Pictured: Dr Dave Pool (left) stands with Chris Jones following the acquisition.

Peregrine Livefoods, the UK’s largest reptile wholesaler, has moved into the world of aquatics following the acquisition of specialist fish food brand, FishScience. 

Having stocked the products for several years, the wholesaler welcomed the opportunity to acquire the FishScience business when founder Dr David Pool announced his retirement. The deal was completed on Friday (February 18).

Chris Jones, managing director of Peregrine Livefoods, said: “When David approached us, we jumped at the opportunity for two key reasons. Firstly, we have ambitions to expand our portfolio and market reach beyond reptiles and into the aquatic sector. Secondly, both FishScience and Peregrine Livefoods’ foundations are built on the use of insects as part of our foods. This synergy allows for a myriad of opportunities in the future.”

Peregrine Livefoods is an Employee-Owned Trust, meaning all 192 employees at the Harlow-based company have a stake in the future success of the business. As one of the largest local employers, the company is keen to drive growth into the local economy in a sustainable way.

“Although many reptiles don’t have sensible alternatives of food other than live insects, the aquatic market does have a range of possibilities,” added Chris. “Many foods in the market use fishmeal, often derived through ocean trawled fish, which is incredibly damaging to the environment. 

“We’re excited at the possibility to utilise insects as an alternative protein source and reduce our impact on both the oceans and the planet. The nature of this business means we do not need to transport that protein source around the world, since we breed all our own insects on our farm here in Essex.”

Dr David Pool created FishScience in October 2013 when he saw a necessity to create a more sustainable fish food brand. The choice to use black soldier fly larvae (Hermetia illucens) instead of fish meal was one that ultimately created an eco-friendlier product whilst also being more palatable for the fish. Fuelled by his degree in Zoology and post-graduate studies of Freshwater Fisheries Biology and armed with over 25 years of industry knowledge from working at Tetra, he formulated his first product. 

Now, with over 70 products across the range, David is looking forward to retirement and enjoying his passion for fish through his hobbies and working on a consultancy basis with Peregrine Livefoods. 

He said: “The use of insect meal in the formulation of FishScience foods, along with its focus on natural and sustainable ingredients, has been central to the brand’s success.  When Peregrine Livefoods expressed an interest in purchasing FishScience, it felt like a natural fit. Their business focuses on insects, and they recognise the many opportunities that this ingredient offers. Added to this; Peregrine Livefoods is a young and dynamic company that has the resources and expertise to take the FishScience brand to the next level.

“I had always planned to retire at the age of 60 and that landmark has just passed. I’m not someone who can sit around doing very little and I am looking forward to spending more time on my hobbies of fishing, walking, running and travelling. I have also undertaken some voluntary fisheries management work with a local angling club and look forward to spending more time doing this.”

With the new acquisition paving the way for Peregrine Livefoods to enter the aquatics sector, the future of the exotic pet industry looks bright. With many herpetoculturists (those who keep reptiles and amphibians) now also keeping fish in semi-aquatic enclosures called ‘paludariums’ the increased knowledge in-house should benefit a wide reach of businesses across the country.

Chris Jones added: “At Peregrine we have a large team of experts who have a collective wealth of experience when it comes to insects and reptiles, but we’re very limited in specialist aquatic knowledge. David’s experience will be invaluable to assist Peregrine in pushing the brand and developing new products that allow FishScience to become a market-leading fish food brand.”

David concluded: “Everything has gone very smoothly. Peregrine Livefoods has been an easy and open company to work with. It is a young, innovative and dynamic company which I am sure will bring a lot of benefits to the aquatics market.”

Award-winning retail group Just for Pets opened its 20th store at Leamington Shopping Park on Saturday (February 19)...

Local pet owners have expressed their delight at the news. One Facebook user stated how excited they were at not having to travel to Coventry, while others were thrilled at the range of premium dog foods and natural treats available from the pet retailer.

Other comments on the Just for Pets’ Facebook pages included:

“I have to say I’m very impressed at the choice of cat toys/accessories and dog toys. I will definitely be shopping with you again soon.”

“Brilliant selection of natural dog treats.”

“The Leamington store is fab – lots of new and exciting bands and stuff for my dog to try.”

The new store stocks a range of brands, including Orijen, Acana, Carnilove, Canagan and Cooper & Co.

Store manager Adam Sullivan said: “We’re really excited to open and see the reaction from Leamington’s pet owners.

“The new store has a huge range of natural treats and raw foods, as well as a range of new and exciting products and brands, including Le Chameau, George Barclay, and Barbour.

“The training and support the team has been offered is amazing, and we’re confident that we can offer customers the very best advice and products for their pets in store.”

The Just for Pets group was voted UK Pet Retailer of the Year at the PetQuip Awards in 2021.

Nationwide pet retailer Jollyes, has announced plans to open a store at Wrexham, North Wales. Recruitment has started for the new outlet, which will open at Border Retail Park in April and employ 10 staff. 

Jollyes, which has more than 70 stores across the UK, is taking over the lease previously held by Bensons for Beds, which is due to close at the end of February. 

As part of its opening plans, Jollyes has offered to interview any of the Bensons colleagues interested in moving into a new sector of retailing. 

As well as selling a wide range of pet food and accessories, Jollyes’ Wrexham store will feature ‘The Spa, the retailer’s high-quality dedicated dog grooming salon.  

It will be its second store in North Wales, complementing its popular outlet at the Flintshire Retail Park, Flint. 

Sarah Farrar, Jollyes regional manager, said: “We’ve been looking to find another great location in North Wales for some time and can’t wait to welcome customers and their pets to our new Wrexham store. 

“This will be a full-service store with a grooming spa and pet clinic, designed it to make it as easy as possible for customers to find what they are looking for.” 

Backed by Kester Capital, Jollyes announced in January it had a pipeline of 20 new store openings over the next 19 months.

Sniffe & Likkit has created two new SKUs to maximise gifting opportunities for retailers across all categories. 

The new products tap into the fact that, with dogs being treated as an important and equal member of the family, they’re just as likely to be ‘gifted’ as anyone else.  

And it’s not just ‘pooch parents’ who are driving these sales. Strong anecdotal evidence from consumer events, as well as feedback from retailers, has highlighted just how many of Sniffe & Likkit’s sales were being generated by friends and family of dog owners. 

So, with Mother’s Day and the Easter holidays set to trigger thousands of family and friend visits, the firm felt it was the perfect moment to create new gifting options. Easter is also the UK's second biggest present giving occasion, meaning the opportunity for these products is significant. 

The 'Inn The Dog House' (RRP £17.00) gift set features four of Sniffe & Likkit's signature products - including ‘Fragrant Fur Coat’ shampoo, a pack of ‘Wippets’ wipes, ‘Give a Dog a Cologne’ fragrance spray and a scented hanging sachet, ‘Scent Something Nice’.  

The second gift item is the 'Paw Kit Treat Tin' (RRP £10.00), a sturdy metal tin full of all-natural tasty snacks, made from a natural and healthy balance of sweet potato and chicken liver. Treats are currently a major driver in the UK dog food market and a significant contributor to value, as they typically command a price premium over everyday meals. 

The two products further boost the firm's gifting line-up - joining its ‘Scent-a-Message’ scented greetings cards, ‘Home Barking Kit’, ‘Woofpack’ travel bag and Christmas-themed stocking and 'Mutt Crackers’. 

Lee Sargent, co-founder, said: “People love bringing gifts for a dog, especially if they think it’ll ‘miss out’ on a celebration or gifting occasion! It’s all part of the lovely humanisation of dogs and a recognition of just how important they are to a home. Gifting’s growing nicely for us, so expect further additions.” 

All Sniffe & Likkit items are available from Pedigree Wholesale and direct from sniffeandlikkit.com. 

The Food Standards Agency has welcomed the ban after a link was confirmed between a salmonella outbreak in people and feeder rodents used for reptile food originating from a premises in Lithuania.

The ban, imposed until further notice by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs comes after an investigation into an outbreak of salmonella affecting over 900 people in the UK. The FSA is continuing to urge people to be extra careful when handling any frozen rodents including mice product and packaging due to the risk of salmonella.

People should be extra vigilant, washing hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after contact, when handling not just the product, but their reptiles and associated equipment and environment, due to the risk of the illness. 

Tina Potter, head of incidents at the Food Standards Agency said: “As we have continued to see a rise in the number of cases of Salmonella Enteritidis linked to feeder rodents imported from Lithuania over the past number of months, we welcome Defra’s move to ban these products from being imported and sold across the UK.

“Even though this ban has been introduced to ensure public health is protected, we cannot emphasise enough the importance of good hygiene practice when handling raw or frozen pet food, as well as the reptile itself”

“The feed should be suitably stored, ideally in a dedicated storage compartment or freezer, not in contact with human food and it should always be defrosted naturally at room temperature on newspaper or paper towels away from human food and food preparation surfaces. Any surfaces and equipment used should be thoroughly disinfected.

“Handlers and pet owners must always wash their hands thoroughly with soap and warm water immediately after handling the frozen and defrosted feed and handling your reptile and their equipment.”

Further general advice on reducing the risk of contracting salmonella is available online. Click here to view.

Beco is donating more than 4,000 meals for dogs belonging to the UK’s homeless community through its new Get One, Gift One initiative.

Homelessness is sharply on the rise in the UK, and so Beco wants to support the pets that bring companionship, warmth, and comfort to the people who need it most through an important new partnership with the charity Dogs On The Street (DOTS). 

For every online order placed throughout February and March, Beco will be giving one of its meals to the pets that play such a vital role in their owners’ lives on the streets.

With Get One, Gift One, Beco will be donating a wide selection of its wet food meals, with nutritious ingredients such as responsibly-caught wild tuna, and omega-3 and -6 rich pumpkins and peas to DOTS to distribute to those who need it most.

In addition to donating meals, volunteers from Beco will also be supporting DOTS on upcoming drop-in clinics in London over the next months.

George Bramble, founder of Beco, said: “I am so proud to be launching Beco’s Get One, Gift One initiative to help provide nutritious meals to support those faithful friends that provide many of the homeless community with invaluable loyalty, and ensure these valuable dogs kept well fed and looked after.”

Pet stores are being urged to register now for free entry to PATS Sandown, the UK’s Spring pet industry exhibition taking place on March 27-28 at Sandown Park, Surrey.

The event will see leading manufacturers and suppliers showcasing their new products and services for 2022, all under one roof.

As an added bonus, visitors are being invited to a special drinks reception to celebrate the 25th PATS show. 

The drinks reception, sponsored by pbwnews, will also mark the 50th anniversary of Pedigree Wholesale, a regular exhibitor at PATS shows. It will take place from 5pm-7pm on Sunday, March 27, after the first day of the exhibition.

With so many exciting plans for 2022, PATS Sandown is shaping up to be another memorable event.

More than 130 companies and brands have booked their stand space, so retailers and buyers can be certain the exhibition halls at Sandown Park Exhibition Centre will be packed with hundreds of new products.

As well as meeting up with a long list of PATS regulars, visitors will be greeted by a host of new faces.

So why should retailers register now for free entry to the two-day exhibition? Here’s just a quick summary of popular visitor attractions:

• The biggest and best showcase of new pet products
• Unrivalled show offers and competitions
• Top groomers giving insightful demonstrations, workshops and talks
• Free entry, free parking and free catalogue.
• Invitation to the 25th PATS drinks reception on Sunday, March 27.

You can register on line at www.patshow.co.uk where you’ll also find a full list of exhibitors and information on how to reach the venue.

A leading dog grooming business has joined a national campaign calling for mandatory first aid qualifications for all UK pet professionals.

Four Paws Groom School is throwing its weight behind the Safe Pets and People campaign, alongside the likes of the RSPCA and national qualification provider the iPET Network.

The grooming salon and training school's director Belinda Morris said she believed that in order to gain the trust of customers, it was vital they knew their pets were in safe hands.

Currently it is not mandatory for any pet professional to have first aid training, but many industry chiefs are calling for the rules to change.

Belinda said: "We are proud to support Safe Pets and People and hope that by spreading the word more people will sign the petition and help us make a change.

"Dogs are part of the family and I wouldn't want to hand over my precious dogs to someone who did not know the basics of canine first aid. 

"This is a serious issue of trust and I don't want my profession to get a bad reputation by people who don't have this kind of knowledge."

Four Paws Groom School opened in Ledbury in October and offers dog grooming qualifications to students from all over Herefordshire and neighbouring counties. 

Often students travel a great distance for professional teaching and qualifications.

Belinda added: “It is about preventing situations from getting worse, and reacting quickly and calmly when accidents do happen and being able to advise owners on a dogs welfare.”

To find out more about Safe Pets and People and sign the petition go to www.safepetsandpeople.org

A husband-and-wife team have launched what they claim to be the first ‘ambient’ liquid bone broth for dogs and cats to hit the shelves in the UK and Ireland.

Belfast couple Lara and Ken McCullough, who have worked in the pet industry for 15 years, say that their new product, Karnlea Beef Bone Broth can be used as a supplement, treat or topper to support skin, coat and joint health for dogs and cats.

Carton packed from fresh, the broth is slow cooked to extract high levels of protein, collagen and minerals ideal for boosting and maintaining pet health.

Made from 100% natural ingredients, the broth maintains high nutrient levels which can be lost in concentrated or powdered bone broth or collagen supplements. It can be served, as a liquid, straight from the carton, chilled for use as a jelly topper, frozen into treats or convenient portions, or used in home cooking and bakes.

Laura said: “Every time we had a Sunday roast, I would painstakingly make bone broth for my two dogs. It was a lengthy and often messy process and despite my enthusiasm to feed bone broth, and my dogs’ obsession with it, I found it not always practical.

“I would make as much as I could at a time, so I needed to find fridge space – or freezer space. I didn’t really like the smell around the kitchen for the long periods it took to cook, and frankly sometimes it was just time consuming when I had a very busy life and was tired. I also found that on occasions that I really wanted or needed to have some available, and those were the times there wasn’t any in the freezer, or I’d have to wait for one to defrost!”

They started researching methods of combining convenience while locking in freshness and maintaining high nutrient levels, leading to the creation of Karnlea.

Each carton contains 500ml of beef bone broth which has a recommended retail price of £8.99.

The company is working with UK distributor, Finer By Nature, to develop a network of independent stockists. The heat-sealed cartons are brick-shaped, designed to sit neatly on the shelf and easy to box and dispatch.

Karnlea has already invested in ethical and sustainable processes. Product ingredients have been sourced from antibiotic and hormone-free, grass-fed animals, reared on cooperative farms.

All its packaging is recyclable and sustainable, made with paperboard from sustainable forest materials. Its spouts and caps are also plastic-free – produced from a sugar cane derivative.

To become a Karnlea Bone Broth stockist contact Lara at lara@karnlea.com or for more information see www.karnlea.com

A retired RAF police dog received the prestigious PDSA Dickin Medal – the animals’ Victoria Cross – for his life-saving devotion to duty, protecting British and Allied troops while serving in Afghanistan throughout 2013.

Hertz is the first dog in British military history to detect electronic communications equipment such as mobile phones, voice recorders, SIM cards and GPS devices.

Throughout his time in Afghanistan, Hertz was responsible for finding more than 100 items of contraband, including drugs and Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs), all of which posed a significant threat to the lives of servicemen, women and civilians.

The ten-year-old German Shorthaired Pointer was formally presented with his PDSA Dickin Medal by veterinary charity PDSA’s director general at a special ceremony at the Royal Air Force Club in Mayfair, London on Tuesday. Hertz is the 74th recipient of the PDSA Dickin Medal.

Watch Hertz’s incredible story: www.pdsa.org.uk/hertz

PDSA director general Jan McLoughlin said: “Hertz is a truly remarkable animal hero and a trailblazer in his field. His exceptional skills undoubtedly protected troops from the ever-evolving advances in digital intelligence. His actions changed the course of countless missions, saving the lives of military personnel and civilians.

“For this bravery and devotion to duty, we are honoured to welcome him as the latest recipient of the PDSA Dickin Medal.”

Yorkshire-based pet business The Innocent Hound is celebrating the nation’s love for dogs in a new campaign and has enlisted the support of international floral designer Jonathan Moseley.

The #MyInnocentHound campaign highlights the special bond between dogs and their owners and explores why ‘life is better with a dog’.

Jonathan Moseley said: “Throughout my life, dogs have provided a constant source of companionship, loyalty and unconditional love. If I had to sacrifice flowers or dogs within my life, then there is absolutely no question which one would go. Without my canine companion I just cannot function and the joy that they so freely bring into our lives is priceless.”

Chloe Heaton, founder of The Innocent Hound, added: “We’re delighted to have Jonathan Moseley supporting our #MyInnocentHound campaign. As a business that is passionate about dogs and passionate about the food they eat, we want to celebrate our love for dogs as a nation. They enrich our lives, they bring joy and they come with some of the most powerful health benefits. Dogs help us make those healthy lifestyle changes which have positive impacts on our mental and physical health and wellbeing.”

Through the campaign The Innocent Hound wants to stress the importance of dog enrichment, and will focus on a range of activities designed to stimulate and entertain, making dogs happier, healthier and more confident.

The Innocent Hound is encouraging all dog lovers to share a photo of their animals that makes their life better at #MyInnocentHound

The Innocent Hound produces a range of award-winning air-dried complete dog food and treats. More information can be found at www.theinnocenthound.co.uk

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A doghouse hit by a meteorite nearly three years ago has been sold at auction by Christies for $44,100 (nearly £32,500).

German Shephard Roky had a narrow escape when the meteorite struck his home in Aguas Zarcas, Costa Rica, at 9.07pm on April 23, 2019.

The doghouse is made of pressed wood with an oxidized tin roof. The words ‘House’ and ‘Roky’ are sketched in pencil on the fascia; the only painted graphic is a large condensed ‘R. 

A seven-inch hole marks where the meteorite punctured the roof. A badly weathered pressed-wood floor was demolished by the meteorite impact and the rotted wood support columns have been replaced. 

Christies said the object had joined the ranks of the most sought-after curiosities: the doghouse struck by a meteorite.

A shop assistant has been awarded £20,000 after winning her unfair dismissal case against an Essex pet store.

Leigh Best was sacked from her job at Embark on Raw in Whitesbridge Farm Industrial Estate near Billericay, in May of 2020.

An employment tribunal was told that Leah Best had raised fears about covid-19 safety protocols.

She was employed from 29 January 2019 until her dismissal on 11 May 2020 on a ‘zero hours’ contract although she regularly worked ’full time’ hours every week. She claimed she was dismissed for reasons relating to her conduct briefly summarised as rude and confrontational communication with co-workers and managers. 

The tribunal ruled she had been sacked for raising her covid concerns and victimised for complaining about the owner's behaviour towards her.

A full account of the case can be found by clicking here.

The Animal Medicines Training Regulatory Authority has announced the appointment of Michael Seals MBE to the role of chair. 

He will take up the post following the AMTRA council and board meeting in London on March 1.

An experienced and well-respected figure in the animal health and welfare sector, Mr Seals succeeds Phil Sketchley as independent Chair following his retirement after forty-eight years in the industry, serving as AMTRA Council Chair since 2014.

“My intention is to take a proactive approach, working with the Board and Council to review AMTRA’s current work and identify opportunities for the future, adapting to changes and helping to defend and deliver AMTRA’s role within the sector,” said Mr Seals.

Bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience within the Government and industry, as well as from a consumer level, Mr Seals intends to address the market needs for the future, including the introduction of new technologies and enhanced CPD opportunities.

Mr Seals said: “The sector is in a period of adjustment, including Defra, VMD and across the entire sector, and there are many opportunities for us to evolve and deliver on our appetite to drive change, meeting the demands of our RAMAs, their employees and the industry, as well as animal owners.

“As an independent, not-for-profit organisation, AMTRA has many strengths that it needs to harness and develop to help keep driving this change and to support the work, training opportunities and understanding of all AMTRA RAMAs across all species.”

A livestock and arable farmer in south Derbyshire, Mr Seals recently ended a ten-year term in Defra as Chair of the Animal Health & Welfare Board England, and as the lead in the development of the Animal Health & Welfare Pathway. 

He has experience as Chair in a number of other roles including the not-for-profit National Fallen Stock Company, and is also the owner of a sports horse show jumping team, with breeding, training and livery facilities.

“We’re excited to be working with Michael, taking a fresh look at our priorities and strategies, as Phil Sketchley steps down from the role after over 21 years’ service as a board member, the past seven years as Chair,” added AMTRA secretary general Stephen Dawson.

Mr Seals will be assisted by John Blackwell, who was elected to the position of vice-chair at AMTRA’s December 2021 board and council meeting.

Mr Blackwell, an experienced qualified veterinary surgeon, has been a member of the AMTRA board since 2000, and takes over from Peter Rudman who has stepped down after 16 years in the position.

A 3D-printed model of a dog’s spine has helped him walk normally again.

French Bulldog Frank’s hindlimb mobility was badly impacted due to a malformation of his spine.

But the 3D-printed model let vets at Pride Veterinary Centre plan complex spinal surgery in advance, assessing screw sizes and precise placement before the procedure.

There was a marked improvement in the dog’s walking within days and urinary incontinence problems also cleared quickly.

Now Emma Suiter, neurology resident at the IVC Evidensia specialist referral centre, is hoping to use the high-tech 3D modelling technique to treat other challenging cases.

The dog was referred to the neurology department after his Nottingham owner became concerned by his walking difficulties and repeated urinary incontinence.

“This had come on suddenly over a three-week period and he was essentially walking as if he was drunk in his back legs,” said Emma. 

“He was a lovely, friendly little dog but the examination confirmed he was ambulatory paraparetic and ataxic. Although the condition wasn’t painful, he was uncoordinated in his hindlimbs and was also dribbling urine during the consultation. These were signs that would eventually cause far more problems in the future.

“His findings indicated a spinal issue and the MRI showed vertebral malformations of the T6-T8 vertebrae. This resulted in marked scoliosis and kyphosis, vertebral canal stenosis and compression of his spinal cord.

“Although we don’t see many of these cases, a recent research paper indicated there was a very good prognosis if you can successfully straighten the spine.”

It was decided to have a 3D-printed model of Frank’s spine made to aid the procedure.

And the pinpoint accuracy of the model proved highly advantageous.

“It wasn’t just a case of studying it before, but actually taking it into surgery with us,” said Emma. 

“While we were looking at his bones in front of us, we could also have a feel of the model and ensure we were placing the screws where we wanted them.

“It gives you that extra bit of reassurance and security.”

A total of seven screws were used, two in the vertebral bodies of T9, T8 and T6 and one within the vertebral bodies of T7. 

A small volume of PMMA (bone cement) was moulded around the protruding screwheads to provide the desired fixation. A post-operative CT scan showed the vertebral column was less kyphotic, with a widening of the vertebral canal by approximately 1.9mm.

A follow-up examination 10 days after discharge showed a marked improvement that has been maintained through subsequent post-operative checks.

“He was walking better within a day of the surgery and the urinary incontinence cleared up remarkably quickly,” said Emma. “It was a very satisfying case.

“My supervisors Annette Wessmann and Rosario Vallefuoco, European Specialists in Neurology and Small Animal Surgery respectively, who were also in the surgery, have used 3D-printed modelling before, but it was the first time for me.

“I definitely want to do more of this, and I think it can have major benefits.”

If you are attending BSAVA in March, IVC Evidenisa will be on stand D401.

iPET Network has been granted an expansion of scope by Ofqual to offer qualifications across the entire animal care and veterinary sector.

The successful awarding organisation currently creates high quality qualifications in the canine and feline sector only, with qualifications on offer including dog and cat grooming, canine first aid and canine nutrition.

But this week, in recognition of the continued demonstration of iPET Network's quality assurance and commitment to the animal sector, Ofqual granted permission for an expansion of scope.

This means that iPET Network will now expand its reach into the entire animal care and veterinary sectors, and create Ofqual regulated qualifications across the entire animal care world, including equine, small animal and veterinary science qualifications from Level 2 to Level 6. 

In addition, iPET Network has the ability to create qualifications in other SSA’s, teaching and lecturing and business management relating to the subject area of animal care and veterinary science. 

This expansion of scope will allow existing Training Providers to offer new qualifications and attract new Training Providers that specialise in broader animal qualifications. 

iPET Networks goal is to be the Awarding Organisation of choice for Training Providers, employers and learners in this sector.

Fern Gresty, co-director of the iPET Network, said: "We are so thrilled to have been granted this expansion of scope by Ofqual, and we can't wait to get started on creating our new portfolio of qualifications.

"We are currently on the hunt for experts in their field who would like to work with the iPET Network on this important task, which will help our animal industries achieve the high standards and recognition we believe that they deserve."

Co-director Sarah Mackay added: "By offering pet professionals qualifications in their specialisms, we are bringing regulation and career progression to our industries, and a gold standard for consumers who can have greater trust in the professionals that they are trusting their pets with.

"We would like to say a huge thank you to Ofqual for allowing us to continue on this important journey, which we believe will enhance and improve professional pet care in the UK."

To find out more about the iPET Network go to www.ipetnetwork.co.uk

The British Independent Retailers Association has responded to the report released by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) about a study on how the High Street is fairing.

The report, released this week, highlights how store closures for chains and multiples slowed versus the last two years.

However, vacant units in town and city centres are no longer being replaced by other chains, as the shift to retail parks continues in response to consumers’ changing location preferences.

In response to this statement, Bira's CEO Andrew Goodacre said: "The latest report on the High Street from PwC has shown a continuing trend of more shops closing than opening, although the rate of decline appears to be slowing after the impact of Covid-19.

"The largest number of closures came from the High Street chains who continue to leave the high street at an alarming rate. The report also shows a distinct difference between locations with retail parks fairing better.

“Despite the negative trends improving, these figures show how challenging the High Street continues to be for large and small retailers. With large retailers failing and moving out to retail parks, it might even be argued that one of the biggest threats to the cities and large towns is the attitude of large retailers to the High Street, and whether or not they will remain there. Retail parks are increasingly attractive and it is about time that city and town centres offered the same accessibility with free parking supported by better infrastructure

"From an independent perspective we are pleased to see the ongoing trend for local shopping. Independents have responded well to the pandemic by engaging with local communities and establishing their place in the local economy. There will always be entrepreneurs will to take up the vacant space, providing the conditions are supportive."

BSAVA has announced the award winners of 2021 and 2022. Embodying both of the organisation’s strategic pillars - community and science - the awards recognise sustained contributions to the veterinary profession across a wide range of areas.

With some awards now over 60 years old, they are steeped in history.  From ‘The Simon Award’, named after a guide dog whose sight was restored by surgery, to ‘The Woodrow Award’ which is named after a founding member of the BSAVA and its first President.

Winners will receive their prizes at this year’s BSAVA Congress taking place in Manchester Central on 24th-26th March.

“Congratulations to all those that are receiving an accolade,” says BSAVA Honorary Secretary, Krista Arnold. “All the nominations were exceptional, making judging particularly difficult this year.”

Joining some of the most notable names in the veterinary sector, the judges are delighted to announce the 2022 award winners are:

CLINICAL AWARDS:

Laurent Garosi - The Bourgelat Award

This award is presented by the BSAVA in recognition of truly outstanding international contributions to the field of small animal practice.

Laurent’s scholarly activities have accrued international renown and tremendous respect. His work on both cerebrovascular disease, and phenotypic classification and clinical characteristics of movement disorders in dogs, has progressed the respective fields.   Laurent is extremely productive in producing papers, presenting his work at national and international scientific meetings, teaching all levels of veterinary professionals both at home and abroad, and has founded and contributed to several prominent and successful electronic media learning forums, as well as proactively sharing information on social media platforms. 

It is without doubt that Laurent has positioned himself well above those in his field at a similar professional stage and he has done so with seemingly tireless productivity and great repose. He is already an internationally respected neurologist and has made an outstanding contribution to the field of small animal practice.

Join Laurent at BSAVA Congress 2022, where he will be looking at differentiating characteristics of paroxysmal dyskinesia and epileptic seizures, implementing appropriate diagnostic work-up in a cat or a dog with paroxysmal dyskinesia and understanding principles and current knowledge of treatment of paroxysmal dyskinesia.

Sarah Girling - The Simon Award sponsored by Veterinary Instrumentation

This award is presented to a member of the BSAVA for outstanding contributions in the field of veterinary surgery. Simon, a Golden Retriever owned by Mr J. Thomas, a blind telephone operator, also became blind and had his sight restored by surgery, enabling him to resume his full duties as a guide dog. Mr Thomas, in appreciation of the work and surgical skill which had made this possible, inaugurated and made this award at the 1962 annual Congress.

Sarah is committed to clinical excellence in the field of orthopaedics. She is an integral member of the successful hip replacement programme at Fitzpatrick Referrals, is the supervisor and mentor to the Fitzpatrick Referrals junior surgical team (residents and interns), Arthrex consultant and educator, AOVet lecturer and member of the advisory group for the recently launched canine crucial registry. She has an unrivalled work ethic and inspires those around her to achieve the same.

Kit Sturgess - The Woodrow Award

This award is presented for contributions to the advancement of small animal medicine by a qualified veterinarian. The award is in memory of C.E. Woodrow, a founder member of the Association and, of course, its first President.

Kit has gone beyond and above to lecture internal medicine and cardiology to veterinary surgeons in the UK and internationally. He volunteers his time to bring veterinary knowledge and scientific evidence based veterinary medicine to the profession, and has done so for many years. His dedication and commitment are recognised through this award. 

TEACHING AWARD:

Martin Hawes - The Amoroso Award, sponsored by Hill's Pet Nutrition

This award was instituted in memory of the late Professor E.C. Amoroso of the Royal Veterinary College and is presented for outstanding contributions to small animal studies by a non-clinical member of university staff.

Martin has devised a novel method of teaching consulting skills, utilising 360 degree cameras and videoing real consults. He is also an inspirational teacher.

WELFARE AWARDS:

Julie Dugmore - The Bruce Vivash Jones Veterinary Nursing Award

This award is presented by the BSAVA as the primary recognition for outstanding contributions to the advancement of small animal veterinary nursing.

Julie has been dedicated to progressing veterinary nurse education in the UK and beyond. Her enthusiasm for veterinary nursing training has brought her into other fields outside the UK. She is Chair of the Accreditation Committee for Veterinary Nurse Education (ACOVENE) and a Board member of the Veterinary European Transnational Network for Nursing Education and Training (VETNNET) and has, over the past ten years, been involved with several Leonardo da Vinci European funded projects developing veterinary nurse training across the European Union. She is given the award as recognition for her work and continued commitment to the advancement of small animal veterinary nursing.

Daniella Dos Santos - The J.A. Wight Memorial Award, sponsored by Blue Cross

This award is presented annually by the Blue Cross to a veterinary surgeon who has made an outstanding contribution to the welfare of companion animals.

Daniella’s constant ambition is to ensure animal welfare is always put first. Behind the scenes after long days at the practice Daniella puts her heart and soul into working with the BVA, making public appearances to be the voice for animals , to educate and to support veterinary practice again, putting animal welfare first!

Claire Bessant - The Ray Butcher Award

This award is BSAVA’s ‘unsung hero’ award which is presented annually to recognise an individual who has made a significant contribution to animal welfare in the community. This award is in memory of Ray Butcher, President of the Association between 1993 – 1994, who sadly passed away in 2015.

Claire has been with International Cat Care for 25 years. During her time at the charity she has transformed a small organisation focusing on breeders into an international charity with a vital role in veterinary education. She has developed the Cat Friendly Clinic programme, and worked with breeders, cattery owners, other charities and cat owners to improve the welfare of the feline species. Claire has travelled the world over, supporting conferences, as well as writing ten books on cat care and authoring many articles and co-authoring papers in veterinary journals. Claire is not a vet, but understands vets, owners and those who work with cats, and advocates for this species on many committees. She is a deserving winner of this award.

OTHERS:

Wendy Mandese - The Dunkin Award

This award is presented to the first named author of the best original research article on small animal medicine published in the Journal of Small Animal Practice in the past year.

Wendy’s article, titled ‘Stress in client-owned dogs related to clinical exam location: a randomised crossover trial’, investigated whether it was more stressful for a dog to be examined in a common treatment area or in a room with the owner. The strengths of this study included randomised presentation of examination locations, minimising selection bias and bias due to unknown confounders and sequence effects, control of individual differences in stress at study entry, and subjects acting as their own matched controls. Limitations included the inherent difficulties in defining and measuring stress in dogs and potential assessment bias due to inability to blind behavioural assessors. The JSAP editorial team believes this research showcases an elegant example of the use of a randomised controlled design in order to answer a well-defined clinical question that has an everyday impact.

Marzia Stabile - The Melton Award sponsored by Royal Canin

This award is presented to the first named author of the best original research article on small animal surgery published in the Journal of Small Animal Practice in the past year.

Marzia’s winning paper, ‘Comparison of CPAP and oxygen therapy for treatment of postoperative hypoxaemia in dogs’ was a randomised, multicentre, clinical trial that evaluated the effect of different interventions (continuous positive airway pressure vs oxygen supplementation) on SpO2 in dogs that had values of SpO2 lower than 95% during recovery from general anaesthesia. Limitations included the use of SpO2 to assess oxygenation, rather than PaO2, and lack of blinding from both caregivers and outcome assessors. The JSAP editorial team considered this is a good example of a pragmatic randomised controlled trial performed on clinical patients and that results of this study have the potential to change current practice for management of a common anaesthetic complication.

Ross Bond - The PetSavers Veterinary Achievement Award sponsored by Hill’s Pet Nutrition

This award is presented to the first author of the most valuable full research paper published following a BSAVA PetSavers' grant, in the past year.

Ross is Professor of Veterinary Dermatology at the Royal Veterinary College, is a recognised RCVS specialist in Veterinary Dermatology and holds RCVS and European College Diplomas in Veterinary Dermatology. His research interests relate primarily to microbial skin infections in dogs and cats. 

He is given this award for the paper ‘Transverse sectioning in the evaluation of skin biopsy specimens from alopecic dogs’, which is a well-structured study that used robust methodology to investigate the benefits of including transverse sectioning of skin biopsies from alopecic dogs alongside the routinely used vertical sectioning technique. The two sample processing methods were shown to be highly complementary, with transverse sectioning providing enhanced assessment of the hair growth phase, and follicular structure and architecture. The findings suggest a relatively simple change to current sample processing that will provide additional diagnostic information, and fundamentally improve the pathological assessment of skin samples from dogs with alopecia with no additional risk for the patient.

Rosanne Jepson - The Blaine Award sponsored by Royal Canin

This award is for outstanding contributions to the advancement of small animal veterinary medicine or surgery and is open to veterinarians and non-veterinarians.

Rosanne is an Associate Professor in Small Animal Internal Medicine and recognised RCVS, ACVIM and ECVIM Specialist in Small Animal Internal Medicine. Her particular areas of interest include nephrology, urology and hypertension. She has an active research profile in feline and canine renal disease and hypertension with an extensive publication record both in peer reviewed journals and as author of numerous text book chapters. She is one of the stars of UK veterinary science and in awarding Roseanne the Blaine Award, we recognise her significant contribution to the development of small animal nephrology in the UK.

The Kennel Club and actress Sally Phillips have revealed the five finalists of the prestigious Hero Dog Award, taking place at Crufts 2022. 

They are:

• A special Guide Dog who gave an ex-dairy farmer his life and family back, and set him on a path to support others with visual impairments
• A rescue dog who was found abandoned and tied up with his littermates, who went on to save his owner’s life and help other pets in need
• A special group of Newfoundlands who provide unique water therapy for suicide prevention and front-line emergency services staff
• A Springer Spaniel fire investigation dog who heroically brings justice to victims of arson attacks
• And a Golden Retriever who provides love and support to a young girl with cerebral palsy, helping her every day with her pain, anxiety and stress.

AlphaPet Ventures, a technology-driven brand platform for premium pet food in Europe, has announced the acquisition of Arden Grange. The takeover strengthens the German company’s ambition to establish itself as a leading Pan-European player serving over 200 million healthy meals for pets in 2022.

The acquisition of the UK company Arden Grange strengthens the AlphaPet portfolio with another premium brand and is a big step towards further internationalising the AlphaPet platform.

Arden Grange is one of the leading UK brands in the premium dog food segment and pioneered the category as a species-appropriate dog food brand in the UK more than 25 years ago. 

Wendy Stephens, founder of Arden Grange, said: “Together with my late husband, Graham, we founded the Arden Grange brand 25 years ago to counter the dog food offerings of the big manufacturers with a high-quality nutritional dog food. 

“The claim of Arden Grange shows this clearly, ‘nutrition without compromise’, and we have always remained faithful to this. This has enabled us to build up a large and loyal group of customers in the UK and win them over to our brand.” 

Emma Stephens, daughter of Wendy Stephens and director of Arden Grange, added: “The high quality and innovative recipes have enabled us to successfully establish the brand in the premium market and make it one of the most popular dog food brands in the UK. 

“Through the team at AlphaPet, I see great potential in further building the brand, not only nationally but also internationally. I am convinced that together we can fully realise the potential of Arden Grange.”

Marco Hierling, founder and managing Director of AlphaPet Ventures, commented: “Arden Grange is a strong and well-positioned premium brand for which we see great potential not only in the UK but also in DACH. Above all, we can make a good contribution to the further growth of the brand through our digital know-how, direct end-customer access as well as through our sales team in DACH with access to over 13,000 points of sale. 

“With the acquisition of Arden Grange, we strengthen our position as the leading digital brand platform for premium pet food in Europe. We are building on the existing and long-standing supplier and customer relationships in the UK and look forward to expanding these further in the coming years.”

The acquisition is still subject to regulatory approval.

AlphaPet's brands include Wolfsblut, Wildes Land, Müllers Naturhof and PRIMUM.

The Pet Industry Federation has announced its intention to establish a number of working parties to enable its members to contribute to the post-implementation review of the Animal Activities Licensing Regulations, scheduled to take place in 2023. 

The working parties will cover each separately licensed activity within PIF’s membership, and will allow members to discuss the views and suggestions about what changes should be made to the regulations themselves, the star-rating system and the higher standards as well as the guidance documentation.

Outcomes from these working parties will then be used to inform the Pet Industry Federation’s contribution to the Canine & Feline Sector Group, which is co-ordinating the review on behalf of DEFRA. 

There will also be an opportunity to put forward views on currently unlicensed areas of the pet industry, such as dog walking and pet grooming about whether these sectors should be incorporated into the regulatory framework. 

Nigel Baker, PIF CEO, said: “The post-implementation review will be a wholesale review of the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018 and will be the first real opportunity for our members to influence the shape of the legislation which has such an impact on their businesses. 

“We would strongly encourage each of our members to respond to the survey when they receive it, and for those who would like to be involved on the working parties to express their interest.”

Opportunities to participate in the licensing working parties will only be available to active members of the Pet Industry Federation. 

For more information about becoming a member, visit www.petfederation.co.uk for more details; telephone 01234 273933 or email info@petfederation.co.uk

Fast-growing Assisi Pet Care has extended its operation in Europe with the acquisition of Polish company Maced, a manufacturer of natural dog treats.

Assisi was established in September 2020 as a joint venture between founder Peter Mangion and Harwood Capital with the objective of creating a significant player in the European pet care market.

This latest acquisition represents Assisi's third deal, following the October 2020 acquisition of Hollings Ltd and the March 2021 acquisition of Town and Country Petfoods Ltd.

Peter Mangion (pictured) said: “We are delighted to have brought Maced into Assisi, a transaction which significantly grows our European market share, and which also gives us greater control of our supply chain whilst adding significant new product development expertise to our group.

He added: “We are particularly pleased that Tomasz Macionga, the long-standing CEO of Maced, will remain with the business, along with his excellent management team. I am grateful to Harwood Capital which, as partners in the Assisi business, is providing support as we continue to deliver on our buy-and-build strategy in the exciting European pet care market.”

Through its European Specialty Lending strategy, Crescent Capital Group provided financing to support Harwood Private Equity in the acquisition strategy of Assisi Pet Care.

As well as supporting Maced deal, the financing package also included a sizeable acquisition facility to enable Assisi to continue its growth strategy. Terms of the transactions were not disclosed.

A pet shop owner has recounted the horror of finding distressed animals sprayed with blue paint during an overnight burglary at the store.

Two thieves wearing balaclavas smashed their way into Caves Pet Shop in Crowland, near Peterborough, and stole stock valued at around £2,000. 

And during the raid they cruelly took a can of blue paint from a shelf and sprayed a parrot and a chinchilla. 

Shop owner Rebecca couldn’t believe the sight that confronted her and immediately thought: “Who would do such a thing, and why?”

Rebecca, who has run the shop for more than 15 years, told Pet Trade Xtra: “It was distressing to see that the shop had been broken into, but my first thought was for the poor animals. The sight of them upset everyone.”

The parrot, an Orange-Winged Amazon called Buddy, was covered in blue paint. His mate Charlie was missing and at first it was thought he had been stolen but he has since been spotted in the area.

“We’ve been trying to clean up Buddy but it’s a slow and stressful process,” added Rebecca. “As he tries to clean himself there is a danger that he absorbs the paint. It would poison him so we are doing our best for him. He is also missing his mate.”

Rebecca thinks the burglars, who were caught on CCTV, tried to steal the parrots but were bitten in the process, and in retaliation spray-painted the animals.

“If I ever get my hands on these vandals they’ll wish they’d never seen a can of blue paint,” said Rebecca. “I believe they are local so someone must know them.

“But I have to say the local community has been fantastic. Everyone has been shocked by what’s happened and can’t understand why people would do such a thing.”

The burglary took place in the early hours of Thursday, February 10. Among the stock stolen were jackets, leads and tools.  

Rebecca is keen to find the missing Charlie and urges anyone who spots him to contact her on 01733 810888.