An increasing number of independent pet stores are choosing to stock their own branded pet food because it sets them apart from their rivals and results in boosted revenues.
They are taking advantage of the Private Label service being run by award-winning GA Pet Food Partners, which allows a pet store the opportunity to launch its own brand of super premium dry pet food in just seven days.
Oldfields of Ombersely, Worcestershire, is one store seeing instant results. A spokesperson said: “Our own brand pet food is a quality product that gives exclusivity, enabling us to maintain good margins. We love the success stories our customers tell from changing their dogs onto this food.”
Essential Pet Foods has two stores – one in Chertsey, Surrey, and the other in Sunninghill, Berkshire – and they are both benefitting from own label products.
Darren Barnard, from Essential Pet Foods, said: “We stock ‘own label’ because we like the ingredients – there is no rubbish in the food.
“Own label connects people to our business, so if people want to buy this food, they have to come to our shops.
“The growth has been amazing, starting from a few bags to ordering by the pallet load. Sales keep growing, especially the more we promote it. Grain Free has taken off massively.
“I would recommend it to everyone – retailers, and customers alike. It’s great quality food at fantastic prices, and GA give amazing customer service.”
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How to create your own branded pet food
Georgina Sims-Stirling, marketing manager at GA Pet Food Partners, reveals to Pet Trade Xtra how easy it is for an independent pet store to create their own branded pet food...
Georgina Sims-Stirling, marketing manager at GA Pet Food Partners, reveals to Pet Trade Xtra how easy it is for an independent pet store to create their own branded pet food.
What does a pet shop need to consider before embarking on own branded pet food?
A retailer should choose a manufacturer who they fully trust. The products will be their own brand and therefore retailers must have full confidence in the quality and supply of the products. GA Pet Food Partners have been manufacturing pet food for over 20 years and have over 50 proven recipes in their GA Direct range which retailers can brand as their own. Many retailers choose to have their own brand as it encourages customer loyalty to their shop.
How does a pet shop go about getting their own brand launched?
We like to say there are five easy steps to setting up your own brand with GA Direct: - Open an account – we will give a new account £1000 instant credit to get retailers started.
- Send us any logos, branding or label design ideas – we will design your own bespoke label for free.
- Place your order – there are 50 proven recipes available to choose from for all companion animals.
- Choose your delivery option – there are a wide range of delivery options to choose from.
- Receive your order - and start selling your own brand.
Are there different levels of food quality?
There are four different ranges of cat and dog food from Premium, Super Premium, Naturals and our newest Grain Free range. Each range has its own bag which a pet shop can have their own bespoke label created for. GA also has a treat range, fish food range and a range for small animals. New products are being introduced all the time. We are currently developing a Grain Free Chicken recipe to be launched this summer with two more Grain Free recipes planned this year.
What sized bags does the food come in?
This is very varied depending on the product the retailer chooses.
How much influence can a pet shop have on the design of the packaging?
For our GA Direct service, retailers will have the set packaging for that range of products; however they will have the ability to have a completely bespoke label which is designed at GA.
Is there a minimum order required?
There is no minimum order on any products in the GA Direct range, retailers can order one bag of food to a whole container full if they require.
At what retail price point can a pet shop pitch own-branded food?
GA does not state retail price points as the product is your own brand to price as you wish. However we do state retailers can make up to 100% margin on their own brand products.
Do you help with POS and merchandising?
Yes, we offer samples for majority of our products and offer POS brochures which again customers can brand as their own using their own bespoke label.
For more information visit http://www.ga-petfoodpartners.co.uk/ga-direct
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The Company of Animals has announced it has acquired the worldwide brand, product and distribution rights for the Pet Head brand from Pet Head Inc.
For more than 35 years, The Company of Animals has been committed to strengthening the bond between owners and their pets, launching market leading pet accessories such as the Halti range of head collars and harnesses to stop pulling, and the award winning Pet Corrector, all developed and tested at its on-site Animal Behavior Centre.
“Pet Head is one of the most recognised pet grooming brands in the world, synonymous with high quality pet shampoos and loved by pet owners and grooming professionals alike," said said Dr. Roger Mugford, founder of The Company of Animals.
"We are excited to be taking over ownership of the brand and look forward to bringing new innovation into the pet grooming category.”
Kyara Mascolo, Co-Creator of Pet Head Inc. commented: “We are delighted to be transferring ownership of Pet Head to The Company of Animals, who like us place the welfare of animals ahead of profit and with whom we have developed a strong relationship with over many years."
The acquisition was closed 22nd April 2016. Neither The Company of Animals nor Pet Head Inc. has any intention or obligation to release financial information on the acquisition.
Pet Head was created in 2007 by Kyara Mascolo, the original creator of Bed Head hair care. Inspired by her love of animals, Pet Head was developed into a premium quality range of shampoos, conditioners, sprays and wipes for dogs and cats, all manufactured to human quality formulas but pH balanced for the animals.
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HOWND - the makers of ethical grooming products for happy hounds - has won a prestigious award at this year’s SCOOT Headline Awards.
The Hertfordshire-based company picked up the ‘Gold Manufacturers’ Award’ on Monday 25th April 2016, at St Martin in the Fields, Trafalgar Square, London - beating more than 500 other small business applicants to the accolade.
The annual awards recognise and reward the successes and achievements of British businesses, large and small. SCOOT is keen to help local, regional and national businesses to maximise their commercial potential by bringing them and their achievements to the attention of a massive new audience.
HOWND’s online offering, strong brand identity and premium quality ‘Cruelty Free’ grooming products impressed the SCOOT Headline Awards judging panel.
The judges commented: “From an idea in 2013, this business has exploded onto the pet products market. Their great ideas are promoted under the ethos of ‘ethical products for happy hounds’ and they have accumulated a cabinet full of awards.
“From humble beginnings they now export globally and supply Pets at Home and many high street and online outlets. Even given the headache of a full rebranding a year ago, their clever marketing and top class products have seen continued growth for the team. By creating initiatives like #BringYourDogToWorkDay, they keep themselves firmly in the headlines.”
As a result of this SCOOT Headline Award success, HOWND are going on to to have their winning paper published in The National Business Leaders Yearbook, the leading work of reference on successful business techniques and best practice, so that others can follow their lead and learn from their achievement.
“Winning the ‘Gold Manufacturers’ Award’ is a fantastic achievement for us - and confirms that our brand identity makes a fantastic impression. What’s more, it’s clearly a recognition of the quality of cruelty-free grooming products - we couldn’t be happier!” explains Jo Amit, co-founder of HOWND.
HOWND manufactures a range of different grooming products, all of which are certified by Cruelty Free International. These products include HOWND Conditioning Shampoos, HOWND Body Mists and HOWND Emergency Dog Wipes.
The company have also recently launched two natural fragrances called Butch Leather Cologne for Man Dogs, and Peach Bum Parfum for Lady Dogs.
For further information about HOWND, visit www.dogslovehownd.com or call a member of the team on +44 (0)20 3004 5255.
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Natures Menu has launched an ambitious re-brand project that will see the company proactively improve in-store branding and positioning with a fresh, vibrant, consumer focused new look.
“Having trialed a selection of new point of sale materials in a number of flagship stores during 2015 we’re now beginning to roll out our new branding and merchandise to our stockists across the country,” says Emily Cannon, Head of Marketing at Natures Menu.
“The impact that the trial rebrands had on sales and consumer awareness was very positive and we’re genuinely excited about seeing the results this will have for independent trade.
“We are committed to supporting the growth of the natural pet food sector within independent trade and have made a major investment in materials and resource to ensure that this is a success.
"We have a host of new products launching from May 2016 onwards and we plan on providing increased support and education programmes on product segmentation for our customers. The aim of which is to improve understanding and awareness of our premium, every day and home prepared products to ensure these are communicated and sold appropriately to customers already feeding, or considering feeding a raw or natural diet.”
Natures Menu has welcomed on board new recruits to its trade support team. The company has appointed five regional Merchandisers, an additional Key Account Manager and a new Regional Account Manager for the South West.
Working within teams across the UK are:- South East Counties – Regional Account Manager Kevin Chapman with Merchandisers Paul Barber and Vinnie Brogan
- South West Counties – Regional Account Manager Jessie St Denis and Merchandiser Paul Blacker
- Northern Counties – Regional Account Manager Georgina Child and Merchandiser Steven Mead
- Scotland – Trade Manager Gerry McDade
The team has already transformed the freezer sections of several pet stores across the country, including the creation of a ‘Raw Room’ at Columbard Pets in Midsomer Norton (pictured below) and a rebrand throughout Crosby Pets in Liverpool (pictured above).
To request a visit from your Account Manager, a rebrand from your Merchandiser or to find out more information on Natures Menu’s new range of Point of Sale items contact trade@naturesmenu.co.uk or call 0800 0183770.
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Supreme Petfoods is asking the pet trade to get behind its Rabbit Revolution campaign in the next few weeks. This popular initiative kicked off at the British Small Animal Veterinary (BSAVA) Congress where over 1,200 vets and vet nurses cast their verdict on Supreme's misinformation campaign.
The inspiration came from the stand number (room) 101 – the perfect place to dispose of damaging misconceptions. A feature wall on the stand was devoted to the Ministry of Rabbit Misinformation, where the most common myths were listed.
Vets and nurses picked not feeding enough hay as the number one example of misinformation, chosen by 26% of respondents. Supreme has produced a Hay is Glorious poster to help all practices get that message across as part of their Revolutionary stance.
Now all pet retailers can take part in the Rabbit Revolution just in time for Rabbit Awareness Week (18th-26th June) by emailing experts@supremepetfoods.com to sign up. Everyone registering will receive the Rabbit Revolution Toolkit to help with communication to pet owners as well as access to all the other Rabbit Revolution posters in the series which address the common misconceptions. Rabbit food samples are also available free during Rabbit Awareness Week.
Its a great way to get across important messages with eye catching branding thats sure to create a conversation point. Not only does it show that the retailer believes in and understands quality pet care, it also provides an opportunity to showcase appropriate products and foods to improve rabbit welfare.
Dressed in retro Soviet livery, the Supreme stand at BSAVA congress displayed all the Rabbit Revolution posters, which form part of the toolkit and address all the common pieces of rabbit misinformation.
Common bugbears voted for by veterinary staff were not appreciating the need for rabbits to have an appropriate companion (voted by 20%), believing that carrots and fruit are healthy foods for rabbits (13%) and thinking a hutch alone is enough voted by 12%.
Claire Hamblion, Supreme Marketing Manager said a Rabbit Revolution is clearly long overdue and pet retailers can help show the way. "It seems there is a long way to go before we really see the big improvements in rabbit welfare and care that are desperately needed," said Claire.
"Red flag pieces of misinformation heard from pet owners included beliefs that rabbits shouldnt eat grass before six months of age, that juice should be added to the water bottle and that six years of age was an amazingly long lifespan for a rabbit. Its very sad to hear such statements."
Retailers who want to make a difference should contact Supreme by email on experts@supremepetfoods.com to request their Rabbit Revolution pack and free samples.
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Vet charity PDSA has unveiled the heavy hounds, colossal cats and bulging bunnies taking on the ultimate pet weight-loss challenge – PDSA Pet Fit Club.
This year’s 13 pets – who together weigh a staggering 296kg (46st 8lb) – have been selected to compete in the UK’s foremost pet slimming competition.
The fat finalists, include:
- Curvy Cilla from Liverpool, who weighs in at nearly 8st 8lbs (54.4kg). Her canine companion, supersized Shyla, tips the scales at a hefty 7st 13lbs (50.2kg). Their owner used to give the portly pooches treats including crumpets, pasta, and biscuits. Together they need to lose nearly 4st (24.6kg)
- The heaviest cat in the competition is Lucy who ate and slept her way to a colossal 1st 5lbs (8.8kg) – around 120% overweight - after her owner mistakenly believed she was pregnant and fed her double portions!
- Tipping the scales at nearly a stone, is seven-year-old Chihuahua Tyty whose weight-gain has been caused by his thieving ways. He may be smaller than most dogs but is a big-time bully when it comes to food. He takes the lion’s share from his canine housemates even stealing potentially deadly treats like chocolate bars from his owner.
- Supersized kitty, Puff, from Sheffield now tips the scales at 1st 3lb (7.5kg), making her around 50% overweight. With the help of her owner she has already lost 5lb since being rehomed last year.
- Four-year-old English Bulldog Ethel, from Manchester, has a weight problem because of her thieving ways. Her family admit to spoiling her, but say their dog has ballooned in size after she suffered a tear to her cruciate ligament last year which prevented her exercising. She currently weighs in at 4st 13lb (30.3kg), making the portly pooch 50% overweight.
- Pebbles the rabbit once tipped the scales at a colossal 10Ib (4.5kg), making him more than 50% over his ideal weight (7Ib/3kg). The three-year-old rotund rabbit from Blackpool piled on the pounds through a combination of poor quality rabbit food and his aversion to rain, which prevented him exercising.
Sadly, overweight pets are a big problem. It is estimated that around one-third of UK dogs and a quarter of cats are now overweight or obese**. The PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report also revealed that vet professionals are predicting the problem will continue to grow – with four-in-five believing that there will be more overweight pets than healthy weight pets by 2019.
The cause of our pets’ expanding waistlines is no mystery either: over 4 million pets* (2.6 million dogs, 1.4 million cats and 12,000 rabbits) are fed scraps or leftovers as their main meals. Owners have also admitted to ‘treating’ their pets by giving them fatty, sugary and, in some cases dangerous, foods including cake, chocolate (despite being poisonous), biscuits, crisps, chips, and even takeaways.
Nicola Martin, PDSA Head of Pet Health and Welfare, said: “Pet obesity is a serious issue affecting millions of UK pets. Like humans, pets carrying excess weight risk developing serious health conditions such as diabetes, arthritis and heart disease. It can even shorten their lives.
“Too many pets are being fed unsuitable diets and not receiving enough exercise. So it’s vital we educate owners on how to keep their pets fit and healthy before the problem gets even worse. If owners are unsure what to feed their pets, or are concerned about their weight, they should always seek advice from their vet."
Nicola added: “With the help of PDSA Pet Fit Club, these pets and their owners will be making positive changes to their lifestyles to help them slim down to a healthy weight. PDSA will support them every step of the way over the next six months to ensure they succeed.”
An annual contest, PDSA Pet Fit Club was launched in 2005 and has already helped 74 dogs, 32 cats and 6 rabbits lose a total 63 stone 11lb - equivalent to over 400 bags of sugar, 6,500 tins of tuna, 7,000 sausages, or four heavyweight boxers.
For more information about this year’s pet finalists and to follow their progress visit www.petfitclub.org.uk
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Great response from new firms entering PetQuip Awards
The organisers of the PetQuip Awards are reporting there has been a great response to their calls for entries with lots of new companies eager to take part. The event, now in its fourth year, is open for entries until 30 June 2016...
The organisers of the PetQuip Awards are reporting there has been a great response to their calls for entries with lots of new companies eager to take part. The event, now in its fourth year, is open for entries until 30 June 2016.
The 2016 PetQuip Awards presentations and dinner will be held in association with PATS on the first evening of the show, on Sunday 25 September 2016 in the Ludlow Suite, part of the Telford International Centre.
PetQuip’s trade association manager Pat Flynn foresees a very successful event in 2016, saying: “The awards have always been popular, but this is the first time that entries have been submitted on the actual day of the launch.
"During our very successful two days at the Sandown PATS show, we were encouraged by the number of visitors who stated that they hold the awards in high esteem, recognising the business benefits of the publicity and acclaim of being shortlisted or winning one of the PetQuip awards.
"Building upon the sell-out success of last year’s awards’ evening, we will be introducing various further enhancements to the event.
"There will be a large bar area within the main dining room, which will provide an additional opportunity for guests to network, and a casino for those wishing to try their luck or celebrate after the awards presentations.
"As usual, the evening will start with a drinks reception, followed by an excellent dinner (including wine). The food served at last year’s dinner was highly rated and the Telford International Centre has promised to meet the same high quality this year but with a brand new menu.”The entry categories for the 2016 PetQuip awards are:  Supplier of the Year- Wholesaler /Distributor of the Year
- Pet Product Innovation of the Year
- Exporter of the Year
- Marketing Campaign of the Year
- UK Pet Retailer of the Year
- International Pet Retailer/Distributor of the Year
- Lifetime Achievement
Entry for the awards is completely free of charge; companies or persons can enter as many categories as they wish.
Entry forms are available online at www.petquip.com or for more information on either entering the awards and/or attending the awards evening, party, telephone Pat Flynn on 07778 313623 or head office on 01959 565995 or email: pat@petquip.com
All entries must be emailed to pat@petquip.com by June 30, 2016. Nominations can come directly from the entrant or be submitted by a third party.
The entries will be judged by an independent panel of judges and the winners will be announced at the PetQuip Awards Party on September 25, 2016.
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Ancol directors joined staff at Birmingham Dogs Home at a special event to celebrate the opening of the new rehoming centre in Solihull.
As official partners of Birmingham Dogs Home, last year Ancol donated £25,000 towards the costs of looking after hundreds of stray and abandoned dogs at the new £6 million state-of-the-art centre.
Ancol sales director Sarah Lane commented: “We were very proud to be at the official opening of the new centre, which offers fantastic facilities for dogs until they find their forever home.
"Over the next few years, we’re looking forward to working closely with Birmingham Dogs Home to help raise further awareness and funding.”
Chief executive of Birmingham Dogs Home, Simon Price, added: “A special thanks to our amazing supporters – we are only able to provide our homeless dogs with these amazing new facilities because of your support and your hard work.”
At the event, special guest HRH the Duke of Gloucester officially opened the centre and unveiled a commemorative plaque.
Pictured (left to right): Simon Lane, Ancol director; Alayna Warner, commercial manager BDH; Sarah Lane, Ancol director; Karen Doy, home manager, Birmingham Dogs Home Sunnyside; and Jonathan Lane, Ancol director.
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Barely half of councils which licence pet shops are using the most up-to-date advice on how to do this, according to a new report from the Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association.
During a Freedom of Information request to nearly 400 councils, OATA found at least one did not seem to be aware they were the licensing authority for pet shops in their area after subcontracting out the actual inspection process. The council also had no idea what standards are used by the inspectors it paid to licence the shops it was responsible for.
And OATA’s report has shown there is a growing trend for licences to be granted to private dwellings, despite about a third of councils carrying out no checks on these home-based businesses to see if they had the relevant planning consents, were registered for business rates and had public liability insurance.
“Councils have the important responsibility of ensuring animal health and welfare through these inspections. Yet again we find too many are using outdated advice and there are too many different types of staff doing those inspections without adequate training,” said Chief Executive Keith Davenport.
“Two years ago we found that two-thirds of councils were not using the 2013 Model Guidelines for Pet Vending Licensing issued by the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health. I suppose it’s good to see more councils are using them but it’s hardly what I would call great progress in two years.
“We’ve also noticed a trend away from using Environmental Health Officers to ‘other’ types of inspectors. And equally worrying, about a third of councils said these inspectors had received no specialist training to enable them to licence pet shops.
“We also see a small but growing trend of granting pet shop licences to private dwellings. We know from our members that this ‘informal economy’ can hurt bonafide businesses which contribute to the national economy through tax, national insurance, rates and business expenses that these casual enterprises may avoid.
“I believe this report is yet more evidence for the points we made in our joint submission with PIF and REPTA to DEFRA’s animal establishments licensing consultation. In that, we advocated for a new approach that ensures greater consistency in the application of guidelines and higher standards of inspector. We’ll be reinforcing these views to both DEFRA and the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs committee when we send them this report.”
The FOI request was sent to 391 councils and 71% replied. The key findings are:
- There are in excess of 3,000 licensed pet shops in the UK and nearly 80% of pet shops are licensed to sell fish
- 6% of all licensed pet shops are in private dwellings
- Barely half of councils have adopted the CIEH Pet Vending Guidelines 2013 (the most recent available). 23 councils rely on the Pet Animals Act 1951
- Annual charges for pet shop licence renewals are highly variable (the lowest fee is £20 while the highest is £502. The average fee is £144.80)
- Licensing visits are undertaken by a wide variety of council officers, not all of whom have received relevant training
- Only 13 councils determine frequency of licensing visits through a risk assessment. Over 90% visit annually at least
- Approximately 38% of councils do not check within their office for any required planning consents or registration for business rates when licensing pet shops.
The full report is available at http://www.ornamentalfish.org/pet-shop-licences
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Natures Menu is launching 11 new products within its Premium Country Hunter Range.
The multitude of new varieties are made to an improved recipe and are coming to Natures Menu Country Hunter Raw Superfood Complete Meals and 600g Country Hunter Can ranges. These will be rolled out in new packaging that’s sure to capture the attention of nutrition savvy pet owners.
Natures Menu's grain and gluten free Country Hunter products will now boast an 80% real meat recipe, accompanied with 20% fruit and vegetables, and a greater selection of mono and dual protein meals within these immensely popular product ranges.
Within the Country Hunter Raw Superfood Meals (1kg), Natures Menu will be releasing five new varieties in early June. These include Pheasant and Duck, White Fish and Mackerel, British Lamb, Farm Reared Turkey and a new Puppy variety made with Turkey, Salmon and White Fish. The existing varieties of Wild Venison, Chicken and Salmon, Succulent Duck and Full-Flavoured Rabbit will be changed to the new and improved 80/20 recipe and repackaged from mid to late May 2016. RSP remains at £3.95 per 1kg.
New to the Natures Menu Country Hunter 600g can range are four new varieties – Mackerel and Chicken, Pheasant and Goose, Wild Boar and Farm Reared Turkey. These and the existing natural canned meals of Wild Venison, Succulent Duck, Full-Flavoured Rabbit and Salmon and Chicken are all, like the raw meals, moving to a new and improved 80/20 recipe and eye-catching new packaging. RSP remains at £2.49 per 600g.
Finally, as a result of high demand for Natures Menu’s popular and palatable Country Hunter Pouches for Dogs and Cats, Natures Menu will be launching Country Hunter Favourites - Multipacks for cats and dogs. With three of each variety in a convenient and eye catching multipack of 12. RRP for cat multipacks (12 x 85g) is £9.48 and for dog multipacks (12 x 150g) £11.52. Available to buy week commencing 16th May 2016.
For further information contact your Account Manager or the Natures Menu trade team on 0800 0183770 or trade@naturesmenu.co.uk.
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 The British Dog Groomers’ Association has announced that Kelly Davis LCGI GMG has been unanimously elected by the BDGA committee as its new chair.
Stuart Simons has been the chair for the last two years and steps down at the end of this tenure to vice-chair due to a recent house move to the south coast and the additional constraints on his time running his own grooming salon.
Under Stuart’s chairmanship, BDGA has increased in members, added more benefits and has revitalised and grown the British Dog Grooming Championship to become one of the largest grooming competitions in Europe.
More recently, Stuart has been instrumental in bringing a close harmony between the National Association for Professional Creative Groomers and BDGA which will result in some fantastic creative grooming workshops.
Kelly Davis is the owner of KD Grooming Studio in Wincanton, Somerset, an award-winning salon and PIF Training School.
Kelly holds her City & Guilds Level 3 Advanced Certificate and her Higher Diploma in dog grooming; she is a member of the Guild of Master Groomers and holds teaching and assessing qualifications. In addition, she is a qualified cat groomer and examiner for the Higher Diploma.
Kelly is a real advocate for grooming education and was the worthy winner of the Pet Industry Federation Grooming Business of the Year 2014, receiving her award from Frank Bruno MBE.
She brings fantastic ideas and enthusiasm to the committee and will work closely with the BDGA team and committee colleagues to continue Stuart's great work.
Kelly said: ‘I’m really delighted to be leading the British Dog Groomers’ Association at this exciting time. I’m passionate about this industry and professionalising it and a key feature of my tenure will be ensuring that members of the public know about the vital work we undertake as pet groomers to contribute to animal health and welfare.
"Underpinning this work is education, and I am really keen to promote the importance of training and qualifications as chair and am looking forward to getting involved in the wide-ranging issues that BDGA and the Pet Industry Federation deal with.’
Further details about the British Dog Groomers’ Association, its range of business benefits, courses, seminars and events, can be found at www.petfederation.co.uk, or by speaking to a member of the customer service team on 01234 273933.
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Dog Rocks are gearing up to exhibit at the highly anticipated Interzoo event on May 26 – 29, 2016 in Nuremberg, Germany.
As the leading international fair for the pet supplies industry, this year’s Interzoo is expected to be bigger and better than ever before! Dog Rocks will be located at Booth #9-501B.
Around 1,800 exhibitors will gather in Nuremberg to provide an overview of their global range of pet foods and accessories, grooming products, services, gardening and equestrian products. Manufacturers, wholesalers and service providers from more than 60 countries will showcase their products and services on a record-breaking display area of around 115,000 square meters. Learn more at: https://www.interzoo.com/.
“Interzoo is a fantastic event and we are honored to attend this year’s show,” expresses Carina Evans, CEO of Dog Rocks. “Dog Rocks has had much success providing pet families with natural solutions to common pet problems. Interzoo is the perfect opportunity for us to showcase our innovative and beneficial brands, and reach even more pet industry professionals from around the globe!”
As a pet owner, maintaining outdoor property and lawn can be a challenge due to the nitrogen in dog urine which can cause lawn burn, unpleasant brown spots of dead grass scattered across the yard. Dog Rocks are a 100% Natural Australian product that will save your lawn from those nasty burn patches by filtering out impurities from water such as tin, ammonia and nitrates.
Dog Rocks give your four legged friend a cleaner source of water, while eliminating urine burn on grass. Without the impurities in the water, Dog Rocks actually help your dog fertilize your lawn. This is great for you, your dog and your lawn, which makes this unique product a win-win for all! Learn more about Dog Rocks at: http://dogrocks.com/,
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Pets enjoy a lavish lifestyle with holidays and shopping trips...but few are groomed properly, according to a new survey.
- On average, people spend £1,113.32 treating their pets every year
- However two thirds of owners never take their pets to the groomers
- Opportunity for retailers to jump on the humanisation trend and boost sales of grooming products
Despite pampering pets, two thirds of owners never take their pets to the groomers. In a new survey, FURminator, leaders in professional pet grooming at home, have discovered that we’re a nation of ‘pet parents’ with four in five owners admitting to taking their pets almost everywhere they go.
Of the 2,000 Brit’s questioned, almost half (46%) said they wouldn’t dream of visiting friends and family without their four legged friend. The research also revealed that more than a quarter (27%) of pet owners take their pets shopping, with a further third (36%) taking their pooches on holiday.
Despite the fact that many owners spend an average £1,113.32 on their pets per year, only one in three (35%) owners would take their pet to a professional groomers.
Giuliano Buccino, Head of Marketing at FURminator (UK & Ireland), comments: “More people than ever are viewing their pets as an extension of the family as the humanisation trend continues to soar, and so it’s not surprising to see that we like to take pets everywhere we go. What is surprising is that grooming happens infrequently or not at all. As a retailer it’s crucial to educate pet owners on the importance of regular grooming sessions to help combat health issues such as hairball accumulation, as well as excessive shedding around the home, and to strengthen the bond between owner and pet.
Grooming is no longer an expensive or time consuming task thanks to professional grooming solutions like the FURminator deShedding tool which provides a quick and effective solution to removing the undercoat and loose hair from fur without cutting or damaging pets’ skin or top coat. What’s more, FURminator reduces shedding, and unwanted, loose pet hair by up to 90%*, meaning pets can be healthy and happy through an effective and easy at home grooming regime.”
Available in a range of sizes to cater all pets from rabbits to Great Danes, the FURminator deShedding tool is available from £26.50.
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Burgess Pet Care strengthens nutritional expertise
Experienced veterinary lecturer and former veterinary nurse Kären Smith has promised to “keep Burgess Pet Care at the forefront of nutrition” as she takes on her new role as Nutritional Advisor at the leading Yorkshire pet food firm...
Experienced veterinary lecturer and former veterinary nurse Kären Smith has promised to “keep Burgess Pet Care at the forefront of nutrition” as she takes on her new role as Nutritional Advisor at the leading Yorkshire pet food firm.
With 14 years’ experience in veterinary nursing and lecturing under her belt, Kären will provide valuable support to Burgess Veterinary Innovation Manager Dr Suzanne Moyes in new product development and nutritional training for Burgess staff, as well as giving educational talks to vets and retailers at trade shows.
Fresh from her role as Higher Education Course Manager and Lecturer in Veterinary Nursing at Askham Bryan College, qualified veterinary nurse and animal behaviourist Kären says she’s excited about helping Goole-based Burgess stay ahead of the competition when it comes to nutritional expertise.
“Burgess has become the go-to pet food firm for vets and retailers looking for nutritionally sound and specialist food, and I’m excited to be part of that,” says Kären, who was responsible for developing Veterinary, Animal Management and Pet Shop Management courses in her previous roles.
“I loved teaching but I’m excited about getting my teeth into a new challenge and a role that combines all my skills. I’m looking forward to creating new products from scratch and educating more people about the all-important nutritional needs of animals.”
A self-confessed animal lover, Kären won’t just be working for animals in her day job – but also has a menagerie of animals to look after at her home in nearby Rawcliffe, including horses, donkeys, rheas, ducks, geese, chickens, cats and dogs – and even a trio of wallabies!
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Cooling Corner for hot dogs from Easidri
Easidri, the brand best known for its Cooling Coat and Cooling Mat for dogs, will officially launch its ‘Cooling Corner’ at this year’s Badminton Horse Trials. It will provide a place for dogs to go and cool off during the event...
Easidri, the brand best known for its Cooling Coat and Cooling Mat for dogs, will officially launch its ‘Cooling Corner’ at this year’s Badminton Horse Trials.
This area will provide a place for dogs to go and cool off, for free, during the event.
This is the first year that Easidri will be exhibiting at Badminton and, with the vast array of dogs seen at this incredibly popular equestrian event, Easidri is hoping to see a lot of dogs during the show.
“We are so pleased to be exhibiting at Badminton,” said Martin Balmer of Easidri. “We always have dog water on our stands at other events, but we wanted to do something more for the dogs that go to these shows, to keep them cool, comfortable and happy.
"Heat stroke is more of an issue with dogs than many people think as they can become overheated very quickly, but keeping them cool and happy is easy to do, even when you’re not at home.”
The Cooling Corner will have dog water and all sizes of Cooling Coat for dogs to try on and use when they’re on the stand. Cooling Mats will also be on the floor to further help cool hot dogs. People are welcome to bring their dogs along to the Cooling Corner whenever they like during the event and use the Easidri products provided in the area, for free, when on the stand.
“We want people to come and use the products and help their dogs,” said Martin. “The Cooling Coat, Cooling Mat, Grooming Towel and bottled products will also be available to buy on the stand, so if people like the way the products work and the results they generate, we can also fit coats for their dogs there. They can stop by the stand as needed to rehydrate the coat to keep the dog cool.”
Easidri will be on stand 173 during Badminton. With summer fast approaching, Easidri invites all dogs (and their owners!) to go along to the Badminton stand, chill out in the Cooling Corner and find out more about the range.
For more information visit the website www.easidri.com
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Equerry Horse Feeds hit the spot at Bolesworth
Bolesworth International organisers have announced Equerry Horse Feeds as title sponsor of this year's headline grand prix showjumping class, which will have a bumper prize fund of almost £60,000...
Bolesworth International organisers have announced Equerry Horse Feeds as title sponsor of this year's headline grand prix showjumping class, which will have a bumper prize fund of almost £60,000.
And Equerry has also been confirmed as joint-title sponsors of the four-day Bolesworth International with Ashford Farm.
The Equerry brand is manufactured by Cheshire-based HJ Lea Oakes, a family-run business and one of the longest established independent animal feed manufacturers in Britain, dating back to 1675 where the Lea family began milling feeds to supply to the Cheshire farming community.
And for the company's managing director Edward Lea, sponsorship of the grand prix - a class which should attract some of the world's top riders during the final build-up to this summer's Rio Olympics - it continues a long-standing relationship with Bolesworth.
"We are delighted to be involved again this year. We have been a part of the show right from the beginning, and seen it go from strength to strength," Edward said, following confirmation of a three-year Bolesworth deal.
"We sponsored one of the classes right at the beginning, and this fits perfectly with our Equerry Horse Feeds brand, which is going from strength to strength. It is a fantastic partnership in an event that is right on our doorstep.
"Bolesworth has become a major international event. It is just phenomenal now, and quite a spectacle."
Equerry horse feeds are formulated by experienced nutritionists, using only the best quality ingredients and are produced under the BETA NOPS scheme, giving horse owners peace of mind.
Equerry horse feeds combine highly digestible fibre sources to support a healthy digestive system with cooked cereals where appropriate to provide a highly digestible source of energy. All the feeds are balanced with vitamins and minerals to support health and wellbeing and include quality protein sources for muscle development.
Bolesworth's 2016 four-day show takes place in the spectacular grounds of Bolesworth Castle, Cheshire from June 16-19 and promises an exciting mix of supreme showjumping talent, dressage to music, the unmissable puissance, para showjumping, an invitational jockey challenge and Bolesworth's flagship elite young horse auction.
And if the final day's headline Equerry Horse Feeds Grand Prix is not enough to whet the appetite, then show-stopping performances from pop bands Atomic Kitten, 5ive and Retake That are also in store.
Numerous other family attractions include a new equine learning zone that will feature rider guest appearances, camel racing, a funfair, action-packed displays, bistro and champagne bar, fine food, fashion & lifestyle zone, plus a shop until you drop experience guaranteed by around 130 retail outlets.
General admission tickets are available at a pre-sale price of just £12 for the opening two days, and £18 for Saturday and Sunday, up to 40% off gate prices. Under-14s can enjoy free admission, while a four-day season ticket is at a not-to-be-missed pre-sale price of £40. Tickets can be bought online at www.bolesworthinternational.com
Pictured: Robert Whitaker in action at Bolesworth International.
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JFK International Airport has answered the wishes of travelling petowners everywhere by adding a special toilet just for pets.
The new Pet Relief area has a toilet designed for cats and dogs, fake grass to make pets comfortable, and even a red fire hydrant to set the mood.
There’s also waterproof flooring in case your pooch can’t quite contain their excitement.
Once your pet has relieved his or her self, the room can be hosed down, and there are bags provided so owners can do some clean-up.
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Officials have given a Prestwick pet shop the okay to remain open despite a 5,500-signature petition criticising the living standards of kittens kept at the store.
'Save Kittens from Pets Aquarium' had gained almost 5,500 signatures after Prestwick girl Sophie McNicol posed an upsetting Facebook status about the living standards she felt the kittens were subjected to.
She described how three kittens were stuck in a small dirty cage. They were cold, cramped and frightened.
This appeal saw Environmental Health to step up and visit the public pet area of the premise on Monday, April 25 but they have since stated that the shop conditions meet licence requirements.
A statement in response to last week’s report on kittens being sold in Pets’ Aquarium Prestwick has been released by them:
"An inspection of the pet shop and pet area has been carried out by the Environmental Health Department and a South Ayrshire Council Vet.
"The bird cages and the cages where the kittens were kept were included in the inspection.
"I can confirm by report issued to me following their visit that Pets’ Aquarium can continue to trade in all aspects of pets, birds, fish and reptiles as report states conditions meet all licence conditions and no restrictions or recommendations have been issued and no further action to be taken by South Ayrshire Council."
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