An independent pet shop in Oxfordshire has been put up for sale with the owners retiring after 45 years of 'successful' trading.

Paws Pet Supplies & Fishing Bait, located in a busy shopping parade in Banbury, is described as 'long established'.

A listing online said the asking leasehold price for the shop, including fixtures and furnishings, is £50,000, with the business having a turnover of £190,000 per year.

The sales marketing states: “An exciting opportunity to acquire a successful, long-established and much-loved pet supplies and fishing tackle and supplies business with a 45-year trading history.  Over the years, we have built a strong and loyal customer base that have been incredibly supportive and key to the success and growth of the business. 

“Paws Pet Supplies specialises in top quality products, even offering their own range of popular wild bird seed mixes, mixed in-store to ensure only the finest brands are used. We have an extensive selection of dog, cat and small animal products and more recently, introduced fishing bait and tackle. The business stocks named brands of fishing accessories  as well as our own bags of bait, which are very well priced. These have proven to be hugely popular and we already have a very loyal following.”

Key features are said to be:

• Long-established with a strong reputation and loyal following
• Ample free parking 
• Located in a busy shopping parade with plenty of footfall 
• Low overheads 

The business is also said to have exciting growth potential with the opportunity to expand into ecommerce or additional product lines.

For more information click here

A long-establish and family-run aquatics shop has been put up for sale as the owners plan to retire.

Hunnyhill Aquatics in Newport on the Isle of Wight is being marketed by agents Scotcher & Co.

In the marketing material, the agents say: “Only available for sale due to our client's retirement plans, Hunnyhill Aquatics is a very long-established and popular family-run business, offering services to include aquarium stands and cabinets, pond equipment to include pumps, UV clarifiers and filters, pond liners (either flexible or rigid), aquatic plants both real and artificial, filters, heating and lighting, fish foods for ponds and aquariums in both winter and summer, plus treatments and medications. 

“We believe the business offers an ideal opportunity for a new owner to either continue in the same vein or expand accordingly. 

“The business is offered fully equipped as a going concern, and the fixtures, fittings and equipment will be inventoried on the occasion of a sale. Stock will be sold separately at valuation, and we are advised that this currently averages some £65,000. 

“The buildings can also be made available to purchase as part of any transaction by additional negotiation and on a Freehold basis, if required. Price on Application.”

To find out more click here

The Competition and Markets Authority has announced sweeping reforms to the UK’s veterinary sector, introducing legally binding measure aimed at driving down prices and increasing transparency for the nation’s pet owners. Vet prescription fees will be capped at £21 as part of the new crackdown.

An investigation conducted by the CMA has concluded that more regulations are needed to protect pet owners seeking healthcare for their poorly animals.

Among the recommendations are requirements for veterinarians to publish price lists and set limits on prescription fees.

Martin Coleman, Chair of the independent Inquiry Group, said: “This is the most extensive review of veterinary services in a generation, and today’s reforms will make a real difference to the millions of pet owners who want the best for their pets but struggle to find the practice, treatment and price that meets their needs.

“Too often, people are left in the dark about who owns their practice, treatment options and prices – even when facing bills running into thousands of pounds. Our measures mean it will be made clear to pet owners which practices are part of large groups, which are charging higher prices, and for the first time, vet businesses will be held to account by an independent regulator.

“Our changes put pet owners at the centre but also help vets by enhancing trust in the profession and protecting clinical judgement from undue commercial pressure – and that is important to ensure our pets continue to get the best care.”

Click here to read the full CMA findings.

The British Veterinary Association, which represents more than 19,000 individual vets across the UK, welcomes the majority of the measures, particularly those designed to improve transparency and consumer choice, outlined by the Competition and Markets Authority as it publishes its final decision following more than two years of investigation into the UK vet services market for household pets.

BVA welcomed the CMA’s continued support for BVA’s longstanding calls for reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act, including the introduction of vet practice regulation. It is also pleased to see the CMA acknowledge the intense public scrutiny vet teams have been under during the investigation and highlighted their ‘continued professionalism, compassion, and commitment to animal welfare’ shown throughout.  

The CMA has also clearly listened to concerns raised by BVA about a number of its earlier proposals, many of which were disproportionate to the issues they sought to address and would have unfairly impacted smaller independent practices. It has made a number of significant changes or in some cases dropped them altogether. These include: 

• Prescriptions – the CMA has increased the fee cap for a written prescription from its earlier suggestion of £16 for one or more medicines to £21 (for the first medicine) and £12.50 (for any additional medicines). In addition, the timeframe for delivering a written prescription to the client has increased from the end of the day to 48 hours following the consultation. 
• Implementation – the CMA has increased the implementation timeframe for the remedies to between three to twelve months, with independent practices having an additional three months to comply.  
• Pet owner survey – the CMA doesn’t appear to be progressing its ill-conceived proposal for an annual pet owner survey. 

British Veterinary Association President Dr. Rob Williams MRCVS said: “I know it’s been a long and testing couple of years for the profession. I’m pleased to see that with this final decision, the CMA has listened to BVA’s concerns and we’re able to welcome the majority of these measures, which are largely focused on increasing transparency and information, supporting clients to make more informed choices. As vets, we care deeply for animals and anything we can do to build trust between us and their owners, like supporting consumer choice, is a good thing.  

“We’re also pleased to see that the CMA continues to support our calls for reform of the woefully outdated Veterinary Surgeons Act, including the introduction of vet practice regulation, which will go a long way to addressing many of the issues its investigation raised.  

Fresh dog food company Butternut Box has partnered with a biotechnology firm to incorporate MiAlgae – an Omega 3 rich, fish-free ingredient upcycled from nutrient-dense Scottish whisky by-products – into its vegetarian meal option ‘Ready Steady Veggie’.

MiAlgae is a natural microalgae grown using upcycled by-products from the Scottish whisky industry that delivers the same vital nutrients found in wild fish, whilst remaining entirely plant-based. Just one tonne of MiAlgae contains the equivalent Omega 3s as 30 tonnes of wild-caught fish. 

Butternut Box was founded with a clear mission to improve the health and happiness of dogs through the power of fresh dog food, using whole ingredients that are cooked, not processed, and served from the fridge. By partnering with MiAlgae, Butternut Box has introduced a sustainable, fish-free source of Omega-3 that provides essential fatty acids (DHA) to support the skin, coat, and cognitive health of the dogs they feed. The environmental impact of this dietary shift is equally significant. Choosing the ‘Ready Steady Veggie’ meal enhanced with MiAlgae’s DHA instead of a beef-based option can significantly reduce a dog’s carbon and land footprint.

MiAlgae will be included in Butternut Box’s Ready Steady Veggie meals from this month in all of its markets across Europe, with ongoing supply to come from MiAlgae’s new production facility in Scotland.

The partnership represents a significant step forward in MiAlgae’s growth strategy as it expands capacity and collaborates with forward thinking pet food brands like Butternut Box who are committed to the highest quality ingredients, sustainability, and innovation.

Douglas Martin, founder and CEO of MiAlgae, said: “We’re thrilled to partner with Butternut Box, who share the same commitment to quality ingredients, the health of pets, and sustainability. By integrating our sustainably produced, fish-free Omega-3s into their fresh meals, we’re helping set a new standard for pet nutrition - one that delivers exceptional health benefits while protecting our oceans.”

David Nolan, co-founder at Butternut Box added: “Our mission has always been to get more dogs eating the fresh, human-quality food they deserve. By partnering with MiAlgae to enhance our Ready Steady Veggie meal, we’re proving that you don’t have to compromise on nutrition to be kind to the planet. It’s a step forward for our B Corp journey and for the health of dogs across Europe.”

Global animal housing and cabinetry provider CASCO Pet has announced the launch of CAREKennels, its new veterinary clinical housing range designed to provide an accessible, cost-competitive and significantly quieter alternative to stainless-steel cages.

CAREKennels have been engineered to improve patient comfort, workflow efficiency and the overall clinical environment, expanding CASCO Pet’s portfolio of wellness-enhancing solutions focused on supporting better outcomes in veterinary practice. The new line incorporates integrated sound-dampening materials that reduce noise both within and outside the kennels for the benefit of patients and clinical teams.

The launch intends to broaden access to high-quality housing and enable clinics of any size to benefit from solutions that prioritise patient wellness, recovery, and the daily experience for veterinary professionals.

The range features a proprietary antibacterial polymer coupled with toughened safety-glass doors for improved biosecurity and more efficient cleaning protocols. Testing has shown CAREKennels take around 40% less time to clean than stainless-steel cages, supporting robust infection control and better workflow efficiency for busy clinical teams.

CASCO Pet CEO Matthew Bubear said: “We are acutely aware of the growing caseloads and financial pressures facing clinics, and we want to ensure that cost is never a barrier to accessing the housing solutions teams need to deliver the best possible patient care.

“CAREKennels bring together many of the strengths our products are known for – design quality, thoughtful construction and a wellness-first approach – while offering an accessible option for clinics looking to improve their housing standards. Creating calmer, more comfortable spaces for patients supports better clinical outcomes as well as contributing to a more positive working environment for veterinary professionals.”

Incorporating materials carefully selected for their hygienic and low thermal conductivity properties, CAREKennels are built to withstand the daily demands of today’s veterinary practice, while providing patients with a quieter, warmer and more comfortable resting environment. This can help reduce patient stress and support recovery in clinical settings and contribute to a calmer environment for the wider clinical team.

The glass-fronted doors with integrated ventilation holes allow for improved visibility and monitoring. Available in multiple configurations, CAREKennels give clinics of any size the flexibility to choose cost-effective solutions that suit their space, caseloads, and workflow requirements – from small independent practices to large multi-site hospitals.

Burgess Excel is expanding its small animal portfolio with the launch of three new products designed to support the natural behaviours and nutritional needs of small animals.

The latest innovations include two new forage-based mini hay bales and a new addition to the brand’s baked treat range. Each product has been developed with high quality natural ingredients, helping to provide enrichment, fibre and variety in pets’ daily diets.

The new launches reflect Burgess’ continued investment in its growing hay and forage category, building on the success of its existing Mini Hay Bales made from 100% Timothy hay. By offering a wider variety of flavours and formats, the brand aims to provide retailers and pet owners with greater choice within the small animal forage segment.

Available this spring, the products will be stocked on the Burgess website and Amazon, with plans to roll out across major wholesalers and retailers. 

Forage and Feast Twin Mini Bale with Marigold – RRP £7.49

Joining the already successful mini bale range, the Forage and Feast Twin Mini Bale with Marigold is made with 100% Timothy hay and natural ingredients. The hay-based snack helps support digestive health while encouraging natural foraging behaviour. Topped with marigold, the twin bale format provides both mental and physical stimulation, helping to prevent boredom for small pets.

The launch has been supported through collaboration with popular rabbit influencer ‘@ronnietheminilop’, helping the brand engage with loyal pet owners and the wider small animal community. Stockists include Burgesspetcare.com and Amazon.

Forage and Feast Mini Bale with Chamomile – RRP £4.99

Also joining the successful mini bale range, the Forage and Feast Mini Bale with Chamomile provides a boredom breaking snack made with natural ingredients. Designed to encourage natural foraging behaviour, the product provides enrichment while complementing a balanced small animal diet.

The format aligns with the existing Forage & Feast mini hay bale design, ensuring strong on-shelf recognition and consistency across the Burgess Excel forage portfolio. Stockists include Burgesspetcare.com and Amazon. 

Veg Patch Bites with Root Veg – RRP £2.60

The Veg Patch Bites with root veg are a new addition to the brand’s baked treat range, joining favourites such as Fruity Feasts and Herby Hearts. Made with high grass content, no added sugar and high in fibre, the treats support digestive health while offering a tasty reward.

Perfect for hand feeding, the bites help strengthen the bond between pet and owner, making them an ideal choice for interactive treat time. Stockists include Burgesspetcare.com and Amazon, with plans to roll out across major wholesalers and retailers.

Annabel Coleman, Brand Manager at Burgess Pet Care, commented: “We’re delighted to expand our Burgess Excel range with three exciting new products designed to enrich the lives of rabbits and small animals, based on the success we are seeing from our current portfolio of treats By combining natural ingredients with high fibre content and formats that encourage natural behaviours like foraging, these new additions support both nutrition and wellbeing.

"At Burgess Pet Care, we’re committed to prioritising animal welfare and ensuring pets receive the nutrition they need to live happy, healthy lives. These latest launches reflect our ongoing dedication to developing products that support the wellbeing of small animals while providing engaging and enjoyable feeding experiences."

”We’re also really excited to be lauching Excel’s first ever product in collaboration with @ronnietheminilop. We absolutely adore their content on social, and we look forward to seeing how the buns love this new twin pack of their favourite mini bale."

 For more information about Burgess Excel visit: https://www.burgesspetcare.com/brands/excel/

Dog owners are being urged to “listen more carefully” to their pets amid warnings that thousands could be suffering in silence from undiagnosed injuries.

Julia Robertson, a leading canine therapist and founder of Galen Myotherapy, has spoken out about what she believes is a widespread lack of understanding in understanding dog pain, one that, in some cases, can lead to pets being put to sleep unnecessarily.

In the mid-1990s, Julia’s own dog suddenly became unable to lift his head: “I was told he should be put to sleep,” she said. “But then another vet arrived at the house and simply said, ‘It looks like he’s hurt his neck.’ No one had even considered it might be a soft tissue injury.”

Determined not to give up, Julia began gently encouraging her dog to move:  “I worked with him, encouraging him to lift his head little by little. And he recovered. He went on to live until he was 17.

“That’s when my real nightmare started. I couldn’t stop thinking about how many other dogs might not be so lucky. How many healthy dogs could be lost simply because their injury hadn’t been recognised.”

That moment sparked a career that has since seen Julia treat more than 8,000 dogs and become one of the UK’s leading voices on the link between pain and behaviour.

Julia says many owners, and even professionals,  may be missing the signs, she said:  “An injury doesn’t just affect how a dog moves,” she explained. “It can change their behaviour, their digestion, their posture, their whole life. What people often see as ‘bad behaviour’ can actually be a dog trying to cope with pain.”

Julia began studying therapies from around the world before launching Galen Myotherapy in 2002. Since then, she says she has seen dogs on the brink of euthanasia make dramatic recoveries.

“I was treating so many dogs who had run out of options,” she said. “And time and again, when their pain was understood and addressed, they improved in ways people hadn’t thought possible.”

Her approach is based on a simple but, she says, often overlooked principle, letting the dog lead.
“The whole concept is that it’s taught by the dogs,” she said. “We learn from what the dog is telling us about their body.”

“Treatment can be uncomfortable, so it’s vital the dog has agency,” she said. “If you take that away, they can become anxious or even aggressive. But when they feel safe, something incredible happens.”

She describes sessions as “a non-choreographed dance” between dog and therapist.

“Most dogs will eventually offer an area of their body that no one has been able to touch before,” she said. “When they’re in the right emotional state, some even fall asleep during treatment.”

Julia, who lives in Haywards Heath, West Sussex, will be sharing her expertise at the Pet Remedy Emotional Wellbeing in Animals Conference in Torquay at the end of this month, and in the virtual conference which will take place online on April 11 and 12.

“I’m really looking forward to being part of it,” she said. “It’s exciting to be surrounded by like-minded people who are all working towards better understanding animals, both at the in-person event and through the virtual conference as well.”

With growing awareness around canine emotional health, Julia hopes more owners will begin to look beyond the surface.

“Dogs are communicating with us all the time,” she said. “Through how they move, how they behave, how they respond to touch.

The Torquay conference is sold out, but you can register for the virtual conference by visiting: https://live.petremedy.co.uk/events/ewm-conference-2026-virtual-seminar/

Henry Wag has launched of two striking new colourways within its ever popular dog drying range. The introduction of Purple and Red expands the existing Grey collection, giving retailers more choice while maintaining the trusted performance that has made the Henry Wag drying products a favourite among dog owners.

Designed to help manage wet dogs after outdoor adventures, the Henry Wag drying range includes practical solutions that remove moisture efficiently while keeping dogs comfortable. With the addition of the new colours, the range now offers retailers the opportunity to present a stronger and more visually engaging colour collection in-store.

The expanded drying collection includes:

Purple Drying Range:

• Purple Drying Coat
• Purple Glove Towel
• Purple Drying Towel

Red Drying Range:

• Red Drying Coat
• Red Glove Towel
• Red Drying Towel

The new colourways have been developed to complement existing Henry Wag products, enabling retailers to merchandise coordinated displays and encourage customers to build a complete set of matching accessories.

The Purple drying products pair naturally with the brand’s Purple Quilted Jacket and the Purple and Orange Comfort Collar, Standard Collar and Lead, while the Red drying products work alongside the established Red Waterproof Dog Coat. Together, these combinations allow retailers to showcase a clear colour story across multiple product categories.

According to the team at 3P Enterprise Ltd, the decision to expand the drying range was driven by the continued popularity of the original Grey products and feedback from both retailers and customers looking for greater variety within the category.

Grant Rogers, CEO of 3P Enterprise Ltd, said: “Retailers have consistently told us that the drying range performs well because it solves a genuine everyday problem for dog owners, and by introducing new colours this allows stores to refresh displays while continuing to offer the reliable products their customers already trust.”

Highly absorbent fabrics remain at the core of the Henry Wag drying range, helping remove moisture quickly after walks and outdoor activities. The practical performance combined with bold colour options gives retailers the flexibility to create attractive displays that appeal to modern pet owners.

The launch of the Purple and Red drying ranges forms part of Henry Wag’s ongoing commitment to developing practical, high-quality products designed for active dogs and their owners.

Retailers can order through the 3P Enterprise B2B Portal here or via their usual trade contact

Spring walks are one of the highlights of the year for dog owners, but they often come with one unpleasant surprise. Many dogs suddenly start rolling enthusiastically in fox poo, mud and other strong smells found in parks and countryside areas.

According to Jo Hinds, COAPE-Certified Behaviourist & Dynamic Dog Practitioner at Years, the fresh dog food subscription service, this behaviour is completely natural and often becomes more common during the spring months.

“Dogs experience the world through their sense of smell, which is dramatically stronger than ours,” explains Jo Hinds. “What smells disgusting to humans can be incredibly interesting to dogs, particularly when they encounter new scents outdoors.”

Why dogs roll in fox poo and strong smells

Animal behaviour experts believe scent rolling is linked to instinctive behaviours inherited from dogs’ wild ancestors.

One theory suggests that wolves and wild dogs rolled in strong scents to mask their own smell while hunting. Carrying another scent could have helped them approach prey without being detected.

Another possibility is that scent rolling helps dogs communicate information to other dogs. By carrying the scent back to their pack, they may effectively share details about where they have been and what they have found.

“In many cases, dogs may simply find the scent exciting,” says Jo Hinds. “Strong smells stimulate their brains in a way that humans don’t experience, so rolling in them can be enjoyable or enriching for the dog.”

Why the behaviour increases in spring

Many owners notice the behaviour more often in spring, and there is a good reason for that. As temperatures rise and wildlife becomes more active, parks, woodlands and countryside areas become filled with new scents from animals, plants and decomposing organic matter.

“Spring creates a much richer scent environment for dogs,” explains Jo Hinds. “After winter, there are suddenly far more smells for dogs to explore, which is why rolling behaviour tends to increase during this time of year.”

Warmer weather also means dogs spend more time outdoors, increasing the chances of encountering strong scents such as fox droppings.

What owners should do if their dog rolls in something unpleasant

While scent rolling is a natural behaviour, experts recommend a few practical steps to manage it:

• Keep dogs on lead in areas where wildlife is common
• Use recall training to interrupt rolling behaviour quickly
• Carry wipes or water when walking in muddy or rural areas
• Wash dogs with a gentle shampoo if they roll in animal waste

“Although the behaviour can be frustrating for owners, it’s usually harmless,” adds Jo Hinds. “Rolling in scents is simply part of how dogs explore the world around them.”

For more information visit https://www.years.com/pages/pet-panel

A new study from the Royal Veterinary College has revealed that three popular designer Poodle-crossbreeds (Doodles) – Cockapoos, Labradoodles and Cavapoos – often display higher levels of undesirable behaviour than their purebred parent breeds. 

As the first UK study of its kind, these findings challenge widespread public perceptions that these Doodle breed dogs are easier to train or especially suited to family homes with children compared to purebred dogs. The results also provide vital information which can assist prospective owners deciding which type of dog to welcome into their family.

Intentional crossbreeding between established ‘purebred’ dogs is increasingly used to create new ‘designer’ dog breeds. For example a Labradoodle is a designed cross between a Labrador Retriever and Poodle. The popularity of these new designer crossbreeds has surged in the UK over the past decade, and particularly since the pandemic, with many designer crossbreeds now outnumbering their purebred parent breeds.

Previous RVC research revealed that the physical health of common Doodles is broadly similar to that of their parent breeds, despite designer crossbreed owners often being drawn to these dogs by a perception of superior health to purebreds. This new study expands on these previous health comparisons and now suggests that neither health nor behavioural advantages should be assumed for Doodles simply because they are crossbreeds.

The RVC cross-disciplinary research team undertaking this study included Dr Rowena Packer, Senior Lecturer in Companion Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science, Dr Dan O’Neill, Professor of Companion Animal Epidemiology, and Gina Bryson, RVC Research Assistant, amongst others.

Conducting this research, the team used a large online survey with valid responses collected for 9,402 UK dogs to investigate the behaviour of three popular designer Doodle breeds – Cockapoo, Labradoodle and Cavapoo. Behaviours were then compared between the Doodles and their purebred parent breeds, including Cocker Spaniels; Cavalier King Charles Spaniels; Labrador Retrievers; and Toy, Miniature, and Standard Poodles. Behaviour was assessed using the validated Canine Behavioural Assessment and Research Questionnaire (C-BARQ) which quantifies diverse behavioural challenges including aggression, fear and anxiety, separation-related behaviour and attention-seeking.

The results show that designer Doodles differed from their purebred parents in approximately 54% of behavioural comparisons. Where differences were identified, Doodles showed more undesirable behaviours in 82% of comparisons. Some of these common undesirable behaviours included non-social fear (e.g. fear of traffic, loud noises); separation-related problems (e.g. vocalisation and destructiveness when left alone); and excitability (e.g. strong reactions to exciting events such as walks and doorbells). These undesirable behaviours can have real impacts, with some owners experiencing difficulty when training their dog or feeling trapped and unable to leave their dog alone. Doodles showed less undesirable behaviours in only 18% of the comparisons where a difference was identified, for example Labradoodles scored lower for dog rivalry (e.g., conflict with dogs they live with) compared to Poodles.

Considerable variation between the three individual Doodle breeds was also identified, demonstrating that designer crossbreeds should not be treated as a single, uniform group in terms of behaviour. For example, Cockapoos displayed a higher level of undesirable behaviours compared to their purebred parent breeds, exceeding that seen in Cavapoos and Labradoodles. In particular, Cockapoos showed higher levels of aggressive behaviours, such as owner-directed aggression and dog rivalry, than their purebred parents.

Additionally, owners of designer Poodle-crossbreeds were more likely to rely on non-professional sources of training advice, such as social media or friends and family, which can be highly variable in quality and sometimes misleading.

The results of this study highlight the importance of owners thoroughly exploring the characteristics of any breed, purebred or crossbred, prior to acquiring a dog. This research should include using reliable sources (e.g., from behavioural professionals) to help ensure their expectations align with the breeds’ known behaviour. It also underscores the importance of prospective owners meeting the biological parents of any puppy they are considering acquiring so that the parents’ behaviour can also be appraised prior to purchase.

Dr Rowena Packer, Senior Lecturer in Companion Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science at the RVC and senior author of the paper, said: “Realistic expectations are key to happy dog ownership. When expectations and reality don’t align, both dogs and owners can struggle. Preconceived beliefs, such as the idea that designer-crossbreeds are naturally easy to train or are safe with children, can have serious consequences if they aren’t supported by evidence. Our research shows that many designer-crossbreeds do not always behave as expected, particularly regarding training, anxiety and aggression, which were more common than in their parent breeds. We also found that not all ‘Doodles’ are alike, with Cockapoos tending to display more undesirable behaviour compared to Labradoodles and Cavapoos, highlighting that each breed is unique. By providing reliable scientific data, we can help puppy buyers to make better-informed choices that support both human wellbeing and canine welfare.”

Professor Dan O’Neill, Professor of Companion Animal Epidemiology at the RVC and co-author of the paper, said: “Humanity started inventing new dog breeds 200 years ago and we haven’t stopped since. We are still learning from our mistakes as well as successes. This new paper shows that relying on the cute ‘teddy bear’ appearance of Doodles to assume these dogs behave like stuffed toys is just not safe. Looks can be deceiving – even in dogs.”

Gina Bryson, Research Assistant at the RVC and first author of the paper, said: “This study highlights the importance for all prospective and current dog owners consulting reliable information sources pre-purchase to educate themselves on what to expect from different dog breeds, including crossbreeds. The immense popularity of Poodle crosses strongly suggests these dogs are here to stay and consequently, this paper is a timely resource that can provide both owners and veterinary professionals with scientifically backed information when making decisions about which breed is right for them, or giving advice about breed choice.”

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Burgess Excel has launched The Great British Small Animal Census for 2026, the largest dedicated survey into the lives, behaviours and wellbeing of the nation’s small animals. 

Now open for entries, the census aims to strengthen understanding of small animal ownership. The outcomes will develop industry education and promote best practice, reinforcing Burgess Excel’s long‑standing commitment to driving welfare standards across the sector.

Running until 20th May 2026, the census invites owners to share details about themselves and their small animals, contributing to a national dataset that will help identify key welfare trends, emerging needs and opportunities to better support small animals and their owners.  

In addition to helping shape the future of small animal care, participants will be entered into a prize draw to win an Apple Watch SE and a £50 Burgess Excel voucher. A further ten runners‑up will receive a £50 Burgess Excel voucher each.

To take part, owners simply need to complete details about themselves and their animals, then share the census with friends and family to encourage wider participation.  

Annabel Coleman, Brand Manager at Burgess Excel, commented: “Small animal welfare has always been at the heart of our work at Burgess. The Great British Small Animal Census plays an important role in helping us better understand the needs of small animals and owners across the country, and in turn, allows us to continue developing education, nutrition and care initiatives that make a genuine difference. 

“We’re encouraging small animal owners, retailers and veterinary professionals to share the census far and wide so that we can build the most accurate picture of small animal wellbeing in the UK.”

The findings will be reviewed in May, with Burgess providing full insight and analysis to help improve small animal welfare.

The survey can be completed, and T&Cs can be found, here: The Great British Small Animal Census 2026 Survey 

New data from Boehringer Ingelheim revealed that 21% of UK pets experienced a parasite infection in the past year. For many owners, the impact of a parasite infection extended well beyond their pet. 

Among those whose pet experienced an infection, 38% said it made them feel anxious, while 26% reported disruptions to their daily routine, including cancelled plans, travel restrictions and time off work. 

The reported impact that parasites have on pets is equally significant. Among the animals that experienced an infection, 61% suffered discomfort or illness and 39% showed behavioural changes. 

Dr Sally McGrath, Veterinary and Technical Advisor at Boehringer Ingelheim UK & Ireland, said: “Behaviour can be the first sign that something’s wrong. A dog that suddenly starts scratching or a cat that starts over-grooming is trying to tell you something. Even if subtle, these signs are incredibly important to identify and seek support from your vet if you see any changes that are out of the ordinary.”  

According to Dr Sally McGrath: “Prevention is the key in pet care. Taking a proactive approach – whether that’s through regular vet checkups or preventative treatment – can make a huge difference in a pet’s quality of life.” 

Steven Wibberley, CEO of Pets As Therapy said: “Healthy pets play a vital role in healthy communities. When dogs and cats are well-cared for, physically and emotionally, they can provide the companionship, comfort and connection that so many people rely on in their daily lives. At Pets As Therapy, we see every day how the well-being of animals and people is closely linked. Supporting good animal health helps ensure that our companions can continue to bring comfort, reduce stress and improve well-being for people of all ages.”  

World Parasite Awareness Day fell on 20 March – the first day of spring, and the time of year when parasite infections begin to increase in the UK. As 71% say they would like clearer guidance on what protection is right for their pet, Boehringer Ingelheim has created an online Q&A answering the questions pet owners most commonly ask about parasites - from what to look out for, to which protection is right for their pet.

Find it at https://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com/at/en/animal-health/featured-stories/protecting-pets-parasites. 

Kevin Evans and Wheatwood Flyn triumphed over strong competition, including his Wales team-mates, to take the trophy as 4 Nations Champions 2026. 

The 40 handlers and dogs who had won through to take part in the hotly anticipated annual event congregated at Slindon Farm, Eccleshall and the results showed how strongly it was contested.

CSJ’s Ceri Rundle said: “Well done to everyone, the course was challenging and certainly put everyone through their paces – Kevin and Flyn were well-deserved winners amongst so many hugely experienced handlers and dogs. Two out of the top three handlers use our products and it’s always great to see the dogs so fit and reaping its benefits.” 

Kevin also came joint fourth with his other dog, Kismet Apache, and was part of the winning Wales Team.

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

An independent pet shop has won its battle for survival following mounting financial pressures…and it’s all down to the support of loyal customers.

Little Beasties in Ulverston, Cumbria, celebrated its 20th birthday recently and invited the local community to celebrate at a special anniversary party.

Owner Mandy Christopher said that more than 150 people attended the event, which was held as a ‘thank you’ for their support.

As reported in Pet Trade Xtra a year ago, Mandy wrote on the shop’s Facebook page: “At the moment I can’t see Little Beasties reaching its 20-year anniversary. We've had many ups and downs over the years but the last couple of years have been the hardest yet financially. It’s getting extremely hard to make ends meet and its now got to the point where I’m not able to take a wage.

“We are determined to keep Little Beasties going and I want to keep my amazing team together, but we can’t do it without the help and support of our customers old and new.”

Mandy said that increased costs, including licence fees, insurance, utilities, wages, phone/Internet, delivery costs and vet fees, had put a strain on the business. She also cited changing buying habits, especially online shopping, as having an effect on the shop’s finances.

She urged customers to keep shopping with Little Beasties, ‘even if it’s a 50p dog treat’, and to make use of the store’s delivery service.

Her emotional plea to customers on social media, asking for their support, worked and enabled Little Beasties to stay open…and mark its 20-year anniversary.

To celebrate, the shop hired a local café and invited all its supporters to join them.

Following the party Mandy wrote on Facebook: “I had quite a few people ask why I wasn’t charging entry, or charging for the cakes, face painting etc and the reason was: I wanted to do it as a THANK YOU!

“It was my way of thanking everyone for everything you do for me. I spent the last 12 months saving up so I could do it, and I’m so happy I did. I really cannot thank everyone enough for your continued support. Without you, we wouldn’t have made it to 20 years!

“It truly means the world to us to still be here after two decades, doing something we love and being part of such a wonderful community. Things are hard for many businesses, and have been for a long time, but moments like this really remind us why we do it and make the hard times a bit easier.”

Pictures taken from Little Beasties’ Facebook page

Rather than relying on traditional points and discounts, the brand introduced a loyalty programme built around ‘belly rubs’, creating a more engaging and on-brand experience for pet owners. Customers earn rewards not only through purchases, but also through actions like completing pet profiles and interacting with the brand.

That data layer is key. By capturing information on breed, preferences and dietary needs, the brand is able to deliver more targeted recommendations and drive repeat purchase through relevance, not incentives alone.

The programme, called Loyalty Lion, also integrates its sustainability mission, allowing customers to redeem rewards for actions such as planting trees or donating meals to shelter dogs. This has helped strengthen emotional connection and brand affinity in a crowded market.

The results highlight the impact of getting loyalty right

• Nearly 50% of revenue now comes from loyalty members
• Customers who redeem rewards spend 15x more than non-members
• Redeeming customers place 3.8x more orders

It is a strong example of how pet brands can move beyond discount-led retention and build loyalty that drives both frequency and lifetime value by tapping into an emotional response of belly rubs.

For more information visit https://loyaltylion.com/customers/edgard-cooper

Symply Group will showcase five premium pet nutrition brands together for the first time at Interzoo 2026, presenting a unified strategy designed to help specialist pet retailers strengthen margins and differentiate from mass retail competition.

According to James Milbourne, Joint Managing Director, this is not about scale for its own sake, but about strengthening the specialist channel.

“We are building structure that strengthens margin, simplifies operations and gives independent retailers clearer positioning,” he says.

Symply Group’s roots remain close to independent retail.

Founder Eddie Milbourne began as a pet shop owner in the south of England. Frustrated by inconsistent product quality, he started importing premium US brands into the UK and became one of the largest importers of Nutro.

When that brand was later acquired by a multinational corporation, he witnessed how reformulation and corporate shifts can alter product integrity — and how specialist retailers can lose control of the brands they helped build.

That experience shaped a principle that still defines the Group:

• Strengthen the specialist channel
• Maintain product integrity
• Build brands that cannot be substituted by mass retail

Today, Symply Group remains 100% family-owned, operates in 45 countries and supports more than 10,000 independent retailers globally.

“Our brands were built in independent stores and for the customers they serve,” says Milbourne. “We grow alongside our retail partners – not at their expense.”

Rather than competing on discount cycles, Symply Group focuses on clear category architecture.

The Group brings together five complementary premium brands offering possibilities for different customer needs:

• Canagan – the original ancestral diet. Grain-free nutrition developed following retailer demand
• Symply – trusted, accessible premium nutrition
• Tribal – cold-pressed, fresh meat, minimally processed recipes
• McAdams – ethically sourced, high-welfare foods
• Yora – sustainable insect protein innovation

Each brand occupies a defined role, enabling retailers to offer trade-up pathways and distinct solutions within premium nutrition.

Crucially, the Group’s brands are not distributed through supermarkets. There is no mass retail dilution and no price-led race to the bottom.

For specialist retailers, that exclusivity translates into stronger margins and preserved brand equity.

“Working with Symply Group allows us to offer products our customers genuinely cannot find elsewhere,” says Sarah Bourne, Purchasing Director of Pets Corner in the UK. “That exclusivity strengthens our proposition.”

Managing multiple premium suppliers often means fragmented account management, varying commercial terms and operational complexity.

By consolidating five differentiated propositions under one Group relationship, Symply simplifies that structure — without limiting quality or choice.

“For us, it’s a perfect partnership,” says Bourne. “We can offer grain-free, cold-pressed, sustainable and ethically sourced products from one Group. It reduces complexity while giving us more ways to serve customers.”

This model offers:

• Reduced supplier management burden
• Clearer range architecture
• Coordinated marketing support
• Greater strategic alignment
• Rather than diluting brand identity, the unified structure strengthens it.

“Independent pet retailers are the backbone of our industry,” says Milbourne. “Our role is to provide the brands, structure and support that help them stand apart and grow.”

At Interzoo 2026, Symply Group invites specialist retailers and international partners to explore how five premium brands under one strategic partnership can reduce complexity, strengthen margin and unlock long-term growth.

The Pet Industry Federation has officially launched its Innovation Award 2026, celebrating the ideas, products, services and technologies shaping the future of the pet sector.

Now in its fourth year, the Innovation Award continues to shine a spotlight on businesses that are pushing boundaries and driving meaningful change across the industry. Open to all pet businesses and free to enter, the award provides a unique opportunity for innovators to showcase their ideas to a panel of expert judges.

This year’s Innovation Award is once again generously sponsored by Worldpay, supporting PIF’s mission to champion innovation and growth within the pet sector.

Ten finalists will be selected to present their innovation live at the Business of Pets Conference, taking place on 3-4 June 2026 at Cranfield Management Development Centre, near Milton Keynes. This high-profile platform offers finalists unparalleled access to potential investors, distributors and industry leaders, with the overall winner announced on the final day of the conference.

Nigel Baker, CEO of the Pet Industry Federation, said: "Innovation is vital to the continued growth and evolution of the pet industry and we know there are exceptional businesses developing new ideas that deserve recognition. PIF’s Innovation Award provides a powerful platform to showcase these ideas, connect with key decision-makers and accelerate growth. We’re looking forward to seeing the calibre of entries for 2026."

Entries close on Monday 20 April. To submit your entry and find out more, including entry criteria and details of how to purchase tickets for the event, visit: https://petfederation.co.uk/the-business-of-pets-conference/innovation/

Pictured: The Muzzle Movement’s Size Mitzy, winner of the Pet Industry Federation Innovation Award 2025.

British bake-at-home dog treat brand, Dog & Bond has officially launched in Lakeland as one of only three brands to land a place on the shelves of the retailer’s new dedicated pet section.

Dog & Bond products are now available in eleven Lakeland stores across the UK, including Cambridge, Eastbourne, Kingston, York, Edinburgh, Stratford-upon-Avon, Chichester, Bridgemere, Norwich, Handforth, and Windermere.

The launch marks a significant step in Dog & Bond’s journey, which, up until now, has been selling its products in over 75 shops across the UK, including independent pet and gift shops as well as garden centres.

Dog & Bond joins Mason Cash and Paws Boutique as one of the first three brands to launch in Lakeland’s new in-store pet care and accessories section, which will feature a wide variety of products ranging from doggy ice cream to treat jars.

Dog owners and lovers wanting to whip up tail-wagging treats for their four-legged friends will be able to purchase a variety of products from the Dog & Bond range, both in store and online, including:

• Dog Cake Mix – (£14.99)
• Dog Treat Mix Cheese and Seaweed flavour – (£6.99)
• Dog Treat Mix Apple and Cinnamon flavour – (£6.99)
• Doggy Ice Cream Mix – (£6.99)
• Bone-shaped Cake Mould – (£18.99)
• Paw Print Mould – (£6.99)
• Star Barker Spoon – (£4.99)   

Dog & Bond Founder, Avi Nagel said: “We’re over the moon to be part of Lakeland’s new pet section! At Dog & Bond, we believe baking for your dog should be a joyful shared experience, not just another treat from a packet. Our kits make it easy for pet parents to bake homemade treats using simple, natural ingredients, while spending quality time with their dogs.  

“We’re really excited that more pet parents will now be able to experience the fun of making treats at home with their four-legged friends. Whether it’s celebrating a birthday, a special treat, or just a fun afternoon in the kitchen, we love helping people create those little moments that bring them closer to their pets.”

All Dog & Bond make-at-home treat products are made from grain-free, all-natural, human-grade ingredients and contain no artificial colours or preservatives. The treat mixes can be made quickly and simply by either adding one or two eggs and some water.