Wetherby-based Discount Feeds has been named UK Pet Retailer of the Year in the prestigious PetQuip Industry Awards 2023. Jo Sutton, who owns the store with husband Rob, reveals the secrets of her company’s success.

What does this award mean to you?

This award means the world. We are a small local business focusing on being the best that we can be. To have our store recognised by PetQuip is just a dream come true.

Who works in the business?

It’s a family run business. I am in the shop full time, and we have four part-time staff. My husband Rob does all the building work instore – designing new racking and repairs etc. He works away during the week as a telecoms engineer. Rob is also my support network – he is always there to pick up the pieces, give me encouragement and listen to new ideas.

How long has the store been operating?

The original shop was established in February 2009. We purchased the store in February 2019. I had been the instore dog groomer for three years and when the opportunity came quite unexpectedly to take over the reins I jumped at the chance. I promised my husband Rob I could make it work.

Do you just sell pet food?

The shop initially started focusing on horse feed, and this quickly grew to incorporate pets and other animals. We now carry a large selection of feeds for all animals, from reptiles to small animal, cat, dog, horse, poultry, wild bird and farm animals. There is also a huge accessories range, including beds, leads and collars, harnesses, and treats…the list is endless. We now cover every pet requirement. I am always watching the industry – this year was my seventh trip to PATS. It’s so important for us to keep up to date and stay relevant.

Are all your products discounted?

When the shop was first established there was a focus on price. I have changed the focus from price to service, knowledge and trust. I try to be fair with our pricing, I balance the needs of the business and the customer to find a strategy that works and add value with our customer experience instore. I think it’s important too to ensure we consider the brands we stock – we wouldn’t want to devalue a brand, so we work closely with all reps to maintain a good relationship. There are exciting plans to rebrand the store, to incorporate our ethos and dispel the myths that our main focus is price.

What makes your store so special?

We strive to provide the best service we can. Team work is really important – I never underestimate how important the team is to operating successfully and happily. Our staff are hugely valued individually and as a team, and in turn love working here and mirror my desire to provide an excellent customer experience. My knowledge and passion for animal feeds, particularly canine, seems to be a key feature for our customers.

Do you hold special events, competitions and initiatives?

Yes, lots. There is always something coming soon or being worked on in the background. Most recently we held a charity fund-raising day for a local event rider who is taking part in a charity horse race. We were heavily involved in collecting and transporting donations for the Ukraine Appeal, in just seven days we sent seven pallets of donations. We hold a Christmas shopping evening in December so customers can join us for a mince pie and browse the store. We are main sponsor of our local country show to support them, and in turn this event always raises the profile of Discount Feeds. We’re constantly running brand awareness initiatives, both instore and on social media, and I am a huge fan of a retailer display competition – my favourite involved me wearing an inflatable banana suit stood in a paddling pool full of feed!. So yes, there’s always something happening here.

Do you offer a delivery service?

We do, Tuesday is our main order and delivery day. However, I often drop items off on my way home as we live in the town and try to help out where we can.

What sets you apart from the rest?

I suspect the answer might be me – the experiences in my life have set me up and given me the knowledge needed to own a pet shop. I have always run the shop based on how I would like to have a shopping experience. I worked in market research for 10 years which gave great insight into customer requirements. We have a great reputation for advice, which I am particularly proud of. My educational background is in science and nutrition, holding a BSc (Hons) Equine Science. I was one of the first to complete the iPet Level 3 in Canine Nutrition, and I like to keep up to date with the latest research and advances in the area. I try to be active on the shop floor, interacting with customers and am always happy to discuss various topics if prompted. We always try to be unbiased in our approach – I feel our recommendations should be based on individuals and not the ‘bestsellers’. It’s important to understand the full situation and work with some animals for long periods of time. I’m also conscious that situations evolve, especially in the world we currently live in or due to health changes, and where necessary I’ll update my advice to reflect this.

How do you keep your regular customers happy?

Consistency is key but also flexibility. Our size really helps our adaptability, and our ability to provide a personal service. We face challenges as everyone does, but it’s how we deal with them that makes us stand out. I feel that we have a very loyal customer base, sometimes I even know the order when I see the car drive around the corner.

See below a gallery of pictures from the award-winning pet store...

PATS has smashed all records with the two-day show at Telford in Shropshire attracting its highest ever attendance figures since the event was launch in 2009.

A total of 2,332 retailers and buyers came through the doors of the Telford International Centre, which was 7% higher than the previous record set at PATS Telford last year.

The largest-ever PATS show, staged in three halls, closed with visitors and exhibitors agreeing it had been a huge success, with the event delivering an unrivalled platform for the launch of hundreds of exciting new pet product innovations. 

As well as a record number of exhibitors – more than 260 in total – the New Product Showcase attracted the highest-ever entry of nearly 400.

Organiser Gordon Thomas said many of the companies exhibiting at PATS Telford were eager to point out the quality of people visiting their stands had been of the highest standard.

“Exhibitors told us they met with the key decision makers and buyers, and that was good to hear because we put in place measures that ensured the right people attended. Overall, the response to PATS Telford 2023 has been excellent and positive, and proves that the pet industry is firmly behind this show. We can’t wait to stage our first-ever three-day show next year.”

The overwhelming reaction from exhibitors was one of great delight.

Amy Spratt, brand manager of Coya Pet, commented: “We had a fantastic show. It was only our second time at PATS after launching at Sandown in March but our stand enjoyed visits from a huge number of current and potential trade customers. The event gave us the opportunity to have quality conversations with the audience and we couldn’t be happier. We can’t wait for next year, and we will be back bigger and better than ever.”

Sean Kelly, founding director of Petcon-UK, agreed that it had been a highly successful show, adding: “It was great to catch up with old friends, to make new ones and share the excitement around our brand and product developments.”

Gerard O’Mahony, managing director of Pedigree Wholesale, said: “We had a very busy PATS show, and it was great to round it off with no less than four PetQuip Awards.”

The Canagan Group also reported having a great show. Commercial director Charlie Williams commented: “We had a fantastic experience. PATS provides us with an excellent platform to connect with industry professionals, gain valuable market insights, and establish relationships, making it a truly successful and rewarding experience.”

Martin Breen, director of pet care at Group55, said: “We had a great PATS, our busiest ever. It was great to see so many visitors to our stand, both established customers and new buyers alike, and the enthusiasm for Animology really shone through. We launched a number of new product lines at the show, and these were particularly well received, with many orders placed. As always, it was a pleasure to catch up with our many friends across our unique industry, and we look forward to PATS 2024.”

And Rob Newsome, director sales and operations at Danish Design, added: “PATS Telford is the show not to be missed, we get busier every year without a doubt.”

The New Starter Zone proved to be a big hit with visitors, a fact backed up by exhibitor Furr Boost. The brand’s founder Louise Toal said: “We had a jammed packed stand for both days of the show. We met a lot of new customers who had either seen the product over social media and in the press or had received requests from their customers to stock the range.”

Visitors were attracted in their droves to the WHM Pet Group stand, which took on a ‘Birdie’ theme to signify the launch of new wild bird products. Brand manager Emily Scruton commented: “We like to have a bit of fun at the show and people keep returning to our stand every year just to see what the theme is. We love being part of this event.”

PATS Telford also got the thumbs up from visitors.

Jo Sutton, owner of Discount Feeds in Wetherby, crowned UK Pet Retailer of the Year at the PetQuip Awards, said: “This year was my seventh trip to PATS. It’s so important for us to keep up to date and stay relevant, and the event helps us to do that every year.”

Jo Milnes, Distinctive Pets in Yorkshire, commented: “I think the show is important to the industry as it gives people the chance to talk face to face. I loved the New Starter Zone.” 

The final word was left to retail group petplace, which has a number of stores across North Wales. “It was great to visit PATS Telford again this year and meet with leading industry experts. We work closely with the brands we stock so it was great to catch up face to face and discuss how we can continue to strive towards our shared vision. It was fantastic to meet new suppliers to the trade and the quality of new products this year was incredible. We are so excited to see what's next.”

Date for the diary:

PATS Telford 2024 – Telford International Centre
Sunday, 29th September – Tuesday, 1st October 2024

There are just a few final tickets still available for the Pet Industry Federation Awards 2023 event on Thursday 9 November at Chesford Grange Hotel, Kenilworth, Warwickshire, when the UK pet industry finds out the winners of the most coveted awards in the pet industry. 

Nigel Baker, CEO of the Pet Industry Federation, commented: “The PIF Awards bring together all the great and good from the pet industry to celebrate the achievements and successes across a range of pet service and supplier companies. We are looking forward to welcoming our guests of honour, James Middleton from James & Ella and Yuriy Tokarski from the U-Hearts Foundation; and with a great venue, band, drinks reception and three course menu already booked, it’s guaranteed to be a fantastic evening to meet up with customers and colleagues and celebrate the pet industry.”

Generously supported by platinum sponsor Jollyes and headline sponsors, Cliverton, Collar, Lopay and Su-Bridge, the 2023 Awards will celebrate 20 categories of pet businesses and are the perfect showcase for the breadth of the pet industry, highlighting inspirational success stories from the past 12 months.

Tickets to the black-tie event include a complementary drinks reception, three course meal with wine and live entertainment.

Full details, including finalist names and ticket purchasing can be found at www.petfederation.co.uk. 

Astrapet Ltd, a pioneering UK pet retail business with a rich 31-year history, has been acquired by Pets Corner owner, the Pet Family Group.

Founded three decades ago as a modest single-shop venture, Astrapet Ltd has since evolved into a highly regarded, award-winning small chain, boasting an impressive portfolio of Natural World Pets stores in Leicester and Northampton, and K9 by Natural World stores in Newark and Northants.

This exciting partnership will see Astrapet Ltd's stores continue to operate under their current brandings, and delivering the exceptional independent advice and unparalleled customer service that has become synonymous with Astrapet Ltd.

The Pet Family Group, which encompasses the renowned Pets Corner, shares Astrapet Ltd's values as a family-run enterprise. The addition of Astrapet Ltd expands the Pet Family Group's reach, already comprising 151 thriving pet retail stores, 40 dog grooming spas, a veterinary business, and a diverse array pet foods and accessories.

Dean Richmond, the CEO of Pets Corner, said: “Like Pets Corner, Scott Hendry's business Natural World and K9 has been built on a culture of caring and knowledgeable staff selling the best products. I'm truly excited to share our products with them and learn from those they work with to continue their successful trading.”

Astrapet Ltd's journey from its humble beginnings to its current standing as a key player in the pet retail industry is a testament to its commitment to quality and service. As it joins forces with the Pet Family Group, this partnership heralds a new chapter filled with potential, innovation, and shared dedication to providing the best for pets and their owners.

Dean Richmond toasts the deal with Scott Hendry.

Barnsley-based pet food company Walker & Drake has secured a nationwide distribution deal with Pedigree Wholesale which will expose the company’s product range to a much wider customer base.

Walker & Drake recently exhibited at PATS Telford for the first time this year where it launched the new wet food and salmon oil. The stand was extremely busy with existing and potential customers drawn to the vibrant packaging of the range. The company is now following up the leads from the show including interest from a distributor in Japan.

Walker & Drake has received industry recognition in a short space of time. It was voted in 2020 by Yorkshire Insider Magazine as one of the top 50 companies to watch. They were also a finalist in 2021 in both the PetQuip and Pet Industry Federation Awards receiving Highly Commended for the Best New Pet Product (Food) at the PetQuip Awards and this year, they were finalists in four categories in the PetQuip Awards and are nominated in two categories in the PIF Awards which will be presented later on his year. 

Tim Matthews, who founded the business with fellow directors David Taylor and Richard Grant, said: “Walker & Drake was formed with the clear intention of producing a British made, complete nutritional dog food made using the ‘minimal processing’ Cold Pressed technique and good quality ingredients.

“At Walker & Drake we have developed great products with clear nutritional advantages, we strive to create a culture of integrity, to communicate clearly and honestly with our customers, and to educate and support our stockists.

“The shelves are full of too much of the same type of packaging with mixed and confusing messaging. We’re on a mission to change that with big, bold, playful and colourful branding.

“With Cold Pressed being essentially an artisan process (real people operating real machines!)  We can be quite dynamic with our production. We make and bag regular batches to keep best before dates long and move stock quickly through the system. We are particular about ingredient quality and source. We also keep batch samples for traceability and quality consistency purposes.

“We source ingredients within the UK where possible and we feel that with regard to sustainability, we are doing what we can by using as many ingredients that are part of the human food production process.  Our new wet food comes in Tetra Pak cartons.  The single piece of packaging makes it smaller and more compact meaning less lorries on the road, contributing to a smaller carbon footprint. Tetra Pak® has its own recycling plant in the UK, enabling its cartons to be remade into everything from roof tiles to toilet roll cores. Their investment in UK recycling means that over 94% of councils collect the cartons, either from the roadside or from recycling centres

 “We are looking forward to furthering our relationship with Pedigree Wholesale and to see where this will take the brand as we now have nationwide distribution. We are also delighted to have been recognised by the industry having been nominated for so many awards this year.”

For further information visit: www.walkeranddrake.com

Specialist dog toy brand PetLove has made puppy play the focus of its two latest product launches. Aptly named, Puppy Plushies and Puppy Tuffers the new ranges are designed to provide safe, durable toys that encourage constructive and positive play habits.

The Puppy Plushies collection comprises cuddly friends; Howie, Suzy, Sylvia, Kelvin, and Jimbo. Made from recycled plastic bottles these fun, colourful toys feature strong multi-layered, double stitched materials, and contain a natural rubber squeaker. The Puppy Plushies are supplied with multi-lingual recycled packaging and can themselves be recycled when they have been outgrown.

Designed to withstand the rigours of tough play and puppy mouthing, the Puppy Tuffers range includes a Baby Dragon, Fish, Fox, and Elephant characters, each of which has been created from vibrant nylex with  nylon taped edges, and a recycled poly-fibre inner.  These safe, non-toxic materials have been double stitched to ensure durabilty. The new toys come with minimal recyled, multi-lingual packaging.

Puppy Plushies and Puppy Tuffers are available to order now via Interpet’s trade website https://trade.interpet.co.uk/

Award-winning herbal pet care experts Dorwest Herbs calming supplements are ‘proven to calm’ from a 2022 trial conducted within a University of Cambridge Department of Veterinary medicine degree.

Results showed 87% of participants perceived less fireworks anxiety symptoms in their dogs after using Dorwest Scullcap & Valerian Tablets.

Many pets dislike loud noises, with some even developing debilitating phobias. With firework phobias in dogs increasingly common, anxiety issues for dogs and owner distress have risen significantly in recent years. The 2022 trial sought to determine the efficacy of Dorwest’s calming supplements and included 46 participants and their dogs using Scullcap & Valerian Tablets.

Trial participants were provided with the recommended quantity of tablets according to dog weight, and were supplemented over the ‘fireworks period’ from September to November 2022. The participating dogs’ fear response was measured pre and post supplementation of Scullcap & Valerian Tablets. 

40 out of 46 owners noted a reduction in anxious behaviours demonstrated by their dogs after exposure to fireworks with supplementation, in comparison with anxious behaviours displayed pre-supplementation with exposure to fireworks. Therefore the majority of participating owners reported a much-improved change in their dog’s behaviour in response to fireworks and loud noises after using Scullcap & Valerian Tablets.

Managing Director Jo Boughton-White comments: “Whether it’s one month or one day before bonfire night, Dorwest can help. The 2022 trial proves how calming supplements can really make a difference in supporting anxious behaviours – but it’s important to start preparation as early as possible.”

Naturally support your pet's firework fear with award-winning herbal pet care experts at Dorwest Herbs this autumn. With 75 years of experience, Dorwest herbal supplements are formulated to naturally help dogs and cats relax, using pharmaceutical quality herbs full of active compounds. They can calm activity in the nervous system without affecting muscles, so you & your pet can relax.

Swift Referrals, a small animal specialist referral hospital located in Wetherby, West Yorkshire, has recently been awarded gold cat friendly status by the International Society of Feline Medicine.

The certification was driven by vet nurse Molly Parkinson, who is a strong believer in advocating for feline patients and worked hard to make sure standards were achieved to secure the gold status. 

She said: “Achieving this award meant we had to look closely at our hospital and make changes to ensure high quality of care and provide best possible facilities for our feline patients."

In addition to Swift Referrals providing separate wards for both canine and feline patients as well as separate waiting area booths for cats, a consult room has been adapted to be dedicated to feline patients only. 

This, alongside implementing longer appointment times which allows cats to roam and become accustomed to the practice environment, means the practice is really considering the unique feline patient requirements. 

Alongside hospital changes, the team chose to undertake refresher training in feline patient handling and behaviour management to ensure best practice is achieved. Doing so makes the overall stay for feline patients as stress free as possible, in turn helping to reduce recovery times and hospitalisation length. 

Feline patients at Swift Referrals can benefit from large kennel spaces within quiet dedicated wards. The team, including animal care assistants, work hard to provide excellent environmental enrichment and mental stimulation during the patients stay. This is achieved through various toys and feeding puzzles as well as background music, pheromone therapy, feline friendly cat hides and the use of iPads for cat TV. 

The animal care assistants also work to ensure plenty of fuss, cuddles and grooming is achieved. Separate bedding and blankets are used for cats, and these are laundered separately. 

Cheryl Murray, clinical nurse manager at Swift Referrals, said: “Achieving Gold Standard in this award shows just how hard we work to achieve the best standards of care for all of our patients.” 

This is the latest advancement for a team that already provides multidisciplinary referrals in internal medicine, soft tissue, orthopedics and neurology. Part of the IVC Evidensia Referral Network, Swift Referrals boasts world-class facilities including on-site CT and MRI and a 24/7 dedicated intensive care unit.

For more information about Swift Referrals, visit www.swiftreferrals.co.uk.

Award-winning Mr Bug has added a National Sustainability Award for Innovation to its growing trophy cabinet.

For owner Conal Cunningham such reaffirming recognition is testament to his team’s commitment to championing the rural economy, the government’s willing to support his vision with a generous Innovate grant and the pet industry’s slow yet progressive move to functional foods for dogs, mimicking the fastest growing trend in human food

“Clearly as a young dog treat disruptor we’re keen for the national pet shop providers to champion brands like ours that shine a light on superior nutrition and junk food avoidance for dogs,” said Conal.

“Perhaps the biggest frustration is with the major supermarkets with their significant pet food fixtures aren’t taking the opportunity to evolve their pet food offers at the same speed they are the other human-centric aisles.  

“Like human food there are simply too many lazy, mass-produced foods packed with low-grade ingredients lazy fillers, salt and sugar.  With 40% of UK dogs clinically obese, it’s an easy win for progressive supermarkets to further differentiate themselves from their play-safe peers.”

Over the past year Mr Bug has won: 

• Pet Quip Gold - Organic & Green award
• Nourish Gold – Ingredient integrity
• Global Good Gold – best SME
• Blue Patch – Sustainability award
• Ethical Shopping accreditation

Mrbug.co.uk

East Sussex-based premium raw dog food manufacturer, Benyfit Natural has announced the launch of its new Christmas range of raw dog food, available from Monday (October 16).

The festive range features two nutritious Christmas Dinner options from their Complete & Balanced range and their 80-10-10 Meat Feast range. 

These Christmas Dinners are sure to appeal to dog owners who want to give their canine companions a special treat this holiday season. With high-quality ingredients and a focus on nutrition, these limited-edition meals are a healthy and delicious option for dogs. 

Both dinners are made from premium ingredients and provide dogs with a nutritious and tasty meal this Christmas. 

The Complete Turkey Christmas Dinner includes a nutritious mix of Turkey meat, bone + offal combined with seasonal vegetables including parsnips, broccoli, carrots, and brussels sprouts (a Christmas essential). These hearty vegetables are seamlessly complemented by the sweetness of cranberries. 

The 80-10-10 Christmas Dinner includes a three-bird feast, made with the best quality, human-grade meat including tasty turkey, duck, and goose.

These limited-edition festive meals are available now in 500g tubs and can be ordered online on the Benyfit Natural website.

Greg Van Praagh, Head of UK & Europe at RPFC, comments: “Christmas is our favourite time of year and it makes complete sense to include our dogs in these celebrations. Every year our customers love our festive meals and we’re delighted that they are returning for another festive season.

“We are providing dogs with a quality Christmas Dinner that is full of nutrition alongside some festive favourites like turkey, brussels sprouts and cranberries. It’s so important to make sure that our dogs are always waking up to something special on Christmas Day.”

Benyfit Natural’s mission is to provide natural, wholesome diets for dogs to improve their health and well-being. The launch of seasonal recipes will ensure dogs can be part of the Christmas celebrations whilst still getting the best nutrition through quality ingredients.

Available now at www.benyfitnatural.co.uk

Available in 500g tubs

Natural Cornish Pet is reminding owners that it’s time to think about conditioning dogs for the winter. This is particularly true when it comes to older dogs who start to feel the effects of the cold weather on their joints and coat and skin.

There are many reasons why you should introduce fish into your dog’s diet. Fish is a great source of Omega 3 which is an essential fatty acid. It has anti-inflammatory properties which help to condition the coat and skin and aid in joint mobility and cardiac health. The omega oils contained in fish are also great for brain development.

If you feed your dogs certain types of fish treats, you will find that they are great for their dental health as the rough texture of dried fish skin encourages dogs to chew and remove any tartar from their teeth. They can also aid in digestion as fish protein reduces the growth of unwanted gut bacteria and is a help for dogs with sensitive tummies and older dogs with slower digestive systems. Fish is also low in fat so it is perfect as a tasty treat, avoiding any obesity issue which is so important in aging dogs.

Specialising in natural pet foods, treats and quality pet accessories, Natural Cornish Pet based in St Erth, Cornwall has a tasty range of fish-based toppers and treats to reward your dog with, as well as a cold-pressed food range that contains fish.

The fish treat range includes bags of natural dried sprats, fish finger chews, salmon potato cookies, white fish cookies and white fish cubes. All are available to buy in a range of bag sizes from small treat pouch size up to 1kg bags.

Natural Cornish Pet’s Boost and Nourish range consists of meal toppers in Cornish Salmon, Cornish Whitefish and Cornish Redfish varieties. These are ideal for adding that fishy goodness to any meal. 

For further information visit www.naturalcornishpet.co.uk

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Paramount Retail Group has announced the appointment of Peter Brame as the Group Trading Director. He will oversee trading operations for the entire group, including Vital Pet Products.

With a wealth of industry knowledge and expertise, having worked in various capacities within buying and merchandising for over two decades Peter is poised to lead Paramount Retail Group to new heights. His extensive experience within the pet trade makes him uniquely qualified to address the challenges and opportunities in this dynamic sector.

"I am very happy to have joined the Paramount Retail Group team and taking on the role of Group Trading Director," said Peter Brame. "Vital Pet Products has a storied history, and I am looking forward to contributing to its resurgence among both suppliers and pet trade customers. Working alongside our hardworking & dedicated teams, I’m sure we will achieve our goals."

Peter's appointment reflects Paramount Retail Group's commitment to strengthening its position in the pet industry and revitalizing the Vital Pet Products brand. His strategic vision, leadership, and deep understanding of the pet trade will play a pivotal role in achieving these objectives.

"We are delighted to welcome Peter Brame to the Paramount Retail Group family," said Sunny Sharma, Director at Paramount Retail Group.

"His knowledge, experience and passion for the pet industry align perfectly with our plans for the future. Peter's leadership will be instrumental in re-establishing Vital Pet Products as a trusted and respected name among suppliers and pet trade customers."

HugglePets, an independent pet retailer and wholesaler in Wolverhampton, has made two new key appointments – Tom Gwilliam as Sales and Marketing Director and Frances Marshall as Online Marketplace and Data Supervisor.

After 17 years in the pet trade specialising in accessory design, Tom will assist the company in its latest endeavour to introduce more ranges developed under the HugglePets brand. This will include an all-encompassing product range for dogs that includes both walking and grooming accessories in a wide variety. This range will follow such branded products as the bestselling HugglePets Fabric Crate Foldable Pet Carrier, launched in 2019, and the dog superfood Skye & Murphy, launched in 2022.

Tom said: “I am looking forward to being part of the HugglePets team and helping to implement some really exciting growth plans. It’s a fantastic time to join such a dynamic business; the range of new products planned over the coming weeks is our largest launch to date and plenty more on the way.”

Fran joins with 16 years’ experience in the pet trade specialising in aquatics and reptiles.

With plentiful experience in both retail and e-commerce, Fran brings with her a whole host of skills that will help HugglePets reach new heights.

“I'm really excited to be part of the HugglePets family and working on a whole host of new ideas and ranges,” said Fran.

Mars has announced that Najoh Tita-Reid, current Chief Marketing Officer of Logitech, will join the company as Chief Brand & Experience Officer for the Petcare segment on November 20. 

The newly created role will see Tita-Reid lead the growth agenda, helping create a seamless brand and consumer experience across the Mars Petcare portfolio of brands and services, reporting to Leonid Sudakov, President Growth, Digital & Platforms.

Tita-Reid brings leadership experience from some of the world’s largest companies across the technology, health care, pharmaceutical and consumer-packaged-goods sectors, including Bayer, Merck, GlobalHue, P&G and most recently Logitech. As Global Chief Marketing Officer at Logitech she was responsible for worldwide marketing, brand equity, creative, branded and direct-to-consumer e-commerce sites, and marketing transformation across 120 countries.

Mars Petcare has more than doubled in the last decade to become a global leader in pet nutrition, health, and services businesses, serving half the world’s pets. This move signals the continued focus on digitalization and technology to accelerate business transformation, drive growth and better serve millions of pets and pet owners.

Leonid Sudakov, President Growth, Digital & Platforms, Mars Petcare said: “I’m delighted to welcome Najoh to the team. She is an exceptional marketer and globally recognized leader, known for building strong, diverse and inclusive teams. She will bring her broad and impressive experience across tech, health care and consumer goods to help us scale our impact and accelerate our digital transformation, allowing us to better meet the needs of pet owners and transform the experience of pet ownership.'"

Najoh Tita-Reid commented: “I am thrilled to join Mars Petcare at such a pivotal moment, to help lead the next phase of growth. It is a business I have long admired for its inspiring Purpose, great people and amazing brands - and it has already proven that incumbents can innovate, transform, and grow. I’m looking forward to joining the team to help solve the everyday challenges facing pet owners.”

IVC Evidensia has teamed up with The DPJ Foundation on a new initiative to support those in the agricultural sector, which was launched prior to World Mental Health Day on Tuesday (October 10).

Farm vets now have access to Mental Health Awareness in Agriculture training through the Foundation and the first session took place in September. 

The objective of the training is to provide vets with the skills to spot the signs of mental health crises and equip them with the resources to signpost anyone in need to appropriate support, as well as understanding how to deliver difficult news to farming clients about their livestock while protecting their own mental health. 

The Foundation was set up in 2016 in memory of agricultural contractor Daniel Picton-Jones and aims to support those in farming, where it is common to spend long periods working alone. 

It works with many leading organisations in agriculture and by offering training to vets, who are often the most frequent visitors to farms, it hopes to bring greater awareness and help to those who need it.

Kay Helyar, Training Manager for The DPJ Foundation, said: “We are grateful to IVC Evidensia for asking us to deliver Mental Health Awareness in Agriculture Training to veterinary practices across the UK.

“Vets play a vital role in supporting farmers’ mental health. Farming can be an isolated occupation and many farmers sadly feel that poor mental health is a sign of weakness. Typically, a farmer will see their vet far more frequently than their doctor and it is often a trusted relationship. 

“If vets can learn how to spot the signs that someone is struggling, how to talk to them about it, and where they can signpost to support, that small intervention could make a huge difference.” 

The team at Steffan Vets were some of the first to take part in the training. Jim Hopkins, Clinical Director and Vice Chair of the Farm Animal Clinical Board, commented: “The training provided the team and I with a great overview of the signs we can look out for in our clients as well as how we can protect our own mental health when dealing with the difficult decisions and tough situations that come with providing veterinary care to herds of animals. 

“Vets develop close relationships with their clients, and we often notice subtle changes in their mood. I am now well placed to offer reassurance and signpost specific help and support. I would highly recommend it to all of my colleagues within our farm network.”

Providing mental health support to farm vet colleagues and having the resources available to signpost support to agricultural communities is one of the core fundamentals of the newly launched Positive Hoofprint toolkits that support farm practices in becoming more sustainable.  

Beyond the new initiative with the DPJ Foundation, IVC Evidensia continues to build on the wellbeing support it offers to colleagues. There are now more than 500 people in the UK qualified as Mental Health First Aiders and a further 100 acting as Wellbeing Champions in practices and SOC teams. 

For more information on Farm Vets, head over to the website here. 

A new VetCompass study from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has revealed that veterinary prescription of antibiotics at first presentation of uncomplicated diarrhoea in dogs causes no difference in clinical resolution of these cases.

The study suggests that dogs with uncomplicated diarrhoea do not need antibiotics as part of their veterinary care plans. These findings will help veterinary surgeons provide the best care for their dog patients while also avoiding unnecessary use of antibiotics, and also ensure that owners know what to expect when seeking veterinary advice.

Diarrhoea is the sixth most common disorder affecting dogs annually in the UK. The condition can cause stress and discomfort for affected dogs and can be challenging for owners to manage. While antibiotics can be beneficial for some diarrhoea cases when there is a known bacterial infection or septicaemia, for decades antibiotics have been commonly prescribed even without evidence of a bacterial cause in the belief that they were helpful in uncomplicated diarrhoea cases too.

Until now, there has been limited research to show the value either way of antibiotics for treating uncomplicated diarrhoea. Over-use or inappropriate use of antibiotics in animals has been linked with rising levels of antibiotic resistance that is considered one of the most serious health-related problems worldwide. Therefore, evidence on the value of antibiotic use to treat diarrhoea in dogs is essential to support veterinary surgeons to achieve the best clinical management of diarrhoea whilst also contributing to global efforts on responsible antibiotic use.

Led by the RVC’s VetCompass Programme, this study is based on the anonymised clinical records from more than two million dogs under first opinion veterinary care in the UK in 2019. Clinical trials (namely randomised controlled trials) are considered “gold standard” for estimating causal treatment effects but are not always feasible or ethical. Therefore, this study used novel methods of causal inference “target trial emulation” to estimate real-world causal effects from veterinary electronic clinical records. Causal inference from large databases (“Big Data”) can be viewed as an attempt to emulate (i.e., replicate) a randomised controlled trial - the target trial - to answer a question of interest that often cannot be answered in any other way.

The study included a random sample of 894 dogs aged between three months and 10 years old diagnosed with uncomplicated diarrhoea during 2019. Of these, 355 (39.7%) dogs were prescribed antibiotics, and 539 (60.3%) dogs were not prescribed antibiotics (with or without additional supportive treatment) at first presentation for diarrhoea. In the analysis, these dogs were balanced for a range of other differences between the groups including age, breed, bodyweight, insurance status, the presence of two or more medical conditions, vomiting, reduced appetite, blood in faeces, raised temperature, duration of diarrhoea, additional treatment prescription and veterinary group. This effectively meant that the only difference between the two groups was that one group received antibiotic treatment while the other did not.

The likelihood of clinical resolution of diarrhoea in the dogs prescribed antibiotics was 88.3%, compared with 87.9% in dogs not prescribed antibiotics. This tiny difference of 0.4% between the groups was not statistically significant, leading to the conclusion that antibiotic treatment did not cause any beneficial effects in the treatment of uncomplicated diarrhoea in dogs. Almost nine in 10 dogs with uncomplicated diarrhoea recovered after a single veterinary visit regardless of antibiotic treatment.

As an additional analysis, the study also explored gastrointestinal nutraceuticals (products derived from food sources that aim to restore digestive health such as probiotics and prebiotics) for treatment of uncomplicated diarrhoea in dogs. Gastrointestinal nutraceutical prescription (with or without other supportive treatment) at first presentation of uncomplicated diarrhoea caused no statistically significant difference in clinical resolution compared to dogs not prescribed gastrointestinal nutraceuticals.

Camilla Pegram, VetCompass PhD student at the RVC and lead author of the paper, said:

“This study used an exciting new approach that allowed us to determine ‘cause’ rather than being limited to ‘association’. Diarrhoea is a common condition in dogs and is often treated with antibiotics. However, this study highlighted that antibiotic prescription at first presentation of diarrhoea caused no difference in clinical resolution. Therefore, this arms veterinarians with the evidence-base for restricting antibiotics for uncomplicated diarrhoea in dogs, and owners should be prepared to only have an antibiotic prescription if absolutely necessary.”

Dr Dan O’Neill, Associate Professor in Companion Animal Epidemiology at the RVC and co-author of the paper, said:

“During 20 years as a veterinarian in first opinion practice, I was crying out for good evidence that could help me to provide better care for my patients for common conditions in dogs such as diarrhoea. VetCompass has started to fill these huge information gaps with relevant information based on real-world clinical data. Veterinarians and owners can now feel confident that science is working better for them and their dogs – and that antibiotics are not needed to successfully manage cases of uncomplicated diarrhoea in dogs.”

Fergus Allerton, project lead for the PROTECT ME guidelines and co-author of the paper said:

“Rational antimicrobial use is critical to defend ourselves and our pets against the growing threat from antimicrobial resistance. This study provides vital evidence to strengthen recommendations to withhold antibiotics when treating dogs with acute diarrhoea. Knowing that the outcome will be the same without antibiotics should reassure veterinarians to adopt this approach consistently.”

Paula Boyden, Veterinary Director at Dogs Trust, said:

"Dogs Trust's Canine Welfare Grant programme provides funding for research projects with clear pathways to positive welfare outcomes. We are therefore very pleased to have funded the latest study by the Royal Veterinary College which has produced strong evidence for the treatment of canine diarrhoea. Antibiotic resistance has become a major concern in recent years, so having research to show that most cases of diarrhoea can be managed without their use is a significant step forward."

Manchester-based entrepreneur Felix Robinson and son Tom, who recently set up a business to make the buying of dogs online safer, have been recognised for their unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology by being awarded a Highly Commended at the recent PetQuip Awards.

Among a pool of exceptional nominees, Pet Trust UK stood out for their innovative platform developed to make buying dogs online safer, promoting responsible breeding practices and ensuring pet welfare. 

Felix said:“We are proud to be recognised for our dedication to creating a transparent and secure marketplace for pet owners.

“This achievement would not have been possible without my co-founder Thomas Robinson and our dedicated team's incredible support and the trust our valued users placed in us. We are grateful for their ongoing support and belief in our mission.

“It was an honour to be presented by Susan Fairley, PetQuip Trade Federation Manager, and Amanda Sizer Barrett MBE, Director General of the PetQuip association with our award. 

"Even though we were finalists in two categories, we entered with no expectations but the pet industry judges saw the potential just like we did, and we emerged victorious, winning the Highly Commended Business Service of the Year Award.

 “As newcomers to the industry, we were deeply flattered by this recognition. It's truly heart-warming to see our hardworking team acknowledged, and to know that we have the support of the Pet Industry at large is simply incredible. “

“A special shout out goes to my son Thomas R. for his role in developing the site, my daughter Charlotte for her unwavering support, and the entire team for their dedication and passion.”

CVS has announced it has acquired The Liverpool Vets Ltd. The owner of the practice, Danielle Greenberg, will remain there as Clinical Director.

The Liverpool Vets Ltd., known as The Liverpool Vets, is a first opinion, small animal veterinary practice in Cleveland Square, Liverpool, which has recently been relocated and newly fitted out.

The practice has an excellent local reputation, spacious facilities, and an experienced team of 18 vets, nurses, patient care assistants and receptionists.

CVS Group operates across small animal, farm animal, equine, laboratories and crematoria, with over 500 veterinary practices and referral centres in the UK, the Republic of Ireland, the Netherlands and Australia.

For more information about CVS Group visit www.cvsukltd.co.uk .

DotDotPet became the first-ever winner of the PATS New Starter Zone Innovation Award with its innovative Eco Towels.

The new pet lifestyle and wellness brand, which launched at this year’s PATS Telford, created lots of interest on its stand with a range of shampoos, wellness treats and accessories.

And it was the Eco Towels that caught the attention of retail expert Clare Gavin, who judged the New Starter Zone Innovation Award.

Clare was so impressed with the excellent quality of entries that she found it a difficult decision to award just one overall winner.

“I particularly liked the fact that these towels are fully biodegradable and very cost effective. The lovely branding of the product will also give it presence on the retail shelf,” said Clare.

DotDotPet has designed the Eco Towels for both convenience and sustainability. They’re described as being highly absorbent, versatile, compact and portable.

DotDotPet General Director Harry Chapman said: “It is great to finally launch DotDotPet after months of hard work behind the scenes, getting the brand and products to meet our high standards. I am proud of our company’s values and product range, all of which have distinctive USPs. We are looking to shake up the pet wellness and lifestyle categories by creating a truly memorable brand.

“Winning this award is amazing so soon after its launch. I will definitely be using the accolade to promote the Eco Towels going forwards. PATS Telford has been a fantastic platform for DotDotPet and the award is the icing on the cake.”

Harry Chapman (above right), director of DotDotPet, receives the award from PATS Telford show director Gordon Thomas.

Clare highly commended Tangle for its innovative approach to recycling discarded fishing nets into pet products.

Alongside Steve Driver of Pet Trade Innvations, Clare gave an informative ‘fireside’ chat with New Starter Zone exhibitors at PATS Telford,

The PATS New Starter Zone was supported by trade association PetQuip alongside media partner Pet Product Marketing.

A long-serving pet shop is to be sold at an online auction next month.

All Pets in Lowestoft is being marketed as a freehold shop with deceptively large accommodation located in a prime retail area, with rear access to private enclosed parking.

The agents, Auction House in East Anglia, states in its promotional material: “The ground floor shop has over 1500 sq ft of space including rear garaging and parking. There is a dry basement and numerous storage areas. 

“The shop has been a pet shop for many years but is to be sold with vacant possession. This high footfall location could be used for a variety of alternative uses or developments (subject to planning).

“The property is being sold freehold subject to the sale of the first floor flat which has been sold on a long lease with a ground rent income of £150 pa.”

All Pets in Lowestoft is located at 116 Bevan Street East, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR32 2AG. There is a guide price of £80,000 - £100,000 (plus fees).

The ‘For Sale By Auction’ will take place at 11am on November 1.

For more details and pictures CLICK HERE

PetQuip Awards, held after the first day of PATS Telford, hosted a record number of guests as the pet industry convened to recognise excellence and celebrate achievement.

The Awards cover Supplier, Retailer, Product, Export and Lifetime Achievement categories, with Gold, Silver and Highly Commended prizes for most categories.

The event, presented by Susan Fairley, PetQuip Trade Federation Manager, and Amanda Sizer Barrett MBE, Director General of the PetQuip association, included 12 Gold and 10 Silver awards, plus nine Highly Commended awards,

Also awarded was a special Lifetime Achievement Award for John Burns MBE, the founder of the UK’s first natural and chemical-free pet food company, Burns Pet Nutrition.

As John accepted his award from Amanda Sizer Barrett, he said “I’m overwhelmed. It’s such an honour to receive this accolade from PetQuip.”

To recognise the innovative companies exhibiting in the PATS Telford New Starter Zone, created in association with PetQuip trade association, the PetQuip Awards introduced a new category for this year, the New Starter Award. With so many creative and innovative entrepreneurs coming through into the pet industry, the competition was tight.

The Gold winner was Trinkety Paws, an accessories range whose hallmark is an array of beautiful colours, designed and made by the owner. The judges praised the business, which really stands out at shows with a lovely product.

Nadine Berger, Director of Trinkety Paws said: “I’m shocked and surprised to have won the New Starter Award. To be recognised in this prestigious way means a lot, and feels like all our hard work has paid off.”

The Silver award went to pet memorial rainbow bridge maker The British Glass Lady and Highly Commended to Oh So Precious, who also create pet memorials.

At the close of the event, Amanda Sizer Barrett commented: “The enjoyment evident on the faces of so many people from the industry at our event has made it all worthwhile. PetQuip is proud to recognise the hard work, innovation and teamwork demonstrated by our industry with these prestigious awards and it was great to celebrate with them at what was a sell-out occasion.

“In addition to seeing so many happy winners, it was really rewarding to witness everyone enjoying the fruits of their labours and the positive networking that took place between suppliers and buyers during the evening.”

WINNERS:

Supplier of the Year - Sponsored by Noble Futures

Gold: joint winners Pedigree Wholesale (pictured above) and We.pet (pictured below)

Silver: joint winners Burgess Pet Care and Pet Trade Innovations

Highly Commended: Brambles Pet and Wildlife

Business Service of the Year – Sponsored by Whistl

Gold: Henry & Co

Silver: Ant Antics

Highly Commended: Pet Trust UK

New Starter Award – Sponsored by Pet Trade Innovations

Gold: Trinkety Paws

Silver: The British Glass Lady

Highly Commended: Oh So Precious

Celebrating Green and Organic – Sponsored by CIPS

Gold: Mr Bug

Silver: Naturaw

Highly Commended: Verm-X

Product of the Year: Technical/Accessories

Gold: Dog First Aid Kit from Poorly Paws 

Silver: The modular and portable Dog-G8 Gate from the Dog-G8 Company

Highly Commended: Puppy Starter Kit from DogSpace

Product of the Year: Food/Treats

Gold: Wellness Treats from HOWND

Silver: Vet’s Menu Gravy Topper from Macahl Animal Health

Highly Commended: Nature’s Deli Grain-Free Tasty Paste from Pedigree Wholesale

Product of the Year: Healthcare/Grooming

Gold: TropiClean Essentials Collection from Pedigree Wholesale

Silver: TropiClean Enticers Dental Ball Kit for Dogs from Pedigree Wholesale

Highly Commended: Gizzls Gut Support from Gizzls

International Retailer/Wholesaler/Distributor of the Year – Sponsored by PATS Telford

Gold: Tom & Co, Belgium

UK Retailer of the Year – Sponsored by PATS Telford

Gold: Discount Feeds

Silver: Henry & Co

Highly Commended: Cocopup London

The Theresa Swann Exporter of the Year Award – Sponsored by Group55

Gold: Mutneys Professional Pet Care

Silver: HOWND

Highly Commended: Macahl Animal Health

Lifetime Achievement Award

John Burns MBE, Burns Pet Nutrition

Comments from some of the winners:

Conal Cunningham, Managing Director of Mr Bug

“Winning the Celebrating Green and Organic Award is marvellous and recognition for everything we’re trying to do with this brand.”

Alex and Gabriella Surace, owners of Poorly Paws

“Wow! We couldn’t believe it when the name of our business was announced as the winner of the Product of the Year Award for accessories and tech. It feels like all the hard work has paid off. We’re extremely grateful.”

Jo Amit, Product Director of HOWND

“The Product of the Year food and treats was such a big category that we really didn’t expect to win, so it was an unexpected and welcome surprise. Having won several PetQuip Awards in the past, we know the importance of these accolades because they act as a springboard for the product. To win again is fantastic.”

Dan Vander of We.Pet

“We were really surprised and delighted. We are still a fairly new kid on the block so we were very flattered. It’s something to shout about and will hopefully give us increased recognition in the trade. Everyone likes a bit of kudos!”

There was so much to see and do over the two days of PATS Telford exhibition. If you weren't lucky enough to make it, here's a picture round-up from Telford International Centre.

See below the gallery of pictures...

Pets & Friends, Kennelpak’s specialist pet retailer with a network of stores, salons, and a leading website, has announced the opening of its new Walsall location. Based just next door to the old store, which has served Walsall for the past 20 years, the new Pets & Friends store will boast a Parlour Spa and Grooming salon, expanding on the current offering. 

Walsall Pets & Friends' larger store is not just about scale but also about an enhanced shopping experience, offering a wider variety of products and services than ever before including the Tiny Paws puppy and kitten club, free harness fitting, free weight checks and expert pet advice to cater to the diverse needs of the Walsall pet community. 

One of the standout features of the new store is the 'Pets Parlour', a state-of-the-art spa and grooming salon. Here, pets will be treated to the best in grooming, relaxation, and care. From luxurious facials to essential fur trims, Pets Parlour promises an experience that will have tails wagging. The new salon has also created 6 new jobs for Walsall. 

"We're more than excited to be moving to our new location," says Steve Collard, Retail Director for Kennelpak and Pets & Friends. “Adding a Pets Parlour to our store now ensures we are truly one-stop shop for Walsall pet parents."

To celebrate the grand opening, Walsall Pets & Friends is hosting an event on 20^th October from 10am complete with exclusive customer offers, freebies and a ‘Best in Walsall’ competition for a very important pooch to help open the new store.