BSB Products has launched CARNILOVE ACTIVE Salmon dog food in the UK. The new recipe has 26% fresh salmon as the first ingredient, plus salmon protein, vegetables, fruits and herbs in a 70:30 ratio of quality animal ingredients to fruit and vegetable ingredients.

The new recipe has 26% fresh salmon as the first ingredient, plus salmon protein, vegetables, fruits and herbs in a 70:30 ratio of quality animal ingredients to fruit and vegetable ingredients. The fresh salmon delivers essential proteins and concentrated energy to support canine vitality, physical performance, and mental resilience.

CARNILOVE Active Salmon dog food for adult dogs contains highly digestible salmon protein. Salmon is a rich source of essential amino acids that help support excellent physical condition, long-term vitality, and overall well-being. Its naturally high content of omega-3 fatty acids contributes to healthy skin and a dense, glossy coat.

Key features:

• First ingredient: 26% fresh salmon
• 30% vegetables, fruits, herbs
• No grain, potato or chicken

Pumpkin, legumes, and apples help support healthy digestion, while blueberries, cranberries, ginger, and sea buckthorn provide natural antioxidants support the immune system. Chicory root, brewer’s yeast, and yucca help maintain a balanced gut microbiome, while glucosamine and chondroitin support joint health and mobility.

CARNILOVE Active Salmon is available in 12kg for £76.95 SRP, 4kg for £30.95 SRP and 1.5kg bags for £13.45 SRP.

Colin Rodger, Director at BSB Products, exclusive UK distributor of Carnilove said:“CARNILOVE Active Salmon will be a popular choice for UK dog lovers, now with 26% fresh salmon as the first ingredient. Retailers seeking to enhance their dog food range with a Salmon recipe should look no further.”

Clydach Farm has introduced Mindful Years, a daily supplement formulated to support cognitive health in senior dogs. Developed by founder Callum Griffiths, the product adds a dedicated brain-health formula to the Welsh brand’s pet nutrition range.

Mindful Years combines Magtein magnesium L-threonate, used under licence from US ingredient company ThreoTech, with Synaptelyn, a proprietary blend from Clinigol Veterinary Science, alongside phosphatidylserine, algae-derived DHA, L- carnitine and alpha-lipoic acid.

Magtein is the patented form of magnesium developed to raise magnesium levels in the brain, and is well established in human brain-health supplements; Clydach Farm is the first pet nutrition brand in Europe to license the ingredient.

The powder is sprinkled over a dog’s existing wet or dry food once a day, with feeding quantities based on body weight. It comes in a 250g tin, RRP £59.99 in the UK and $79.99 in the US.

Callum Griffiths, founder of Clydach Farm, said: “Brain health has become a bigger part of how we care for older dogs, and for me it’s personal; I’ve seen cognitive decline up close in my own family, and it changed how I think about ageing. The formulation took a long time to get right, but it also had to be simple: Mindful Years goes onto the food the dog already eats, so it just becomes part of the routine.”

Mindful Years is now available to independent pet retailers and distributors. A 250g tin lasts around four weeks for a medium dog and up to twelve weeks for a toy breed, and every tin carries a 60-day money-back guarantee. The launch is supported by a consumer campaign, an online cognitive-health check for owners and a veterinary information pack.

Trade enquiries: hello@clydachfarm.co.uk.

Krka UK has expanded its Pet Shield parasite control range with the launch of Pet Shield Worm Screen Spot-on for cats, an NFA-VPS worming treatment that combines convenient topical administration with broad-spectrum protection against key intestinal worms. 

Containing emodepside and praziquantel, Pet Shield Worm Screen Spot-on for cats targets roundworms, hookworms and tapeworms. It provides retail suitably qualified persons (SQPs) with a practical option for cat owners who find giving oral worming treatments difficult.

Ease of administration is an important consideration when treating cats. In a published owner survey, almost 60% of cat owners rated spot-on formulations as easy or very easy to administer. Pet Shield Worm Screen Spot-on for cats is supplied in an easy-to-use pipette, helping owners apply the correct dose simply and confidently at home.

Stuart Lawton, Retail Key Account Manager at Krka UK, said: "Many owners find giving tablets to cats stressful, both for themselves and their pet. This can make regular worming more difficult and may even affect the bond between cats and their owners. Offering a choice of treatment formats helps retail SQPs support customers in finding an option that better suits their cat. It also helps build trust and reinforces the retailer’s role as a valuable source of pet healthcare advice."

Pet Shield® Worm Screen Spot-on for cats is available in three dosage strengths for cats of different weights. It can be used in cats and kittens from eight weeks of age and weighing at least 0.5 kg, as well as during pregnancy and lactation. Retail SQPs should refer to and direct pet owners to the product packaging and leaflet for full dosing information, contraindications and precautions.

The wider Pet Shield range includes Worm Screen tablets for cats and dogs, alongside Flea Screen Combo spot-on treatments for cats and dogs. Point-of-sale materials are available across the range to support in-store displays, raise awareness of parasite control and help retail teams discuss suitable treatment options with customers.

Find out more about Pet Shield Worm Screen Spot-on for cats.

To find out more, email Krka UK at animalhealth.uk@krka.biz or visit www.petshield.uk.

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A former pet shop in North Staffordshire goes under the hammer today (Thursday), with a guide price of £50,000-plus.

The freehold ground-floor retail unit, located on London Road in Chesterton, is being offered in an auction hosted by Bond Wolfe.

Known as Pet-n-Net, the shop previously sold a range of pet-related products, including food, supplies, cages, aquariums and fishing bait. The premises also served as a base for local community organisations, including Chesterton Community Angling Club.

The property comprises an end-of-terrace retail unit with a glazed frontage wrapping around the corner. Inside, it includes ancillary storage rooms, a kitchen, a toilet and a large storage area to the rear.

The property occupies a prominent position on the eastern side of the B5500 London Road, at its junction with George Street, within an established residential neighbourhood.

The surrounding area features predominantly older residential properties alongside local shops. Chesterton Park and Chesterton Community Sports College are also nearby.

With its prominent roadside position and potential for alternative uses, the former Pet-n-Net premises could attract interest from buyers looking for a commercial property investment or a new business location.

The Government has welcomed the report of the House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee on pet parasite medications and thanked the Committee for its detailed examination of this important and complex issue.

Government response link:
https://committees.parliament.uk/publications/55137/standard/pdf/

OATA has created a new guide on help coral traders ensure they are importing and selling legal species permitted for trade in the UK.

The guide concentrates on hard/stony corals, rather than soft corals, because these are subject to the most legal restrictions governing what can be legally traded, and from where in the world.

The import guide gives a background into CITES regulations and then examines UK laws that apply. It also outlines how coral traders can check to see if the species they want to import or sell are likely to be granted an import permit allowing them into the UK. There is also a handy flowchart checklist to help.

“We’ve created this guide to provide traders with the information and resources they need to make an informed decision on which stony/hard corals can be imported legally and responsibly,” explained OATA Chief Executive Dr Matt Bond.

“Not all corals are listed under CITES. All Scleractinia (stony/hard corals) are listed in Appendix II, alongside certain other coral groups such as Tubipora and Heliopora. Soft corals are not generally CITES-listed, so this guide focuses on stony/hard corals, where CITES controls are most relevant.

“We want to promote and support responsible business practices across the industry. We believe that acting responsibly goes beyond simply following the law to avoid prosecution – it’s about preserving the ecosystems our industry depends on, maintaining our reputation and ensuring the long-term viability of our trade.

“We hope the guide will be particularly helpful to businesses in identifying the combinations of country, species and type, for example wild collected or maricultured, that are permitted into the UK, and more importantly when they are not.”

The guide can be found on the OATA website here. https://ornamentalfish.org/new-coral-import-guide-launched/

A dog trainer who went viral after telling owners to stop walking their dogs has written a new book on how to help dogs feel more confident.

Niki French, whose first book STOP! Walking Your Dog became an Amazon bestseller, has written a follow-up about what happens next. 

Over 7,000 people have bought the first book and Niki has heard from dog owners all over the world about how taking a break from walks has helped.

Niki said: “The idea for the book came from what worked for my own clients.

“Once people tried taking a break from walks, and their dogs started to calm down and grow in confidence, they wanted to know what to do next. How could they start going out again without things going backwards?

“For some people, their dog's world had become very small, and that meant their own world had become smaller too. It can be incredibly isolating.

“The new book, STOP! Walking Your Dog Volume 2: Grow Great Walks With Your Nervous, Reactive or Over-Excited Pup, is about opening up their world, growing confidence and enjoying life again.”

The new book explores canine body language, ACE Free Work, reducing pressure, rewards and practical training games, vet and grooming visits, car journeys and holidays, health and behaviour, equipment choices and supporting the human at the other end of the lead.

Niki is keen to stress that her message has never been anti-walk.

“I love walking my own dog,” she says. “For lots of dogs, walks are wonderful. But they aren’t wonderful for every dog in every situation.

“Sometimes the kindest and most useful thing we can do is stop thinking about what our dog should be doing and ask: what does my dog actually need today?”

Dog Centred Care founder Andrew Hale has written the foreword and said: “This may be a book about walking less, but its real gift is helping us to understand more.”

STOP! Walking Your Dog Volume 2: Grow Great Walks With Your Nervous, Reactive or Over-Excited Pup is published by Authors & Co today ( Thursday 22 October).

Find out more about Niki’s work at www.puptalk.co.uk

Paraffle and Cats Protection invite crafters and cat lovers to make a personalised Christmas stocking together, with a minimum of £10 from every kit helping cats near you.

Crafters and cat lovers can put their creativity to good use this Christmas as Paraffle and Cats Protection bring back Craft for Cats for a fourth event, with a new festive project and live online stitchalong.

This year's event will see people across the UK create their own cat-themed Christmas stocking, while helping to raise vital funds for Cats Protection.

It continues a partnership that has already made a real difference. As of 19 December 2025, Paraffle had raised more than £84,000 for Cats Protection through its fundraising, helping the charity continue its work supporting cats in need.

Now Paraffle hopes its fourth Craft for Cats event can add to that total, with a minimum of £10 from every craft kit going to help cats near you.

The new £22 embroidery kit contains everything needed to make one traditional Christmas stocking. Crafters can choose between red or green and use a selection of cat-themed and festive embroidery patterns to create their own design, with the option to personalise the stocking with a name.

The kits are beginner friendly, with instructions guiding crafters through the project from start to finish, meaning no previous embroidery experience is needed.

But Craft for Cats is about more than making the stocking. On Saturday 5 December 2026, crafters are invited to come together for a special live online stitchalong hosted by Paraffle founder Sammy.

Sammy will be live in the dedicated Craft for Cats Facebook group, stitching alongside everyone taking part, answering questions and giving crafters the chance to share their progress and creations with the wider community.

Sammy, founder of Paraffle, said: "Craft for Cats has become such a lovely event for us because it brings together people who enjoy making things with a cause we really care about. We can't wait to see everyone stitching their stockings together in December and, most importantly, raising more money to help cats in need."

Anyone wanting to take part can join the Facebook community ahead of the event:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/craftforcats

The live sessions will also be recorded and available to watch back on demand, so crafters who can't join on the day can still take part at a time that suits them.

Craft for Cats Christmas Stocking Kits are available now for £22 – https://www.cats.org.uk/embroidery-craft

Kits are available to purchase until 20 December 2026, with a minimum of £10 from every kit sold supporting Cats Protection.

Previous Paraffle Craft for Cats kits are also still available, with 20% from every sale donated to Cats Protection, giving crafters more projects to enjoy while continuing to support the charity:

https://paraffle.com/collections/craft-for-cats

Independent retailers face a looming cost crisis unless the Chancellor acts in the Budget, a leading independent retailers association has warned.

The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira), which works with over 6,000 independent retailers across the UK, says shop owners are increasingly nervous as the Budget on 28 October approaches, with business rates, employment costs and energy bills all set to squeeze already tight margins.

Bira has welcomed reports that the Chancellor plans to fund business rates cuts by making online marketplaces collect VAT, and is urging him to confirm that the money raised goes directly to rates relief for high street shops.

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: “We appreciate that the economy is challenging and the Chancellor has limited room to manoeuvre, but independent retailers will have even less headroom if support is not forthcoming in the Budget. Rates, employment and energy costs are all heading in the wrong direction, and independent retailers need to see action on all three.”

Bira warns that, without action in the Budget, the average independent retailer faces a business rates bill next year that is 25% higher than this year, before inflation is added.

Mr Goodacre said: “Such an increase is simply not sustainable in the current climate. Many independent retailers are already operating on the finest of margins, and a rise on this scale could be the difference between keeping the doors open and closing for good.”

The association is also calling for action on employment costs. Bira says the cost of employment has risen significantly over the past two years, a period in which the retail sector has lost around 100,000 jobs, and the increases in employer National Insurance contributions continue to weigh heavily on smaller businesses.

Mr Goodacre added: “The NIC increases are still damaging. If we want to create opportunities for younger people in independent retail, the Government needs to increase the Employment Allowance to reduce the cost of employment. Independent shops are often where young people get their first job, learn customer service and build the confidence to develop a career. We cannot afford to lose those opportunities.”

On energy, Bira is warning of a tough winter ahead, with prices set to rise. The association wants smaller businesses to have access to more flexible energy contracts, allowing them to switch suppliers and shop around for a better deal in the same way as domestic customers.

Mr Goodacre said: “Too many small businesses are locked into rigid energy contracts with little room to move when prices change. They should have the same freedom as domestic users to shop around. Giving independent retailers that flexibility would make a real difference to their ability to manage costs this winter.”

He added: “This Budget is an opportunity to show independent retailers that the Government is on their side. Action on business rates, employment costs and energy would give them the headroom they need to invest, employ and keep our high streets thriving.”

Burgess Pet Care has launched a white label pet food proposition, enabling the Yorkshire-based company to strengthen relationships with independent retailers, reach more value-conscious shoppers, and generate additional sales volume. 

The new range, which includes a 12.5kg value dry dog food and a 10kg value dry cat food, has been developed specifically for the direct retailer channel, including larger independent pet shops and agricultural stores. Retailers will be able to add their own logo to the products, creating an own-brand proposition for their customers.

The range has been developed in response to Burgess’ insight from independent retailers that many are seeking a more affordable white label pet food option, with existing offers in the market sitting at a less accessible price point.

The proposition is designed to complement Burgess’ existing branded products, whilst helping independent retailers compete with own label food already available in the market. It also forms part of the company’s plans to grow its direct retailer network.

Suzanne Moyes, Deputy Managing Director and in-house vet at Burgess Pet Care, said: “Independent retailers are incredibly important to the pet care market, and we know that offering customers genuine value for money continues to be a key priority. 

“Our new white label range has been developed to give retailers another way to meet that need, whilst helping them protect margin, strengthen customer loyalty and build a distinctive proposition of their own."

Burgess Pet Care research found that 77% of shoppers want to support independent retail, with value for money highlighted as one of the key drivers. The new proposition aims to help retailers respond to this demand by offering competitively priced products that support margin growth and encourage customers to return to their store.

Retailers interested in the offer can visit: www.burgesspetcare.com/wl-enquiry 

The finalists for the Rescue Pet Awards have been announced, following hundreds of entries and recognising the pet industry businesses, rescue organisations and individuals making a difference to the lives of rescue animals.

The awards feature 15 categories, celebrating achievements across the rescue sector, from pet food and pet care brands supporting rescue pets to the shelters, volunteers and foster carers working tirelessly to help animals in need. Finalists were chosen by a judging panel.

Brands shortlisted include Butternut Box, Burgess Pet Care, Forthglade and Naturo in pet food, and Agria Pet Insurance and British Pet Insurance in insurance. LickiMat and PAWD Drinks are each shortlisted in two categories.

Tara Hamdi, founder of Only Rescues and the Rescue Pet Awards, said: “We’re delighted to announce this year’s finalists and recognise the brilliant work taking place across the rescue community and the wider pet industry. There are so many people and businesses doing their bit to improve the lives of rescue animals, and we’re looking forward to celebrating their achievements in November.”

The winners will be announced at a ceremony on Tuesday 24 November 2026 at Andaz London Liverpool Street. The evening will be hosted by Victoria Stilwell, internationally renowned dog trainer, television presenter and animal welfare advocate, best known for It’s Me or the Dog.

An online appeal has been launched to raise funds to help towards veterinary costs for a ‘pet shop’ dog that recently suffered a life-changing accident.

German Shepherd Rebel, the beloved shop dog at Dunscroft Pet Supplies in Doncaster, shattered his elbow in one leg and sustained damage to the other, leaving him in significant pain and unable to move about as he normally would.

The JustGiving appeal organised by Lisa Ross-McMann, hopes to raise £1,000 to help towards Rebel’s veterinary costs

Lisa wrote on the JustGiving page: “The cost of the urgent operations, treatment, and ongoing care is expected to reach around £10,000. As Rebel is well known and loved by many members within the Dunscroft and Stainforth community, Jo is doing everything she can to support his recovery, but this is a very difficult time and she cannot do it alone.

“We are asking for your support to help cover these essential veterinary costs. Any donation, no matter how small, will make a real difference, and sharing this page would mean so much to us as well. Thank you for your kindness, compassion, and support during this incredibly challenging time.”

The appeal has so far raised £410 – 41% of the £1,000 target – from 20 donations. The JustGiving page can be found by clicking here.

Birmingham Dogs Home has announced the temporary closure of its Wolverhampton centre as it embarks on a major £4.1 million refurbishment, designed to transform the facility and significantly improve the experience and welfare of the dogs in its care.

The Wolverhampton centre closed its doors today (Monday 12th October) to commence with the refurbishment works, which are set to deliver a modern facility which improves operational flow, enhances visitor experience and creates a safer and calmer kennel environment to support improved rehabilitation and rehoming outcomes.

Supporting dogs and their owners across the region since 1892, the £4.1 million redevelopment represents one of the charity’s largest investments in their facilities and will help ensure the centre can continue supporting dogs for generations to come.

Set to relaunch in summer 2027 as Wolverhampton Dogs Home, the centre will remain part of the Birmingham Dogs Home family whilst being more clearly signposted as delivering the best possible welfare for dogs across the Black Country and South Staffordshire region.

Throughout the refurbishment, the charities commitment to stray, abandoned, and relinquished dogs will remain, with those currently in its care relocated to its Birmingham centre, whilst the Wolverhampton centre continues to operate in a reduced capacity to receive and support local stray dogs.

Sally Insley, Head of Income Generation at Birmingham Dogs Home, said: “We have cared for thousands of stray, abandoned and relinquished dogs over the years, and we know every dog deserves the best possible care.

"We’re so grateful to our generous supporters who have made this investment possible. This redevelopment will enable us to give vulnerable dogs the very best chance of a brighter future and ensure that Wolverhampton Dogs Home is equipped to meet growing demand, deliver the highest standards of welfare for the most vulnerable dogs across Wolverhampton and the Black Country for generations to come.

“We look forward to commencing with the construction works later this month and to sharing our exciting plans for the centre with our supporters.”

If you would like to donate visit www.birminghamdogshome.org.uk or call 0121 643 5211 and select option 3.

Edition Dog Live will become Every Dog Live for 2027 as Raccoon Media Group and Edition Media Ltd set out ambitious plans to significantly grow and develop the event following their recently announced joint venture.

The new name reflects the direction of the event as it enters its next chapter: an inclusive event built around the health, happiness and wellbeing of every dog, regardless of breed, pedigree, age or ability, and for everyone who loves them.

The 2027 event will almost double in size at NAEC Stoneleigh, growing from around 7,000sqm to nearly 14,000sqm. The expansion will be supported by significant investment in the visitor experience, with more content, new features, interactive experiences, brands and talent planned across the event.

A major programme of celebrity guests and well-known, well-respected figures from the dog world will form part of Every Dog Live 2027, with appearances from Greg Rutherford, Iwan Thomas MBE, Steve Backshall, and Clare Balding already confirmed. They will be joined by fan favourites Hugo & Ursula, alongside leading TV vets Dr Scott Miller and Dr James Greenwood. Together with an industry-leading line-up of trainers, behaviourists, content creators, and animal welfare experts, they will take the stage across the weekend, with further names to be announced.

The additional space and investment will allow the organisers to broaden the event beyond its existing format and create new destinations focused on discovery, health and wellbeing, emerging brands, creators and the wider culture around life with dogs.

New for 2027 will be the Dog Discovery Zone, a destination for discovering what is next in the world of dogs, from new products and innovation to nutrition, health, behaviour, technology and wellbeing.

Visitors and their dogs will be able to learn, interact and try new things through a series of immersive feature experiences, hands-on brand activations and a dedicated Discovery Stage bringing expert speakers, insight and new ideas to life.

A new Dogstagram Zone will bring together some of the best-known dogs and creators from across social media. Visitors will be able to meet the dogs behind the feeds, take part in meet and greets and create their own shareable moments, with creator appearances, live content and dedicated photo experiences throughout the area.

The event will also introduce the Canine Collective, a curated showcase giving emerging, independent and design-led dog brands a dedicated platform within the show and creating a new destination for visitors looking to discover something different.

These additions will sit alongside the established elements of the event, including expert content, shopping, live arenas and opportunities for visitors and their dogs to take part in activities together.

The changes follow Raccoon Media Group's joint venture with Edition Media Ltd, which brought the event into Raccoon's rapidly growing animal health portfolio alongside PATS, BETA International and the National Equine Show.

Mike Seaman, Group Chief Executive of Raccoon Media Group, said: “We want to build something genuinely significant for the UK dog community. Almost doubling the size of the event gives us the space to introduce new brands, new experiences and much more content, but the investment goes far beyond simply adding more floor space.

“We want to create an event people want to spend the whole day at, where they can discover new products, hear from brilliant experts and well-known names, try new things with their dog and come away feeling they have learnt something.

“The move to Every Dog Live is an important part of that. This isn't an event about the perfect dog or a particular type of dog. It is about health, happiness and wellbeing, and helping people give their dogs the best lives they can.

“Whether they are pedigree or rescue, young or old, highly active or living with a disability, this is an event for every dog and everyone who loves them.”

Jennifer Dow, Edition Media Ltd, said: “Edition Dog Live has always been built around the health, wellbeing and welfare of dogs, so Every Dog Live feels like a natural evolution of what we have created.

“We want people to arrive with their dog and feel that the event represents them. There is no single way to be a dog owner and no single type of dog, and that inclusivity will sit right at the heart of Every Dog Live.

“The plans for 2027 give us the opportunity to build something much bigger while keeping the ethos and community that have made the event special. Stoneleigh gives us the space to grow properly and, with Raccoon's investment and experience behind the event, we can now bring many of those ideas to life.”

Every Dog Live will continue to be staged at NAEC Stoneleigh, whose extensive indoor and outdoor space allows the event to grow while maintaining a strong focus on animal welfare and giving dogs the opportunity to move away from busier areas of the show when needed.

The expansion forms part of Raccoon Media Group's wider investment in the animal health market. Its portfolio now spans both trade and consumer audiences through PATS, BETA International, the National Equine Show and Every Dog Live, with wider plans to connect complementary specialist events through a broader animal health ecosystem.

The same focus on investment, audience growth and visitor experience will now be applied to Every Dog Live as the organisers prepare for its first edition under the new name in 2027.

Further details of the 2027 event, including new features, exhibitors, speakers and celebrity guests, will be announced over the coming months. 

A new independent pet store called Pets Retreat has opened in Appleton, Warrington, after months of planning, building, stocking shelves and getting everything ready.

The doors of the store in Bridge Lane opened on Saturday with a promise ‘there’s something for everyone’.

Pets Retreat said on its Facebook page: “We want Pets Retreat to become a shop shaped by the people who use it. If there’s a particular brand, food or product you’d like to see on our shelves, tell us. If we can source it for you, we will.

“We genuinely can’t wait to finally welcome you through the doors and show you what we’ve been working on. And yes, four-legged customers are absolutely welcome.”

Pictures taken from Pets Retreats’ Facebook page.

Plans for the PIF World UK Pavilion at Zoomark 2027 are continuing to gather pace, with UK businesses now discussing stand requirements and confirming their interest in joining the British presence in Bologna from 11-13 May 2027.

The UK Pavilion offers a range of ‘turnkey’ and raw-space options, supported by a central showcase hub designed to provide a focal point for meetings, networking and introductions throughout the show.

PIF will also support participating companies with co-ordination, promotion and practical assistance before and during the event.

Alexandra Baker of the Pet Industry Federation, said: “We’ve been really pleased with the interest so far and are now working with businesses on the stand sizes and formats that best suit them. Our aim is to create a strong, professional UK presence that gives exhibitors both visibility and practical support at the show. Whether you are considering having a presence or have already registered to exhibit, please do get in touch for information about how we can support you.”

Further information is available at www.pifworld.uk/zoomark-2027 or via events@pifworld.uk.

Alternative ingredients could help pet food manufacturers diversify ingredient sourcing, reduce environmental impacts, and support product innovation, but their potential varies by ingredient, production system, intended use, and the conventional ingredient they supplement or replace. That is a central finding of CFI’s new report, Alternative Ingredients in Pet Food: A Guide to Emerging Proteins and Oils in Dog and Cat Food. 

Written by the Centre for Feed Innovation (CFI), in collaboration with the Pet Sustainability Coalition (PSC), the report is designed to help manufacturers understand where alternative ingredients may offer near-term opportunities and where further development or evidence is needed.

The report assesses algal oil, algal protein, bacterial protein, black soldier fly larvae (BSFL), brown seaweed, cultivated meat, mycoprotein, red seaweed, and yeast protein across supply, commercial adoption, sustainability, nutrition and health, and consumer acceptance. Eight are assessed for their potential as alternative proteins, while algal oil is assessed as an alternative oil source rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

Key findings include:

• A diverse supply base for alternative ingredients is emerging. Some benefit from established supply chains. Others, particularly more novel ingredients, remain constrained by production scale, cost, and regulatory access.

• Several alternative ingredients are already used commercially in pet food. In CFI’s analysis of 6,803 US dog and cat food products from KibbleLab, yeast protein was present in 19.5% of products assessed, brown seaweed in 14.6%, and algal oil in 3.4%. These ingredients are generally used for specific nutritional or functional purposes rather than as primary protein or oil sources.

• Alternative ingredients can offer opportunities to reduce the environmental impacts of pet food. Alternative proteins generally have lower environmental impacts than chicken meat, particularly for greenhouse gas emissions and land use, but advantages over animal byproducts are less consistent. Algal oil can reduce reliance on wild-capture fisheries and achieve greenhouse gas emissions comparable to or lower than fish oil, but generally has higher land and freshwater use. Production conditions and allocation methods can also substantially affect results.

• Nutritional evidence is broadly encouraging but incomplete. Most ingredients maintained key measures of nutritional suitability at the inclusion levels studied, but evidence remains limited for some ingredients and for their use as substantial protein or oil sources. 

• Consumer acceptance will be important for broader adoption. Familiarity, alongside perceptions of nutrition, quality, and safety, can influence whether pet owners accept alternative ingredients.

The report identifies different priorities for manufacturers. It recommends prioritising algal oil and yeast protein for further evaluation, selectively evaluating bacterial protein and mycoprotein, and continuing to monitor the development of the remaining ingredients assessed.

“At CFI, we are committed to helping the feed sector identify promising innovations that can improve resilience and sustainability. Our new report extends that commitment to pet food by providing a rigorous overview of alternative ingredients that can support pet food manufacturers looking to reduce their environmental impacts and diversify their ingredient supply chains. ” said Margaret Hegwood, Corporate Engagement Manager, The Centre for Feed Innovation. 

"Understanding the sustainability impacts of specific pet food ingredients is critical as our industry looks to build more resilient and responsible supply chains. This report offers practical insights to help pet food brands and manufacturers explore alternative ingredients, diversify sourcing, and advance sustainability goals.” said Allison Burdick, Sustainability Advisor, Pet Sustainability Coalition.

Download Alternative Ingredients in Pet Food: A Guide to Emerging Proteins and Oils in Dog and Cat Food: [LINK]

Zynga Inc., a global leader in interactive entertainment, is collaborating with UK pet charity Blue Cross to launch a new in-game event in FarmVille 2: Country Escape.

The Pet Pals event tasks players with caring for their guinea pigs by unlocking tasty nibbles to feed and level up their fluffy friends. Players can earn nibbles by completing different tasks and challenges on their farm, including crafting, foraging and obtaining keys.

Not only will farmers unlock exciting in-game rewards as they hit feeding milestones, but each nibble fed to guinea pigs in the Pet Pals event will collectively contribute towards Zynga’s goal of making a Blue Cross donation in real life.

Players will work together to power-up a global progress bar, and if the donation goal is met, a donation will be made by Zynga to Blue Cross and used to fund pet welfare initiatives including veterinary care, rehoming and pet food banks.

“FarmVille 2: Country Escape has always been about community, compassion and a deep love for animals” said Ratheesh Mallaya, General Manager, FarmVille 2: Country Escape. “Farmers aren't afraid of rolling up their sleeves for a worthy cause, and this event proves once again that we're always stronger together. By bringing that determination to the Pet Pals event, the player community can help Zynga work towards its goal of making a real-world difference for animals in need, one nibble at a time.”

Mary Haisman, Head of Corporate Partnerships at Blue Cross said: “We are delighted to team up with Zynga for this Pet Pals event. We hope that gamers enjoy playing with the knowledge they are working towards helping real life small pets in the care of Blue Cross.”

FarmVille 2: Country Escape is available now and is free to download on iOS and Android devices.

Amcor, a global leader in responsible packaging solutions, launched new European research exploring the buying habits and packaging preferences of wet pet food buyers. All survey respondents (100%) were found to buy wet pet food, while 88% also purchase dry food and 76% buy snacks and treats. Treats were particularly popular among UK respondents, with 85% saying they purchase them, compared with 71% in Italy and 70% in France.

Surveying 2,457 wet pet food buyers across France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain and UK, the study highlights the factors influencing their purchases. When buying wet cat food, the most important factors were ingredients and nutritional benefits, price and the perception of quality, followed by size, format and convenience. For wet dog food buyers, practicality was key when it came to packaging. Keeping food fresh ranked as the most important consideration, followed by ease of serving, portioning and opening. Easy storage and mess-free use were also among the top attributes.

The study also explored how these priorities influence perceptions of different wet pet food packaging formats, including aluminium trays, smooth aluminium containers and cans. When assessing each format individually, 60% of respondents said they would definitely or probably purchase a product in a traditional aluminium tray, matching the positive purchase intent reported for cans. The newer smooth aluminium container also performed strongly, with 54% of respondents showing positive purchase intent. This indicates the growth potential for formats that combine the familiar strengths of aluminium, while offering a packaging experience designed around the realities of feeding pets.

Pet owners associated traditional aluminium trays, the smooth aluminium container and cans with different benefits. Traditional aluminium trays were perceived as being easy to open, with 40% associating them with this benefit. They also performed strongly on safety, with 30% seeing traditional aluminium trays and the smooth aluminium container as being safe to open, over double that of cans (12%). The smooth aluminium container was rated highly for modern appeal and ease of emptying, with 52% selecting it as the most modern and appealing format and 42% choosing it as the easiest to empty. A further 38% also selected it as the format that seemed better for the environment. Meanwhile, cans were chosen for storage, with 39% seeing them as being easy to store.

Sarah Neerkorn, market insights manager for Amcor says, “Today’s pet owners expect packaging to do more. Practical considerations such as keeping food fresh and making it easy to open and serve are key, while long-held perceptions of packaging can also shape product choice. Understanding these factors and balancing both functionality and convenience can help brands give customers the best possible choice for their cherished pets.”

From familiar square trays to smooth aluminium containers, Amcor provides complete container and peelable lidding solutions backed by packaging expertise and Field Technical Service support, assisting customers during packaging trial validation.

Pet food brands should also consider evolving regulatory requirements – like PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation) - alongside consumer habits and preferences when making packaging choices.

To learn more about the buying habits and packaging preferences of wet pet food consumers, download Amcor’s infographic here.

Award-winning pet retailer Jollyes Pets has opened the doors to its latest store – its 129th in total – in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, at Oak Tree Centre, Jubilee Way South. 

To celebrate the opening, customers can get their ‘paws’ on 100 limited-edition goody bags and spin Jollyes’ iconic ‘Wheel of Fur-tune’ for a chance to win prizes, while Jollyes’ mascot, Jolly, will also be on hand to meet and greet visitors. The celebrations will continue on Saturday, with an entertainer in store to add to the family fun.

Marking the official opening, Deputy Mayor of Mansfield, Craig Whitby, will cut the red ribbon alongside some very special canine guests, Hazy, Juke, Ozzy, Jimmy and Buddy. The dogs will attend on behalf of the NFRSA*, Jollyes Pets’ nationwide charity partner. Hazy previously served as a Forensic Evidence Detection Dog with Derbyshire Constabulary, while Juke and Ozzy both served with HMP Nottingham before retiring. Joining them will be active prison detection dogs Jimmy, an English Springer Spaniel, and Buddy, a fox red Labrador.

The new store has created seven jobs for the local community and will be led by store manager Sam Newbold. Sam is looking forward to welcoming Mansfield’s pet owners to the new store and meeting their four-legged friends. A keen animal lover, they have two dogs, Bruce and Toby, and two rabbits, Flin and Albert.

Customers will be able to browse much-loved household names including Pedigree, Whiskas, Harringtons and Felix, alongside specialist pet brands such as Royal Canin and Hill’s, giving pet parents even more choice when it comes to finding the right products for their furry family members.

The store will also stock Jollyes Pets’ own-label ranges, including Lifestage for dogs and cats and Optimum Pet Health, offering big-brand quality at own-label prices and backed by a 100% money-back guarantee.

Pet parents can also expect an extensive selection of raw food, natural treats, alongside toys, treats and accessories - all under one roof.

Sam Newbold, Store Manager at Jollyes Pets Mansfield, said: “It’s brilliant to be bringing Jollyes Pets to Mansfield and giving local pet owners a new place to discover great value products for their four-legged, feathered and furry friends. Having spent 12 years managing stores, I’m excited to get to know our new team and customers. As a pet lover myself, with two dogs, Bruce and Toby, and two rabbits, Flin and Albert, I know how important our pets are to the family.

“We’re kicking things off with a fun-filled opening weekend, and we can’t wait to welcome the local community into the store, introduce everyone to our mascot Jolly and give visitors the chance to enjoy some freebies and prizes. We’re looking forward to becoming a familiar face in the local pet community.”

The opening will take Jollyes Pets to 129 stores across the UK, with 12 new locations opening since January and a further store set to open in Dunfermline on 5 November, before the end of the year. Over the past three years Jollyes has almost doubled the number of stores across the UK, becoming a clear challenger brand in the UK pet retail market.

New findings from the Burgess Excel Small Animal Census reveal that many guinea pig owners may struggle to spot when their animals need help, with nearly one in seven lacking confidence in recognising when their guinea pigs are stressed or in pain. 

The findings also show one in three owners don't regularly check their guinea pig's weight or body condition – with 4% admitting they never check this. Additionally, the data found that almost one in five owners do not know, or are unsure, what a healthy weight or body condition looks like.

When it comes to veterinary care, the census found that 64% of owners only take their guinea pigs to the vet when they believe there is a health problem, rather than attending regular health checks or seeking advice sooner. 

These findings highlight a gap in routine health monitoring when it comes to guinea pig care. Because guinea pigs are prey animals, they instinctively hide signs of illness, pain and discomfort, meaning health concerns can go unnoticed until they become more serious.  

With Guinea Pig Awareness Week taking place from 26th to 30th October, Burgess is encouraging owners to take a more proactive approach to their animals’ health by carrying out regular checks and recognising that subtle changes in behaviour, appetite, weight, activity levels or appearance can often be the earliest signs that veterinary attention may be needed and shouldn’t be overlooked. 

Suzanne Moyes, Deputy Managing Director and In-house Vet at Burgess Pet Care, said: “These findings reinforce why this year's Guinea Pig Awareness Week is focused on encouraging proactive health checks and preventative care. Because guinea pigs naturally hide signs of illness, pain and discomfort, owners need to feel confident spotting the subtle changes that can indicate something is wrong. 

“We want to help owners understand what good health looks like, encourage them to carry out regular checks at home and recognise when their guinea pigs may need veterinary attention, before minor concerns become more serious.” 

During Guinea Pig Awareness Week (GPAW), on Friday 30th October, guinea pig owners, veterinary teams, charities and rescues across the UK are being encouraged to take part in the Big Pig Health Check, a nationwide challenge aiming to deliver 500 five-minute guinea pig health checks in a single day. 

John Chitty, Chair of Guinea Pig Welfare UK, added: "Guinea pigs are often seen as relatively simple animals to care for, but understanding their behaviour and recognising the early signs that something may be wrong requires knowledge, awareness and regular observation. 

"Regular weight checks, monitoring behaviour and seeking veterinary advice promptly when concerns arise are important steps. By making these simple checks part of everyday care, owners can play a really important role in protecting their guinea pigs’ long-term health and wellbeing." 

Guinea Pig Awareness Week encourages owners to build regular health checks into their routine, including monitoring weight and body condition, checking for changes in eating and drinking habits, and paying attention to behaviour and activity levels. 

By recognising subtle signs earlier and seeking advice when needed, owners can play a vital role in keeping their guinea pig's healthy and happy.  

For more resources and practical advice, or to sign up to the Big Pig Health Check, visit the GPAW website: GPAW | Guinea Pig Awareness Week