced its new Patron Programme, an enhanced membership category which has been created for companies who wish to contribute to wider support of the pet and garden sectors, to help raise their profile to government, the trade and aligned industry sectors.

The two trade associations under the Federation of Garden and Leisure Manufacturers umbrella, PetQuip and Gardenex, exist to help British businesses to export and to grow, for which there is no longer any government funding. 

The Patrons are leading lights who are willing to help fund the Federation’s work to encourage and support smaller businesses within the pet and garden sectors.

Patron membership offers enhanced benefits, including prominent branding in PetQuip and Gardenex assets and collateral, highlighting their commitment to supporting British businesses as they develop their export strategies.

Additional benefits include: 

• High profile content on the Federation website and Gardenex and PetQuip News
• Product showcases at Meet the Buyer events
• Promotion within the British pavilion at international trade shows
• Opportunity to take part in the Federation’s webinar series
• Invitation to the annual Patron’s dinner

New patron members

The Federation has announced the first three Patron members Canagan, AutoPot and VegTrug.

Canagan

Canagan is part of the Symply Group, which is 100% family owned, with a mission to produce the very best natural products, with sustainability and animal health at the forefront. The five brands that will be included in their membership are: Canagan, McAdams, Symply, Yora and Tribal.

Canagan and its sister companies have been regular participants at PetQuip’s UK pavilions at Interzoo and Zoomark.

Charlie Williams Joint Managing Director, Canagan (Symply Pet Foods Ltd) said: “We greatly appreciate the support PetQuip has provided as we’ve developed our export strategy, driven by trade shows around the world. Their team has been with us every step of the way, offering technical advice on exporting pet food and helping us turn challenges into opportunities. We look forward to continuing to strengthen our global brand through our partnership with PetQuip.”

AutoPot

AutoPot is a complete irrigation system requiring no power, pumps, mains water pressure or timers, relying on gravity from a reservoir or water barrel, making them an incredibly energy efficient means of automatic plant watering, so much so that it is the only automatic watering system endorsed by the Royal Horticultural Society.

Jason Ralph-Smith CEO, AutoPot commented: “We are longstanding members of Gardenex and over the years have benefited hugely from one to one technical advice, as well as the wealth of other opportunities our membership has given us. We can track our export success directly with our membership and look forward to working closely with the team to highlight our brand, alongside supporting other businesses as they grow their export strategies.”

VegTrug

Born from a simple idea of a raised planter, this kitchen table business has since grown into VegTrug - a brand whose planters have become design icons and some of the most recognisable garden products now sold across the globe. The business has a US subsidiary in Pennsylvania and second subsidiary in Germany.

“We have navigated our export expansion across the globe with the guidance of the team at Gardenex, at international shows, through Meet the Buyer events and the advice of the team, we have built it together. We are delighted to have the opportunity to take patronage of the Federation as we would like to mentor and guide others who are at an earlier stage of their export planning. We know the pitfalls and insider secrets and would love to share them!” explained Paul Owen, Managing Director, VegTrug

Joe Denham, Director General, commented: “By going the extra mile, these companies will enjoy exclusive benefits and work closely with us to champion change, influence government policy and help drive the sectors forward. We are grateful for the support of our Patrons who have confirmed their participation and would like to invite other companies who would like to work with us to get in touch.”

For all enquiries about membership and Patron membership, contact Joe@gardenex.com

For further details on PetQuip please visit www.petquip.com

British animal-free pet food brand The Pack and German biotech start-up MicroHarvest have launched Gut Bites, a microbial protein dog treat for the UK market.

The plant-based and oven-baked treats feature MicroHarvest’s proprietary microbial protein ingredient, and are formulated to be a gut-friendly and allergy-friendly alternative to conventional meat-based treats.

Damien Clarkson, MD of Prefera Pet Food UK which operates The Pack, said: “Our community of dog owners often tells us they struggle with picky eaters and pets with allergies. Gut Bites is our answer, a delicious, functional treat that’s also allergy-friendly. MicroHarvest’s microbial protein stood out as a game-changer, helping us deliver something innovative, healthy, and sustainable.” 

Katelijne Bekers, CEO of MicroHarvest, added: “Entering the UK, where 36% of households own a dog, is a major step for us. This collaboration shows microbial protein isn’t just a sustainable solution; dogs truly enjoy it. Gut Bites proves that health, taste, and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.”

Since the manufacture of pet food is thought to produce 106 million tonnes of CO₂ a year, MicroHarvest’s protein provides an alternative that reduces the environmental impact by more than 90% when compared to beef and doesn’t require any farms, fertiliser, or pesticides.

Paleo Ridge has announced  a packaging refresh for its popular Essentials range. Customers will soon see their favourite meals arriving in brand-new eco-friendly tubs, marking another important step in the company’s ongoing sustainability journey.

The packaging update follows a series of major upgrades to Paleo Ridge’s production facility, including the installation of a new, state-of-the-art machine. This investment enables the business to increase production efficiency while also enhancing the strength and durability of its packaging.

Tyler Daly, CEO of Paleo Ridge says, “At Paleo Ridge, we are constantly looking for ways to improve our service and sustainability efforts, without compromising on the exceptional quality our customers have come to expect,” 

Will Green, Director of Sales and Marketing says, “Over the years, we’ve carefully listened to feedback from our customers regarding our cardboard packaging. We understand that, at times, the boxes have become soggy or prone to leaking. While we remain committed to avoiding plastic packaging for ethical and environmental reasons, our new tubs offer the perfect alternative; sturdy, leakproof, and recyclable.”

Importantly, while the packaging has been refreshed, the product inside remains unchanged. Customers can continue to enjoy the same trusted recipes, made with ethically sourced ingredients and balanced nutrition, now delivered in a more sustainable and practical format.

As part of the redesign, the new tubs will feature a clean, simplified label, replacing the previous cardboard sleeve. This small but impactful change will reduce waste and streamline production, helping Paleo Ridge maintain strong stock levels and further lower its environmental footprint.

Customers will begin to see the new packaging in their orders over the next few weeks as Paleo Ridge transition from the old design to the new.

The company also confirmed that this initiative is part of a wider packaging update, with plans to roll out the new eco-friendly design across its Classic and Paleo Plus ranges in the coming months.

Paleo Ridge Essentials range are competitively priced at £2.39 per 500g pack of high-quality raw dog food. Each pack includes 80% meat, bone, offal and 20% seasonal vegetables with a dash of extra virgin olive oil.

Paleoriodge.co.uk

Leading pet treat and food company Waita Pets, a finalist in the PIF Awards, has introduced two advent calendars as part of its Christmas offering for cat and dog lovers.

Each box features seven individually portioned freeze-dried treats, combining premium protein, functional nutrients, and playful shapes to deliver joy, variety, and health in every bite. Each of the treats is made from natural ingredients such as real meat, goat milk, egg yolk, and natural botanicals like cranberry and catgrass. 

The treats also have targeted benefits:

• Goat Milk Stick – Gentle on tummies, supports digestion and immune health with calcium-rich goat milk and chicken.
• Christmas Tree & Leaf: Cat Box (Green) – With catgrass and egg yolk powder, helps digestion and adds fibre for sensitive cats; Dog Box (Yellow & Pink) – With parsley and salmon, supports breath freshness and omega-3 for coat shine.
• Beef Cubes – A protein-dense option to build strong muscles and provide lasting energy.
• Salmon Cubes – Packed with omega-3s, perfect for skin hydration, brain function, and anti-inflammation.
• Egg Yolk Cubes with Cheese – Provides lecithin, healthy fats, and vitamins to support coat condition and cognitive health.
• Chicken & Cranberry Lollipop – Combines lean protein with antioxidant-rich cranberry for urinary and immune system support.

RRP. £19.98. Pre order now with shipping from November.

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

Trade visit: www.waitapets.co.uk/pages/wholesale-contact

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A shocking 83% of independent retailers say theft has worsened over the past year, whilst the vast majority of crimes now go unreported due to lack of police response, according to Bira's latest retail crime survey.

The findings reveal a retail crime crisis that is intensifying and becoming increasingly violent, with criminals operating almost unchallenged as retailers lose faith in the justice system.

Physical abuse incidents have nearly doubled to 7.04%, up from 3.7% six months ago, whilst 88% of retailers report thieves are becoming significantly more brazen in how they steal. Break-ins have surged from 4.92% to 12.20% of theft incidents, and 68.5% of retailers believe they are being targeted by repeat offenders.

Yet despite this escalating threat, reporting has collapsed. Some 85% of verbal abuse incidents now go unreported (up from 79%), 91% of physical abuse incidents go unreported, and 47% of thefts are not reported to police. When incidents are reported, only 16.7% lead to prosecution.

Retailers describe increasingly violent confrontations. One reported: "Youth held member of staff by neck," whilst another experienced: "Aggravated robbery / assault with a foam fire extinguisher - sprayed on us while they stole bikes."

Others described the relentless nature of repeat offending: "We get weekly, sometimes daily thefts. Often by the same people," whilst another said: "Just whilst I'm writing this I've had to break off to tackle three different shop lifting incidents. In the last month or two I suspect I've had maybe £10,000 of goods lifted at least. It's out of hand and makes me wonder whether to continue in this business."

One retailer summed up the changing nature of theft: "It used to be that specific items would be stolen to order but now it's anything that can be sold on."

The frustration with police response is evident throughout the survey. "Reporting is a waste of our time," said one retailer, whilst another noted: "What's the point. The police don't want to or have other more urgent priorities."

Several described how the reporting process itself has become a barrier: "It takes 20 minutes to talk to the operator, unless it is 999, the value per incident is less than the staff costs than reporting."

One retailer explained their experience: "Reported the theft and identified suspect for police but they have failed to prosecute," whilst another said: "Despite 15 mins of video evidence, the police said it was not enough."

The survey also found that 39% of retailers experienced verbal abuse in the past year, with 64% noting it has increased compared to the previous year. Incidents ranged from general aggression to targeted abuse and threats.

One retailer described: "Sworn at, spat at, aggressive bullying context, shouting and screaming," whilst another reported: "Threatening to stab us, fight us."

A female retailer noted: "Female member of staff constantly gets 'sexist' remarks made. Also customers who maybe 'drugged up' get antsy when they don't get their own way."

Another described: "Customer was not happy with the quote given for the repair work on their son's mountain bike. The customer proceeded to yell at me over the phone for 25 minutes, belittling bike mechanics and the trade in general."

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: "These figures should alarm everyone. When 83% of retailers say retail theft has got worse, when physical assaults have doubled, and when nine out of ten incidents of violence against shop workers go unreported because retailers believe nothing will be done - we have a serious problem on our high streets.

"The February 2025 Crime and Policing Bill promised stricter penalties and protection for shop workers, yet our members see no difference whatsoever. The Prime Minister announced increased police presence on high streets, but where is it? Repeat offenders - who account for nearly 70% of thefts - continue to operate, seemingly with impunity.

"Independent retailers face daily abuse, violence and theft, yet they've stopped even reporting it because they know the police won't come. This demands urgent government action. We support the drive for neighbourhood policing, but we need it now. We support greater use of community behaviour orders and potentially tagging repeat offenders. We also support rehabilitation."

Retailers are clear about what they need: 62% want much improved police response rates, 63% want stronger sentencing for offenders, 52% want visible police presence on high streets, and 33% want better use of community banning orders for repeat offenders.

Bira said it will be presenting these findings to the Home Office and police forces across the UK, calling for immediate action to support Britain's high streets.

Jollyes is set to officially open its new superstore in Chesterfield on Saturday (18th October). 

Staff members are busy setting up the store and have planned many exciting activities on opening day at Markham Retail Park.

Thousands of British workers are prioritising their dogs over their jobs, as increasing numbers of staff return the office, new research suggests. 

A survey of pet owners by national pet charity Blue Cross has found more than two-fifths (45%) of staff have swapped to remote or hybrid roles because they offered greater flexibility to care for their pet.  

Nearly half of dog-owners (46%) said they had felt judged or unsupported at work due to their responsibilities to their pet.  

More than one in 10 (16%) would even consider changing jobs if they had to return to the office full-time, while over half (55%) would sacrifice a pay rise or holiday days in exchange for flexibility. 

And, half of dog-owning staff (50%) admit they are currently considering moving jobs to better meet their pooch’s needs.  

It comes as ever more staff return to the office five years after the pandemic when global lockdowns sparked a work-from-home revolution. 

But the return-to-office movement is taking a toll with rehoming centres feeling the strain. Blue Cross has seen an 18% increase in dogs coming into the charity’s care - many due to changing work circumstances that make pet care difficult or impossible. 

Blue Cross is calling on businesses to embrace more compassionate and flexible work arrangements policies; including remote or hybrid flexibility and dog-friendly offices to prevent staff having to choose between their dog or their job. 

The study suggests firms that are more pet-inclusive stand to benefit – from improved team morale, to picking from a wider pool of talent. 

According to the research, a third (33%) of UK bosses are considering pooch-friendly policies in view to enticing more of their own hybrid or WFH staff back into the office. While more than one in ten already (12%) have a policy in place.  

Nearly six in ten business leaders (59%) believe dog owners should be given similar flexibility to parents. 

And, more than half (58%) of dog-owning employees say they would spend more days in the office if they were allowed to bring their faithful Fido in to work with them.  

A quarter of applicants say they actively look for firms offering pet-friendly offices with doggy daycare (26%) and hybrid flexibility arrangements (46%) to accommodate their four-legged friend. 

However, companies reluctant to make allowances for man’s best friend, could ultimately pay the price. 

According to the study, 15% of dog-owners would put their pooch before their pay cheque, insisting they would quit if they were ordered back into the office full-time.  

Key Findings of the Blue Cross report: 

• 45% of workers say flexible work allows them to be better pet owners. 

• 28% say they would take a pay cut to stay remote or hybrid and keep their pet routine intact. 

• 46% of employees think businesses should offer more support with flexible or hybrid working policies for dog owners  

• 44% of employees would quit WFH if they were given flexibility to bring in Fido  

Blue Cross allows its employees to bring well-behaved dogs to work wherever possible, and its survey suggests dogs are regular visitors in around 16% of UK offices.  

Of the 1,000 business leaders polled for the study, more than eight in ten (82%) said they have a dog as a pet – and 26% bring them to work at least once a week. 

Beth Verrechia, Director of People Services at Blue Cross, said: “At Blue Cross, we know that dogs are more than just pets, they're family. That’s why we support our employees in bringing their well-adjusted, happy dogs into work, wherever it’s practical and appropriate. 

Many dogs thrive when they’re by their owner’s side. Being left alone for long periods can cause some dogs to become lonely, bored or anxious, which can cause them to howl, bark or become destructive. By allowing dogs in the office, we help promote their emotional wellbeing while strengthening the bond between pets and people. 

“However, our priority is always the welfare of the animals and the safety and comfort of everyone in the workplace. That’s why we have a clear and responsible Dogs in the Office policy in place. We ensure each dog is suited to the environment, and that they are calm, sociable, and comfortable around others both people and pets. 

“We also recognise that not every dog is right for the office. Environments like factories or restaurants may not be safe or practical. Before bringing a dog in, we encourage employees to consider whether their dog will genuinely enjoy the experience, or if they'd be happier at home for the day. 

“At Blue Cross, we believe in creating a pet-friendly workplace that works for everyone with wagging tails and peace of mind.” 

Studies have shown that having dogs around can boost morale and that the employees with access to dogs had higher job satisfaction than industry norms, but not all pets will cope with the commute and office life. 

Beth added: “Our survey shows the difficult choices that pet owners are facing in today’s economic climate.  

“We’d urge businesses to help their pet owning employees where possible, offering flexible work arrangements, responsible pet-friendly policies, even allowing pets in the workplace. This could be key to keeping families and their pets together. 

“Of course, it won’t suit every workplace or every dog, and employers need to assess what’s right for them and their environment, but employers have a real opportunity to support their teams by embracing more compassionate and flexible work policies. 

“Blue Cross services are already being stretched to their limit with an unprecedented number of pets coming through Blue Cross doors over recent years. 

“Many people are being left with no choice but to give up their much-loved pets with living costs still staggeringly high and we’d urge companies to help prevent more owners having to make the heartbreaking decision to give up their much-loved companions.”  

Whether you’re aiming to be the best-dressed at the dog park or nail that mirror selfie with your canine bestie, fashion trends are no longer just for humans.

According to dog trainer Terry Cuyler, the desire to dress up with your dog in matching fits has “become increasingly apparent”. And it might not just be for our enjoyment, Terry said, “I've heard from dog owners that their dogs feel closer when they wear similar outfits”.

To help owners and pups alike stay stylish for the new season, dog accessory brand TopDog has rounded up five key fashion trends for Autumn/Winter 25 that you and your canine companion can match in:

#1 Embrace cosy brown shades – the colour of the year

It’s no wonder that brown tones have made their way onto the catwalk for this season, given that the Pantone colour of the year is Mocha Mousse. Earthy brown tones were reportedly all over the AW25 catwalks while other trending colours include hot chocolate and brown bronze.

Brown-furred pups make matching easy, but even without it, you can create a stylish look by coordinating their harness, lead, collar and accessories in brown tones. Dress yourself in a coat, boots and knitwear in similar mix-and-match brown shades for the perfect coordination.

#2 The faux-ever trend

If there’s one trend your dog is guaranteed to steal the spotlight in, it’s fur! But you can still match them in a chic faux-fur coat, knee-high boots, and a coffee in hand for a cosy winter walk.

According to Harper’s Bazaar, the faux fur trend was featured in nearly every major fashion house’s collection this season. 

It’s also a favourite on social media, with the hashtag #fauxfur amassing over 1.5 million posts on Instagram and TikTok!

#3 Go big with maximalism

Statement boots, furry finishes, metallic details and functional-turned-fashionable belts are just a few ways to jump on this season’s maximalism trend. With around 28k monthly UK searches, maximalism is replacing years of quiet luxury by embracing personality, craftsmanship, and playfulness.

To get your dog in on the trend, opt for bold prints and colours that match your own. A brightly patterned harness in complementary shades will create a coordinated, eye-catching look to make a statement together.

#4 Punk is back

Over the years, punk has been an inspiration for many, first bursting into the UK fashion scene in the 1970s with the likes of the Sex Pistols and Vivienne Westwood pushing it into prominence.

For 2025, punk is back on our runways in a wearable trend that Vogue refers to as Uptown Punk, with designers using leather, studs and leopard print to bring edginess to traditional feminine silhouettes.

Terry Cuyler said that dog owners she has worked with “believe that their dog reflects who they are” and TopDog’s Dog Save the King harness might be the perfect pick for punk pup parents, featuring a Sex Pistols-inspired print in bold pink and yellow colours.

#5 Add a pop of colour

With nearly 150 thousand TikTok posts, Who What Wear refers to the colour pop trend as “in glorious technicolour”, as illustrated by this season’s designer debuts. Tony Burch debuted an electric-orange quarter-zip knit and Givenchy a voluminous blazer in chiffon yellow.

Stand out at the dog park in a colourful coat and boots, paired with your dog’s brightest harness and leash. If you’re feeling bold, why not colour block your entire outfit!

Get the full fashion scoop, including even more inspiration in TopDog’s full style guide.

With Christmas just round the corner it’s time to find the best possible yummy and healthy treats for that important family member – the dog!

On www.csjk9.com it won’t take long as there’s a whole range of natural and delicious treats to choose from …

… like Dem Bones! (the crunchy low-fat treat that won’t pack on the pounds and is great for digestion, bad breath, upset tummies and teeth).

… and check out Poppets, the tasty little bone shaped treats that contain the amazing Get Over! herbs (to aid mobility).  They’re also Wheat Gluten Free and low calorie!

CSJ’s treats, like their supplements, skin and food ranges might sound too good to be true but here’s an example of what people are saying about Dem Bones! 

“Our dogs love them much better than any other charcoal biscuits and they do a good job of stopping the windy bottoms in our house!”

So ensure that at Xmas your dogs (and, as a perfect gift, your friends’ dogs too) have a scrumptious and healthy time.

In fact why make them wait, start treating them now – they’ll love it!

For more on CSJ products visit www.csjk9.com or call 01745710470.

A new chapter begins in the UK pet sector with the launch of The PetFellas, a brand-led distribution platform designed to empower emerging and challenger pet brands looking to grow their business here in the UK.

Built on a foundation of passion for pets and professionalism in business, The PetFellas introduces a disruptive model that addresses the core challenges facing pet brands today: focus, awareness, distribution, and advocacy.

The PetFellas will be headed up by Gerard O'Mahony, who brings over six years of experience in the specialist pet industry. The venture is owned and backed by The FoodFellas, an established food importer and distributor serving the foodservice market across the UK and Ireland. As such the business comes with a seasoned supply chain and customer services team, supported by a robust operational infrastructure, including a scalable logistics hub and integrated digital platforms that will enable seamless omnichannel distribution.

“The PetFellas is the culmination of everything I’ve learned in this industry,” said Gerard O'Mahony, Director of The PetFellas. “I’m incredibly excited to lead a venture that’s passionate about pets and professional about business. We’re building something different, giving brands the platform they deserve and retailers the support they need. The PetFellas sets itself apart from the traditional wholesaler model, where we want to build brands, story tell on their behalf and most importantly focus on getting the brands into consumers hands through our retail partners.  The energy, innovation, and commitment behind this launch are extraordinary, and I can’t wait to see the impact we’ll make together.”

“We’re absolutely thrilled to support the launch of The PetFellas,” said Graham Hillier, Managing Director of The FoodFellas. “This venture brings the same energy, innovation, and partnership focus that have driven our success in foodservice and we’re excited to help redefine how pet brands grow and thrive in the UK market.”

With a clear focus on the specialist pet market and its consumers The PetFellas have a pipeline of brands, including premium treats & chews, dog & cat food and toys that will launch over the coming months starting with Earth Animal (a leading premium range of healthy, all-natural pet products, including food, chews, and wellness solutions), where following a transition phase, The PetFellas will be their exclusive UK distributor. Earth Animal will be available at www.thepetfellas.co.uk from 20th October.

The L.I.D Framework

The PetFellas introduces the “L.I.D.” framework:  Limited brand focus, Investment in marketing, and Demand creation – designed to streamline distribution and amplify brand visibility. Unlike traditional models that rely heavily on wholesalers and retailers to tell a brand’s story, The PetFellas offers category-leading marketing support, lower cost-to-serve logistics, and a flexible commercial structure that reflects the needs and demands and value of each partner and their customers.

Strategic infrastructure and digital integration

The PetFellas operates through a centralized supply chain model, streamlining container clearance, receiving, and distribution all from one hub. This approach is complemented by the integration of advanced digital platforms that will facilitate customer ordering, account management and ensure scalable operations and efficient next-day delivery services from the new year.

Team built for impact

The PetFellas team includes a squad of pet experts and is supported by over 40 dedicated professionals across marketing, supply chain, technical, and customer service functions. With Gerard O'Mahony at the helm, supported by Chris Simmons as Head of Pet, and a roster of experienced non-executives and commercial leaders, the venture is well-positioned to deliver for its partners, on both the brand and retail sides.

Looking ahead

The PetFellas aims to become a significant player in the UK pet space within three years, with a roadmap that includes partnerships with new brands, OEM manufacturing, and strategic acquisitions. The team is committed to building a select portfolio of non-conflicting long-term partnerships with both brand owners and specialist pet retailers, built on mutually successful and sustainable commercial returns.

General enquiries – hello@thepetfellas.co.uk

Pictured (from to right): Graham Hillier (Managing Director, The FoodFellas), Nel Plunkett (Business Development Manager, The PetFellas), Chris Simmons (Head of Digital Transformation & Pet), Gerard O’Mahony (Director, The PetFellas).

Earth Animal, the pioneering pet wellness company behind the award-winning No-Hide Chews, has announced the appointment of The PetFellas as its new UK distribution partner.

The PetFellas began trading as Earth Animal’s official distributor in the UK on Monday. To ensure continuity for retailers, Pedigree Wholesale will continue supplying remaining stock until 31 January 2026 as the transition takes place.

Alongside this new partnership, Earth Animal is announcing exciting updates to its product range and packaging. Over the next three months, the brand will transition its popular chews into new formats:

• Loose No-Hide Chews will feature updated branding and be supplied in shelf-ready display cases, helping retailers maximise visibility and ease of merchandising.
• Multipack Chews will move from plastic bags to recyclable cardboard packs, furthering Earth Animal’s commitment to sustainability and plastic reduction.

This transition comes as more pet parents actively seek products that reflect their values. According to research reported by PetfoodIndustry (December 2024), 76% of pet owners consider sustainability when selecting pet food, and 69% see sustainable packaging as a key factor. These evolving consumer preferences are driving brands across the pet sector to rethink packaging, materials, and supply chains.

Will Baggaley, International Sales & Marketing Director at Earth Animal, said: “We are delighted to welcome The PetFellas as our new UK distribution partner at such an exciting time for Earth Animal. Their energy, focus, and retail expertise make them the ideal partner to grow our presence in the UK. At the same time, we’re proud to be rolling out new packaging that not only enhances our retail presentation but also reinforces our long-standing commitment to sustainability.”

Gerard O’Mahony, Director at The PetFellas, added: “We are thrilled to launch The PetFellas with Earth Animal as our founding distribution partner.  It’s a fantastic brand, developed by a passionate team and loved by pets and their owners.  We look forward to working closely with UK retailers to bring these innovative, sustainable products to more homes and more pets.”

Retailers wishing to place orders from 13 October 2025 should contact The PetFellas directly:
hello@thepetfellas.co.uk or speak to Nel on 07789 502804 or Chris on 07385 555808.

The PetFellas is a new UK pet distributor – Passionate about Pets; Professional about Business – dedicated to bringing quality, innovative brands that put pets at the heart of their development to the UK pet retail sector. With a focus on customer service, category growth, and long-term partnerships, The PetFellas works closely with retailers and suppliers to nurture sustainable, lasting success.

Pictured (from left to right): Graham Hillier  (Managing Director, The FoodFellas), Will Baggaley (International Sales & Marketing Director, Earth Animal), Gerard O’Mahony (Director, The PetFellas).

Family-owned Wildwood Pets, based in the Lincolnshire market town of Stamford, has been named UK Retailer of the Year (Independent) in the prestigious PetQuip Awards. Owner Thomas Rogerson, who runs the store alongside wife Laura, reveals the secrets of the company’s success.

Thomas said: “During the evening the host reiterated what we thought of the finalists this year – the cream of the crop of UK pet stores – and honestly to us it was an honour to just be part of that line-up. It wouldn’t have surprised us if any one of them had taken the top spot but for us to be chosen as this year's gold winner was a true honour.”

Why do you think you won this prestigious award?

“The host spoke of the winner having a great reputation among the local community and provided several services, such as the private shopping service for nervous dogs and humans, as a key element that set us apart. This pleased us very much as that is exactly what we are trying to achieve – a pet store that is accessible, comfortable and welcoming to all pets and people.”

How long has Wildwood Pets been open?

“The store is still less than two years old, which has flown by. We opened the branch in January 2024. The company was formed back in April of last year and we started very small, from our garage with around 400 lines and a website, whilst we looked for the right premises in the right location which took a while. Stamford is an amazing town and the support for independent shops is incredible.”

Who owns the business?

“Myself and wife Laura are the directors and owners of the company. Hopefully one day our two little Wildwoods will take over – they get plenty of time in store 'helping' but since they are only two and five years old, retirement is a little way off for us!”

What are your backgrounds?

“We are animal people through and through. I have experience in pet retail, around a decade in both chains and other independents. Most recently I was a district manager of a chain overseeing five stores. I have been a lecturer for animal management courses at a college, education presenter at a zoological park and worked with the Wildlife Trusts. Laura has worked in vet practices, been a volunteer dog trainer with an assistance dog charity and is a qualified Clinical Canine Massage Therapist. We met at university when I was studying Zoology, and she was doing Animal Science.”

How many members of staff are there?

“We currently have five fantastic members of staff – Iona, Francesca, Emily, Natalie and Katie. We usually have a very hardworking student from the local college on work experience most of the year too.”

What makes you different from your competitors?

“Firstly, the staff. When hiring we made it clear in any job ads that experience and qualifications were great, but it would come down to passion and willingness to jump into the unknown with us. Iona and Francesca have been with us from opening and interviewed in a completely empty space but could see our vision and loved the concept. All of them are passionate, knowledgeable and build relationships with customers. I also used my years of experience to plan out our space thoroughly. We have a dedicated space for trying on harnesses and coats, ramps so it is accessible for all and a spacious store to allow customers with dogs to shop comfortably. We have a relaxed atmosphere with background music, an attractive entrance and even kids trolleys so families are well catered for. A recent addition was our new workshop room which has already been booked by local dog trainers, photographers and for lectures.”

How do you attract and retain customers?

“We rely heavily on word of mouth, although not our only marketing tool as we run ads in local advertisers and attend local shows & fairs. The money saved on larger marketing campaigns we make sure we constantly revise our product ranges to suit our customer base and improve the store. When customers shop with us, we want it to be an experience that is very important to us. They then pass that onto their friends and family. This has proved successful and we have seen a constant steady growth since opening.”

How involved do you get in the local community?

“We try to, when possible, work with the local pet community. We have a large noticeboard space for local pet businesses, and we are working with several people and groups to host various days and events on site. That is the benefit of a larger store. Alongside raising funds, we are a drop off point for physical donations for three local animal charities and rescues. Now with the workshop room we can invite them to use our space and facilities too.”

How important is your website and social media?

“Very! Social media is a great tool for connecting with your customer base and having a practical and attractive website backs that up. It is one of Laura’s main roles. It can help reach a wider audience than other forms of marketing at a much lower cost.”

What’s the secret of your success?

“Passionate pet-orientated staff, a lot of hard work and ethics. We had a very particular vision when building this business. We and our families painted all the walls, built all the racking, stocked the shelves and spent hours researching the right products. We are particular in what we will and won’t stock. We set ourselves strict rules from making sure particular ingredients aren’t in any of our food and treats to only holding certain shaped harnesses. A big part of staff training is explaining why we don’t stock certain products, but we never talk down any product or business, we just state our research findings. That comes across very well to most customers.”

What advice would you give other independent pet retailers?

“Don’t feel like you need the big-name brands if you don’t believe they are the right thing for your store or your customers. There are so many different products out there, often made by great little companies, and something different from the local big chain or supermarket will win you more customers than you might lose.”

How do you see your business developing over future years?

“Hopefully to grow our community connections and work with more local businesses. We have space to host smaller events and displays which we love doing. We also want to do more local fairs and shows, to get our name out there and meet potential new customers directly. Thomas is also very passionate about exotic pets and wants to develop a space more tailored to that. Finally, we want to review our ranges with fresh eyes and most up-to-date research to see how we can improve our product ranges further.”

For more information visit https://wildwoodpets.co.uk

Jake Foster, creative and graphic designer of Grub Club, was crowned the winner of the PetQuip Rising Star Award. Here he reveals why working for a sustainable champion is a ‘dream come true’.

Have you always had a love of pets?

“Growing up with dogs, I've been an animal lover from the start. I struggled a lot through school, and my dogs were a constant source of support, love, and giggles when I was feeling down. I'd always dreamed of having a canine sidekick, so getting my dachshund Bagel two years ago was a huge milestone – we're a package deal now.”

Did you want to work in the pet industry?

“Yes! I grew up in Los Angeles and came to the UK to study design at the Royal College of Art, and my work was always bright, colourful, emotional, and a bit silly. Sometimes, I worried that this kind of playful creativity wouldn't be taken seriously in the capital-D Design world. I've also always been big into arts and crafts, and growing up with dogs as my best friends, I'd often make them beds, toys, and accessories. It was always heartwarming to see them snoozing on a homemade bed or tearing into a handmade toy (apologies to Jojo the Aussie shepherd for the outfits I subjected him to). When I was preparing to adopt Bagel, I immersed myself in the wonderful world of pet brands, and it suddenly clicked. THIS is where I belong. It's a world where creativity, colour, silliness, & care are embraced full force; making a career out of creating for dogs was an absolute dream. I quickly switched my Masters thesis to focus on design in the pet care industry, and the rest is history.”

What made you approach Grub Club for a job?

“I was really eager to work for a brand I believed in, and a brand I felt I could grow with. When Grub Club came across my radar, I initially fell in love with the bold brand identity, fearless colour, and comedic tone – it felt like it spoke directly to me, both as a customer and a designer. Insect protein was just emerging as the next innovation for sustainability and sensitive dog care, and I was really excited by the idea of helping to build something new and unique. Once I met the team and got a deeper sense of the brand, I wasn't going to take no for an answer. What started as a three-month internship turned into two years (and counting). Finding Grub Club genuinely changed everything for me.”

How much do you enjoy your job?

“From day one, I've adored this job. Ale and Hugh have been incredibly supportive – I often come to the table with some bonkers ideas, but they ensure every idea is heard and empowered, and they constantly go above and beyond to make sure my creative vision comes to life. As a small brand, we're able to work very dynamically. I love getting to understand and contribute to every part of the business, whether it's marketing, sales, CRM, production, or design. I learn so much everyday, and I can't imagine a better place to start off my career.”

What does your work entail?

“It really depends on the day! As our creative and graphic designer, I handle most of the brand's visual output, from research to execution. If we're working on a new product, I'm deep in trend reports, researching the market, and using Bagel as a ploy to speak to dog owners in the park. I always aim to bring a holistic understanding of the industry and real dog-owners into everything I design – whether it's packaging, social content, website pages, or email campaigns. I also support the team to infuse the Grub Club look and feel into everything we do – like retailer reach-outs, decks, and newsletters. It's fast-paced and full-on, but I love putting my creative stamp on it all.”

Where do you get your ideas from?

Honestly – dogs. I'm constantly inspired by their boldness, joy, and unashamed silliness. Since so many of our customers are sensitive dogs, I like to think the Grub Club World is a place where we remind each other how fun, colourful & hilarious it is to be a dog parent. We celebrate dogs for their quirks – runny poops, itchy skin, and all! Speaking to Grub Club customers is always the biggest unlock. The way our customers express their love for pets is full of laughter and joy, rooted in care & deep appreciation. That duality is the magic of Grub Club - we're lighthearted, fun and quirky – grounded in real science and care.”

What did it mean to win this award?

A few years ago, designing for a pet brand felt like a pipe dream. Reaching that goal already feels like a win – but being recognised by PetQuip is the ultimate validation. Grub Club isn't your everyday pet brand – we're bold, loud, and disruptive in a crowded space. The fact that people are listening and recognising the effort I've put in – there's not much more I could ask for as a designer.

How did you feel when you heard the comments about you being read out?

“I'm just so grateful to Hugh and Ale – they're not just bosses, they're friends and mentors. I'm so lucky to have their support, and to have the opportunity to grow in this game-changing brand. It's amazing to feel like I'm exactly where I need to be.”