An independent high street pet store – Posh Pets in the North Norfolk town of Holt – has been put on the market as the owners get set to retire.

The premises in New Street is being marketed by The Norfolk Agents with a guide price of £170,000 and is being sold on online auction site Pattinson Auction.

The marketing of the property states: 

“The Norfolk Agents are pleased to bring you a successful commercial business situated on the high street in the highly sought after Holt. Currently a traditional pet shop, this is a commercial opportunity not to be missed as an investment or a new venture. The current owners have been in situ since 1991, running a popular business with locals and visitors to the popular North Norfolk town. 

“The shop floor is a vast space with an array of stock on offer throughout. The property has an excellent appeal from the front with a large window display. At the rear includes a staff toilet and extra storage space.”

Find out more on The Norfolk Agents website by clicking here

The online auction, which is open until the end of April, can be found by clicking here

Pictures taken from The Norfolk Agents website.

Spring is in full swing and many vibrant migrant birds from Africa are arriving in UK gardens for the breeding season. Honeyfield’s resident wild bird expert Simon Smethurst, who is head of sales at Honeyfield’s, is sharing tips on how your customers can make their garden a 5-star nesting environment for many of these stunning transient species.

“Redstarts, Pied and Spotted Flycatchers, Blackcaps, and Willow Warblers are just some of the migratory visitors we can expect to see in our gardens each year,” said Simon. “All of them are primarily insectivorous, making traditional seed feeders less appealing. However, with the right feeding strategies, your customers can create a welcoming haven for these visitors.”

Simon advises your customers to:

• Choose the right feeders: Hopper feeders, ground feeding stations, or bird tables are ideal for these species, as they mimic their natural foraging habits.
• Offer suet-based feeds: High-quality suet pellets or blocks enriched with dried insects or mealworms, provide the perfect combination of protein and fat to sustain their energy levels during migration and breeding preparation.
• Replicate a natural feeding experience: Scatter some mealworms or small suet pieces directly onto ground stations or tables.
• Create an insect-friendly environment: Planting native shrubs and wildflowers can attract a variety of insects, offering a natural food source for these birds.
• Provide water sources: Setting up small water features for drinking and bathing can make your garden even more appealing.
• Encourage shy and selective feeders: Place feeding stations in quieter, sheltered areas, surrounded by foliage for safety and cover. 
• Provide a tranquil environment: Avoid abrupt movements or loud noises that could deter incoming birds.
• Keep food fresh: Supplementary food should always be fresh and in appropriate quantities to prevent waste and attract the birds you wish to see.

“With a little preparation and the right food offerings, your garden can become a vibrant haven for these remarkable spring migrants, allowing you to enjoy their striking plumage and melodious songs while playing a vital role in supporting their journey to breeding success,” said Simon.

Honeyfield’s offers an exceptional range of wild bird feeds designed to support wildlife throughout the changing seasons. Honeyfield’s suet blocks and suet pellets are premium, energy-rich feeds designed to support wild birds, especially during demanding periods like nesting and fledging. Packed with essential nutrients, they provide long-lasting energy, helping birds thrive. Easy to use and highly palatable, they will attract a variety of species to your garden.

By choosing Honeyfield’s, you actively contribute to the health and vitality of local bird populations, fostering a vibrant natural environment all year round.

The range is competitively priced and available from your local stockist.

To find out more about the Honeyfield’s range visit: https://www.honeyfieldswildbird.co.uk/

Following the success of the first ever National Pet Shop Day in 2024, Johnson's Veterinary Products has announced the return of this landmark event on Saturday, 12th July 2025. This year, the campaign will reach new heights with the official support of the Pet Industry Federation (PIF) and the British Independent Retail Association (Bira), creating a unified voice to promote and protect independent pet shops across the UK.

National Pet Shop Day was launched by Johnson's Veterinary Products in 2024 with a clear purpose -- to celebrate the vital role that independent pet retailers play in local communities while encouraging consumers to rediscover the value of shopping local. More than 200 pet shops participated in the inaugural event, helping to foster customer loyalty and increase foot traffic to stores. Building on this momentum, the 2025 campaign will offer even greater support for independent pet businesses, while amplifying the message that pet shops are the heart of the pet-owning community.

"At Johnson's, we have always held the tireless dedication of the nation's independent pet shops in the highest possible regard," said Paul Gwynn, Managing Director of Johnson's Veterinary Products. 

"These stores are more than just places to buy pet products -- they are community hubs where knowledgeable staff offer invaluable advice and hands-on support to pet owners. We are committed to championing the valuable work they do, and with the support of PIF and Bira, we will continue to drive positive change for independent pet retailers."

The involvement of PIF and Bira reflects a shared mission to strengthen and protect independent and smaller retailers on the high street. Both organisations bring industry expertise and a powerful advocacy platform to the initiative. Their combined efforts will not only reinforce the campaign's core messages but also highlight the unique value that pet shops offer -- from personalised customer service to expert knowledge on pet health and wellbeing.

"We share a common goal: to champion independent pet retailers and encourage consumers to embrace the benefits of shopping locally," said Nigel Baker, PIF CEO. "Independent pet shops play a crucial role in their communities, offering a level of personalised service and pet care expertise that cannot be replicated. We are excited to collaborate with Johnson's and Bira to ensure National Pet Shop Day 2025 is an even greater success."

Similarly, Bira's commitment to supporting independent businesses makes them a natural ally in the campaign.

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira said: "National Pet Shop Day (NPSD) is a great event focused on important community businesses, many of which are small independent retailers. Bira is all about enabling the indie retailers to succeed – it is our one mission. Supporting NPSD shares the values of our mission by celebrating all that is good in the pet shop sector. It celebrates the hard working business owners who are passionate about supporting their communities. These people are equally passionate about helping customers get the best products and care for their beloved pets. I am often told that independents are at the heart of every good high street. I totally agree and pet shops are very much part of a vibrant high street."

National Pet Shop Day 2025 seeks to address the economic pressures facing the high street, reinforcing the message: ‘Use it or lose it’. With cautious consumer spending impacting independent retailers, Johnson's, PIF, and Bira are united in their commitment to support independent pet shops to thrive and serve as essential community resources, by highlighting the unique value these businesses provide -- from practical advice on common pet health concerns to offering tailored product solutions.

Pet shops and stores, selling pet products from across the UK are all invited to participate in this national day of appreciation.

For more information on how to get involved in National Pet Shop Day 2025, visit the official campaign website.

Lily’s Kitchen is helping the nations’ pooches put their best paw forward in 2025 with their NEW range of supportive supplements* and salmon oil for dogs. The latest launches from the B Corp pet food brand are designed to be incorporated into a daily feeding routine to help dogs continue what they do best - tackling puddles and dinner dances! 

Developed with a vet, the supplements range contains carefully selected ingredients, including concentrated botanicals, to help give four-legged companions support, whether it’s for their coat, their joints, or their digestive system. The range also includes pure Norwegian salmon oil, which contains Omega-3, to help pooches crack on with their everyday mischief. 

Rory Cowlam, Lily’s Kitchen vet ambassador says: “The new Lily’s Kitchen supplements and salmon oil are designed to help support dogs’ mobility, digestion and skin and coat condition. They’re brilliant for adult dogs at every stage of life, helping to provide additional support for a range of particular needs that are important to pet parents and their pets. I would recommend feeding your four-legged friend one of the supplements alongside their meal and, if needed, the tablets can be broken in half.” 

The Lily’s Kitchen range of supplements and salmon oil is suitable for all doggos from 12 months old. 

Lily’s Kitchen Joints & Mobility Supplements for Dogs - 60 Tablets, RRP: £17.50 

An extra lap around the park? EASY, thanks to the support of Lily’s Kitchen Joints and Mobility Supplements. 

These tablets are formulated to support joint health and flexibility. Developed with a vet, they’re made with glucosamine and chondroitin (building blocks of cartilage that help to cushion joints), green lipped mussel powder (a naturally rich source of Omega-3 – great for supporting healthy joints) and Boswellia concentrate (known for its anti-inflammatory properties). 

Lily’s Kitchen Bum & Belly Supplements for Dogs - 60 Tablets, RRP: £17.50 

Lily’s Kitchen strives to help dogs live healthy lives. One way that may help them to get there is by promoting a healthy balance of good bacteria in their gut. 

Developed with a vet and made with natural ingredients, the digestive support supplements for dogs are made with a touch of ginger root powder concentrate (known as a soothing ingredient) with pre, post and probiotics to help support a healthy gut microbiome. Portioned in a handy capsule, Bum & Belly can be sprinkled onto your dog’s food at mealtimes. When we say probiotics, we’re talking one billion gut-friendly bacteria! 

Lily’s Kitchen Skin & Coat Supplements for Dogs - 60 Tablets, RRP: £17.50 

Double take-worthy fur? Enter, the Lily’s Kitchen Skin & Coat Supplements for dogs. Developed with a vet and made with natural ingredients, these tablets contain carefully selected nutrients to help aid healthy skin. 

Each capsule is made with a mix of hyaluronic acid (to help hydrate and condition the skin), biotin and vitamin C (to help maintain a healthy coat), nettle concentrate (known to have natural anti-inflammatory properties) and fish oil powder (rich in omega-3 to help support our furry friend’s skin and coat condition). Shine on, doggos. Cue the slow-motion dog shake. 

Lily’s Kitchen Norwegian Salmon Oil for Dogs - 500ml, RRP: £14 

Support for dogs - packed into one bottle. Developed by a vet, this pure Norwegian salmon oil is a natural source of omega-3 fatty acids, including DHA and EPA, to help support a pooch’s skin and joint health. Throw in the fact it has a delicious salmon taste, pet parents will get themselves a tail wag (or ten). 

The Lily’s Kitchen Norwegian salmon oil is perfect served over wet or dry food. So, tuck in, pups. 

Charlotte Henderson, Head of Marketing at Lily’s Kitchen, said: “At Lily’s Kitchen, we aim to help pets live their best lives, and that’s exactly why we’ve developed this new range of supplements and salmon oil which we hope will help dogs all over the country start the new year on the right paw. 

“Just as pet parents are becoming increasingly aware of their own health and wellbeing, they’re making the same considerations for their pets. Supplements can help provide dogs with additional support, beyond the nutrition from their regular meals, for a particular need that is important to a pet parent and their four-legged friend, such as joint mobility or skin and coat condition.” 

The Lily’s Kitchen Supplements and Norwegian Salmon Oil for dogs are available now via the Lily’s Kitchen website. 

PATS 2025 is set to have a strong international presence at this year’s three-day event with a growing number of pet buyers and exhibitors from across the globe expected to attend.

The Pet & Aquatics Trade Show takes place at its new home – Hall 1 of the NEC Birmingham – from Sunday, 28th September to Tuesday, 30th September with the exhibition showcasing new products from more than 400 brands.

In a move to boost interest with international buyers, the PATS team will be travelling to Bologna in Italy next month to exhibit in the British Pavilion at Zoomark, where PATS event director Gordon Thomas will be giving a talk on ‘The importance of the UK pet and aquatics market’.

A further initiative to drive PATS footfall involves an exciting collaboration with Zoomark and CIPS, the international trade exhibition, with joint marketing and promotional activity across all three shows.

“Our primary aim for exhibiting at international shows is to meet, talk to and encourage international retailers and distributors to come to PATS,” said Gordon Thomas.

“We know that UK pet products sell very strongly around the world and representatives from international pet companies can see the advantage of meeting up with British suppliers all under one roof.

“They agree that PATS is the perfect destination to discover what’s new in the market for the year ahead, and an ideal opportunity to talk to UK-based manufacturers and suppliers.”

With its proximity to Birmingham airport, the NEC is an ideal location for international visitors. There is a good choice of hotels in the area to fit all budgets, and a wide range of purpose-built catering facilities to suit all tastes.

PATS will be working closely with trade association PetQuip to ensure renewed interest from international buyers, starting at Zoomark on 5-7 May 2025.

PetQuip will also be hosting the International Buyers’ Centre and supporting the New Starter Zone at PATS 2025, plus holding its prestigious PetQuip Awards ceremony at the nearby National Conference Centre during the exhibition.

Registration for visitors is now open on the PATS website www.patshow.co.uk so all pet retailers and buyers can now sign up for their free show entry.

Here’s a list of the main visitor attractions:

• The biggest ever New Product Showcase
• The Aquatics Zone, a dedicated area for aquatics, watergardening and reptile exhibitors
• The New Starter Zone, a space hosting new businesses and start-ups
• Grooming Workshop, top groomers giving insightful demonstrations, workshops and talks
• Unrivalled show deals & discounts, and competitions
• Free entry and free show catalogue

PATS 2025 is also being staged alongside BETA International, the leading equestrian trade show taking place in Hall 2 at the NEC on Sunday, 28th September and Monday, 29th September 2025. It means that retailers and buyers will be able to visit both shows, and to make things simple visitors will only have to register once, with BETA International visitors being given access to PATS and vice versa

Purina PRO PLAN®, part of Nestlé Purina PetCare Europe, and the ATP have today announced a multi-year partnership, with Purina PRO PLAN becoming the Official Pet Nutrition Partner of the ATP Tour.

Purina PRO PLAN, recognised globally for its leadership in pet nutrition, offers a range of high-quality pet food products, developed by a dedicated team of Purina nutritionists and vets, to help dogs and cats lead active, healthy and long lives. Purina PRO PLAN is partnering with ATP to help inspire cat and dog owners to care for their pets like a PRO, with the same dedication and passion that top athletes bring to their sport.

The partnership grants year-round brand visibility across the ATP’s social, editorial and digital channels, providing Purina PRO PLAN with a global platform to engage with tennis fans and pet owners alike.

As part of this partnership, Purina PRO PLAN will be an official partner of ATP Tour events in Europe, including the Barcelona Open Banc Sabadell, Swiss Indoors Basel and Nitto ATP Finals in Turin.

Throughout the season, Purina PRO PLAN will engage with athletes, supporters and pet owners to showcase how quality nutrition and care maintain peak pet health and well-being. This will include a presence at tournament fan zones, along with a series of exciting activations and interactive experiences.

This collaboration underpins Purina PRO PLAN's commitment to supporting the many ATP Tour stars who own pets, offering them expert advice and super premium nutrition so that they can care for their pets like a PRO.

Daniele Sanò, ATP Chief Business Officer, said: “We’re proud to welcome on board another partner that’s leading the way in their industry. Pets are part of the family, both for our fans and our players. Partnering with Purina PRO PLAN allows us to connect with fans in a fresh way while helping players take the best care of their pets' nutrition.”

Fabio Degli Esposti, Head of Marketing, PURINA Europe, said: "Tennis is considered to be one of the healthiest sports in the world, so partnering with ATP is the perfect match for Purina PRO PLAN – a brand that is dedicated to high-quality nutrition to help pets live healthy lives. We look forward to connecting with tennis fans across the region, and inspiring pet owners to care for their own pets like a PRO."

David Ferrer, Director of the Barcelona Open Banc Sabadell – Trofeo Conde de Godó, said: “We are very pleased to welcome Purina PRO PLAN to the family of sponsors of the Barcelona Open Banc Sabadell. Many tennis players have pets that are part of their family. Having a brand that cares about their nutrition and well-being helps us enhance the services we offer to our players."

PATS 2025 is the perfect venue for international visitors to talk to UK-based manufacturers and suppliers and discover what’s new in the market for the forthcoming season. 

Sandra Wales is a buyer for the Animal House in Limassol, Cyprus, and a regular visitor to PATS exhibitions. She will be attending this year’s show where she hopes to find lots of new products for her clients.

This is what Sandra has to say about the importance of a show like PATS.

What inspires you to travel to the UK and visit a major pet industry exhibition like PATS?

“I’m happy to travel to the UK for a PATS exhibition as I have visited the show for years and always find something new and interesting. It is also a great place to catch up with our suppliers.”

How important is it to see all the new launches under one roof?

“Having new products under one roof makes it easy for me to compare products and take time to get to know the products and suppliers.”

Do you think that UK suppliers are innovative when it comes to new pet product launches?

“UK suppliers always have something new and forward in the market. I always find something new at the show that we can then try in Cyprus to test the market.”

Do you find it an easy show to find your way around?

“Being a regular visitor, I find it easy to find my way around and like the fact that the aquatics and reptiles have their own zone.”

Do you enjoy meeting your suppliers face-to-face?

“It is great to meet our suppliers and discuss what they have planned for the future, and also for me to give feedback on their products. Several suppliers have visited us in Cyprus so I have got to know them well and it is like meeting old friends.”

Would you recommend visiting the show to other international retailers and buyers?

“I have recommended the show to other traders and many have visited over the years. It’s a show that buyers cannot afford to miss.”

The Pet & Aquatics Trade Show takes place at its new home – Hall 1 of the NEC Birmingham – from Sunday, 28^th September to Tuesday, 30^th September with the exhibition showcasing new products from more than 400 brands.

Registration for visitors is now open on the PATS website www.patshow.co.uk so all pet retailers and buyers can now sign up for their free show entry.

PATS 2025 is also being staged alongside BETA International, the leading equestrian trade show taking place in Hall 2 at the NEC on Sunday, 28^th September and Monday, 29^th September 2025. It means that retailers and buyers will be able to visit both shows, and to make things simple visitors will only have to register once, with BETA International visitors being given access to PATS and vice versa.

PATS will be producing more case studies on international visitors in the future.

A heartfelt Facebook post from the British Dog Groomers’ Association (BDGA), part of the Pet Industry Federation, has struck a powerful chord with the public - reaching over 520,000 people, gaining 912,203 views, and sparking more than 7,700 interactions in just a few days.

Titled “What You Don’t See at the Dog Groomers…”, the post offers a behind-the-scenes look at what really goes into a grooming appointment, from the early morning salon prep and welfare checks, to the patient handling of wriggly paws, the spotting of hidden health concerns, and the hours of physical and emotional work that continue long after the dog has gone home.

The post ends with a reminder that “they’re doing far more than just washing the dog”, a message that clearly resonated with both pet professionals and the public.

“This wasn’t just a viral moment; it was a long-overdue moment of recognition,” said Nigel Baker, Chief Executive of the Pet Industry Federation. “Dog grooming is not simply about appearance. It’s about animal welfare, behaviour, anatomy, and trust. It requires skill, training, and genuine care. This post highlighted all of that in such a relatable way.”

The BDGA’s aim in sharing the post was to raise awareness of the professionalism and dedication within the grooming industry, and to encourage pet owners to better understand and value the service their groomer provides.

In the post, readers are reminded that groomers often spot health issues owners may miss, and that most charge significantly less than a human hairdresser, despite dealing with teeth, nails, behaviour, and baths. One line notes: “Your hairdresser doesn’t have to bathe you, clip your nails, or hold you still while you try to bite the brush.”

Thousands of people have since shared their own experiences in the comments, praising their groomers, sharing their appreciation, and calling for wider respect and fair pay for those in the profession.

The Pet Industry Federation hopes this response will open up ongoing conversations about the value of grooming, the welfare role groomers play, and the importance of recognising the work behind every fluffy, fresh-looking dog.

“We’re proud to represent the grooming community through the BDGA,” said Nigel. “And we’re thrilled that so many people took the time to read, share and reflect on what groomers really do. If you haven’t already read it, you should.”

Pet owners across the UK have come forward to share their dogs’ daily personality traits, resulting in some surprising results that might have the nation questioning what it thought about certain dog breeds, just in time for National Pet Day in April.

Nestlé Purina asked pet-lovers throughout the country to answer questions about their pets and uncovered some surprising data in its first ever pet census. The results of the Paws Up survey uncovered some quirky traits about the nations beloved pets.

The poll unearthed some common ground for the whole paw-pulation – all dogs like to comfort people (89 per cent and above across all breeds), and all dogs tend to know when their owners are home (99 per cent or above), highlighting the real strength of the bond between pet owners and our furry friends.

Talking about the wider results, Carolyn Menteith, pet behaviourist and trainer, said: "In the UK alone, we have an amazing 223 breeds of dogs – and the majority of those were originally created to do a certain job. What that job was, and how much of the day they would spend doing it, gives us some great clues as to why our beloved pets behave the way they do, and what we can provide to help them stay healthy and happy.

“While breed is important however, the results of this poll remind us that every single dog is an individual, and breed is just a part of their personality and unique quirks - and they never lose the capacity to surprise us!”

The poll also debunked some common myths about different breeds - Staffordshire Bull Terriers are known to be more grumblers than barkers, but the research showed that Staffies are the most likely to bark in their sleep, with a whopping 73 per cent of owners telling Purina that they like to sleep bark.

And while some people think Jack Russel Terriers like to be destructive, this certainly doesn't apply when it comes to footwear, with Jack Russels being the least likely to chew your shoes. 91 per cent of Jack Russel Terrier owners said that their dogs don’t chew them.

It will come as no surprise that Golden Retrievers live up to their bubbly stereotype, this breed won the award for playing with bubbles (91 per cent), rolling in grass (68 per cent) and splashing in water (90 per cent).

The survey also found that 86 per cent of Cocker Spaniels like to give their owners the run around, with respondents telling Nestlé Purina that the majority of Cocker Spaniels get zoomies.

Aileen Raynos, Consumer Relations Management lead for Purina, said: “We know cats and dogs are an integral part of the family and their habits and quirks are an important, and amusing, part of their personalities.

“We’ve loved getting to know more about our paw-some friends across the UK through the Paws Up pet census. From learning that Staffordshire Bull Terriers are the biggest sleep barkers, to confirming something we already knew; that our best fur-ends are of great comfort to us, it’s been a joy to go through the data and find out even more about pets across the nation.”

Looking to start your own pet journey, or looking for tips to strengthen your bond even further? Head to Purina.co.uk to find their Breed Selector tool, Naming tool and expert advice and tips to help you from the first day of your pet owning journey.

Karnlea has expanded its natural pet supplement range with the launch of Pumpkin & Spice – a flavourful blend designed to support digestive health for dogs that can be used as a supplement or added ingredient to home-made treats.

Made from human-grade, EU-sourced pumpkins, this next-generation supplement brings a level of quality that sets it apart from most conventional pumpkin powders. With its commitment to transparency and traceability, Karnlea ensures that every stage – from sourcing to production and packaging – meets the highest standards. The result is a superior product packed with natural goodness that dog owners can trust.

Pumpkin & Spice is based on Karnlea’s original, superior grade powder – produced from non GMO, grade A pumpkins, 100% natural, and bound for the human market. The added ‘spice’ is a gut-supporting spice blend – ginger, fennel and Ceylon cinnamon – delivering prebiotic fibre and digestive support in every scoop.

Said Karnlea founder Lara McCullough: “We wanted to create a truly standout product – not just another pumpkin powder but a thoughtful, functional supplement using premium ingredients. As someone who loves pumpkin spice flavours in human foods, it felt natural to create a dog-friendly version that delivers meaningful health benefits.”

Suitable for all breeds, ages and feeding types, Pumpkin & Spice can be used daily or as needed to support the digestive system – helping to regulate both loose stools and constipation, while also contributing to anal gland health and overall microbiome balance.

With a smooth texture and natural flavour, the supplement can be sprinkled dry over food as a tasty topper, reconstituted with water or bone broth to form a digestive puree, or blended with Karnlea Goat Milk Powder to create a refreshing ‘latte’ drink – chilled or made into iced treats, ideal for warm weather or post-walk hydration.

In addition to pumpkin (78%), which is rich in prebiotic fibre to support a healthy microbiome, the mix includes ginger (10%), with naturally soothing properties that supports digestion and immunity, fennel (7%) which helps relieve gas and bloating and freshens breath, and Ceylon cinnamon (5%), an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial.

Pumpkin & Spice is sold in 200-gram tubs and has a recommended retail price of £17.99. It is also being sold in trade bundles.

Karnlea is offering a 10% off first purchase for all trade orders made directly from Karnlea. The product will also be available from Well Fed Pets and Su-Bridge Pet Supplies in May and Pedigree Wholesale in June.

For more information see https://karnlea.com/product/pumpkin-spice-powder 

Artie, a three-year-old Miniature Cavapoo from Wadsley, Sheffield, has been awarded Pets at Home’s National Pet Day award after remarkably detecting her owner Suzanne’s stage two breast cancer.

Suzanne explains, “She was frantically licking and nuzzling into me, which at the time I didn’t think much of. It was only after a routine mammogram revealed I had Stage 2 breast cancer that I looked back and realised she must have sensed something was wrong. I went on to have surgery, radiotherapy, and I’m currently on a five-year course of anti-cancer medication. My tiny Artie, who’s by my side 24/7, noticed something I couldn’t—and in hindsight, I truly believe she was trying to tell me. She’s been my little lifesaver.”

Suzanne has had Artie for just over two years and since adopting her, the two have been inseparable. Artie has been a constant companion for Suzanne, but she didn’t know just how important her pet would become one day. Suzanne calls Artie her hero after this potentially life-saving effort.

We know dogs have an extraordinary sense of smell, and using dogs for medical detection has huge potential. Charity Medical Detection Dogs specialises in this area and is progressing academic research in this space. Their current projects are exploring whether dogs can identify the smell of bowel cancer from urine samples, an experimental field that could help make early diagnosis less invasive and more accessible.

While Artie isn’t one of their newest recruits and their dogs are bred especially for their expert scent finding skills, this heartwarming story shows just how powerful a dog’s nose can be. 

Amy Angus of Pets Foundation, the charity established by Pets at Home, comments on Artie’s win, “At The Pets Foundation, we understand that our pets are so much more than companions. Dogs have incredible skills, outside of being our best friends and supporting assistance charities is a key part of what we do at the Foundation. We’ve been working with the Medical Detection Dogs as one of our Assistance Dog Grant recipients for three years, supporting them with funding for their incredible work.

Our pets are capable of amazing things, and Artie is a testament to this. We’re so proud to support organisations honing the incredible talent of dogs, and to celebrate the amazing abilities of dogs like Artie.”

Westland Horticulture has announced the acquisition of Bulldog Products, a leading manufacturer in the wild bird food sector. Bulldog has a strong history and position in wild bird food manufacturing, and this recent acquisition reflects Westland’s commitment to investing in the thriving £400 million wild bird food category.

The addition of Bulldog will enhance the focus on product innovation, brand investment, supply chain and category development to ensure Westland is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of customers.

This milestone demonstrates Westland’s dedication to create a better environment for every gardener, every garden and for wildlife to thrive today and tomorrow. 

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Pedigree Wholesale has appointed Eva Rupp as Senior Demand Planner in its Supply Chain team. Eva brings extensive expertise and a strong track record in her field, reinforcing our commitment to enhancing product availability and supply chain efficiency. 

Eva joins Pedigree Wholesale from Reckitt, where she played a pivotal role in managing the end-to-end supply chain for high-profile hygiene and health brands in the FMCG sector. In her previous role, she oversaw the full end-to-end supply chain, from supplier to market. This included new product implementation, demand forecasting, market collaboration, ERP/MRP implementation, supply management, and team development. With her extensive experience and expertise, Eva will undoubtedly be a valuable asset to the team and will significantly impact on our operations.

Pedigree Wholesale is thrilled to welcome Eva to the team. Her insights and experience will be crucial in driving innovation and efficiency across the business.

Melanie Malin, Head of Product, said: “We have been investing in our Supply Chain department to better improve our offering and availability, which are key factors in supporting our customers. Eva brings invaluable experience and fresh perspectives with her that will enhance our capabilities, and we are thrilled to welcome her to the Pedigree Wholesale Team.”

A leading retailers association has cautiously welcomed the Prime Minister's announcement this week on plans to put 'thousands of Bobbies back on the Beat' with a new neighbourhood policing guarantee.

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of the British Independent Retailers Association (Bira), said: "We cautiously welcome the Prime Minister's recognition that shoplifting and antisocial behaviour have 'wreaked havoc on our neighbourhoods' and his plan to address this through visible policing. The announcement of named local officers and guaranteed patrols are positive measures that address our members' concerns.

"However, the timeline for recruiting 13,000 more officers by 2029 remains far too slow when independent retailers are suffering from an epidemic of retail crime right now.

"Our recent research indicates a deeply concerning trend in retail crime, with the majority of independent retailers experiencing theft in the past 12 months. Even more worrying is that most report the situation has deteriorated compared to last year, with theft incidents increasingly occurring during opening hours, showing growing boldness from offenders.

"The Prime Minister's commitment to ending the 'postcode lottery' of policing resonates with our members, who report vastly different experiences across regions. Some areas receive excellent police support while others see virtually none. However, this disparity needs addressing now, not by 2029.

"While Home Secretary Yvette Cooper's statement that 'too many communities have been feeling abandoned as crime soared and neighbourhood police disappeared' accurately reflects our members' experiences, we remain concerned about funding. Without proper resources, these promises of increased neighbourhood policing risk becoming empty words," he said.

Mr Goodacre added: "The government's focus on putting 'prevention back at the heart of policing' is the right approach, but independent retailers cannot wait four years for protection. They need 'bobbies on the beat' in their communities now. The Retail Crime Plan was launched in September 2023, and after 18 months it is hard to see much difference at shop level."

Blackburn-based Pets Choice Ltd, whose brands include Webbox, Bob Martin, Felight, Tastybone and B-Calm, has purchased Pettex Ltd and its cat litter and small animal business. 

The previous owners of the Essex-based firm are retaining the reptile and aquatic business which will be trading as a separate entity going forwards under Pettex Aquatics Ltd.

Tony Raeburn, CEO of Pets Choice, said: “This is a fantastic acquisition for Pets Choice as Pettex Cat Litter has a very strong following in the traditional pet trade and fits nicely alongside our Felight cat litter brand. Our two companies and families have been close friends for many years and I would like to thank the owners for trusting us with their Pettex brand.”

Steve Bolton, MD of Pettex Ltd, added: “As a third generation family business originally established in 1959 we are proud to have developed the Pettex cat litter brand but feel this is now the right time to hand over the reins to Tony and the Pets Choice team to take us onto the next level. This will also enable myself to work with our great team and to expand our growing Reptile and Aquatic business which we will be continuing to develop as Pettex Aquatics Ltd.”

For more information about Pets Choice and its family of brands, visit: www.petschoice.co.uk.

The award-winning brand DotDotPet has secured new retail listings across Pet Place stores in North Wales. 

“I am really proud to see the DotDotPet range within the Pet Place stores,” said general director Harry Chapman. 

 “When developing DotDotPet our aim was to create high quality products, with clean eye-catching branding and packaging offering retailers and pet parents something different. 

“Seeing our products so well displayed, I believe we have managed to create an eye-catching brand. Massive thank you to all the team within Pet Place for seeing the potential for DotDotPet within their fantastic stores.”

DotDotPet has made a big impact on the industry with its pet care products after launching at PATS in 2023 and winning a New Product Award with its Eco Dog Towels.

Archie Wilson and Rory Hanna, the founders of London-based business start-up and pet health supplement company PAWD DRINKS, have added to their successful first year in business by becoming a finalist in the UK StartUp Awards for the London region. They have made the finals in the Retail and E-Commerce category.

The UK StartUp Awards are organised by the founders of The Great British Entrepreneur Awards and the Fast Growth 50 Index. They champion and celebrate the best and brightest start-ups from ten regions across the United Kingdom. All category winners from the ten regions will go forward to compete in the UK national final where the best new businesses in the UK will be crowned in their respective categories as well as the overall UK StartUp of the year.

The award recognition comes on the back of PAWD DRINKS securing their first major retail deal with Pets Corner seeing their product range now on sale in their 160 stores nationwide.

PAWD DRINKS’ innovative health supplement drinks for dogs made the finals of 6 major industry awards in 2024 and in June last year they met and were accepted onto the NatWest Accelerator Programme.  The PAWD DRINKS team attended over 60 events last year to promote their products, they have shipped to 8 countries, have received over 120 5 star reviews for their products and have hosted a series of community dog walks. Their debut at PATS (the pet industry trade show) saw queues on their stand and interest from the major wholesalers and distributors.

PAWD DRINKS are the result of extensive research and development by world-leading animal nutritionists including Dr. Farshad Goodarzi Boroojeni and are veterinary-approved. Each formula has been carefully crafted to not only address specific health concerns but also contribute to the overall well-being of our four-legged friends.  PAWD DRINKS are pH neutral and contain no acidifiers or preservatives.

The drinks market for pets is relatively new but growing and PAWD DRINKS tackle a number of important areas. As well as hydration and wellness, PAWD DRINKS are absorbed more quickly andefficiently by a dog's body compared to pills, powders and chews.  This is important when addressing certain health or behavioural issues and when you need a fast result. Administering liquid supplements to dogs is easier than giving them pills or chews, especially for dogs that are finicky eaters or have difficulty swallowing. Liquid supplements can be mixed into their food or into an empty dog bowl and as dogs want to drink and love the taste of PAWD DRINKS, it makes them easier to administer. Dosage is 60 ml for all dogs per day. They are palatable, achieve faster results and are gentle on the digestive system. PAWD DRINKS are less likely to cause irritation or discomfort compared to some pill formulations.

Recently launched, PAWD DRINKS Wellness contains 100% natural active ingredients such as L-leucine,  L-Isoleucine and L-valine (BCAAs) as well as Yeast Extract. These are all designed to aid muscle recovery, support the immune system and improve cognitive health.

Other supplements in the range include PAWD DRINKS Joints which has been formulated to address stiffness and joint mobility with up to 80% of all dogs suffering from some form of mobility issues over the age of 8. PAWD DRINKS Joints contains natural ingredients, such as ginger, acerola and devil’s claw to support joint mobility. 

PAWD DRINKS Calming will help to relax and soothe your dog in any anxious situations. This can be in the form of separation, social, travel or noise anxiety, with around 70% of dogs suffering with fear or anxiety. So,as well as helping to keep your pet hydrated, you can tackle some of the many problems that affect dogs whilst helping to improve their overall wellness.

For further information visit: www.pawddrinks.com

Nova Dog Chews has expanded its product range with the launch of new 1kg Sausages, Burgers, and Meaty Sticks. Designed to provide greater convenience and variety for both retailers and dog owners, these new pack sizes make it easier than ever to offer natural, grain-free, and gluten-free treats that dogs love.

The introduction of 1kg bags of sausages and meaty sticks replaces the previous 3kg nets, allowing retailers to sell these products either as full packs or loose. Additionally, three new burgers, five new sausage slices and 3 new flavours have been added to the range, expanding the selection of nutritious and delicious options for dogs of all breeds and sizes.

Lloyd Murdoch, Nova Dog Chews Joint Managing Director, commented: "We know that flexibility is key for our stockists, and these new 1kg pack sizes allow for easier handling and more versatile selling options. The addition of Duck and Rabbit to our sausage range also means more choices, which has been an increasing request from our customers. As we continue to grow, our focus remains on providing high-quality, natural, and easily digestible treats that meet the needs of both pet owners and retailers."

The new sausages, burgers, and meaty sticks are made with 100% natural ingredients and contain no artificial additives, preservatives, grain or Gluten. These new additions join the recently launched Camel Tripe, Buffalo Steak Strips, and 24cm Twisted Pizzles, further reinforcing the Nova Dog Chews commitment to offering premium natural treats.

Retailers interested in stocking these new products can find more information or place an order by visiting https://novadogchews.com or contacting info@novadogchews.com.

Law Print & Packaging Management Ltd Pack will be exhibiting at Zoomark in Italy from 5-7 May 2025, where the company will reveal how the right packaging can help to grow a business.

MD Carole Bayne said: “We are very much looking forward to meeting with all our UK and EU-based customers face to face, as well as consolidating the relationships we have built with new prospects in the pet trade industry.

“Although we supply both conventional and sustainable packaging across a wide range of pack formats, materials and features, this year we will be also showcasing our further improved Ready2Recycle range of sustainable solutions.

“Made of a single polymer structure, they are all 100% recyclable! Our most popular options are PE/PE pouches, flat bottom or quad seal bags, as well as PP woven bags.

They are made of a laminated structure of BOPE, MDOPE, EVOH-PE, PE MET or PP materials, meaning that they are ready to be recycled at the end of use, contributing to a more circular economy.

“After 20 years of trading independently, we are now a member of the SCGP group, so this edition will be even more special as we will introduce our wider portfolio to now include rigid packaging products such as trays, tubs and bottles, but also digital and recycled content solutions.

“Come and visit us at the British Pavilion in Hall 26 Stand B10 to discuss how we could help your business to grow by choosing the right packaging for your brand and your products, whilst meeting EPR obligations and your own sustainability targets.”