Jollyes has put the finishing touches to a makeover of its new Wakefield store following its acquisition from The Pet Store in October. 

This week a new Jollyes sign has gone up over the entrance and the store – at Snowhill Retail Park – has been given a new look and internal layout in time for re-opening. 

The makeover will make the shopping experience even more convenient for customers in the area and their pets, with more room to shop. 

The existing Jollyes store at Beck Retail Park, Ings Road, Wakefield, remains open as usual.  

Jollyes bought The Pet Store and its three Yorkshire stores in October, bringing together two business dedicated to high quality products and personal service for owners and their animals. 

The Pet Store outlets are at Wakefield, Barnsley and Denby Dale, and the Wakefield store is the first of the three to get a makeover and a new look as Jollyes. 

All the colleagues who worked at The Pet Store have been retained and Jollyes has hired three additional members of the team. 

Sarah Farrar, Jollyes regional manager, said: “The Pet Store has been a great addition to the Jollyes’ family, and we’re delighted to repay loyal customers, starting with this investment at Wakefield Snowhill. The new look and new layout will make shopping at the store even easier. 

“While we might look a little different, we’re all about the people here at Jollyes – and customers will find the same team, with the same pet expertise at the Wakefield Snowhill store. We’re looking forward to revamping the Barnsley and Denby Dale stores in the coming months.” 

The acquisition The Pet Store is part of an exciting expansion plan for Jollyes as it opens up to 20 new stores across the UK in 2022 through organic growth and acquisition. 

Pet product expert Petface has launched a partnership with supermarket giant Asda to provide selected stores with a dedicated Petzone containing toys, treats and accessories.

The Petzone has been installed in Asda stores in Gateshead, Eastlands, Minworth and West Bridgford.

From stylish collars and leads to balls and cuddly toys, the Petzone has everything owners need to keep their pets looking and feeling great.

Petface is a multi-award-winning pet product brand, with over 50 years of experience developing ranges of innovative design-led products.

Each individual product is thoroughly researched and expertly designed, with a new emphasis placed on the environment and sustainability through the Petface Planet range. 

John Pullen, category director at Petface, said: “This partnership is an amazing opportunity that brings Petface into Asda, creating a dedicated zone where Asda customers can find everything they need on a regular shopping trip”. 

And Matt Harrison, senior director of partnerships and business development at Asda, added: “We’re partnering with some brilliant brands to bring a wide range of pet products to these stores – including items that would usually only be found in specialist retailers. 

“A rise in the number of pandemic pets has led to demand from customers for greater choice in this particular category. We’re pleased that through partnerships with innovative brands we’re able to offer products for pets of all ages and satisfy the needs of our customers in these selected stores.”

See more pictures in the gallery below...

Sion Pritchard and Paul Penketh, directors of Snowdon Holdings, are now majority shareholders of PetPlace having completed a management buyout (MBO).

The company has stores in Abergele, Ruthin, Mold, Llangefni and Chirk, and a headquarters on Tir Llwyd Enterprise Park in Kinmel Bay.

Both Paul and Sion, from Colwyn Heights, were already leading the North Wales business – supported by founder Gwyn Lewis – and are thrilled to be at the helm as PetPlace begins a new era.

With turnover exceeding £10m for the first time, plans to expand their 100-strong team with more sales and administrative staff and the potential to open further stores in the coming years, Sion says they are perfectly placed to grow further post-pandemic.

“The last two years have raised challenges but also given us the opportunity to advance the business in-store and behind the scenes,” said Sion (pictured).

“Everything is moving in the right direction, but we are looking at the future, which will eventually include further stores and more staff.

“Whatever happens, we will continue with our long-term and controlled approach and as always the pets and their owners are the number one for priority for everyone here.”

Among the biggest developments during Covid was the opening of a new dispatch warehouse to manage the growing number of online orders, and a popular loyalty app.

All a long way from the launch of Farm and Pet Place in 1970, which started from the back of a van and grew under Gwyn’s initial stewardship to become the region’s leading independent pet product retailer.

He is thrilled the organisation he founded will be in “safe hands” for the next generation and said: “I am excited to take a step aside and embrace this new era. Paul and Sion have so many wonderful ideas and will lead PetPlace to even greater heights, I’m sure.

“I am proud of them both and of course delighted to see PetPlace go from strength to strength after all these years – best of luck to you both.”

Paul added: “Both Sion and I are proud to have been part of the PetPlace family for a long time, so to now be taking it forward and building for the future is a huge privilege for us.

“There are many exciting developments on the horizon as we continue to evolve and have a positive impact on the local economy and the specialist pet retail sector – watch this space.”

For more information on PetPlace, including the PetPlace Plus+ loyalty app, follow @petplaceUK on Facebook and Instagram or email sales@farmandpetplace.co.uk. The app is available on platforms including Google Play and The App Store.

To mark a decade of celebrating excellence, this year’s PetQuip Awards will be presented to winners at an Oscar-style evening after the first day of PATS Telford on Sunday, 25^h September.  

The awards have become one of the most successful events to have been introduced into the pet trade sector and everyone is looking forward to celebrating again with colleagues and customers at this excellent networking occasion.

Two new categories – ‘Celebrating Green and Organic’ and the ‘Sustainability Award’ – have been introduced this year to reflect the growing trend towards ‘eco’ initiatives.

Entries for the 2022 awards are now open and the judging will take place in August.

The award categories are:

• The Theresa Swann Trophy for Exporter of the Year Award
• Celebrating Green and Organic
• Supplier of the Year
• Business Service of the Year (for groomers/kennels/catteries/pet services
• The Sustainability Award
• Product of the Year – three categories:
  Accessories/Technical; Food/Treats; Healthcare/Animal Grooming
• International Retailer, Wholesaler or Distributor of the Year
• UK Retailer of the Year
• Lifetime Achievement Award

“So many people in the industry have been asking since December last year when they can enter this year’s awards,” said Pat Flynn, award organiser and PetQuip’s Trade Association Manager.

“Winning an accolade for your achievements bolsters morale and gives any business excellent additional opportunities to promote their new product developments and successes.”

The PetQuip Awards will take place in a new ‘Oscar-style’ setting with even more opportunities for the whole trade to celebrate, network with colleagues and customers and to relax after the first day of the PATS exhibition.

The evening will start with a drinks reception followed by the ceremony announcing the winners of the PetQuip Awards. Guests will then be able to enjoy a meal and refreshments while networking and socialising. 

Visit http://www.petquip.com/pdf/Awards-2022-entry-form-A4-v5.pdf to download the entry forms. The closing date for entries is 30^th June.

PetQuip is happy to receive nominations for retailers and suppliers who in your opinion deserve to be winners in any of the categories.  The nomination can be made anonymously, and PetQuip will always contact anyone who has been nominated to progress the entry.

A digital edition containing reactions from PetQuip Awards 2021 winners can be viewed at https://bit.ly/3LZmlcA

If you would like to benefit from PetQuip membership or require any further advice and assistance, email info@petquip.com or visit www.petquip.com

Multi-award-winning guinea pig brand, HayPigs! is celebrating its fifth birthday this month. The small animal specialist famed for its eye-catching guinea pig circus range, has gone from strength to strength since being founded by husband and wife team, Rik and Helen Cridland, in 2017. 

Five years is a significant milestone for the pair, who feel that they have proved to the pet industry that niche really can work. 

Rik explained: “Let’s be honest, how many people thought those loons with the guinea pig circus concept would still be here five years down the line?

“We’ve always been a bit out there, some say inspired, others crazy, but do you know what, that’s what we love about it, it’s what spurs us on through the tough times and makes the highs even higher. 

“We’re so proud to have made it to five years and to have enriched the lives of so many small furries and their humans. This is only the beginning.”

It has been a busy five years for HayPigs!, launching a number of innovative products in the small animal accessories market as well as a range of treats and edibles more recently. 

They’ve also appeared on ITV, the BBC and Dragons’ Den, won multiple national awards and seen consistent year-on-year grown. 

Helen reflects on the journey to date, one which has involved the whole family: “For those who have met us at trade or public pet shows, you’ll probably have seen at least one of us with a child or animal in our arms.

“Five years ago, it was just Rik and I, with a dog and two guinea pigs. Now we have two businesses, seven guinea pigs, one dog and two children – you could say it’s a little ‘full on’. 

“How have we managed this? I honestly don’t know, but I guess we’re a pretty good team and we just care deeply about what we are doing. HayPigs! is more than just a nice family business, it’s a force for change. We’re proud of the fact we’ve got people talking about guinea pigs and their welfare needs and perhaps inspired a few others to follow their dreams.”

So what’s next for HayPigs!? “It really is an exciting time,” added Rik. “As we speak a shipment of our products is on its way to the US which will be a brand-new adventure for us. We’ve also got several new products in development that we hope to unveil this Summer. 

“It’s actually been really fun to get back to our roots, designing and innovating thanks in large part to our faithful test pilots, our own guinea pigs. We can’t wait to show you what we’ve been up to. 

In terms of celebrating, I think we may enjoy a bottle of bubbly in the company of our extended herd (guinea pigs, children et al.). It’s so easy to get caught up on achieving goals and the hitting targets when actually, it’s important to just to celebrate the journey. And what a journey it has been!” 

Pet businesses who want to be more visible and gain confidence talking about their work online are invited to take part in a free training event next week.

The Be Bold Bootcamp is a five-day training event created by journalist and PR coach Rachel Spencer who works with small businesses showing them how to gain media coverage.

The idea to create a training around being bold and confidence building came after seeing posts online from business owners who felt unable to talk about their products and services.

Rachel said: “The last two years have been so challenging for people running their own businesses and in recent months the energy price rises, cost of living crisis and world events have left many people feeling that they can’t promote their work, that it feels wrong.

“But if we don’t talk about our products and services, then how do pet parents know how they can get help or where to go for training and support? The Be Bold Bootcamp is a free week of training where I’ll be encouraging people how to be bold and put themselves and what they offer out there.

“This might be sharing a photo of themselves on social media so people see the face behind the product, going live on Facebook, sending a pitch to their favourite podcast or approaching their local paper with a story idea.

“The idea of the bootcamp is to show that you don’t have your own dog training TV show or have millions of followers on TikTok to get noticed and make an impact, and taking small steps to be more visible can lead to more customers and clients.”

The five day Be Bold Bootcamp challenge is taking place from Monday 25th until Friday 29th April and to register, visit https://publicityforpetbusinesses.mykajabi.com/be-bold-bootcamp

He was ‘the little dog with a big heart’ who sadly passed away on April 6. To honour Max’s legacy, Ruffwear UK is donating 5% of all sales of the Campfire Orange Front Range Harness, Leash and Collar collection for the remainder of this year to Max’s charities.

Max the Miracle Dog, also known as Max Out in The Lake District sadly gained his Angel wings on Wednesday 6 April. With his owner Kerry Irving, Max was famed all over the world for his fundraising and awareness raising efforts and his work as a therapy dog. Orange is the colour Max always wore on his travels and it set him apart from his brothers Paddy and Harry who don their red and teal harnesses.

Andrew Gere, CEO of Accapi Group, the European distributor of Ruffwear commented: “Max was our most treasured Ruffwear ambassador, famed for wearing our Campfire Orange harness and accompanying Kerry on many fundraising and awareness raising missions for charities. He rubbed shoulders with royalty and was a canine champion for the hills and valleys of the Lake District National Park, where he and Kerry roamed every day. But he was so much more than that to us and the tens of thousands of fans across the UK and all over the world”

As Ruffwear founder Patrick Kruse added: “I believe each of us knows deep down what it is like to say goodbye to our beloved little four-legged companions who give so much and ask for so little. With love, compassion and gratitude for our four-legged companions and the humans who invite them into our lives. our heartfelt condolences to Kerry and his family, we are continents apart but connected through our experiences.”

HONOURARY PUP

For his efforts over the years, Max was awarded the PDSA (People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals) Order of Merit – the highest accolade a dog can get in the UK (recognised as the equivalent of a dog OBE), he had a statue unveiled in his honour in Hope Park by the lakeside in Keswick. Max also visited Buckingham Palace to meet Will and Kate the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and most recently Max and his brothers were named the first honorary crew members of the Great North Air Ambulance for their fundraising efforts.

Ruffwear will donate 5% of all sales of the Orange Front Range® collection which is available at stockists across the UK. Visit your local Ruffwear stockist or order from www.ruffwear.co.uk

You can also hear more about Max’s story in the book, Max the Miracle Dog: The Heart-warming Tale of a Life-saving FriendshipFollow their adventures on Facebook & Instagram @maxoutinthelakedistrict_

Broadreach Nature has launched Dental Deep, a new veterinary-formulated dental supplement for dogs and cats.

This new product has been created by the company’s in-house veterinary expert Dr Barbara Fougere. 

Dental Deep is available as 60 capsules or 50g powder and has been designed to support healthy teeth, gums and fresh breath in dogs and cats from four months of age.

Using Oral-Active, a unique combination of plant and marine phytochemicals, this product helps to support healthy gums and dental health and is designed to assist in supporting gingival, periodontal ligament and healthy mouth immunity.

This synergistic blend of plant and marine phytochemicals contribute to:

• Providing antioxidant , antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory actions
• Supporting healthy periodontal ligament , bone and gums
• Promoting healthy saliva and oral immune health
• Promoting fresh breath

Why a new dental range for Broadreach Nature?

A study conducted by the Royal Veterinary College, lists gum disease as one of the key reasons to prompt a visit to the vets. With Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease having such a great impact on overall pet health, Broadreach Nature felt that this was an important range to develop and did so Dr Barbara Fougere (pictured right).

One study diagnosed periodontitis in 82% of dogs aged six to eight years of age and 96% of dogs aged 12 to 14 years with more than 85% of small-breed dogs reporting to have periodontal disease. In cats, one study diagnosed periodontal disease in 50% of cats over four years of age while 93% of cats over eight years of age showed radiographic signs of periodontal bone or root loss. With these statistics it is very important to support a pet’s dental health. 

Dental Deep is a plant-based product designed to address not only plaque, but subgingival changes in order to promote periodontal health.

Premium raw pet food brand Natural Instinct has been announced as official sponsor of Agility Team GB 2022.

As part of its passion and commitment to the sport of dog agility and its work with world class agility trainer Dave Munnings, Natural Instinct is working alongside The Kennel Club to support the championships and provide Team GB with their nutritional needs.

Each year, The Kennel Club and Young Kennel Club sends competitors to The Junior Open Agility World Championships, European Open Championships and the World Championships to represent the UK. During the Agility Team GB Open Showcase and ahead of the final Team GB selection in April, Natural Instinct provided redeemable vouchers to highly skilled agility competitors, including those who took part in a number of try-out events, ensuring canines receive healthy, nutritious and raw food to give them the sustenance required for them to perform at their best during the competition.

Made from 100% British, human grade meat, ethically sourced fish and the freshest fruit and vegetables, Natural Instinct meals are a natural and healthy source of vitamins and minerals, without any artificial additives, colours, preservatives, fillers or grains.  Agility professionals often recommend a raw diet for competitors due its health benefits. Raw feeding has been credited with dense muscle structure, a more resilient immune system, strong bones, teeth and joints, good digestion and bowels, and healthy skin. Natural Instinct customer reviews have seen marked improvements in these areas following a transition to a raw diet.

Phil Keen, Managing Director of  Natural Instinct said: “We are extremely proud to be sponsoring the Agility Team GB. We have been supporters for a number of years now and to be part of the events taking place this year is really exciting. At Natural Instinct, we are passionate that all dogs receive a wholesome, nutritious and raw food diet, feeding as nature intended. Not only does this ensure they get all the vital vitamins, minerals and nutrients they need to keep them fit and healthy, but it will help them perform their best during competitions too.”

The Junior Open Agility World Championships are being held in Finland from 14-17 July and The European Open Championships are taking place in Belgium from 28-31 July.

The Agility World Championships are due to be held from 21-25 September and will be hosted in Austria.

A new study from the Royal Veterinary College has revealed the toys and environmental enrichments that can directly impact ferrets’ health and wellbeing.

While environmental enrichment can be highly beneficial, inappropriate attempts to enhance a ferret’s housing can be ineffective and cause stress and injuries. When not housed with their preferred environmental enrichments, ferrets can display more combative or aggressive behaviours, and play significantly less with other ferrets. 

It is estimated there are more than one million pet ferrets in the UK, and a further 500,000 in the United States. This is in addition to the wider sectors of society, yet little was known about how ferrets are housed and what environmental enrichment they may benefit from.

In conducting this study, the team of RVC researchers developed an online questionnaire which was shared with ferret caretakes, including pet owners, laboratory, zoo, rescue and pest control sectors. Receiving more than 750 valid responses, the researchers analysed results from 17 countries, the majority (82.4%) of which were from pet owners.

The results show that most ferrets were housed with at least one other ferret, providing important social interaction, and the environmental enrichments that ferret keepers believed their ferrets most enjoyed were tunnels (42.5%), digging (27.3%), human interaction (20.8%) and exploration (17.6%).

Conversely, the items reported as being most problematic, and therefore to be avoided, include rubber toys, which can cause internal blockages when chewed and swallowed (45.1%); and enrichments which can result in claws or other body parts becoming trapped (28.6%), such as narrow tunnels and certain fabrics including fleece, towels and loosely woven fabrics. This suggests a need for increased awareness of the risks of these types of enrichments and for more commercially available safety-tested ferret environmental enrichments.

Additional key findings, include that:

• Scent trails were also reported as being amongst the most enjoyable enrichments but were only reported to be provided by 15% of total respondents, suggesting they could be introduced to more ferret housing.
• Housing varied across sectors from single level cages to free-range housing in a room or outdoor enclosure however, multi-level cages and hutches, or free-range housing, promotes better ferret welfare compared to single level cages.
• The environmental enrichment most commonly provided were items that promote rest (such as hammocks or a soft bed), tunnels, boxes and human interaction.
• Ferrets’ ideal housing could be informed by their natural ecology, which indicates a preference for burrows with dark sleeping areas.

Further to these findings, this study also builds on pre-existing research into how frequently ferrets’ habitat should be changed – with enhancements that are designed to stimulate recommended being changed in an unpredictable order more than once a month. One respondent commented: “They are very sociable and inquisitive animals who love to explore new toys and places.” Conversely, those promoting rest should be changed less regularly and may provide a sense of security in their permanence.

Dr Charlotte Burn, associate professor in animal welfare and behaviour science at the RVC, said: “It’s really important that ferret keepers avoid hazardous rubber toys, narrow tunnels and claw-catching fabrics, because many of our respondents said these could injure their ferrets, sometimes requiring surgery or other veterinary assistance.

“The ferret keepers in our survey had some great tips about what ferrets seemed to most enjoy. Some are already commonly provided, such as wide tunnels, digging, and supervised exploration, but we’d like to encourage owners to try some of the rarer ones too. These included paper bags for ferrets to rustle about inside, supervised water play, and scent trails with a healthy treat at the end. Scents to try include prey animal scents from fur, feathers or used rodent bedding, or certain herbs and spices – but ferrets seem to dislike the smell of peppermint!”

Alice Dancer, PhD student at the RVC and lead author of the paper, said: “How animals are housed and the environmental enrichment they are given can have a significant impact on their health and wellbeing. The finding that large housing and high numbers of enrichment are possible in all ferret-keeping sectors is a really good sign for ferret welfare. We hope that these results help inspire ferret caretakers to consider the housing they use, offer ideas for new ferret enrichments, and raise awareness of enrichments which may harm their ferrets.”

Award-winning Milton Keynes-based pet accessory business, Barking Bags is set to exhibit for the first time at Glee which takes place from the 28-30 June at the NEC.

Regarded at the leading UK show for the garden centre trade, Barking Bags is set to attract buyers with its exciting range of bags which are specially designed for dog walkers but can also be adapted for a number of other uses such as carrying grooming equipment, garden tools for pottering around the garden and even carrying your pack lunch and other essentials whilst out on country walks or horse-riding.

Barking Bags was awarded the Business Start-Up of the Year at the prestigious Pet Industry Federation awards in 2021 and recently appeared on the popular BBC One TV show, Dragons' Den securing an offer of investment from Dragon, Sara Davies. The appearance on Dragons' Den led to a six month sell-out of stock in one night and a massive demand since for their bags from dog owners. They are now looking to expand the business by increasing their manufacturing capability and introducing new fabrics and designs to their range.

Barking Bags is the brainchild of Debbie Greaves and her partner Rob Angell, who were inspired by the need to find a bag that would carry all the paraphernalia that they needed when they were training and out on a walk with their dog, Maisie.

Barking Bags are fast becoming an essential companion for dog walkers. Their fashionable and multifunctional unisex design allows the wearer the flexibility to use them cross body or as a bum bag, helping dog walkers to carry everything they need without compromising on style.

Debbie said: “We have a range of high quality, water resistant, unisex fabrics and also high end luxury leather bags to choose from, but in response to customer demand, we also produce a vegan friendly range as well.”

Inspired by young British designers, Barking Bags make walking the dog easier, safer and more convenient. Their ingenious designs have mesh pockets for water bottles and soggy toys, a poo bag dispenser, a safe place for keys and mobile and much more. Some models have reflective strips for added safety when walking in the dark and Barking Bags sell police approved panic alarms that can be clipped onto the bags.

Barking Bags come with breathable side pockets with the option of a draw string side pocket – large enough to carry the dog waste once it is bagged up which means no more walking around carrying the unmentionable stuff.  As well as being practical, the bags make great gift items and would be great sellers in any garden centre.

The bags are packaged in the UK at MK SNAP - a local charity working with adults with learning difficulties. Barking Bags also work in partnership with other brands with environmental and ethical credentials and hope to become involved with more charities down the line.

Debbie is rapidly becoming an entrepreneurial expert and guest speaker and is regularly asked to do talks for organisations such as the Woman’s Institute and local business groups.

Barking Bag’s stand at GLEE is number 7C33

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Norfolk-based Natures Menu has received the Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award for the second year running.

Marking the company’s sixth year being awarded a prestigious Feefo accolade, this particular award recognises businesses that have consistently gone above and beyond to provide excellent customer service and deliver quality products. 

The Platinum Trusted Service Award acknowledges businesses that have received the Feefo Gold Trusted Service award for at least three years in a row.

Feedback is collated directly from the review platform, making the accreditation a symbol of trust in terms of customer service and product quality. Natures Menu collected 2,504 customer reviews over the past year, 2,048 of these were 5-Star ratings, which resulted in a 4.6 out of 5 for its customer experience and 4.7 out of 5 for the overall product rating. The latest award is a fantastic addition to the Norfolk-based pet food manufacturer’s already extensive trophy cabinet.

James Langan, managing director of Natures Menu, said: “It’s a tremendous achievement to be recognised with the Feefo Platinum Trusted Service award and the entire team are thrilled. This accolade marks another successful year of trading and is a true reflection of the teams’ hard work to provide the highest quality service and products for our customers and their four-legged friends.”

Retailers wanting to find out more information about Natures Menu and its range can email trade@naturesmenu.co.uk, phone 0800 0183770 or visit www.naturesmenu.co.uk/trade-landing. By registering for a trade account, retailers can gain access to online ordering, freezer deals and point of sale, plus free training and the option to become a qualified Raw Advisor.

Vets4Pets has appointed Gudrun Ravetz as head of workplace engagement.

In the new role she will work support the implementation of the British Veterinary Association’s Good Veterinary Workplaces Code across the business.
 
With more than 20 years’ experience, in the veterinary sector Gudrun has worked as a clinician in private practice and for charity, and is a former president of both the British Veterinary Association and the Society of Practising Veterinary Surgeons as well as chair for the British Veterinary Association’s Good Veterinary Workplace Working Group.

Gudrun said: “Having been heavily involved in the work leading up to the Good Veterinary Workplaces Code during my time at the British Veterinary Association, I can fully relate to the many pressures that veterinary workplaces are currently under. 

“Through supportive action and using evidence-based tools, I believe we can make a positive and lasting difference.
 
“It’s an honour to join Vets4Pets as we begin to implement its many commitments to improving the industry.

"I am excited to work towards a positive future for veterinary workplaces and being able to work with Vets4Pets to build a well-resourced and accessible tool for practices to implement good veterinary workplaces will help our practices to attract and retain the best clinical talent.”

Nine-year-old Johnathan Westacott from North Devon has walked an incredible 96 miles to raise vital funds for vet charity PDSA.

Following many months of intense training, Johnathan walked for a total of 59 hours, covering over 310,000 steps over eight days across the wild landscapes of Scotland, raising over £1,500 for PDSA, who provide vital veterinary care to sick and injured pets across the UK.

The animal-obsessed fundraiser took on the challenge alongside his family and their family dogs Fudge and Coco, sharing regular video updates on their Facebook page throughout the gruelling hike.

Johnathan’s mum, Jennifer Westacott (37) said: “We are so proud of Johnathan and his achievement – it’s an incredible distance and seeing him finish the West Highland Way walk in aid of his favourite charity PDSA has made me burst with pride.

“Myself and my husband, Andrew, walked alongside him, together with his nanny and grandad, so we could all support one another to get through the miles. It wasn’t easy but together we made it so we could be there for Jonathan and we all kept each other going despite the very tired legs and blisters!

“Johnathan has always loved animals, especially dogs, and he decided to take on the challenge and to raise funds for vet charity PDSA. He was inspired to support PDSA after watching the daily live feeds from Max Out in the Lakes Facebook page who share daily updates during their walks with three Spaniels, Max, Paddy and Harry in the Lake District. They have held many fundraising events for PDSA, so Johnathan wanted to follow in their footsteps and do the same!”

Ruth Lister from PDSA said: “Johnathan’s challenge is incredibly inspiring and we are very grateful to Johnathan and the whole family for their support. The funds raised through their amazing fundraising challenge means that we are able to continue our life-saving work, caring for pets whose owners have nowhere else to turn. We rely on the generosity of the pet-loving public who donate to make sure we can be there for a pet when they need us most. It’s thanks to inspiring fundraisers, such as Johnathan and his family, that we’re able to continue our life-saving work.”

So far Johnathan’s JustGiving page has raised over £1,500. Further donations to support his fundraiser for PDSA can be made at his Justgiving page – click here to view 

Brambles Pet and Wildlife is advising retailers to stock up on Brambles Hedgehog Food ahead of the forthcoming Hedgehog Awareness Week (HAW).

David Tracey, sales manager, said: "We’re getting ready for a bumper week of activity on Social Media during HAW where we’ll be giving away over £1000 worth of wildlife food and associated products for Wildlife Rescues in our popular giveaways.

"There’s always a huge increase in demand for our food during this period so we recommend retailers ordering much more of our hedgehog food than normal in time for HAW."

Top canine gift brand Yappy.com has become the latest organisation to join the national Safe Pets and People campaign.

The campaign, which is currently backed by the RSPCA, iPET Network, The Groomers Spotlight and Street Paws is calling for mandatory first aid qualifications for all pet professionals.

At the moment people who work with the nation's pets such as dog walkers, groomers and pet sitters do not have to know what to do in an emergency.

Many people in these industries believe that in order to show a high level of competence, regulation is essential, and a change.org petition has been launched at www.safepetsandpeople.org

Yappy.com, which provides a range of personalised canine-themed merchandise went one step further recently, by hosting a canine first aid course at its dog-friendly Manchester offices.

Safe Pets and People ambassador, qualified veterinary nurse and canine first aid expert Rachel Bean, said: "It is essential that our pet service industries take the welfare of animals seriously and make sure they know what to do in an emergency. 

"Many businesses do courses themselves because they really care, but without regulation we can never be sure that all animals are in good hands when they go to the groomer, sitter or walker. 

"It is wonderful that firms like Yappy.com are taking their responsibilities seriously too, and by spreading the word they are helping Safe Pets and People to make this much-needed change." 

Alison Parsons, PR Manager at Yappy.com said: “The team regularly bring their dogs into the office on a rotation basis and we’re always looking for new ways to improve our environment to ensure that the dogs are happy and safe.

“Our team recently attended Rachel Bean’s Canine First Aid course to ensure that our dog-loving team are better equipped to understand basic first aid and what to do if your pet is choking or suffering from heatstroke. After taking part in the course, our staff felt much more confident that they would know what to do if their pet falls ill or becomes injured.

“I would urge any professional working with dogs to sign up for the course and ensure they’re confident in handling an emergency situation whilst a much-loved pet is in their care.

"Having a basic knowledge of first aid ensures that you’re much better equipped to deliver potentially lifesaving procedures such as CPR and save precious minutes until you can get professional help.”  

Sarah Mackay and Fern Gresty of the iPET Network, which has spearheaded the campaign, said: "Thank you to Yappy.com for throwing their weight behind Safe Pets and People.

"This is an important cause, and we don't think that lots of people realise that the pet professionals they trust don't actually need to know what to do in a crisis.

"Big brands like Yappy.com spreading the word helps to get our message across to more people than ever, and we hope that everyone will sign the petition and make their feelings known."

To find out more and sign the petition go to www.safepetsandpeople.org 

People are flocking to watch Ceri Rundle’s interview on YouTube where she gives an insight into her background in dogs and how she gets the best from them when competing in sheepdog trials at the highest level.

Ceri was the first ever lady competitor in the Wales Team when she was interviewed at the Home International Championships final heats at Chatsworth in 1996.

In 1982 she was also the first ever woman to take part in BBC2’s One Man and His Dog series and says with her family background it was perhaps inevitable that she should follow in their footsteps…

Her Great-Grandmother was a shepherdess and her father H. Glyn Jones had an awe-inspiring pedigree, being a former International Supreme and Reserve Supreme Champion with his dog Gel and Reserve Supreme Champion with the famous homebred Bwlch Taff plus five times winner of the Brace Competition on One Man and His Dog with his dogs Gel and Bwlch Bracken.

In the interview Ceri says she first got started at about 8 years old and of course couldn’t have had a better teacher than her father!

Ceri highlights that “bonding with the dog”, “knowing the dog inside out” and “having a mutual respect between dog and handler” are critical elements to success in both everyday working sheep and high-level sheepdog trials.

Certainly seeing her compete with her Bwlch Hemp, who she describes as a big strong flashy dog and a loveable softy at home is a perfect illustration of her advice.

Towards the end of this rare interview Ceri mentions that it is quite unusual to have a sport where men and women can compete on level terms and her continuing success over the years since then has no doubt inspired many more women to follow her ground-breaking lead.

Not to be missed, with already over 1k viewers, see the full interview at 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zv6reGmq-3A

Private label dry pet food manufacturer, GA Pet Food Partners, will officially open its new state-of-the-art Ingredients Kitchen next month.

It will also introduce plans for a mutual journey to net zero that will ensure the business continues to provide industry-leading products for partner brands throughout the world, as well as a long-term vision to help to protect the local environment.

On Friday May 22, Alistair Bradley, Leader of Chorley Borough Council, will unveil the Ingredients Kitchen at Plocks Farm in Bretherton after five years of planning and an additional four years of construction. The new facility allows GA to know the source of all raw materials and provides complete traceability throughout the process.

GA will celebrate this huge achievement in collaboration with nearly 150 build contractors from across the world, from The Netherlands to Japan, bringing together a wide range of knowledge and expertise alongside GA colleagues who will now run and manage the facility.  

“The grand opening of the Ingredients Kitchen is GA’s opportunity to say thank you to all those involved in the design, construction and commissioning of this technologically advanced process and for them to be proud of their achievements," said chairman Roger Bracewell.

"I would also like to extend this thank you to our friends and neighbours and allow them to see what we have been building in their local area over the last four years.

"GA has been supported throughout by Chorley Council, and this encouragement has allowed GA to grow over the last 30 years, where we now employ over 850 people.

"As GA continues to look to the future, it hopes to work with local residents and the council on a mutual journey to a carbon-free world.”

GA is a private family-owned company that continues to develop and expand, keeping its stakeholders at the forefront of their developments.  

It demonstrates to its Partners (the name GA gives to its customers) that working with GA gives access to market-leading technology and high-quality ingredients, meeting the needs of the changing marketplace – allowing full traceability and provenance for every ingredient and ultimately ensuring brand success for Partners. 

The grand opening will be followed by an open weekend allowing employees and local residents to visit with their families to see up close what has been constructed. Fundamental to GA’s success are its employees. GA’s employees will showcase their expertise over the three days, demonstrating their level of skill and knowledge through various trade stands.

The company actively recruits from the local area, and there is an opportunity for residents to learn more about joining GA and becoming part of their journey. With over 30 years of experience producing pet food, GA continues to strive to remain at the forefront of the pet food market. Partnership is fundamental to GA’s existence, delivering Quality, Innovation and Integrity in everything they do.  

Visitors will also be able to hear more about GA’s 2050 net zero proposal for Bretherton and how this mutual journey would work and look. As a pet food manufacturer, the process requires significant heat and power. GA, therefore, needs to use renewable and carbon-free energy sources to minimise their impact on the world around them, continue to reduce their local environmental impact and provide a truly sustainable solution for their Partners and the pets that they feed.

The opening event will provide an opportunity to ask questions and fully understand how GA’s journey together with its local residents and GA employees will look and work for generations to come. Another fantastic way to find out the latest information about the mutual journey to net zero is via the #joinourGAjourney set up for local residents to provide comments about the proposals.

A film production company is looking to recruit dog owners and their pets for a new Channel 4 TV series.

Five Mile Films, makers of popular television programme ‘The Dog House’, needs misbehaving dogs and their owners for a new series called ‘The Dog Academy’.

“We’re hoping to hear from people who might be struggling with their dog’s behaviour and need help to overcome their dog’s issues,” said assistant producer Mel Beatson.

“From small quirks to life-impacting behaviour, we’ve assembled a team of the very best trainers in Britain to help owners transform their dogs once and for all. 

“The series will be filmed later this year, but we’d love to start hearing from people now.” 

Dog owners are now being invited to apply for an audition by emailing dogacademy@fivemilefilms.co.uk

Customers have welcomed the opening of a new family-run pet shop in a North-West town after seeing the closure of a nearby store.

Wayne and Suzanne Haslam recently unveiled The Pet Stop in Farnsworth Shopping Centre, Greater Manc and they said business had been good so far.

The new store has proved to be popular with pet owners after the closure of Nigel’s Pet Supplies in the same shopping precinct.

Nigel Cain, who closed his store at the beginning of April after 34 years, has helped Wayne and Suzanne to settle into their new business.

“Nigel’s help and support has been amazing because we’ve never run a shop before. We’ve known him for a few years,” said Wayne.

As well as running the new store in Farnworth, near Bolton, the couple also offer a delivery service.

“Custom has been good so far,” added Wayne.

Worldwise, a leading pet supplies platform, has acquired Pet Factory, an innovative company producing pet chews, treats, toys, and accessories. The deal was backed by private equity investment fund A&M CapitaL partners.

Worldwise has now completed three successful mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in the last four months, expanding its portfolio to include six complementary brands across several attractive product categories, including pet chews and treats, toys, litter accessories and pet bedding. 

“We are a different business today than we were six months ago, thanks to the continued success of our M&A strategy in bolstering the Worldwise platform with innovative brands, products and production capabilities that meet the highest standards of both quality and safety,” said Kevin Fick, CEO of Worldwise. 

“With this acquisition, Worldwise gains a leader in the chew and treat space with strategic domestic manufacturing capabilities and strong customer relationships. 

“The entire Worldwise team is thrilled to welcome Pet Factory to the family and to add their exceptional team to our platform.”

Founded in 1989 and headquartered in Mundelein, Illinois, Pet Factory is a leading US producer of high-quality pet chews and treats, and offers premium branded products for dogs through four core brands:

• CareChewz:  a 100% collagen, healthy, long-lasting, and safe daily chew.
• Twistedz:  a combo chew featuring a ‘twist’ of real chicken and/or beef meat around a beefhide chew.
• Real Chewz:  a 100% all-natural, oven-baked chew.
• Combo Wrap Chewz: a handmade chew that combines traditional rawhide, porkhide, and real meat jerky.

For more information about Worldwise visit www.worldwise.com.  

Nationwide pet retailer Jollyes has announced it will open its new flagship store at Wrexham’s Border Retail Park on Saturday May 7, creating 10 jobs as part of a £1m investment in the borough. 

And to launch the store, Jollyes has teamed up with the borough’s UK City of Culture 2025 bid as it aims to wow judges who have already selected Wrexham for the final four shortlist in the competition. 

With the support of the 2025 bid team, Jollyes will also host a competition of its own to celebrate the store opening.   

Britain’s first ‘Pet Passion Show’ will take place outside the new store on opening day as Jollyes launches a search for the pets and owners with the most loving relationships to take to the Jollyes red-carpet catwalk. 

Jollyes’ pioneering Pet Passion Show is not about finding the most beautiful pets in Wrexham – it’s about finding the 10 most amazing relationships between pets and their owners in the borough, to celebrate how pets can lift their owners’ lives. 

And the passion show won’t just be for dogs, but all kinds of pets and their owners. Those selected to take part will get a Jollyes opening day goody bag and their pets will get a free makeover in the store’s new spa. 

Applications from Wrexham borough-based owners (or the cleverest of pets) including a picture and story can be made by posting pictures and their stories at the Jollyes Instagram site (https://www.instagram.com/jollyesuk/] with the hashtag #JollyesPetParade.  

Wrecsam 2025 bid team member and destination manager Joe Bickerton and his dog Milly will also take to the red carpet on opening day. 

Jollyes’ new Wrexham store will be a landmark one for the pet retailer. As well as selling a wide range of pet food and accessories, the store will feature “The Spa”, Jollyes’ high-quality dedicated dog grooming salon, and a pet clinic.  

Jollyes chief operating officer Joe Wykes said: “Wrexham is the perfect location for us to open what will be one of our flagship stores. Not only do we know that the people of Wrexham love their pets, but they also live in of one of the most vibrant boroughs in the UK that as the 2025 City of Culture bid shows, is going places. We can’t wait to open our doors in May.” 

Joe Bickerton, from the Wrecsam 2025 City of Culture bid, said: “Wrexham County is an amazing place to live, work and invest and the county has real momentum at the moment.  

“It’s fantastic news that Jollyes the Pet People have chosen Wrexham as a destination for their flagship store. We’ve had lots of community events promoting our bid and were delighted when we were approached by Jollyes the pet people asking if they could also hold an event promoting our bid as part of their store opening.  

“I’m really looking forward to this quirky and fun event that I’m sure will be a great success.” 

The Border Retail Park store will be Jollyes’ second store in North Wales, complementing its popular outlet at the Flintshire Retail Park, Flint. 

The opening will mark an important stage in the retailer’s plans that will see Jollyes open 20 stores in this calendar year across the UK. 

More details about the store’s launch plans, including timings for the Pet Passion Show, will be released in the week of opening.