Multi award winning pet care brand HOWND are finalists at the first European Pets & Money Summit to be held in London at the end of February.  HOWND is one of only 12 companies chosen out of 30 to showcase their products and pitch to investors, retailers and industry executives at the event.

Mark Hirschel, co-owner of HOWND, says: “This is a very prestigious event for us and a fantastic opportunity to meet and network with some very important industry people. It usually takes months and sometimes years to meet the kind of people we will be pitching to at the Pets & Money summit”.

www.dogslovehownd.com

A dog owner has claimed a Pets at Home store threatened to keep his pet after he turned up late to collect it from a grooming session.

Derek Greenway told the Telegraph & Argus newspaper that Pets at Home, in Idle, West Yorkshire, refused to give him his six-year-old Shih Tzu, called Marley, back when he went to collect him.

According to the newspaper, he accused the manager of threatening to hold onto his dog because he was nearly two hours late. He said he was asked to pay a £15 late fee under the company’s terms and conditions – which he said he had not been aware of.

Mr Greenway said he had misheard when to collect his pet, and that he was 50 minutes – not two hours late – and refused to pay up.

“They were holding my dog to ransom,” the 56-year-old told the Telegraph & Argus.

A Pets at Home spokesperson said they were willing to speak with Mr Greenway about the dispute.

They added: “It is disappointing that Mr Greenway feels upset.

“Our policy and customer contract clearly state there is a charge for the late collection of dogs from our Groom Room.

“Given how very late the pickup was, we feel it was fair to ask that the charge was paid and rest assured, Marley did return home with Mr Greenway.”

You can read the full Telegraph & Argus story by clicking here

In another first for Pet Trade Xtra, we bring you the launch of a digital magazine version, packed full of information about the forthcoming PATS Sandown trade exhibition on February 10-11...

To view the first edition just click on one of the links you'll find on the home page of Pet Trade Xtra.

In the issue you find everything you'll need to know about the Sandown show including:

• New Product Showcase
• Seminar line-up
• Grooming demonstrations
• Floorplan
• Full list of exhibitors and stand numbers
• News from exhibitors

Pet Trade Xtra's digital magazine will be published monthly, and alongside our weekly newsletter you'll all the latest stories from the pet trade.

If you're interested in advertising or sponsorship opportunties in either the newsleter or digital magazine email ben.greenwood@tgcmc.co.uk or alan.burdon@tgcmc.co.uk

TO VIEW THE ISSUE CLICK HERE

The Naturediet Feel Good range of healthy, 100% British made wet food for dogs is a vibrant and exciting variety of products, providing dog owners with premium, natural meals packed in Tetra Pak cartons - an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional wet food packaging. Following from the successful launch of Feel Good 390g, Naturediet are introducing a new smaller 200g pack that is perfect for small breeds, available to purchase from late February.

Naturediet have also recently launched their Purely range in the new eco-conscious packs.  The Purely range is a simple 92% meat recipe that provides a nutritionally balanced complete feed for adult dogs and is available to order in 390g.

Honoured with the Award for Sustainability at the 2018 Pet Industry Federation Award, the independent British dog food manufacturer have invested in the revolutionary new packaging format and are switching from plastic trays to recyclable cartons made of FSC(tm) certified paperboard. Naturediet are the first pet food manufacturer in the UK to be able to produce wet food in Tetra Pak and the 3rd pet food manufacturer in Europe to specialise in this technology.

Available exclusively to pet specialist retailers, the new Naturediet ranges are available to order direct or from Bestpets (transfer orders can be taken at PATS). Naturediet will be offering exclusive discounts of up to 20% off at PATS Sandown.

In celebration of their achievements, Naturediet are offering the chance to win 3 fully stocked FSDUs, worth over £400 (RRP) to delegates of PATS Sandown 2019.

For further information on how to enter the competition, offers, availability and pet specialist retailer support visit the Naturediet team at stand G10 at PATS Sandown, email trade@naturediet.co.uk<mailto:trade@naturediet.co.uk> or call 01362 822321.

Vitalin is set to showcase new dog food range at world’s greatest dog show, Crufts, between the 7th and 10th of March at Birmingham’s NEC.

Standing shoulder to shoulder with over 500 other quality stand holders, this year’s offerings are expected to be even stronger than the last. With fantastic displays and competitions, breed shows, the UK’s largest dog training programme, a dog activity ring, over 550 trade stands, and with 22,000 dogs competing for the world class title of Crufts Best In Show, this year’s Crufts is certainly not one to be missed.

At Vitalin’s 2019 stand (2-144), visitors can expect to find dog experts and enthusiasts to ask for any relevant advice, as well as experience an exciting new range of products for themselves. All of Vitalin’s most popular products will be available to buy directly from the stand, including their popular super premium range as well as their new Small Breed, Fresh Meat 60% Chicken, Chicken & Tuna Pate and Luxury Duck treats.

David Tinker of Vitalin says: “We are very excited to show Crufts visitors our popular range of super premium pet food and tell them all about our specialist packaging, ingredients and range of flavours that dogs just seem to love. There’s nothing we enjoy more than being around fellow dog enthusiasts and we very much look forward to this year’s event.”

Seeing the latest pet products launched under one roof is one of the major attractions to PATS visitors, and this February’s show at Sandown Park in Surrey is set to unveil an impressive number of new items.

The high quality of entries to the popular New Product Showcase, sponsored by pbwnews, is a positive sign that PATS Sandown exhibitors are excited about their latest products and can’t wait to show them to visiting retailers and buyers.

Products entered into the Showcase will be judged by a panel of independent pet retailers on the first day of the show (Sunday, February 10) to decide the winners of the PATS New Product Awards.

There are eight categories in the New Product Showcase and past winners admit that winning an award can certainly increase the profile of the items to the trade.

Soopa Pets won the Best Dog Food Product category at PATS Sandown last year with its innovative Nutritional Booster. The company’s Barbara Hanly said: “We were really excited to win. As well as adding credibility to our brand, the award has helped hugely in creating a buzz around the product and its unique benefits.”

Woof & Brew’s Pawsecco Wine For Dogs and Cats is a prime example of how winning a PATS New Product Award can raise awareness. The product triumphed at PATS Sandown in 2017 and instantly became a bestseller in retail outlets. This success was followed by another award for the company’s Pawsecco Freeze Pops last year. Steve Tearle, national sales manager at Woof & Brew, said: “It has been a phenomenal couple of years since we launched Pawsecco at PATS. The product has really caught people’s imagination.”

Another major success story last year was Pet Remedy picking up three PATS New Product Awards – two at Sandown and one at Telford. “These accolades at a major trade exhibition like PATS are hugely important,” said Martyn Barklett-Judge. “As well as raising awareness of the products themselves, the awards help to drive people to your stand. At both shows in 2018 we were mobbed by visitors.”

The Showcase is designed to help visitors easily find the latest and most exciting products to hit the pet trade, as they are gathered together in one, extensive display. There is an information card beside each product, giving details such as suggested retail price and where in the show you’ll find the item’s exhibitor.

The New Product Showcase entries will be displayed under the following eight award categories:

• Cat Food and Products
• Dog Food Products
• Dog Treat Products
• Dog Accessories and Toys Products
• Dog Harnesses, Leads and Dog Wear
• Small Animal and Bird Products
• Pet Care Products
• Grooming Products

With so many new products on show and more than 150 exhibitors attending PATS Sandown this year, the exhibition is set to draw an equally impressive amount of visitors.

A full and up-to-date list of exhibitors is available on the website www.patshow.co.uk together with information on how to register for free entry, how to reach the venue and regularly updated with show news.

PATS Sandown takes place at Sandown Park in Surrey on Sunday, February 10, and Monday, February 11.

Pioneering dog-food brand, Different Dog, will be exhibiting at PATS Sandown 2019 to preview its innovative, plastic free retail packaging. As well as this exciting development, the team will also be showcasing a range of new seasonal recipes.

Considerate to dogs' needs and the planet We all know plastic presents a significant environmental threat. This ongoing war on plastic waste has inspired Different Dog to introduce new plastic-free packaging across its entire product range. Caring about the planet as much they care about dogs' health and happiness, Different Dog are launching fully compostable, cardboard pots. Visitors to PATS will be treated to an exclusive preview ahead of the roll out in Spring 2019.

Located on Stand L5 co-founders, Charlie and Alex Thurstan; in-house vet - Alison Lambert; and operations manager, Steph Teece will be on hand to introduce customers to Different Dog's latest release, Nutrition Boosting Bone Broth. Cooked in house the old-fashioned way, using grass-fed Lamb, Bone Broth is a complementary nourishing drink. Serve as a tasty nutrition boost to moisten food or as a liquid treat with benefits - ideal for dogs that are a little under the weather, perfect for picky eaters, or to help keep pets in tip-top health.

Special occasion - there's a dinner for that!
Based on family favourites, Different Dog's high-quality recipes are designed by veterinarians and nutritionists. Each recipe is prepared using fresh ingredients from local suppliers and is grain-free, low in carbohydrates and packed full of superfoods, all meals meet FEDIAF guidelines for a complete and balanced diet.

New additions to the range include:

  *   I Love You Beef
  *   Easter Lamb
to ensure dogs don't miss out on special calendar celebrations!

Co-founder Alex comments; "We're extremely excited to return to PATS. We're different - we want every dog to be as happy and as healthy, however, it's not just what our pets eat that affects their wellbeing but also the state of the environment they live in, which is why we've pledged to switch our packaging to a plastic-free, compostable alternative in 2019.   So out with the old processed meals and plastic and in with the shiner coats, better digestion and reduced waste!  Our range of healthy, natural and homemade family favourite recipes, means owners can feed their dogs as well as they do their family and be less impactful on the environment."

The Pet Industry Federation has announced details of what visitors to PATS Sandown can expect to find at the PIF Business Centre in Esher Hall from 10-11 February 2019.

New members signing up to PIF membership at the show will walk away with a free bottle of bubbly and chocolate; and visitors to the stand will be able to sample free chocolate, thanks to PIF’s exciting partnership with the Gourmet Chocolate Pizza Company.

There will also be the opportunity to find out about PIF’s latest member benefit, PIF Print. PIF has partnered with a leading print supplies company to bring members an online website of point of sale material, with the option to customise pre-designed templates or upload your own artwork - all with free delivery.

Following the advent of the new Animal Activities Licensing Regulations in October 2018, details of how PIF helps its members meet their licensing obligations will be formally unveiled, with leaflets and advice available from the PIF stand throughout the show, complemented by a seminar on the new animal activities licensing laws running on both days. The seminars will take place in the Seminar Room next to the PIF Business Centre at 12.20pm and 11.10am on Sunday and Monday respectively.

Finally, there will be free to attend grooming demonstrations and talks, taking place on both days, led by the British Dog Groomers’ Association and the Welsh Grooming Academy.

Alexandra Baker, PIF’s marketing communications manager said: "The PATS Sandown trade show provides us with the perfect platform to reveal new benefits and services that are on offer to our members.

"There’s lots going on for us at the show this year and we are really looking forward to meeting and talking to members, prospective members and colleagues from the industry at Sandown.

"There’s never been a better time to be part of the Pet Industry Federation and the team will be on hand to talk to visitors about PIF membership and the full range of benefits we offer pet businesses."

For further details about the Pet Industry Federation visit www.petfederation.co.uk; email info@petfederation.co.uk or telephone 01234 273933.

For All DogKind has introduced new soft chew supplements to its award-winning range of products and will be showcasing them at PATS Sandown.

“We know the importance of a happy and healthy dog, and that’s why we believe their rewards should include functional and nutritional benefits to support their wellbeing,” say the company.

“Designed for three key areas our supplements are made with natural ingredients and antioxidants to support digestion, joints and anxiety in dogs.”

Leading German pet food company Josera has researched the needs of mini canine fusspots and has developed the Mini range which is designed to be irresistible to even the hardest to please little hound.

Small dogs can be fussy about food. Almost every owner of a small breed knows the sniff and walk away scenario. It is stressful for the owner – and ultimately not good for the dog.

Now available to the pet trade in the UK, Josera foods are made in the company’s carbon-neutral factory where quality control of ingredients and manufacturing processes are stringent.

“Because Josera makes all its food from human-grade ingredients to extremely high ecological and quality standards, dog owners can be confident that they are buying the best,” says Simon Freear of Passionate About Pet Food which exclusively markets the products in the UK. 

“All ingredients coming into the plant are responsibly sourced for superiority and eco credentials.  Owners that feed Josera can be certain they are giving their pet the best and reducing C02 emissions at the same time.”

The Josera Mini range has products for all life stages to suit dogs from puppy to senior citizen. The small size kibble is easy for little mouths to manage and the food helps to prevent the build-up of tooth tartar from day one. Fatty acids help to establish a glossy coat and healthy skin while duck, salmon and natural herbs create irresistible flavour.

Cereal can cause itching and allergies in some dogs – but is an ingredient in many pet foods. MiniDeluxe is a tasty cereal-free mix of lamb, vegetables such as sweet potato, herbs and fruits.

For senior citizens, Josera offers grain-free MiniVita which has a carefully measured mineral content to protect the kidneys, liver and other internal organs. 

As with all Josera recipes, the Mini range foods are very nutrient-dense ensuring daily feed rations are very low and extremely well digested and assimilated thus reducing the quantity and improving the consistency of the poos.

“The most popular pet owned in the United Kingdom is the dog, with 26 per cent of people owning one, “says Simon Freear. In total, 45% of the UK population owns a pet.

This figure has increased by five per cent since 2016. Over 90% of pet owners in the UK say that owning a pet makes them feel happy, and 88 per cent feel that pet ownership improves their overall quality of life. 

Small breeds such as the Dachshund, French bulldog and Jack Russell terrier are among the most popular – and the Mini range is designed for them.  With the dog such a valued member of the family, owners want to give their pet the best.”

For information on Josera pet foods and how to become a stockist visit www.passionataboutpetfood.co.uk or email hello@passionateaboutpetfood.co.uk

Some of the leading exporters in the home enhancement, garden and leisure and pet product sectors are lining up to share their experiences with delegates at The Future for International Trade conference, being organised by leading trade associations, Gardenex, PetQuip and BHETA.

Aiming to inspire current and future exporters, four successful businesses will share their experiences and outline their routes to export success.

Tony Grimshaw OBE, Director of the WHAM group, will explain how BHETA member, What More UK embarked on its ten-year journey into international trade, from first exhibiting at Ambiente in 2009 to its present commitment to increase its export total to 80 countries during 2019, picking up a Queen’s Award for International Trade along the way.  He will also be discussing the importance of the Made In Britain icon to the company’s success.

VegTrug has been a member of Gardenex and BHETA from the very early days of the business and Chief Executive Officer, Joe Denham will share the story of the company’s growth and success and how it has used the association’s events and services to boost sales leads worldwide. It now exports its wide range of iconic V-shaped planters and other innovative grow-your-own products around the world.

Also speaking will be Steve Turner, Export Director of Spear & Jackson.  The iconic British garden and hand tools brand that traces its origins back to 1760, now manufactures and distributes garden tools, metrology equipment, woodworking tools and magnetic equipment.  It has divisions across England, France, China and Australia and Spear & Jackson products are now available literally throughout the world.

Stephen Turner is Managing Director at Group55, a long-standing member of PetQuip. Group55 is a UK-based manufacturer of pet care hygiene products and a world leading private-label manufacturer. Established in 1999, millions of Group55 products have been sold through all channels in over 50 countries.

The day-long conference will take place on March 12th, 2019 at the Stratford Manor Hotel in Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire.  Speakers will deliver presentations on the changes anticipated following Britain’s departure from the European Union, mega trends in global retailing plus the trade association and government export support available to current and future exporters.

Also invited to participate to provide further guidance and in-depth export information and advice will be a wide range of experienced export service providers specialising in transport, logistics, IP, international business law, exhibition organisers, government advisors and many more.

Director General of Gardenex and PetQuip, Amanda Sizer Barrett, says “We expect a strong take-up for this practical and timely event on March 12th, which will deliver the latest intelligence from an array of top-level speakers and export experts to help UK companies in navigating their best routes to secure international sales in the future.”

BHETA Executive Director, Will Jones commented “BHETA is delighted to be working with Gardenex and PetQuip on this joint initiative, which is designed to provide insights, inspiration and practical advice for companies looking to expand overseas.  We anticipate a packed house, given the immense topicality of the subject.”  

Places can be reserved at this important conference by contacting any of the organisers.  Contact Gardenex or PetQuip on 01959 565995; email katie-mai@petquip.com or theresa@gardenex.com; or visit www.gardenex.com.  Contact BHETA  on 0121 237 1130, email nab@bheta.co.uk or visit www.bheta.co.uk

Members of Gardenex, PetQuip, CHA and BHETA can secure a preferential delegate rate of £69 per person at the conference. The event is also open to non-members at £149 per person (both plus VAT).  

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Pet Trade Solutions founder Lynda Ward says people need to be aware of unrealistic promises from potential employers.

She says that the pet trade is becoming littered with people who have innocently taken assurances of high commissions and bonuses at face value and are now ruing the day…after reality has hit.

Among the worst cases are good experienced sales people who have worked hard, used their contacts and even developed strategies for businesses, to be told a few months on that sales aren’t high enough to sustain their employment.

Lynda (pictured) says: “After 35 years I have at some point worked with or have knowledge of most companies in the industry and have a good idea which to, in effect, ‘kiss, marry or avoid’.  I am regularly asked by people what I think about companies who approach them and of course my advice is always given in strict confidence. 

"I hate to see people go down the wrong route in understandable eagerness to climb the career or salary ladder. In the past I have warned employers to be wary of bloated claims on CVs but now I’m warning employees that there are many brand owners with an inflated idea of what they can actually pay.”

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

Poppy’s Picnic has got off to a great start in 2019 with company founder, Dylan Watkins being nominated for the Male Entrepreneur of the Year in the South West Region’s Great British Expos’ Ltd Awards and the company nominated as the New Start-up of the Year.

The Great British Expos’ Ltd have been organising various corporate events for the last 10 years, with a strong track record of producing well managed and attended business events and expo exhibitions across the UK. The South West Business and Community Awards (sponsored by Aspen Waite) recognise businesses, charities, and individuals that have made an outstanding contribution in the region. 

In just two years Poppy’s Picnic has become firmly established as one of the leading players in the raw food market. The company was awarded ‘Start-up of the Year’ at both the Wiltshire Business and Business Leader Awards and three of their products were awarded Highly Commended at the pet industry’s PetQuip Awards. Poppy’s Picnic also recently won ‘Business Start-up of the Year’ for the South West region at the prestigious Rural Business Awards and now go on to represent the South West at the national finals.

Dylan Watkins reached the finals of both NatWest Great British Entrepreneur Awards and received a prestigious ‘Innovator of the Year’ shortlisting at the British Small Business Awards. Their products were also nominated in the Pet Industry Federation Awards for innovation.

Poppy’s Picnic’s products are now widely stocked in pet retailers throughout the UK and can be found in the company’s vibrant pink branded freezers in-store. Their customer retail base in growing rapidly every day and they are now exporting to, and stocking supermarket shelves in Hong Kong and China - the first of the raw food manufacturers to do so.

The company has benefited from participating in the NatWest Entrepreneur Accelerator programme and Dylan Watkins also recently graduated from the esteemed Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses scheme and attended business seminars at the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School.

Poppy’s Picnic has ambitious plans for the future. A new production facility is currently being built in Wiltshire and the company is due to launch its new range of cat food in 2019.

Dylan Watkins believes that simplicity - or RAWPLICITY as he calls it - is the key to Poppy Picnic’s success: “Our aim from the start has been to make it easier for pet owners to feed the best quality, fresh food that nature intended and have a positive impact on their dog’s life and health.

"Just as humans are advised to avoid processed to reduce the risk of disease and obesity, the same applies to dogs. Our delicious products are easy to introduce, whether choosing to make a complete switch to raw feeding, or simply add an occasional boost of freshness to dry or canned food.

"Our popular innovations such as perfectly portioned Meatballs, and our strong, stand out brand has helped us to achieve all that we have so far and it’s an honour to be recognised.”

To find out more about Poppy’s Picnic visit www.poppyspicnic.co.uk

A new pie and pastie shop has opened in a building which used to be home of a long-standing pet store in north Norfolk.

Norfolk’s Pie Man opened last weekend in Sheringham where pet shop Claws and Paws used to be. The store closed in September last after trading from the location for 20 years.

Full story here

As additional commitment to its current and evolving customer base RSW International Ltd will be exhibiting its ever-growing collections at the forthcoming Spring Fair 2019, with four stands across three halls.

The company will be exhibiting in: Hall 12 A04-C02 & C04-D05 (Pet, Spring Summer, Homewares, Gift, & Stationery), Hall 5 K57 (Baby & Gift), and finally Hall 3 H10/J11 (Christmas Crackers, Paper Products & Tabletop).

RSW International Ltd is also pleased to announce a new appointment to its growing business. Peter Hammett recently re-joined the business and it’s Garden & Leisure team to look after the South of the UK. Peter previously worked for RSW from 2011 to 2016 and re-joins the business further strengthening the Garden & Leisure team as part of its exciting future growth plan.

Peter (pictured) said: "I am overjoyed to re-join such a well-established and respected company as RSW International Ltd. I will be working with some customers who I already know well, and also have new customers to get to know too. The positive future plans are very much in line with my own goals and ambitions going forward. I can assure customers of my enthusiasm for our product range and for the success of working together in partnership with them to help grow their sales of our products."

Lee Kennerley (Head of Garden & leisure) said: “With the businesses further commitment to strengthening the Garden & Leisure team these are exciting times for RSW and our customers. Since joining the business in 2016 we have seen large growth across various categories especially our Pet, Christmas, and Spring Summer Dining collections.  It's great to welcome Peter back on board, and I am looking forward to him assisting us in our growth within this sector. The plans we have for the business in this sector are ambitious, and it’s great to have someone like Peter with his strength and character on board for this journey."

With Dental Month (February) fast approaching, WHIMZEES - the all-natural daily dental chew for dogs – is the leading dental chew option for owners who care about looking after their dogs’ teeth. 

80% more effective at reducing plaque than the leading competitors and a simple way to keep a dog’s whole mouth clean, WHIMZEES are fun from the first bite with unique shapes - including a doggie toothbrush – perfect for Dental Month. 

With its top performing ingredients, shapes and science behind every chew; all owners need to do is make WHIMZEES a regular part of their pet’s routine. 

What’s more, WHIMZEES uses all-natural ingredients and no artificial colours, flavours, preservatives, GMOs, gluten, or meat – therefore perfect for daily use, and have a three time longer chewing time compared to other competitor chews, for three times more fun!

The dog chew company is marking Dental Month next month by launching an important - yet fun - message around the importance of daily doggie dental care.

Global expert in pet nutrition, Dr. Danielle Bernal, comments: “WHIMZEES offer the perfect aide for dog owners to clean their dog’s teeth in an easy and tasty way and - when given daily - the benefits of a chewing a WHIMZEES dental shape means dogs have substantially less plaque and tartar than just eating regular dry food, as well as better breath and improved gum health. These are the exact benefits that can help minimise the incidence of dental disease."

Canine dental disease is the number one health issue affecting all dogs; yet just 2% of dog owners actively care for their dog’s teeth by brushing on a daily basis. 

Choosing WHIMZEES dental chews is the perfect way for UK dog owners to mark Dental Month, and to keep on top of their dog’s dental hygiene. 

To help owners on this journey towards perfect pet teeth, WHIMZEES is launching a new online campaign “It’s WHIMZEES O’ CLOCK”, featuring a fun video plus social media messaging to run throughout Dental Month, where owners have the chance to win tickets to Crufts 2019! Follow the online campaign from 1st Feb at: https://www.facebook.com/WhimzeesUK/

Dr. Bernal concludes: “In today’s ever hectic lifestyle, a scientifically proven dental chew like WHIMZEES which is 80% more effective at removing plaque, along with regular brushing and dental check-ups, makes for the perfect combination to looking after dogs’ teeth."

Leading Swedish pet food manufacturer, FourFriends Pet Food, has launched in the UK an exciting new range of complete cat food.

Its latest product, FourFriends meat sausages, can be used as a complete food for cats in their own right or can be combined with the FourFriends complete dry food to provide added texture, moisture and variety to the cat’s diet.

The meat sausages are sugar-free and do not contain any added chemical flavouring or preservatives. They are also grain and gluten free.

A 200g sausage is a daily ration for a medium-sized cat of about 4 kg so it is easy to feed the correct amount. Each sausage contains 95% meat combined with broth and possesses all the vitamins and minerals to keep a cat in tip top condition. FourFriends meat sausages come ready for use and must be served at room temperature. They need to be stored in a cool and dry place and once opened, they must be kept in the in the fridge.

The 200g sausages are available in moist chicken, duck and turkey varieties. They can be purchased individually or are available in boxes of 27.

Adrian Wilkinson, Director of FourFriends Pet Foods Limited in the UK, said: “One of the key factors that is most noticeable about the cat food market in the UK is the lack of choice compared to the dog food market. 

"Diets that cater for specific dietary needs and life stages are now beginning more prominent on pet shop shelves but the choice is still not quite as large as it is for dogs.

"At FourFriends we think it is important to offer the pet owner a range of options from tinned wet foods, tailored dry foods and meat sausages which are easy to portion out giving pet owners added convenience and also helping to avoid pet obesity.

"As with the dog food market we are also seeing a shift towards natural and healthy ingredients as cat owners are gradually becoming more knowledgeable about what is actually going into the food they feed their cats.”

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

Haskins Garden Centre has partnered with Waggy Tails Rescue to donate animal-friendly houseplants to the charity.

Jane Storey and Sue Webster from Waggy Tails Rescue visited Haskins in Ferndown on Monday January 28 to meet with Marc Etheridge, assistant general manager of the Ferndown garden centre, and to collect a variety of houseplants.

Haskins’ donation will benefit staff members and the four-legged residents at the rescue centre in Canford Magna. Waggy Tails chose from the following animal-friendly houseplants:

• Areca Palm
• Boston Fern
• Phlebodium Fern
• Spider Plant
• Maranta / Calathea
• Tradescantia
• Bromeliads

Marc Etheridge, assistant general manager at Haskins in Ferndown, commented: “When you have animals, keeping them safe is a top priority. We have pulled together our recommendations for a plant-filled home that’s safe for cats and dogs and hope that this collaboration with Waggy Tails Rescue will help spread awareness of the benefits of animal-friendly houseplants.”

Houseplants help to make the air in the home less toxic by purifying the air and eliminating any volatile organic compounds. Studies also show that humans are generally happier when surrounded by a plant. Homes can be full of airborne pollutants, with carpets, paint and even people harbouring toxins - especially in the winter months, when windows are closed to the cold air outside and central heating is ramped up indoors. 

Sue Webster, office manager at Waggy Tails Rescue, added: “We are so grateful to Haskins for donating plants to the Sanctuary. We will be placing them in the dog social areas, such as the training room, day room and outside the cabins where we have suitable shelving.”

Waggy Tails Rescue is a registered charity that rehomes dogs within East Dorset and West Hampshire, as well as looking for sponsorship and foster homes.

Haskins Garden Centre is located in Ferndown, Dorset. Visit www.haskins.co.uk for more information.

Veggie Dog from Green Petfood is the ideal dog food for those seeking to reduce their carbon footprint whilst providing a balanced healthy diet for their dog. 

99.99% vegan, Veggie Dog contains 0.01% vitamin D3 from wool fat, making it ideal for anyone wanting to try #veganuary or caring for the few dogs that are allergic to animal protein.

There are two 99.99% Vegan recipes in the range; Veggie Dog Light and Veggie Dog – Grain Free (pictured) both are complete foods which offer adult dogs a healthy, environmentally sustainable alternative to food produced using animal-based raw materials.

Produced without soy, the Veggie Dog Grain Free formula is baked with potato and peas as a natural source of amino acids. 

The ingredients are carefully selected and combined in a way that respects natural resources yet guarantees that the dog receives all the important nutrients from herbs, fruits and algae. RRP £11.99 for 2kg bag Grain Free and £8.99 for Light.

Green Petfood is the ultimate in sustainable dog food brand with ground-breaking products in the range like InsectDog which is not only genuinely hypoallergenic; it is also much more sustainable as insect protein generates much less carbon than traditional meat protein sources.  Green Petfood VeggieDog is produced without soy which is banned from all recipes due to its poor carbon credentials and as a common allergy trigger, but best of all it is 99.99% vegan making it an ideal choice for consumers looking for nutritional and eco credentials combined.

www.passionateaboutpetfood.co.uk

A pet shop, which shared premises with a baby gift store, in Yarm, North Yorkshire, has shut up shop.

A note in the window from the owners states the decision to close was "extremely difficult" but one they had to make due to difficult trading conditions.

The business called Zibizi opened in 2016 and offered a range of products, with a quirky twist - a personalisation service.

The baby boutique on the ground floor sold items such as toys, clothing, nappy bags, playmats, and gifts. Meanwhile, the pet store on the first floor sold treats, beds, clothing, leads, and blankets. It also housed The Paw Room - a dog spa, which featured a jacuzzi bath for canine companions.

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Pets at Home is considering a plan to spend £8m on stockpiling pet food and other products in case Britain crashes out of the EU without a deal.

The UK’s largest pet retailer, which has just reported a strong Christmas performance, stated: “As we approach our financial year end and monitor the Brexit process, we may consider increasing our inventory holding by up to £8m.”

The group has in the past warned that 17% of its goods come from outside the UK, and said its stock supply could be disrupted in the event of delays at ports and borders under a no-deal Brexit scenario. 

The latest move comes as many other businesses have been stockpiling goods in preparation for a calamitous no-deal Brexit.

Pets at Home has been boosted by strong sales in its retail business in the run up to Christmas, with the Saturday before Christmas being its biggest trading day ever. 

The retailer also reported like-for-like sales growth of 5.1 per cent in the third quarter to the beginning of January compared to the same period last year.

It said it was on track to deliver its full-year targets, expecting profits to come in between the previously lowered guidance of £80million to £85million.

It comes as Pets at Home issued a profit warning in November and launched a radical overhaul of its veterinary division. 

Once again at the forefront of product innovation, HOWND, the multi-award winning pet care brand has launched a ground-breaking antimicrobial dog bowl.

Guaranteed to resist the growth of over 99% of MRSA and E.Coli bacteria, the innovative Hero Bowl’s built-in proven smart silver ion technology gives unparalleled 24-hour antimicrobial protection for dog food and water bowls and is set to be the most hygienic dog bowl on the market.

The HERO BOWL is the ideal solution for health-conscious pet owners, vet surgeries, kennels, grooming salons and anywhere cross contamination might occur. It is scientifically proven to also prevent the growth of over 99% of microbes, including bacteria, mould and fungi. It is made from recyclable polypropylene.

There’s some clever science behind the design of this bowl. HOWND has partnered with BioCote® - a world leader in antimicrobial technology - to create a pet food and water bowl that will give antimicrobial protection guaranteed for 25 years even if scratched or chewed.  The BioCote silver ion protection will last for the lifetime of the bowl as it is embedded into the product, so it cannot wash off or wear away.

Studies have shown that 67% of dog bowls coming out of the dishwasher still have Salmonella present on their surfaces*. A superior alternative to a stainless steel, ceramic and other unprotected surfaces, the HERO Bowl has 24-hour protection since the technology works constantly to reduce microbes by up to 99.99% on the protected surface.

Although all pet bowls should be cleaned regularly, including the HERO Bowl, the effects of cleaning are short lived and once they have worn off, an unprotected bowl is subject to recontamination, leaving bacteria to thrive unchecked until the next clean.

With an ergonomic design for easy feeding, the bowl has a non-slip base, is dishwasher safe and available in 2 sizes in a range of on-trend colours: Urban Grey, Raspberry Rose, Lavender Blush, Ocean Blue and Spring Green.

Small Bowl 18cm, RRP 17.95. Trade £8.75 + VAT. Large Bowl 23cm, RRP £21.95 Trade £10.50+ VAT.

With distinctive branded packaging and informative visuals, the HERO BOWL has great shelf appeal and will be available to order from Pedigree Wholesale and at PATS Sandown from HOWND stand S10, Esher Hall.

Spend over £250 across all HOWND ranges at PATS Sandown to receive a 15% show discount.

Inspired Pet Nutrition, the UK’s largest independent producer of dry pet food, is set to grab a slice of the UK’s fast growing wet dog food sector with the launch of a range under the Wagg brand.

Wagg is already the branded market leader by volume in the dry dog sector with a 24% market share and last September unveiled new packaging as part of a major £500,000 re-launch. 

This will be its first venture into the wet food sector where growth is being driven by the plastic tray format with overall branded annual sales more than doubling to over £24 million in the past two years. 

There are four flavours in the new range – salmon, chicken, beef and turkey – available in 390gm trays.  

The trays will be an addition to the VAT-free Wagg Worker range. 

The first three flavours will be on shelf in Morrisons with an rsp of 90p. Further listings in the multiples are planned along with a roll-out to retail channels in the pet trade.

Chris Wragg, marketing director at IPN, said: “This exciting new range is a result of both innovation and manufacturing expertise, combined with probably the most well-invested pet food business in the UK.  

"Some £14 million has been invested in new facilities in North Wales and the launch expands the Wagg proposition of ‘no nonsense, great quality and value’ into the fast growing tray sector of the wet market.”