Jollyes, one of the UK’s leading pet retail groups with over 70 superstores and concessions across the country, has been sold to Kester Capital LLP , a mid-market private equity firm.

The company, founded in 1935, was advised on the sale by Cavendish Corporate Finance, the UK’s leading sell-side mid-market M&A firm.

Kester’s investment provides Jollyes with an opportunity to significantly expand its network of stores and its service offering to its customers.

Jollyes focuses on providing its loyal and growing customer base with pet products and services that combine great quality and value and over time has developed a very successful range of own brand products, including its K9 and Lifestage brands. 

In 2014, Jollyes launched an e-commerce website to develop its multi-channel offering.  It has also recently expanded its offering to customers to include grooming and veterinary services in store.

Nick Pollard, Shareholder of Jollyes, said: “The Cavendish team did an excellent job and provided expert advice throughout the transaction and most importantly ensured the deal crossed the line. I am pleased that Jollyes has passed into experienced hands and I truly believe the business has an exciting future ahead.”

Fiona McCormick, Director at Cavendish, said: “Jollyes has an established position in the pet market and benefits from a highly loyal customer base. The pet care market has proven to be extremely resilient and there is a clear market opportunity for Jollyes. The new partnership with Kester enables the company to build on this position and accelerate its growth.”

Jonathan Buxton, Partner at Cavendish Corporate Finance, said: “The Jollyes transaction shows that, despite the headlines, there is still considerable value in UK specialist ‘bricks and mortar’ retail, especially where, like Jollyes, there is proof of a strong consumer following.  It was a pleasure to work with Nick Pollard over the past few years and this preparation work was essential to the transaction achieved. 

“As well as building on our pet sector and retail experience, the Jollyes sale highlights Cavendish’s ability to develop creative Private Equity solutions to match our clients’ requirements.”

PATS Sandown - which celebrated its 10^th show earlier this year - is entering an exciting new era with news that it will be moving to a new date in 2019. The two-day pet trade exhibition will now be held on Sunday, February 10^th, and Monday, February 11^th, again at Sandown Park, Surrey.

The new dates mean that PATS Sandown will be the first major pet exhibition of the year and avoids the busy March show period.

For the first time, PATS Sandown will be held on a Sunday and Monday, days of the week that have a proven track record of success for the Telford show.

PATS Sandown organiser Gordon Thomas said: “We are delighted to announce brand new show dates for PATS Sandown in 2019.

“After extensive research amongst our buyers, we are altering the open days to a Sunday and Monday. This will offer PATS exhibitors a broader range of visitors and align Sandown with the Telford open days.

“The new show dates will allow exhibitors to launch their new products to the trade at PATS Sandown, thereby making certain that retailers stock their products in time for consumers at Crufts. It will also avoid any clash with international shows.

“The new show dates are just one of our exciting initiatives to continually refresh PATS, which is The UK’s pet retail show brand.”

PATS Sandown has gone from strength to strength since the exhibition was launched in 2009.

With PATS Telford on course for another successful show later this year (September 23^rd-24^th), there are exciting times ahead for the UK’s number one pet trade event.

For all the latest information from PATS visit www.patshow.co.uk

HOWND, the multi-award winning pet care brand, has this week pre-launched a reward-based Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign for its new innovative HERO Bowl. The full campaign is scheduled to go live on June 23^rd.

It was invented to provide antimicrobial protection for dog food and water bowls and is set to be the most hygienic bowl solution on the market.

In an increasingly hygiene conscious world, the patent-pending HERO Bowl has built-in antimicrobial protection and is the ideal food and water bowl for hygiene conscious dog owners who care as much about their pets’ health as they do about their own. The HERO Bowl has built-in antimicrobial technology that prevents the growth of up to 99.99% of all common microbes, including bacteria, mould and fungi.  

The bowl is the first of its kind to use proven silver ions antimicrobial technology to resist colonisation by bacteria / microbes, and the plan is to launch the range globally.

With recommended retail prices starting from approximately £18/$22 this innovative bowl is set to disrupt the pet accessory market.

Studies have shown that 67% of dog bowls coming out of the dishwasher* still have Salmonella present on their surfaces. Using approved odour and stain resistant silver ions antimicrobial technology, the HERO bowl reduces the growth of microbes by up to 99.99%, 24 hours a day. The built-in technology has been proven to act in minutes, work continuously, and will last for the lifetime of the bowl.

With modern day dog owners taking more interest in the health and hygiene of their pets than ever before, the HERO bowl is also ideal for multiple pet households as well as vet surgeries, grooming salons, rescue centres and kennels where bowls are often shared. The technology used to create the HERO Bowl can help reduce the risk of bacterial/ microbial cross-contamination.

The HERO bowl has unbeatable antimicrobial performance - even if scratched or chewed by the family dog. The life of the bowl is extended thanks to it being stain and odour resistant, too.

With a contemporary ergonomic design, the HERO Bowl is made from recyclable polypropylene and will come in a range of HOWND matt brand colours with a gloss logo to suit any home decor; with a non-slip base; twin side cut outs for easy handling; a high curve interior with angular corners for easier feeding and shifting of food; and is dishwasher safe. Available in two sizes: 18cm and 23 cm.

HOWND, a rising star in the pet sector, has been setting tails a wagging in the industry since its launch in 2015. HOWND has won multiple accolades for its ground-breaking vegan and cruelty-free pet care products and its high profile Bring Your Dog To Work annual charity fundraising day. It won the coveted Petquip Product of the Year in September 2017 (accessories). All HOWND pet care products are certified Cruelty Free International. They have been awarded the prestigious Leaping Bunny Award, and are endorsed by The Ethical Company Organisation and the Nature Watch Foundation.

Jo Amit, co-founder of HOWND explains: "We know from the success of our HOWND pet care range that animal lovers are prepared to go to great lengths for their pets to ensure they enjoy a happy and healthy life. We live in a time where people are using antibacterial hand gels and cleaning sprays as well as other hygiene solutions, and we saw a gap in the market for an antimicrobial pet bowl solution. Animal health and welfare is at the heart of everything we do and launching the HERO Bowl is the logical next step for us as a company whose whole ethos is about protecting and caring for our precious furry friends."

Jo Amit and Mark Hirschel the founders of HOWND searched long and hard to find the right material for the bowl, to ensure that any materials they used met with the company’s strict ethical standards. They eventually found and partnered with BioCote® who are pioneers in antimicrobial technology.

BioCote®’s Head of Marketing, Kimberley Cherrington says: “BioCote® is thrilled to be partnering with HOWND to develop a unique range of antimicrobial pet bowls. This emerging brand’s immense passion for producing ethical, quality pet products is truly inspiring, and we look forward to helping them deliver yet another fantastic product to the market.”

“As a forward-thinking company, it's important for us to continually evolve and drive new innovative product development. The HERO Bowl is a perfect example of this, and we are very excited to be launching this project and creating a product which offers pet owners important health related benefits and ergonomically designed functionality,” says Mark Hirschel, co-owner of HOWND.

You can back HOWND’s HERO Bowl on Indiegogo.

To celebrate the fact that love knows no boundaries, this summer award-winning Lily’s Kitchen is making a stand for love with the launch of two limited edition ‘Full of Love and Pride’ recipes for dogs and cats.

Lily’s Kitchen will donate 75p from every Full of Love & Pride dog tin and 30p from every Full of Love & Pride cat tray sold to Stonewall, an international charity which campaigns for the equality of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people, helping them to ensure everyone feels free to be who they are, wherever they are.

Full of Love & Pride for Dogs (400g tin, £2.49)

A Tasty Beef Dinner recipe containing 60% freshly prepared beef and a bowlful of organic vegetables - potatoes, carrots, apples, green beans and broccoli – vitamins, minerals, botanicals and herbs.

Full of Love & Pride for Cats (85g tray, 95p)

A limited edition Tasty Chicken Dinner, designed for felines who will enjoy its 65% freshly prepared chicken, salmon oil and chelated minerals.

Available from tomorrow (1st June), these limited edition recipes will be available from www.lilyskitchen.co.uk and in independent pet shops nationwide. 

In addition to its support for Stonewall, Lily’s Kitchen has also signed up to be an official partner of Pride in London 2018 as part of its commitment to embrace diversity and create true equality.

Henrietta Morrison, founder and CEO of Lily’s Kitchen comments: “Pets can teach us a thing or two about love – they don’t distinguish between gender and will love unconditionally, which is something we at Lily’s Kitchen are really excited to celebrate.

"This is demonstrated through our partnership with Pride in London, which is supported by people of all sexual and gender preferences who believe, like us, that equality should be celebrated, and our decision to donate proceeds from the sale of our limited edition Full of Love & Pride recipes to LGBT charity Stonewall.

"It is also about who we are as a business and our belief that pets make a family, and they deserve proper food, whatever shape or size they are, and from whatever background.”

With only three weeks to go, excitement is building up for the fifth annual Bring Your Dog To Work Day which takes place on Friday 22^nd June.  Business sponsors and dog owners are signing up to take part Britain’s best day out for dogs.

Some of the UK’s best loved household brands have already come on board as official sponsors for Bring Your Dog To Work, which is this year raising money for the charity All Dogs Matter and other animal welfare organisations.

Sponsorship is £100 and then staff can donate a small amount to bring your dog in and post pawsome pictures in our ‘Dog with a Job’ Hall of Fame to win hundreds of pounds worth of prizes from the official sponsors.

There is still plenty time for sponsors to sign up and HOWND, the founders and organisers of this much loved annual charity day, welcomes businesses from across all industries.

Last year the event received sponsorship from a variety of businesses that included leading law firms, insurances companies, and public-sector organisations such as the fire brigade, the police and public transport, as well household pet brands, and are still hoping that large corporates will take part again this year.

Jo Amit, co-Founder of the multi-award winning pet care brand HOWND says: “Canine co-working is taking off and since Bring Your Dog to Work Day was established in 2014 we are witnessing an increased number of workplaces allowing staff to bring their dogs to into work.

'Taking a dog to the office can be very enriching for dogs as well as the staff and since its launch in 2014, Bring Your Dog To Work Day has grown immensely in popularity with a host of celebrities and organisations getting involved.”

This pupular day out always trends at number 1 on Twitter – it’s a great day out and our hall of fame on our website is packed with some pawsome pictures of dogs having a lovely time at work or at home with their owners. Make sure you sign up now, get your company to sponsor your workplace for only £100. All proceeds this year go to the dog rescue and rehoming charity All Dogs Matter. Any sponsoring businesses taking part that want to raise funds on the day for their own chosen animal welfare charities will be supported by the official social channels of Bring Your Dog to Work Day.

Some of the official sponsors signed up so far include: Cotswold Raw, Butternut Box, Henry Schein, Lily’s Kitchen, Natural Instinct, Natures Menu, Webbox, Natural, Trophy Pet Foods, Arden Grange, Nylabone, Mikki, Pet Remedy, Dog Buddy, Private Fly, Woof Advisor, Dogrobes, Friday Media Group, Buddies Pet Insurance, Doggy Cuppa, Barking Mad, Holiday Cottages and Canine Cottages.

www.bringyourdogtoworkday.co.uk

twitter: @BringDog2WorkUK

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BringYourDogToWorkDay/

A new study has revealed UK pet owners’ attitudes to obesity in their cats and dogs, and despite awareness of the condition and concern for the wellbeing of their pets, it has shown they continue to disregard advice from vets, putting their pets at risk by overfeeding them and feeding them inappropriately.

SHAPING UP TO PET OBESITY (www.petobesity.co.uk) is a new campaign designed to help pet owners address their pet’s shape and understand the impact that being overweight or obese can have on their pet and how to take control of their pet’s health.

For the survey, cat and dog owners from across the UK were interviewed and revealed that:

• More than one in four overfeed their pet to keep them happy, with 45% giving their cat or dog food when they beg
• 50% rarely or never measure out the food they give their pet, for example using electronic scales
• 48% recognise that they give their pets treats to win affection
• Nearly 40% admit to feeding their pet all they can eat at each meal

Alex German, Professor of Small Animal Medicine at the University of Liverpool, comments: "Recent studies have shown that 65% of dogs and between 39% and 52% of cats are overweight or obese so the results of this survey are extremely concerning.

"We know the impact that being overweight can have on human health, but many people are unaware of the effect that obesity can have on their pets, which include diabetes, respiratory problems, arthritis, a shorter life span and poorer quality of life.

"To owners, food is love and giving food treats is by far and away the most common method they use to reward their pet. 

"However, this can lead to overfeeding and weight gain which, in time, can have major health consequences. We want to educate people that an overweight pet is not ‘cuddly’ but at risk of serious illness and possibly, early death.

"Becoming aware of what and exactly how much you feed your pet is a simple yet effective way of benefitting their health.’

For more information and advice on how to understand your cat or dog’s shape and how you can make healthier choices for your pet, visit www.petobesity.co.uk.

Global pet healthcare and pharmaceutical manufacturer, Beaphar, created quite a buzz at Interzoo 2018, using the event to launch their new brand identity, as well as some exciting new products.

Beaphar, which last year celebrated its 75th anniversary, began as small business with just 15 people and has grown into a global company with over 500 employees. While it may have grown bigger, the founding principal of family has remained, and has been the inspiration behind the new global branding strategy, which includes a new logo and a new strapline, ‘Because pets are family too’.

Roland Huggett, UK Sales Manager, said: “Following a year of celebrations for our 75th anniversary, the new branding strategy represents another exciting step forward for Beaphar, and we were delighted to be able to share it with our trade customers at Interzoo 2018. Visitors to the Beaphar stand were surrounded by the new branding, which was greeted with enthusiasm.”

Taking centre stage alongside the new strapline and logo – which now has a more rounded font, and new orange and magenta tones alongside to the iconic Beaphar red to represent the wide spectrum of pet solutions Beaphar offers, and reflects the warmth and approachability of family – were the company’s three ‘hero images’, which are entitled ‘Comfort’, ‘Teamwork’ and ‘Smile’. A new product brochure and a brand story leaflet were also produced by marketers from across the Beaphar group especially for Interzoo.

Amy Laura Hepworth, Global Brand Manager, explains: “Beaphar has been expertly guided over the past 75 years, and we wanted the new branding to be a step forward in terms of design, but also reflect the brand essence of quality, expertise, service and trust, as well as the core of the business – family.

“The logo, the strapline and the hero images are the three key elements of our new branding strategy that will lead all the Beaphar Commercial Offices worldwide down a single road. The changes to the logo – adding in the warmer orange and magenta tones, and rounded font – make it powerful, clear and emotionally attractive to consumers, while our hero images all show scenarios and evoke feelings that are instantly recognisable to pet-owners, helping us create a stronger bond with our customers that will ensure they rely on Beaphar again and again for all their pet’s needs. All of this is synthesised in the new strapline – ‘Because pets are family too’ – reflecting Beaphar’s ethos and brand values which have been with the company since 1942. To create accessible, affordable, quality healthcare products that consumers can trust.”

Alongside the new brand identity, Beaphar showcased several exciting new product developments. Beaphar Lactol, which has new packaging and an enhanced formulation, was given its global launch, having been revealed in the UK at PATS Sandown 2018. Also on stand were two new flagship product ranges, Beaphar CatComfort, a pheromone range to help reduce stress and anxiety in cats, and Beaphar Canishield, a collar for dogs which gives lasting protection against fleas, ticks and sand flies. Both ranges will be available in the UK later this year.

Roland Huggett said: “All the visitors and Beaphar customers I spoke to were especially pleased to see the fresh branding in combination with the latest product launches, which they felt created a really powerful consumer offering. Indeed, several of Europe’s larger pet retail chains verbally committed to the new ranges straight away, which was a convincing vote of approval.”

UK customers will see a gradual rollout of the new brand identity, with the Beaphar UK website and social media channels having launched the new branding alongside the Interzoo launch. New packaging designs will follow over the next few months and years, as the company goes through the transition phase.

For more information about the Beaphar brand visit beaphar.co.uk

The Think Parrots Show and exhibition, which is now in its 7th year, will be taking place at Kempton Park Racecourse, Staines Road East, Sunbury-on-Thames, Middlesex, TW16 5AQ, on Sunday 10th June 2018, 10am to 5pm, and will include three free Masterclass sessions, delivered by top avian experts, as well as free-flying bird demonstrations by a top UK bird trainer and a microchipping special offer by a well-known avian veterinarian.

The event, organised by Parrots magazine and sponsored by Northern Parrots, is aimed at dedicated parrot owners, who are eager to improve their knowledge, and brings together a wide range of parrot enthusiasts including pet owners, hobby breeders, conservationists, avian vets, and the UK’s top parrot experts, as well as an extensive range of exhibits and product displays.

Show organiser John Catchpole said: “Think Parrots 2018 continues to show the ever growing interest in the importance of essential care and understanding for all parrots and parakeet species, whether companion or aviary birds.

"With many visitors bringing their own birds, there will be lots of quirky things going on. Masterclasses have proved to be of great value with continuing high attendance and the many positive comments that are received from those who have benefitted from listening to the expert speakers.

"Also for the first time this year, we are offering a microchipping service by well-known avian vet, Alan K Jones MRCVS. Plus free-flying bird demonstrations by top UK bird trainer, Mike Simmons. And all this for just £10 admission.”

The details of the free Masterclass sessions are:
·      11am-12pm       Malcolm Green                   Supplements and diet
·      1pm-2pm           Steve Brookes                    Spotlight on Eco-tours
·      3pm-4pm           Rosemary Low                   Behaviour in Nature and Home
Room for all, but pre-booking helps us plan.

Entry into the show costs £10 on the day or for ‘early bird’ advance tickets, £9 per person.

For further information and to book tickets, log on to www.thinkparrots.co.uk
email: show@thinkparrots.co.uk or call 01273 464777.

The British Isles Grooming Association has announced the re-vamp of its not-for-profit online directory of professional pet groomers in the British Isles.

The directory, www.mypetgroomer.co.uk, which originally launched in May 2016, invites all professional pet groomers to add or claim their FREE business listing on the site.

A business profile with standard details is FREE for all groomers, regardless of qualification or affiliation.

“We created the website with the end-user - the pet owner - in mind,” explains BIGA’s chairman, Kristian Maris.

“The site raises awareness about the benefits of regular grooming to a pet’s health and wellbeing. When a pet owner visits the site to find a suitable groomer, the site also educates and raises awareness about how much grooming involves. We’ve covered loads of issues like matted coats, itchy skin, fleas, ticks, ear infection and more. Even the etiquette of booking an appointment and showing up on time.”

For Pet Welfare, Not For Profit

Standard business listings are Free. But, for a small fee of £50 per year, pet groomers can enhance their profile page on the not-for-profit site with more features, including image galleries, videos, customer reviews, integrate their Facebook feeds and more. You don’t need to be a member of BIGA to have an enhanced business listing, although members are entitled to one free enhanced listing as a bonus.

“The profile pages are an opportunity for groomers to showcase their skills,” explains Angela Caley, the head of International Professional Groomers UK (IPG UK) and BIGA Honorary Member.

“Groomers can tell us about their awards, qualifications or experience. They can link to their website or social media. Post images of certificates, their sparkling salon and before-and-after pictures. I’m also very pleased the site encourages customer reviews but does not publish anonymous contributions.”

“Pet owners are beginning to understand that grooming is a vocation that deserves respect,” adds Angela.

“They love their pet cat or dog and want to do the right thing. Often, they don’t realise how much knowledge and expertise a groomer has acquired through training, qualification and experience. This website is critical to pet owner education. The result of this will be greater customer awareness, higher standards among pet groomers and, ultimately, happier, healthier pets.”

The Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association represented the views of its 80-plus members in an industry response to Defra’s ‘Health & Harmony’ consultation.
 
Michael Bellingham, PFMA Chief Executive, advised: “As heavy users of UK agricultural produce we welcomed the opportunity to get involved in the debate around the future of farming in the UK. Around 80% of our ingredients are UK sourced and it is vital for the health of our sector that we maintain access to this reliable supply of safe, high quality and high welfare raw materials.”
 
The vision shared in the paper is also consistent with PFMA’s 3-year Pet Food Vision, which was launched in March.
 
Michael continued: “The vision to develop and strengthen animal welfare is one we wholeheartedly support and is consistent with our ambitions for the future. As a co-sponsor (with the RSPCA) of the All Parliamentary Group for Animal Welfare (APGAW) we have a high level of interest, and commitment in, the welfare of both companion and farm animals. we have some of the strongest feed safety and animal welfare standards in the world; these must be maintained and not undermined by imports with lower standards.”
 
Earlier this year PFMA undertook research on public attitudes to animal welfare when making food purchasing decisions. In a survey of over 2,000 households we found that 75% believe high welfare standards are important when purchasing meat. This figure rose to 84% amongst pet owners. Furthermore, 76% of all households believe government should fund farmers to have higher welfare standards.
 
Looking beyond the UK, PFMA believes that high welfare standards provide a strong basis to increase exports to both existing and potentially new markets.

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Three pet food suppliers are dominating the industry, but they're facing increased competition as consumer preferences change according to a leading analyst...

"There are signs that the leading pet food brands are not adapting fast enough to consumers' changing needs," said UBS analyst Pinar Ergun. "This leaves significant market share opportunity for challenger brands."

Full story, click here

Vet’s Kitchen has launched a unique Puppy Pack, providing all the essentials new owners need to make sure their new puppy gets off to a great start in life, packed full of tips and advice from their team of veterinary experts and nutritionists.

Available to purchase exclusively on the Vet’s Kitchen website, the Puppy Pack contains a puppy journal – the ultimate guide to puppy ownership jam packed with essential information for the first few weeks and months and to support long-term health and wellbeing. The guide also features a comprehensive log to note details on training, worming, vaccinations, and socialisation, which can be kept as a record of the puppy for life.

Specially selected with health and wellbeing in mind, the Puppy Pack also includes an exclusive Vet’s Kitchen canvas tote bag, 1.3kg bag of Chicken and Brown Rice complete puppy food with added salmon oil to aid brain development and prebiotics for healthy digestion, a packet of Little Stars Smart+ soft, breakable training treats with added DHA for brain development and a clicker for training.

Jenny Philp, managing director and practising vet at Vet’s Kitchen, comments: “As the only pet food brand with an in-house veterinary practice, improving health and wellbeing of pets is at the very core of our business and we want to encourage new puppy owners to give their four-legged companion the best start in life and to help support them in their journey.

“We put all our veterinary knowledge and expertise in every product we make, and the Puppy Pack is no exception. With so much conflicting advice online, we have designed the Puppy Pack to provide all the support new owners need in one place as they embark on their new journey as a pet parent.”

The only pet food brand with an in-house vets practice, Vet’s Kitchen is passionate about improving the health and wellbeing of the UK pet population through innovative products and services, developed with expert knowledge and insight.

Offering a range of high nutrition pet food, all of Vet’s Kitchen’s products are hypoallergenic and free from wheat, beef, dairy and soya, containing no artificial colours or flavours. Wherever possible, Vet’s Kitchen combines locally-sourced, natural ingredients with the team’s expertise and latest technological advances to create food designed to give our pets long and healthy lives.

For more information, visit: https://www.vetknowhow.co.uk/pet-shop/products/puppy-pack

Due to the recent spell of warm weather, Pets at Home is urging pet owners to check their pets and homes for fleas.

A mild winter, followed by recent heatwaves, has created the perfect breeding ground for the parasites across the UK this summer. Fleas can lie dormant during cold weather and come to life as soon as warm weather occurs, multiplying rapidly.

If left untreated, long term flea infestation can cause real suffering for pets - including dogs, cats and small furries - due to repeated bites. This causes the animal to scratch themselves and can result in hair loss or a secondary skin infection.

Dr. Maeve Moorcroft, Head of Pets, for Pets at Home, has advised pet owners to check their home, as well as their pet, for a flea infestation, as fleas can live within bedding as well as soft furnishings used by the whole family. Maeve advises all pet owners to:

• Wash pet bedding regularly at 60 degrees
• Clean furniture to help destroy fleas at each stage of their lifecycle
• Vigorously hoover carpets, floorboards and skirting boards
• Throw away the hoover dustbag after each clean
• Check their pet’s coat for ‘flea dirt’ – brown or black spots
• Regularly treat your pet with a flea treatment throughout the year
• Treat your home annually with a household flea spray to prevent infestations 

Fleas rapidly multiply when left untreated, with a single adult female being able to lay around 40 eggs every day. As well as living on a pet, the fleas can live in household furnishings while continuing to breed and may bite humans in the most serious of cases.

Maeve adds: “While the risk to a pet varies from animal to animal, it is possible for a pet to become infested after missing just one preventative treatment.

"Seeking regular treatment, even during cold seasons, is a sensible precaution for all pet owners and can prepare your pet for the warmer summer months.”

Pets at Home’s flea treatment subscription service now makes it easier for pet owners to prevent their beloved cat or dog from catching fleas. Advantage flea treatment starts from £4 per month, or from £5.50 per month choose Frontline Plus, which not only kills fleas, ticks and biting lice, but also protects your home as it stops eggs from hatching, therefore breaking the flea lifecycle.

The subscription can be set up in store or online by visiting http://www.petsathome.com/subscribeandsaveflea.

The government is currently looking at widening regulations within pet care to include the pet grooming industry and has welcomed participation from the British Isles Grooming Association (BIGA), according to a statement from the Canine and Feline Sector Group (CFSG).

In October this year, or shortly thereafter, the Animal Activities Licensing Regulations – which, in part, impacts home boarders of pets - will come into effect. To be run by local authorities on a star-rated system, the licensing and regulation of pet groomers may take a similar shape and could be expected within the next five years.

BIGA has been invited to join the CFSG as it advises the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) on this process.

BIGA directors Heidi Anderton and Pam Gee, along with Honorary Member Angela Caley, attended a ‘Big Tent’ meeting at DEFRA on May 1^st.

At the meeting, stakeholders across the pet industry were briefed on the new rules for pet boarders and were invited to engage their peers and colleagues in the industry about how a similar system could be implemented within the pet grooming industry.

“This is very big news and I’m pleased that BIGA has been invited to advise government in the shaping and making of policy that could directly impact professional groomers across the UK,” said Heidi.

According to the statement from the CFSG:

“CFSG is pleased to have BIGA as a member so that we can move forward with ensuring good standards within the grooming sector and as you may know we are currently looking at drafting guidelines around this. The risk-based system is only for the activities included under the current Regulations but CFSG's aim will be to widen that and include a number of additional activities involving cats and dogs. BIGA's input will certainly be welcomed and we look forward to working with you.

“We have set up an online forum on www.mybiga.org ,” adds Heidi, “and we are now actively engaging our membership to have a voice in this process. BIGA is here to make sure that groomers, who are in the front line of pet welfare, are consulted and listened to.”

If you would like to discuss the proposed developments with other members of BIGA, please visit www.mybiga.org

Brambles Pet and Wildlife has negotiated a deal to offer wildlife rehabilitators up to 50% savings on Esbilac Milk Replacer which many use for feeding baby mammals.

The 793g can cost as much as £70 and carers use a lot at this time of year. Wildlife carers can now buy direct with Kruuse UK, the European distributors, to offer a great deal.

David Tracey (Brambles sales manager) said: “We’ve had a great response from wildlife hospitals especially the smaller ones who are self-funded and have very limited funds.

"They also love the fact that Brambles have negotiated this deal without making any money from it”.

http://bramblespaw.co.uk

Well known Borzoi exhibitor Margaret Masterman was in the perfect position to resolve her bitch’s tiny appetite problem when becoming Brand Ambassador for CSJ.

Fleur (Quarenta’s Life’s A Dream With Santerman – pictured here winning PGB at Crufts this year) hasn’t looked back since being fed exclusively on CSJ’s CP30.  Margaret says, “It’s the only product she will eat enough of to maintain her body condition - she has a tiny appetite like me!!”

Fleur is 4 years old and was only lightly shown due to family commitments over the last 3 years but has been to 3 prestigious shows this year and won Post Graduate at each one … Crufts, Northern Borzoi Ch. Show, and Birmingham National.

Margaret chose her from a litter of nine bred by Steven Morgan out of Zafonic Aquilla Over Quarenta by Dolsaca Cappuccino Over Quarenta.

With the body condition finally resolved Margaret is looking forward to pursuing Fleur’s career and CSJ commented that they are delighted to hear the results but wouldn’t like to commit to helping Margaret’s own tiny appetite!

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

Pet insurers paid out £775 million in claims in 2017 – the highest figure on record representing a 10% year-on-year increase – to help Brits with the unexpected costs associated with pet ownership. Figures released by the Association of British Insurers today reveal that:

The number of claims surpassed 1 million for the first time since records began, increasing 10% year-on-year. Insurers paid out an average £2 million per day – a record.

The average claim hit a new peak of £757, compared with the average annual premium of £324 for dogs and just £171 for cats.

Average claim pay-outs are up 56% since 2010, highlighting ever increasing costs.

3.7 million households now have pet insurance (up by 11% year-on-year), which means 8.2 million households still choose to leave their pets uninsured.

An estimated 67% of dogs and 84% of cats are still uninsured – leaving approximately 12.4 million cat and dog owners at risk of having to foot the bill themselves.

Dogs are therefore twice as likely to be insured by their owners (16% against 33%).

Veterinary bills can often rise into the thousands of pounds for treatment, with the average cost of surgery amounting to approximately £1,500. Some of the most expensive claims last year include:

A dog suffering from seizures required £30,000 of treatment
A Golden Retriever with a fracture required £10,000 of treatment.
A cat with inflammatory bowel disease required £9,600 of treatment.

The constant modernisation, development and improvement of veterinary medical capabilities brings with it an increase in price.

Joseph Ahern, General Insurance Policy Adviser at the Association of British Insurers, said:

“Owning a pet can be rewarding, but also very expensive if they fall ill. None of us want to imagine anything bad happening to our pets, but leaving them uninsured can lead to expensive bills and unnecessary stress.

“It’s good to see the number of pets being insured growing, and the amount being paid out by insurers, but the fact that millions of pets still aren’t covered means that owners are at risk of having to fork out thousands to cover the costs of vet treatment because there’s no NHS for animals.

“No matter what type of pet you have – there should be a policy that’s right for you. The market is very competitive, so be sure to shop around or speak to a broker.”

Exports of British pet products are set to increase again following the participation of over 50 UK suppliers at the Interzoo international pet trade show held in Nuremberg earlier this month.  The exhibitors were part of a PetQuip-organised group, and early reports from them confirm that export orders have been won, worldwide enquiries received and valuable overseas distributorships secured.

The positive outcome brought the following response from Amanda Sizer Barrett, the director general of PetQuip: “We are delighted the initial very positive outcome from our exhibiting firms’ stands.

Adding to these successes, the British pet industry information stand attracted unprecedented interest from nearly 100 overseas buyers.  As well as meeting European buyers, who included a number of participants from previous PetQuip-organised ‘Meet the Buyers’ events, we saw more Far Eastern, Middle Eastern and Latin American buyers than usual and also had interest in UK products from visitors from other markets around the globe.

“The organisers of Interzoo have disclosed that 74% of visitors to the show came from outside Germany, which is why it is such an important worldwide shop window for British firms, whether they are seasoned exporters or companies new to exporting.  Interzoo has always been a key event on PetQuip’s international calendar and this year’s success ensures it will remain so in the future.”

Early reactions from the British exhibitors are as follows:

Pets Choice Ltd

Exhibiting as both Meatiful and Tasty Bone, the Pets Choice team (pictured) had its best ever Interzoo.  The company received leads from several countries that it had not dealt with previously, including Brazil, Japan, India and Scandinavia.  Zoe Hardaker, product manager for Meatiful (pictured in the middle of the group) reported excellent interest for the new range which is 80 per cent premium meat mixed with brown rice and home grown vegetables.  The products are hypoallergenic, gluten-free and steam cooked and are presented in a wood effect box.

Forthglade

The Forthglade team saw existing distributors from Italy, Spain, Malta and Finland and gathered new business from Scandinavia and the Far East.  There was also considerable interest from the local German market in the company’s new cold pressed product.  Pictured from the left are Sara Tramontana, Jason Leighton and Bill Kimberling.

Benevo

Brothers Darrell (on the left in the picture) and Damian took their new Pawtato dog chews to Interzoo for the first time and received significant interest from as far afield as South Korea and Malaysia.  They also had a good mix of European leads from countries such as Greece and a successful meeting with their Israeli distributor.

Pet Bakery

Bernard Mackle, one of the partners at Pet Bakery, launched brand new packaging for the products at the show.  With a clear and colourful new look and five languages on every pack (and with more to come), he received a lot of interest.  His main aim was to seek new distributors and he felt he had achieved his goal.

Lintbells

Gintare White, international marketing assistant for the Lintbells brand, commented that the company had achieved all of its aims at the show.  Lintbells had found new distributors and met with existing ones as well as making excellent contacts in the German market.  She commented, “We have also been pleased to exhibit as part of the British Group; it was very well organised and I would like to express our thanks to the PetQuip team”.

Kennelpak

Launching Yakers Crunchy Bars, Chews and Strips at Interzoo, Ken Davies (pictured on the right) was particularly pleased with leads from both the Middle and Far East.  Many of the buyers visited the stand, having read the pre-show PR carried out by PetQuip, so he was pleased with the results and his participation at the event.  Pictured with Ken is sales manager, Daryl Bailey.

Trilanco

Exhibiting amongst other things Pet Therapy and its own brand cooling coat for dogs, Trilanco was surprised to take a large order for equestrian products that were added to the stand at the last minute.  “A Spanish lady from Madrid visited our stand and it was only with the help of the PetQuip interpreter that we realised she wanted to buy there and then” said Marylise Silk, head of international business development for Trilanco.  Pictured on the stand is colleague Danielle, showing another customer the equestrian range.

Vitalin

Sean Cox (pictured on the right talking to a customer) and Annabell Dennis felt that they had met with important buyers and this had resulted in a number of positive sales leads.  The company was showcasing a prototype pâté for dogs which will be available later this year.

Waterlife

Celebrating the firm’s 50th anniversary this year, the Waterlife team was pleased to report excellent leads and on-the-spot orders from Germany and Dubai. “We have had a good show and we were also pleased to sponsor the PetQuip drinks reception held on the Wednesday evening; the turnout was amazing” said Alex Cox, marketing director for the brand.

Inspired Pet Nutrition

Producers of Harrington’s and Nineteen 87, IPN was showcasing its new technique for a baked complete product.  The company had an eye-catching stand containing displays which invited visitors to touch the product.  Interest in the product was received from the Far East, India, France and the Netherlands.

British stands

Part of the British pavilion at Interzoo 2018, organised by PetQuip, where over 50 exhibitors displayed their latest innovations for the pet product sector.

PetQuip industry information stand at Interzoo 2018

PetQuip reception

At the close of the show on the second day, PetQuip organised a drinks reception on its stand which proved very popular with British exhibitors and the show organisers.  During the opening hours of the show, PetQuip organised and manned a British pet product information stand.

The next major international pet product trade show at which PetQuip will be organising a British pavilion will be CIPS International Pet Show, Guangzhou in China (27 to 30 September 2018), an international exhibition that is a more recent addition to the PetQuip list of events. 

In 2019, PetQuip has secured government cash funding and will be organising British groups at Global Pet Expo in Orlando, Florida (20 to 22 March) and at Zoomark, Bologna, Italy (6 to 9 May).  Other shows where British pavilions are being considered for 2019 include a return to CIPS International Pet Show in China and PetQuip is planning more in its series of popular ‘Meet the International Buyers’ events.

Companies interested in learning more about the opportunities that these exhibitions and events offer to exporters, or about the comprehensive range of business advice, market research, sales leads, international publicity for your products and practical export support available exclusively to member companies of PetQuip, should contact any of the PetQuip team on:-

Telephone: tel: +44 (0) 1959 565995 or fax:  +44 (0) 1959 565885

e-mail:  info@petquip.com  or visit the PetQuip website on  www.petquip.com

Natural pet food brands Barking Heads and Meowing Heads have undergone a major brand evolution, with new designs to be rolled out across their entire portfolios.

Pet Food UK, the company behind Barking Heads and Meowing Heads, has modernised and unified its packaging designs, moving to flavour-led ranges which communicate the nutritional benefits of the products while retaining the brands’ famed humour and irreverence.

A new flavour, Beef Waggington, has been introduced, while brand mascots Bailey the dog and Phoebe the cat have been promoted to Head of Happiness and Head of HR (Health & Recreation) respectively.

The company has also moved from tins to pouches on its wet ranges, which provide the food with a fuller flavour and reflect consumers’ increasing desire for simple, high quality packaging. All products are made with natural ingredients, completely free from artificial colours, flavours, preservatives and GM ingredients, approved by vets, and boasting up to 93% meat content.

Founded in 2008 by Paul Hunter, Dave O’Regan and Jim Moloney, Barking Heads and Meowing Heads were launched with the mission to help all dogs and cats to live happier, healthier lives by providing the foods they naturally deserve. In 2017, Pet Food UK received a £5m investment from Piper, the UK’s leading specialist investor in consumer brands, and food industry veteran Mark Escolme (Gü Puddings, Spillers, SC Johnson and Findus) joined as chairman. In February, Pet Food UK featured in the Sunday Times SME Export Track 100 after increasing international sales by 80% over two years.

Sarah Kaye, Managing Director of Pet Food UK, said: ‘As we approach our 10th anniversary, we’re excited to have given our sibling brands major makeovers which convey our message of absolute quality while retaining our inimitable personality. The natural premium sector is growing 27% YoY* as consumers rightly demand the very best food for their pets. We look forward to continuing to bring health, happiness and fun to dogs and cats everywhere.’

The new designs will be unveiled in Waitrose stores this month (May) and roll out to other stockists thereafter.

Natures Menu, has added a third training course to its educational portfolio with the launch of its True Instinct Advisor training for anyone wanting to give advice or sell raw pet foods.

The True Instinct range is a first of its kind to incorporate four different formats of feeding under one brand. The whole range specialises in premium nutrition, is free from grain and gluten, and is only made with natural raw and raw-inspired ingredients. True Instinct includes complete and balanced innovative nutrition with frozen Raw Bites, high meat Raw Boost dry food, high meat wet fillets and freeze-dried raw meat/fish treats.

The True Instinct Advisor course comes as the third training course from Natures Menu with the following now available:

Raw Advisor Training: Available to all Natures Menu trade customers and compiled by Natures Menu’s team of raw feeding specialists. Participants download the training pack and study at their own leisure.

Raw Expert Training: This course is available for stockists and specialists who have passed the Raw Advisor Training course and want to take their knowledge of nutrition to the next level.

True Instinct Training: The newest of the Natures Menu training, this course offers the chance to become a True Instinct Advisor, providing an overview of the ultra-premium True Instinct products and how they differ from other Natures Menu products.

All training programmes are specially designed by Natures Menu’s veterinary team to ensure stockists and professionals are equipped with the understanding and best practice on raw feeding, and to enable them to confidently advise on raw. Participants of each course also have the opportunity to gain a certification of their achievement by taking part in the relevant quiz after digesting the information pack provided.

Melanie Sainsbury, Veterinary Educational Manager at Natures Menu, said: “We’ve specifically designed our courses for those who are selling or advising on Natures Menu and True Instinct products. The training supports participants in becoming a natural and raw expert, helps develop their understanding of raw feeding and ensures they feel comfortable and confident to appropriately advise on nutrition whilst also gaining an in-depth knowledge of Natures Menu and True Instinct products.”

With over 35 years’ experience in feeding raw and endorsement from their own dedicated professional veterinary team, Natures Menu is proud to be a pioneer and innovator of Europe’s natural, raw and raw inspired pet food category. Natures Menu’s products are made with high quality meats and fish, blended vegetables, fruits and healthy carbohydrates, and uses British suppliers and ethical product sources wherever possible.

For anyone interested in becoming a True Instinct or Raw Advisor, or to find out more, visit: www.naturesmenu.co.uk/trade-area/raw-advisor-training

Contact 0800 0183770 or email: trade@naturesmenu.co.uk

For veterinary staff, please contact melanie@naturesmenu.co.uk or call: 01603 973058