Sammie Hunt, the owner of award-winning Redpaw Pet Supplies in Devon, has admitted the move to a larger store has proved challenging. But she says the change of location has increased the chances of retail business survival in the current difficult climate.

Sammie told Pet Trader Xtra this week: “The thinking behind moving to our bigger store was such a difficult decision in these challenging times. It has given me many sleepless nights and I had long conversations with my team and close friends, talking through everything involved in running a successful business. 

“Many times I thought I must be mad, and other times I just thought I would regret it if I didn’t try. 

“The journey to get to open my new store has been incredibly difficult, and on a few occasions I felt like giving up because of the many hurdles being put in the way.

“Throughout the Covid pandemic my old store remained open, with limited opening hours, nevertheless our customer-base increased due to the exceptionally high number of pets purchased during lockdown. 

“For Redpaw this meant demand grew for our own products and also for our services, which included nutritional consultation and advice. It was great as I was able to do some of this online or via email. 

“We were able to meet demands for products when the store was restricted to low customer footfall, but when restrictions were lifted and the shop reopened fully, it meant we were very short on storage space. 

“So, I began looking for a new unit, and what a task this was! Eventually I heard of a unit becoming available just over the road from my old shop, and after nine months of anxiety, bureaucracy and delays I finally got the keys in November. 

“Then the hard work started to turn an empty unit into my dream. What was certain was I needed to make sure my store stuck to my original ethos of high quality and natural products. With all this in mind I also had to consider how I would keep the shop on trend, modern and stand out against the bigger chain pet stores who are located within a few miles. 

“Working with my incredible team we managed to open the doors to my new store on the 1st December. The initial focus was not to cause any disruption to customers, so we did not close the old shop until the day we opened the new store. Christmas displays helped to give the new store an extra special festive look for the opening. Perhaps we were lucky to be opening at Christmas time but the push to get the store open in just four weeks was immense. I look back now and wonder how on earth we did it all. 

“Moving forward in my new shop, I can proudly say we are settling in well, developing new displays with the help of some fantastic pet suppliers as well as finding new trade partners to work with. 

Redpaw has been able to bring customers many more products. I know we have lots of challenges ahead with the current financial situation but as a strong team Redpaw is always looking ahead and we will continue working as hard as we can to stay fresh and exciting for our customer base. 

“When I started Redpaw nearly 10 years ago I didn’t expect the journey to be quite so difficult but it definitely holds an exciting future, and it’s always so rewarding seeing our customers pets happy and healthy.”

Redpaw Pet Supplies was UK Retailer of the Year in the PIF Awards 2018. 

For more information visit www.redpawpets.co.uk

Aquatic businesses have not been singled out for extra government help towards energy bills in the new business support package announced this week.

Under the new Energy Bills Discount Scheme, which replaces the current scheme when it ends in March, all eligible non-domestic consumers will receive a per-unit discount to their energy bills for 12 months from April 2023 to March 2024, subject to a maximum discount. But some industries deemed to be very heavy energy users will also get additional support on top of this. Despite representations the aquatics industry is not one of these.

“It is of course welcome that help will continue to be available to businesses but we do find it very strange that energy heavy businesses such as aquatics have not got additional support, particularly when for example manufacturers of knitted and crocheted fabrics and hosiery do get chosen!” commented OATA Chief Executive Dominic Whitmee.

“At its heart, this is an animal welfare issue because aquatics businesses cannot choose to turn down the heating, lighting, pumps and filters which must run all day, every day to ensure the welfare of the animals in their care.

“We are making further representations to highlight this and have written to the Prime Minister, Defra and BEIS departments because we believe our sector has a far greater case for additional support than many currently listed.

“We would also urge businesses to ask their MPs to advocate on their behalf to get aquatics listed for extra support and have created a letter to personalise which can be found on our website.”

Under the new EBDS scheme prices have been set per kilowatt hour, up to a maximum, to help eligible businesses calculate what to expect with bills for the next 12 months. Businesses can read more about the scheme and find the MP’s letter on OATA’s website. https://ornamentalfish.org/add-your-voice-to-energy-crisis-call-for-help/

PATS Sandown has lined up a star-studded list of professional groomers for an unmissable series of demonstrations at the UK’s Spring’s Pet Industry Exhibition on 26-27 March 2023.

With an increasing number of pet retailers introducing grooming salons into their stores, the PATS programme of seminars and demos will provide invaluable insights into this side of the business.

On both days of the show expert groomers will be giving free-to-attend demonstrations of specialist grooming techniques as well as advice on how to grow your grooming business.

The demonstrations will highlight the knowledge and expertise required to complete traditional grooming techniques successfully as well as showing off a few modern and creative ideas. There will also be information on tools and products for the everyday groomer, plus tips and tricks to increase salon revenue.

The grooming activity at PATS Sandown is being produced in association with Peanut & Pickle, an all-natural canine skincare brand. 

One of the professional groomers is Kara Boyd (pictured above). Kara appeared in the BBC One series Pooch Perfect, which became an instant hit with viewers during the pandemic.

Kara, who runs Fairy DogMother in Cambridgeshire, said: “I’m honoured to be making an appearance and taking part in this year’s PATS pet trade show. I can’t wait to be able to share the knowledge I have gained over the years, and exchange tips and advice with other groomers. It is such a valuable occasion, being able to learn more about our pet industry, and meet new people. See you there.”

Kara will be joined by Laura Cook, an International Certified Master Groomer, who also holds the City & Guild Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming. Laura has over 20 years of experience with all breeds and regularly competes at international level. Laura will be demonstrating a traditional Cocker Spaniel groom and will be able to answer all gun dog questions.

Emma Darlington is an award-winning Asian Fusion Stylist, who was crowned International Asian Groomer of the Year in 2022. She will be demonstrating how to prep and groom in an Asian Inspired pet trim. She will be able to answer questions on all things Asian Fusion and creative grooming.

Rachel Downes was named International Up and Coming Groomer of the Year in 2022. Rachel started her Greater Manchester-based dog grooming business ‘Oh My Dog’ in 2015, and the business has since gone from strength to strength

The grooming demonstrations are as follows:

Emma and Rachel will be appearing on Sunday, 26 March, from 10:30am-2:30pm.

Kara and Laura will be appearing on Monday, 27 March, from 10:30am-2:30pm 

The groomers will also be on the Peanut & Pickle stand (T1 in Esher Hall) throughout the show to talk with people and offer one-to-one Q&A and extra demos.

Visitors to the show can witness the grooming demonstrations for FREE by registering online at the PATS website www.patshow.co.uk. A full and up-to-date list of exhibitors is available on the website together with information on how to reach the venue and regularly updated show news.

Jollyes is putting the finishing touches to a new store – its 85th in the UK – and prepares to open it with an exclusive performance of the ‘Peterborough Pet Proms’. 

The nationwide retailer is opening its first Peterborough store at Unit 2-3, Rex Trade Centre, Maskew Avenue, Peterborough on Saturday 28 January at 10.00am. 

The 4,400 sq ft store will initially employ 10 colleagues and will offer pet owners in the area a wide range of pet products, from food and treats to toys and accessories, as well as the services of a Community Pet Clinic.   

The team will be led by new store manager Tracy Shipman, the proud mum of a cat, who joins Jollyes from Nottcutts garden Centre and after a stint at B&M  

The official opening ceremony will be performed by the deputy mayor of Peterborough, Councillor Nick Sandford, Deputy Mayoress Alderman Bella Saltmarsh but they’ll also be assisted by Peterborough-based Gabriella Pineda-Rodrigues and cockerpoo Scamp. 

Peterborough-based Gabriella has performed at London’s Royal Albert Hall and Royal Festival Hall, as well as the likes of Peterborough Cathedral, St John’s Church, and Stamford Arts Centre. Trained at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, she has performed for the late Queen and is in demand as classical crossover singer. 

Gabriella will help launch the store with the first pet proms, performing from 9.45am on opening day.  

Her repertoire is expected to include little ‘Pooch-ini’ while Jollyes new customers do their ‘Chopin’ and favourite Disney songs such as: 

• "Everybody wants to be a cat" from Aristocats 
• "Feed the birds" - from Mary Poppins and  
• ‘Once upon a dream’ from Sleeping Beauty which is on Classic FM's list of calming music for dogs. 

The schedule of events for the opening day includes:  

• Official opening at 10.00am by Peterborough deputy mayor Councillor Nick Sandford and deputy mayoress Alderman Bella Saltmarsh 
• Pet Proms with Gabriella Pineda-Rodrigues from 9.45-10.15am 
• The chance to win prizes by playing the “wheel of fur-tune” 
• Goodie bags for the first 100 visitors 
• Face-painting for kids and stilt walkers dressed as animals 
• A live broadcast from 10am-1pm hosted by PCR FM Saturday breakfast hosts Keith & Claire. 

Jollyes’ regional manager Sarah Farrar said: “We’re so excited to be opening in Peterborough and bringing Jollyes to Cambridgeshire for the first time.   

“We’ll have a fantastic range of food, treats, toys and accessories in Peterborough’s best value pet superstore and we think that will be music to the ears of local pet owners. 

“We’re looking forward to pet owners bringing their animals on opening day to join in the fun and join our Pet Proms.” 

Backed by Kester Capital, Jollyes’ Peterborough store will be its 85th across the UK and has ambitious opening plans for 2023 as it continues its rapid growth.

Pawsome Paws Boutique has secured listings at leading retail outlets Pets at Home, John Lewis and Bents Home & Garden following a one-day event called Pet Huddle.  

Pawsome Paws Boutique “huddled” with the large retailers and secured life-changing listings within a few months of joining the first-of-its-kind hybrid trade event.  

Sophie Chesman is the inspiring founder and creative director of Pawsome Paws Boutique. Sophie’s inspiring journey started as side hustle in 2016 when she began developing the Pawsome Paws Boutique products and brand. 

Juggling a full-time job, late nights sewing dog accessories and weekend selling her range at Artisan Markets, Sophie eventually took the leap to give PPB her full attention. 

Six years on, Pawsome Paws Boutique is thriving with seven members of staff, a huge social media following and with the benefit of a 3,000 square foot HQ in Leeds, Sophie’s creative and exceptional quality dog accessories are being shipped all over the world. 

While they could rely on loyal customers through direct sales, and their strong community of followers, Pawsome Paw Boutique knew that getting into retail was always going to be the next step of their growth journey. With little contacts in the pet industry and looking for a way to get the attention of pet retailers, the Huddle events presented the perfect opportunity to get facetime with leading pet retailers. 

Huddle, powered by Product Guru, is a one-day event which has a strong focus on curated meet-ups, where brands have eight minutes to engage with every buyer from the retailer panel. 

“The Huddle was a big learning curve for us, it got us in front of people and a variety of buyers. It gave us a good experience of dealing with different types of retailers (within Pet). It was quicker to have those eight-minute meetings and then follow-up after. Unlike emails, Huddles gave us eight minutes and face-to-face conversation. It was a casual conversation and got easier as the day goes on,” said Jason Chesman, managing director at Pawsome Paws Boutique. 

The inaugural Pet Huddle hosted in Birmingham in March 2022 has been pivotal for the continued growth of Pawsome Paws Boutique, that led to securing ‘dream’ listings for Jason Chesman and his team. 

“Huddles was a great experience for brand and buyer alike. John Lewis was introduced to us at Huddles, the working relationship was made then and there on the day. All the conference calls after were a lot less formal. Huddles made developing our relationship a lot easier and helped us understand exactly what they wanted. Bents was a new introduction as well, they actually followed up with a site visit to our office! Huddles helped us strengthen our relationship with Pets at Home and forge a relationship with their innovation manager, which helped us get a listing." 

Melanie Sykes, buyer at Bents Garden centre, was left impressed by the Yorkshire brand at the Product Guru’s event. 

“We were on the lookout for something new and exciting to add to our current leads & collars range. Here at Bents, we love to champion independent, local businesses so when we came across Sophie and Jay’s brand, PPB, we thought it would be a perfect fit! We love the fun and colorful designs and think they are a great addition to our dedicated pet store. We found working with Sophie, Jay, and the rest of PPB team a lovely experience and we’re excited to see what the future brings for Bents and PPB.” 

Jason is projecting exciting developments ahead: “We’re so proud of what we’ve achieved in 2022 and can’t wait to see what 2023 brings us. We’re going from strength to strength with our current retailer partnerships, with John Lewis allocating us more stores for this year’s spring-summer exclusive collection.  

“We are so excited to coming back at the Pet Huddle, this January in Manchester to meet with new pet retailers and strengthened our relationships with our current partners. We love the informal format of the event that facilitates down to earth conversations with buyers. It will also be the opportunity for us to introduce our exclusive new homeware range with our distribution partner Captivate Brands to the panel of retailers ahead of our official launch in February.” 

The sold-out Pet Huddle will take place in Manchester on 26th January with an exclusive panel of Pet retailers including the likes of Jollyes, John Lewis, Wilko, B&M, Farm & Pet Place, and new retailers joining this year including The Range, Morrisons, Asda and TK Maxx. This would be a new opportunity for pet challenger brands to impress the buyers during the one-day speed dating event.  

Simon Coyle, CEO at Product Guru, commented: “We are ecstatic to see the continued success of our hybrid events, as it shows our disruptive event format is the perfect stage for challenger brands to have meaningful interactions with retailers. The magic happens at Huddle, and we look forward to supporting our brands at this year’s events. We never get tired from receiving positive news from brands and buyers who join our Huddles!”

Paleo Ridge's new Essential range will be available at the discounted rate of £1.99 per 500g pack for two weeks this month.

This cost-saving deal will be available online and in selected local stores until Sunday, January 29. Paleo Ridge has reduced the price of this range to support new and existing customers in feeding a high-quality, natural diet in a cost-effective way.

The Essentials range was launched in November 2022 as Paleo Ridge believe all dogs should have access to a healthy, additive free diet, at minimal cost. Essentials usual RRP is £2.19 per 500g pack.

The range is well-positioned to drive trial amongst consumers who recognise the benefits of switching to raw, providing the reassurance of a high-quality, ethical brand. Each meal contains 20% seasonal vegetables and 80% high-welfare meat, bone and offal. As with all Paleo Ridge products, Essentials are minced to a chunky consistency and suitable for all life stages including puppies and seniors.

The Paleo Ridge Essentials range stays true to the values of ethical sourcing and sustainability at the heart of the Paleo Ridge offering. In June 2022, Paleo Ridge became RawSAFE certified, developing a founding accreditee of the new audit designed to ensure the highest standards in the raw feeding industry. 

Alongside the discounted raw dog food, customers can receive free shipping on their orders until the end of January by applying the code ‘FREESHIPPING’ at checkout. 

Will Green, Director of Sales and Marketing, commented: “We are pleased to offer our new Essentials range at a temporarily discounted rate to help customers when they need it most. The cost-of-living crisis has hit everyone, particularly over the winter. At just £1.99, for a limited time, dog owners will be able to feed a highly nutritious diet to their dogs at minimal cost.” 

Members of the Pet Industry Federation can now enjoy up to 20% discount on laptops, desktops, monitors, and accessories as part of a new partnership between PIF and leading technology provider, Dell Technologies.

PIF members will also have access to Dell’s highly trained Small Business Technology Advisors for free advice to help grow their businesses. In addition, further discounts will be available during promotional periods.

Nigel Baker, CEO of PIF commented: “We are delighted to be launching yet another benefit that will save PIF members money with immediate effect. We are all extremely aware of the current difficult economic climate that businesses are facing and the team here at PIF is always on the lookout for cost saving collaborations.

"Partnering with Dell Technologies will ensure that PIF members can invest in great quality tech at an affordable price.”

PIF members will be able to take advantage of this new benefit for both personal and business use, providing all-year-round value whether it be resolving a business need or a lifestyle purchase. Members will be emailed details of how to use the PIF voucher process. 

To join PIF and take advantage of all the other great business benefits that are available to PIF members, including a legal helpline, fuel card discounts and local authority help and advice, visit https://petfederation.co.uk/

Spring Fair, the UK's leading wholesale marketplace for home, gift, and fashion, taking place from 5-8 February 2023 at NEC Birmingham, has unveiled an exciting line-up of exhibitors putting the spotlight on products and gifting for our four-legged friends.

There are over 12 million dogs in the UK and owners are spending more on gifts for their pets than ever before creating an exciting opportunity for retailers to diversify and stock gifts for pets too.

Daniel Mayhew, Event Director at Spring Fair says, “As a continuing growth sector which looks to be relatively unaffected by the cost-of-living crisis, we are seeing more and more brands focusing on products and gifting for pets or introducing pet ranges to their collections. We’re excited to showcase some brilliant new and innovative products to the marketplace, we’re certain many will become next year’s bestsellers.”

New pet-related exhibitors to the Spring Fair line-up include Wag & Wool, a Brighton-based doggy accessory company producing 100% lambswool jumpers for puppies, adult dog coats, as well as matching owner and dog sets - there’s a WAG&WOOL for every kind of dog, their owner, and your ideal dog walk.

Denzels will present their healthy treats for dogs which are also healthy for the planet. Denzel's dog snacks are made from 100% natural ingredients, gently baked in the UK into tasty, low-calorie treats. W’zis produces contemporary dog treat tin gift sets. Plant-based, healthy vegan dog treats are more than just part of the plant-based revolution bandwagon. The nutritional makeup of W’ZIS means they are a suitable treat for dogs with a variety of dietary needs.

Check out Twiggy Tags for gorgeous handmade pet accessories with an outdoorsy feel. Twiggy Tags started with hand-stamped metal ID tags, developed to include Biothane collars, uniquely personalised for added luxury, and now includes a large collection of bold, attractive dog accessories that are durable and hard-wearing for furry explorers and designed for all adventures on four paws, from beach days to mountain hikes, woodland trails, pub lunches and everything in between.

Regular Spring Fair exhibitors are also presenting pet ranges including Chalk UK who will showcase their new dog collars, leads, and neckerchiefs in February, and Widdop & Co who have introduced a Best of Breed range of pet-themed giftware.

Also returning to Spring Fair is The Bottle Baking Company, with its home baking range for dogs, the Doggy Baking Co – Baking Paw Licking Treat for Dogs which won the Gift of the Year 2022 category for Pet Gifts.

Rex London have introduced a range of dog leads and ‘make your own dog treats kits’ which come in a Best in Show presentation box featuring adorable canine characters, which would make a unique and thoughtful gift for a dog lover, as well as a cute pet doormat.

Renowned for its ingenious array of products and gifts, take a look at the Kikkerland stand for its new Kobe Hiking Kit for dogs including 3 biodegradable poop bags, 3 wet wipes, 2 paper water bowls, dog light, tick removal tool with magnifier and dog travelling guide booklet, as well as a large selection of other doggie delights. For the ultimate in dog pampering, Gift Republic will showcase a super fun Doggie Bath Bomb and Dog Massage Kit.

Greetings & Stationery are never short of adorable pet designs, so don’t miss a visit to design-led gift and greeting card company The Little Dog Laughed for their growing collection of pet inspired cards, stationery, gifts and digital printed cushions, as well as a range of pet accessories including high quality and fit for purpose designer leads, collars, feeding bowls and ID tags.

For all these and much more visit Spring Fair at NEC Birmingham from 5th – 8th February 2023. Register at https://www.springfair.com/visitor-registration

Harrison’s has launched an extension to its Premier Peanuts with its two Peanut Butter jars and one Specialised Feeder. 

Made from a unique blend of suet, peanut flour, and rapeseed oil, Harrison’s peanut butter is available in 2 flavours, Original and Mealworms, formulated specifically for wild birds. Suitable for all seasons and particularly vital during the colder months, peanuts are naturally high in calories and, when blended into butter, make a tasty high-energy treat for a wide variety of garden bird species from Blue Tits to Woodpeckers. The recipe does not contain any palm oil or added salt! The mealworm recipe combines the delectable peanut butter blend with protein-rich mealworm morsels, which will be a hit in back gardens.

The Harrison’s Peanut Butter feeder is a simple, easy-use design, perfect for all garden spaces, including balconies. Feed wild birds by removing the lid of the peanut butter jar and screwing the jar into the peanut butter specialist feeder. The feeder has a rope to hang the feeder and jar from a branch, wall or fence, as well as a little wooden baton to slot into the feeder to act as a handy perch for wild birds. Alternatively, you can feed by setting the jar securely on a bird table or smearing the peanut butter onto a tree trunk for more timid birds to find.

The packaging and materials of this new range have been well thought-through for the environmentally-conscious customer: the jars are fully recyclable as they are made with glass, and the lid is made with PP. The peanut butter feeder is made with 100% recyclable plastics in a muted natural green colour, and the rope is made with recycled materials too. 

These three new lines will be available to order exclusively from Pedigree Wholesale from Mid-January onwards.

INDX Homewares is set to debut a new dedicated pets section at its upcoming show on February 21-22.

The launch of a new dedicated category for pets has been created in response to growing market demand. Post-pandemic, the share of households owning a pet has grown from c40% to c62%, bringing the value of the UK Pet Care Market to £6.7 billion as of 2021.

Rachel Breen, Head of Homewares at AIS, said: “As the UK’s leading buying group, we have kept our finger on the pulse of consumer trends over the past few years. This includes a significant increase in the number of households owning a pet, which in turn presents an opportunity for independent retailers.

“For this reason, we will be introducing a new dedicated pet section at our February homewares show, in order to help cater for and support all independent retailers looking to seize this opportunity, whether old or new.”

INDX Homewares’ pets section will be housed in a dedicated room at Cranmore Park, and will welcome exhibitors working across a variety of pet-related goods, including beds, accessories, toys, walking equipment, bowls, treats and grooming.

A number of leading brands have already confirmed their attendance, including Scruffs, Tres Paws, Long Paws, Denzels and Danish Design.

The show will also include a daily ‘Dog Walk’ to showcase products with goodie bags for participants, a ‘Pose with the Pooch’ photo activity, and supplier giveaways.

Rachel concluded: “We are thrilled to invite both brands and buyers alike to experience our new dedicated pet category at INDX Homewares. No effort has been spared in the creation of the UK’s most focused buying environment for independent pet retailers, and we look forward to seeing what new relationships and business opportunities will be born out of the show.”

INDX Homewares is organised by Associated Independent Stores (AIS), the UK's top buying group for fashion, home, and leisure.

Held at West Midlands exhibition centre, Cranmore Park, on 21-22 February 2023, INDX Homewares attracts department stores, category specialists, high street retailers, boutiques, garden centres, and e-tailers.

To register for INDX Homewares, CLICK HERE.

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The British Independent Retailers Association has said the government's new Energy Bills Relief Scheme (EBRS) which is replacing the Energy Bills Discount Scheme (EBDS) a 'death slide' for indi retailers.

The government's new scheme was released yesterday (January 9) and they have stated that the current offering is unaffordable.

However they did accept that some price support would be needed after March, which is when the EBDS, which has wholesale gas and electricity prices are currently fixed until.

The new EBRS scheme is designed to offer discounts to eligible businesses, based on usage, with some high energy usage industries will receive more support.

However BIRA, which works with over 6,000 independent businesses of all sizes across the UK, has highlighted that based on the government’s own calculations, the current scheme provides a typical small retail shop with £6,400 of financial support with energy bills. Under the new discount scheme, this support falls to £400 for the same small shop.

BIRA CEO Andrew Goodacre said: "The Chancellor said he wanted to avoid a cliff edge in terms of energy support. But it looks as if he has replaced the cliff edge with a ‘death slide’.

"Last year we saw energy bills for indie retailers increasing by 500% £15,000 - £20000 more than usual. These businesses will now have another £6,000 pe annum of costs to deal with, at a time when consumer spending has fallen and other costs are set to increase.

"The burden on small retailers is set to increase significantly again. Treasury will refer to the extra retail discount in business rates, but this was needed to offset the average 10% increase in rateable values following the recent revaluation.

"BIRA believe that more need to be done to support high street shops with rising energy bills, and we would like to have seen higher discounts offered to those businesses that have reduced energy compared to last year. Not only would this reward and encourage businesses to reduce costs, it would also be a more environmentally friendly solution," he said.

A pet shop has been holding the final days of a closing down sale as the owners get set to retire.

Fishnet Aquarium and Pets in Oldham has been owned and run over the past four decades by David and Lynn Hague. 

In a post on the shop’s Facebook page the couple said: “With mixed emotions, after 40 years of trading, we are ready to call time on Fishnet. This is not a sad announcement, it’s the end of an era and the start of the next chapter in our lives. 

“We would like to give our heartfelt thanks to every single person that has graced our shop with your custom over the last 40 years, it has been our pleasure to serve you. 

“To everyone who has helped and supported us in any way, shape, or form, and to all of our family and friends, we really appreciate and thank you all, and we couldn’t have done it without you.”

The National Pet College has announced that the Level 3, Animal Welfare Manager apprenticeship has been officially approved for development by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IFATE). This will be a real boost for the pet industry in terms of staff recruitment and development.

Over the next few months employers and providers will be asked to comment on the knowledge, skills and behaviours that should be included in the apprenticeship standard to ensure that the programme and assessment is fit for purpose. 

NPC Education Manager, Vicky Skinner explained: “We are thrilled that this new Level 3 apprenticeship has been approved for development. We presented the case for development to the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education route panel in mid December and received the approval letter just before Christmas. We will now be gathering feedback from employers and providers on the key duties of management or supervisory roles within the pet sector to ensure that this new apprenticeship is as valuable as possible.”

To contribute to the development please email info@nationalpetcollege.co.uk

To find out more about taking on an apprentice and the funding new employers are entitled to click on the following link https://www.gov.uk/guidance/how-to-take-on-an-apprentice

With the UK in the midst of the largest ever outbreak of avian influenza, one of the country’s leading exotic vet practices is hosting an informative session on how vets can recognise and manage the epidemic in their own clinics. 

Led by Dr Tom Dutton from Great Western Exotics, the talk will take place online at 7pm on Tuesday 24 January 2023 and is free for vet professionals to attend. 

An EBVS specialist in avian medicine and surgery, Dr Dutton will provide an overview of the current avian influenza situation before leading attendees through how to identify a possible outbreak in their practice and subsequently how to manage it. The hour-long session will also count towards CPD hours.

Dr Dutton said: “We are currently suffering from the biggest avian flu outbreak in UK history. As well as the widely reported effect on the UK commercial poultry industry, there have also been a number of cases in captive birds. 

“Bird owners are naturally worried about their pets becoming infected and practice vets are also having to field requests from members of the public who are concerned about wild birds. This session will help vets to manage enquiries and handle any potential clinical situations with confidence.”

Dr Dutton leads the team at Great Western Exotics in Swindon and is also a RCVS recognised specialist in zoo and wildlife medicine. The referral hospital is part of the IVC Evidensia group and its expert team is made up of eight of the UK’s leading exotic vets, specialising in the care of birds, rodents, reptiles and zoo animals, including fish and amphibians.

Veterinary professionals are invited to sign up to the talk by emailing Jess at GWEReferrals@vets-now.com before 23 January. 

Will Clulee with Polly – FTCH Poolgreen Kizzie -– won the 92nd Cocker Spaniel Championship held at Woodhead Estate, Derbyshire on 6-7January.

This was Will’s amazing sixth time of winning the championships and he said afterwards: “We would like to thank everyone who have messaged us. We have been overwhelmed.” 

The kennel’s Poolgreen Gundogs had already had a wonderful season, having 

made up 4 Field Trial Champions with Cockers - FTCH Poolgreen Kizzie, FTCH Uplands Bluebell of Badgerford, FTCH Woolpitts Shin of Poolgreen and a Springer - FTCH Poolgreen Josie. 

In addition, Will had qualified 4 dogs for the Cocker Spaniel Championship and 1 for the Springer Spaniel Championship.

To top the season off by winning the 2023 Cocker Championships for the 6^th time

was an outstanding achievement and Will commented, “Thank you to CSJ K9 feed and all those that support us (you know who you are).”

For more about Will and CSJ products see csjk9.com 

Local councillors have been asked to approve plans that would turn a former museum into a new pet shop.

Forest Pet Supplies Ltd has submitted a planning application to New Forest District Council to change the old Ringwood Town and Country Experience unit at Gouldings Farm, in Hampshire, into a pet shop.

The company claims it would make “sustainable use of an otherwise derelict unit”.

Its plans are said to be “small scale within the existing building” and would involve no external alterations or ground works.

In its application, the company states: “The proposed change of use would create an additional benefit to local residents by providing a service to meet the needs of local livestock and pets.

“By bringing it back into use, the proposal would create an additional retail offer to local residents and help to grow a small-scale rural enterprise in keeping with the character and appearance of the street scene and surrounding area.”

Picture: Google maps.

UK pet wellness company HOWND has reached an agreement with Whole Foods Market, an upscale American multinational supermarket chain, which will help to accelerate the brand’s growth in the US.

The deal has been struck by HOWND’s US distributor Only An Ocean, which announced the brand's entry into Whole Foods Market’s pet segment this week.

“We are thrilled to work with Whole Foods Market by including HOWND in their pet care segment for 2023. This market expansion opportunity inspires our company and our brand partner, HOWND, to broaden our vision of making plant-based products available to a broader audience committed to ingredients and respect for our planet,” said Cheryl Pedersen, Co-Founder, Only An Ocean.

A selection of HOWND’s Conditioning Shampoos and Refreshing Body Mists of the ‘Keep Calm,’ ‘Yup You Stink!,’ and ‘Got An Itch?’ product lines will launch nationally in select Whole Foods Market stores.

Cindy Hwang, Assistant Category Merchant at Whole Foods Market, commented: “We are so excited to launch HOWND as our customers are always looking for fun ways to pamper their pets. Our shoppers will love the vegan options that are certified cruelty free.”

Since its inception in the UK, HOWND’s founders Mark Hirschel and Jo Amit have continued to grow the brand’s presence worldwide. From their love for dogs and respect for the planet, their commitment is to consistently offer global communities the most ethical, plant-based, and professional-grade products and packaging. 

Founders of the UK’s Bring Your Dog to Work Day since 2014, they create initiatives to benefit the planet and pet welfare with fundraising events, charitable contributions, and donation-based invitations to have like-minded companies be a member of their ‘Pawsome Partners’ family.

Mark said: “We have been working closely with Only an Ocean, our US distributor, for several years now and slowly finding ways to build our brand across the pond. Together, we identified Whole Foods as being a great fit for HOWND and prepared the deal alongside our distributor throughout most of 2022.

“Whole Foods is a fantastic retail chain and the fact they chose HOWND speaks volumes about our brand. It’s now our job to make sure we are successful in-store, and only when once we've achieved this will the real transformation begin with many more doors opening up for us.

“There's no denying that it’s a fantastic opportunity and one we feel has been earned. As a multi-channel brand, we are seeing growth from a variety of revenue streams and this goes some way to showing us that large volume retail trade is alive and well.”

Whole Foods Market is a subsidiary of Amazon and is an upscale American multinational supermarket chain headquartered in Austin, Texas, which sells products free from hydrogenated fats and artificial colours, flavours and preservatives.

Pets at Home has opened the doors to its new look pet care centre at Horsted Retail Park in Chatham, Kent, offering the ultimate experience for pet owners and their pets, all under one roof.    

The revamped store is now home to a brand-new grooming salon – The Groom Room – which has opened for the first time. It offers a wide range of grooming services for dogs, including full grooms, spa treatments, puppy grooming, bath, brush and blow-dry, and nail clipping. Customers can book appointments online at www.petsathome.com/groomroom. 

The rest of the store has also been refurbished, including a pet village, which has been designed with small animals in mind to ensure there is plenty of room for them to play, hide, eat, and sleep, as well as an aquatic centre, with a range of fish and accessories.

The Chatham store has a team of specialist pet care advisors on hand to support pet owners with free advice, including flea and worm subscriptions, weight checks and nutritional consultations, as well as a coat and harness fitting service for dogs.

The store also has a Vets4Pets vet surgery, which was formerly Companion Care. They have a team of highly skilled vets, experienced nurses, and dedicated Client Care Advisors on hand to support pets with all of their important healthcare needs – from preventative care and welfare advice, to treating sick and injured animals.

All customers who were previously signed up to Companion Care will automatically have access to the new Vets4Pets surgery, with the team all remaining the same. 

Store manager, Sam Bickers, said: “We can’t wait to welcome our customers and their pets into our revamped pet care centre. 

“We really do offer everything you need to keep pets happy, healthy, and safe, all under one roof. Whether it’s help with fitting a harness or your pet’s diet, accessing our grooming services, or booking an appointment with the Vets4Pets team, our team are always on hand to offer expert pet care advice, support, and guidance.”

New customers can sign up to Pets at Home’s free VIP club to receive 10% off their first shop and 25% off their first full groom at The Groom Room*.

New puppy and kitten owners can also access the free VIP Puppy & Kitten club, joining the millions of pet owners already getting expert advice and tailored offers through their pet’s first year.

Pet owners in Chatham can keep up to date with the latest store news and offers with the store’s Facebook page. 

Mr Bug has unveiled its colourful new counter display unit that will be heading out to discerning independent pet stores and nationwide pet food chains, pubs, delis, farm and coffee shops from the beginning of February 2023.

Pet store acolytes of Mr Bug’s all-natural Devon-baked treats will gain priority access to this all-singing shelf display by simply placing a minimum order of 10 units per flavour (40 units in total).

With significant numbers of leading dog treats still needlessly riddled with unwelcome calories, synthetic nasties, lazy fillers, Mr Bug was determined in 2022 to launch a sustainable offer of Devon-farmed mealworms baked with an array of beneficial nutritious ingredients: beetroot, parsnips, sweet potato honey, peanut butter and vegan cheese.

Historically entovegan thinking within the UK pet scene has been dominated by unsavoury black fly larvae which were originally grown very much with cattle feed in mind.  The only problem with championing black fly larvae is that the resulting taste is not only more bitter than a medium-sized bag of plump limes, it’s also awash with unwelcome saturated fats.

In stark contrast, Mr Bug’s epicurean-orientated dog treats made with nutritious mealworm powder offer an alluring nutty twang in conjunction with an array of highly prized nutritional benefits: more calcium than milk, more B12 than salmon, more iron than spinach and access to all 9 amino acids.  

Mr Bug comes as a: Veggie One, A Fruity One, A Nutty One & The Cheesy One.

To find out more about Mr Bug or their new counter display units contact bugme@mrbug.co.uk

Visit www.mrbug.co.uk

UK pet product suppliers will get the chance to exhibit at one of the world’s leading trade exhibitions as PetQuip organises its first-ever British Pavilion at SuperZoo in Las Vegas on 16-18 August 2023.

The British Pavilion will be located in the heart of the show floor at this leading exhibition.

SuperZoo 2022 welcomed more than 16,000 pet professionals, representing over 25 countries and all 50 states, to engage in new product introductions, expert-led education sessions and peer-to-peer networking events. 

The 331,500 square foot show floor featured more than 1,000 exhibitors from every pet product category and 900+ products made their debut in SuperZoo’s sold-out New Product Showcase. 

SuperZoo continues to be the industry’s go-to trade show for the pet retail community, making it THE event to showcase your products to the US $123.6 billion industry.

For more information or to secure your place in the British Pavilion contact PetQuip’s Emma Brazier by email emma@petquip.com