A new pet store, which puts sustainability at the forefront of its business, is using an environmentally-friendly cargo bike to deliver products to local customers.

Chester & Ralphie’s opened in Norwich earlier this month and is already proving to be a big hit with the city’s pet lovers.

Owners Amy Beevers and Jonny Bingham worked in the hospitality sector before opening the new store in the Golden Triangle of Norwich.

“We have been planning the store for the last couple of years,” said Jonny. “We just wanted to wait for the right location to come available. Unthank Road is the perfect area for the business – the local community really seem to share our ethos around all things pet related.”

Amy and Jonny, who named the store after their two Cocker Spaniels, have been pleased with the response from customers so far. “It has been great, really positive,” added Jonny. “We are hugely looking forward to building the store into the hub for the local pet owning community.

“We want to build the business around shared knowledge of pet ownership, so our product knowledge and first-hand experience of pet ownership will be one of our fundamentals.

“Our delivery service will be starting in a couple of months and will be available to all those in the NR2 area. It’s a free delivery service for those ordering £40-plus of food and treats and we will offer a same day delivery service using our environmentally-friendly cargo bike.”

Amy and Jonny are marketing their new business as an 'exciting new independent pet pantry, boutique and grooming spa'.

See our picture gallery of the store below, including the impressive-looking grooming facilities...

More than 250 pet companies and brands have signed up to exhibit at PATS Telford on Sunday, 1 October, and Monday, 2 October 2023, making it the biggest-ever event in the show’s 14-year history.

Suppliers and manufacturers from the UK and overseas will be unveiling hundreds of new products in three packed halls at the Telford International Centre in Shropshire.  Familiar and longstanding exhibitors include Burgess, Pedigree Wholesale, Danish Design, JR Pet Products, Canagan & Symply, Butchers, Kong, Ancol, Burns, Barking & Meowing Heads and Johnson’s Veterinary Products.

As well as leading names from the pet world, visitors will be welcomed by a host of new exhibitors, including Pet Concept, Schesir, Fountasia, Zoo-Med, Trackimo and Rogz.

With so many people and products to see, retailers and buyers are now being urged to register online for their free entry ticket at www.patshow.co.uk.

One of the show’s regular exhibitors, PetLife International, captured the mood of the pet industry towards the show. Managing director James Hancock said: “We are thrilled to be participating in PATS Telford 2023 and showcasing our latest pet products. This exhibition is a fantastic platform for us to connect with industry professionals, pet retailers, and pet lovers, allowing us to demonstrate the exceptional quality and innovation behind our brand.” 

As the UK’s National Pet Industry Exhibition, PATS Telford offers retailers the ideal opportunity to get hands-on with all the latest product launches – all under one roof.

The extensive New Product Showcase, sponsored by pbwnews, will be in two prime locations in Halls 2 and 3, where visitors will be given a first glance of what’s new for 2024. All entries to the Showcase are entered into the prestigious New Product Awards, which are judged by a panel of retailers on the first morning of the show so that winners can be celebrated across the three halls for the rest of the exhibition. 

The New Starter Zone, supported by PetQuip with media partner PPM, is one of the most exciting additions to the show, with start-up companies taking advantage of the dedicated area in Hall 3.

Pawer Water, a ground-breaking canine wellness supplement, will be one of 30 new brands exhibiting in the Zone. Company founder Nathalie Ohana said: “PATS is an outstanding opportunity to introduce our product to quality retailers nationally, expand our commercial reach, and meet with innovators who, like us, are offering a fresh perspective on pet wellness. For us, it is definitely a ‘pawer-ful’ and strategic occasion.”

As well as meeting the industry’s top suppliers and viewing their latest launches, visitors will be given the chance to learn more about the grooming sector, which has grown considerably in the past few years. There will be insightful demonstrations, workshops and talks from top groomers throughout the two days of the show, all hosted by Peanut & Pickle.

To help make the visitor experience even more enjoyable and rewarding, PATS Telford offers free show entry, free parking, a free catalogue and many special deals to visiting pet professionals.

There will also be a wide range of food options available, with visitors receiving a complimentary lunch voucher in addition to the regular tea or coffee voucher. Register now at www.patshow.co.uk where a full list of exhibitors can also be found.

Johnson’s Veterinary Products has appointed Matthew Gwynn to the role of Assistant Sales and Digital Marketing Manager and Jack Franks to the role of Assistant Purchasing & Procurement Manager.

The names will be familiar to those who know the family-owned business, as 32-year-old Matthew is the son of current Managing Director Paul Gwynn and 26-year-old Jack is the son of current Sales Director, Nick Franks.

Both Matthew and Jack forged successful careers before being invited to join the business personally by former Chairman David Johnson, who sadly passed away in July 2022. Recognising the importance of maintaining the firm’s independence, he was keen the next generation should join and bring fresh ideas and skills from outside the pet trade. 

Johnson’s Managing Director Paul Gwynn commented: “The arrival of Matthew and Jack has immediately given the business a lift and David would have been immensely happy and proud had he lived to witness their first day here at Johnson’s. 

“Our identity as a family business has been central to the success of Johnson’s for more than 100 years. This decision to recruit from our families is about ensuring we have the ambition, commitment and enthusiasm to continue the firm’s independent future.

“Both Matthew and Jack spent a lot of school and university holidays working here at Johnson’s, in the office and the warehouse, when their passion for the business was ignited. For everyone within the business, it’s like welcoming colleagues back to work.

“Matthew brings with him a successful track-record in sales and digital marketing and is already freshening the way we talk about our products and our brand, listening closely to what our customers want from us. I may be biased, but already the signs are incredibly positive.

“Similarly, Jack had established his career in aerospace procurement and will bring new ideas to help us better meet the changing needs of our customers. As his grandfather, there was a unique sense of pride for David Johnson when Jack agreed to join the business and secure the family connection.

“We recognise the need for youthful insight and learning, to take Johnson’s forward to face the growing challenges of the modern global commercial environment.

“Recruiting the next generation of family members into the business provides stability and continuity for us and importantly, for our customers, while ensuring Johnson’s builds on its heritage and success of the past 100 years.”

Investing in a pet-care franchise opens up a world of opportunities, enabling people to combine their passion for pets with the fulfilment of running their own business. That’s the view of Kevin Thackrah, director of Petpals.

Pets have become an integral part of our lives, providing loyalty, emotional support and a much-loved source of joy. With such a deep connection to our furry friends, it seems only natural that people would be drawn to the idea of working with animals and contributing to their wellbeing. 

However, a paradox emerges when we consider why so many pet enthusiasts hesitate to invest in pet-care franchises, despite their passion for animal companionship.

While the appeal of a career centred around pets is undeniable, some people doubt the financial viability and potential for long-term success in the industry. 

Here, Kevin Thackrah confronts some of these misconceptions and provides a fresh perspective that encourages pet lovers to consider the untapped potential of investing in a pet-care franchise.

Myth 1: Investing in a pet-care franchise is only for animal experts

Extensive knowledge in the field is rarely the sole determining factor of a franchisee’s success. While being well-versed in pet care can certainly be advantageous, the key factors that determine the prosperity of a franchisee are pure drive and determination. At Petpals, we recognise the importance of a passion for pets, but we also understand that being a certified expert is not a mandatory requirement. We provide comprehensive training and support to our franchisees, ensuring they acquire the essential skills and knowledge to operate a thriving pet-care business.

By joining a franchise, you gain access to a proven business model and a support network that empowers you with the necessary tools and resources to build a successful pet-care venture, regardless of your prior expertise. With determination, dedication and the support of a tried-and-tested franchise system, any driven individual can thrive in the pet-care industry.

At Petpals, we operate as a management franchise. As a franchisee, your primary responsibility is to oversee a team of skilled pet-care professionals. You have the flexibility to choose whether you engage in service delivery or delegate those tasks to your team members, enabling you to focus on the overall objective of managing and expanding your business.

Myth 2: Pet-care franchises have limited earning potential

Pet-care franchises are often mistakenly seen as merely a "lifestyle" option for people passionate about pets, lacking true earning potential. However, market trends and statistics consistently highlight the promising prospects for a profitable business venture in the pet-care sector. 

According to recent statistics, a staggering 53% of UK adults now own a furry or feathery companion in 2023*. Even more striking, 23% of these pet owners revealed this was their first foray into pet ownership*. With the increasing number of pet owners and a growing focus on pet wellbeing and happiness, the demand for top-notch pet-care services is on the rise. 

With a wide range of services such as pet sitting, boarding and dog walking, pet-care franchisees can tap into multiple revenue streams and capture a significant share of this expanding market. As more pet owners seek reliable and professional services to meet their pets' needs, franchisees who have aligned themselves with a trusted brand can provide comprehensive solutions. 

At Petpals, franchisees often become multi-unit investors, allowing ambitious entrepreneurs to expand their presence, cater to a more extensive customer base across different locations and maximise their bottom line.

Myth 3: Pet care is a saturated market

Competition is an excellent sign for continued growth, not a warning of a crowded field. Ongoing trends of increased dog ownership, higher pet spending and healthy consumer attitudes about pet wellbeing mean the market is nowhere near saturated. Successful pet-care franchises stand out by offering unique propositions and exceptional customer experiences, including personalised services, innovative service offerings or an emphasis on specific aspects like eco-friendly practices or specialised pet-care expertise.

In line with our commitment to innovation and staying ahead of the competition, we have recently introduced electric vans to our Petpals fleet. By incorporating electric vehicles into their operations, franchisees can demonstrate to an increasingly environmentally conscious consumer market their dedication to eco-friendly practices and distinguish themselves from local competitors by offering a sustainable pet-care service.

Furthermore, our franchisees are empowered to think outside the box and explore creative ways to enhance their business and differentiate themselves in the local market. This flexibility allows franchisees to tap into niche markets, introduce unique services or address specific customer needs that other local competitors may not meet. By embracing this entrepreneurial spirit, Petpals’ franchisees stay ahead of the curve and continuously adapt to the evolving demands of pet owners, further solidifying their position as leaders in the industry.

Investing in a pet-care franchise opens up a world of opportunities, enabling you to combine your passion for pets with the fulfilment of running your own business. Do not let the misconceptions deter you. With Petpals, you are equipped with the necessary tools to embark on a rewarding journey and make a significant impact on the lives of pets and their owners while achieving your entrepreneurial aspirations.

For more information on franchise investment opportunities with Petpals, visit www.petpals.com/purchase-a-new-franchise/

Nationwide pet retailer Jollyes plans to open new stores in Swindon and Belfast on Friday 28 July, taking its number of outlets to 92.

The Swindon store, at Mannington Retail Park will be officially opened by Peggy, who’ll be accompanied by her mum, local star Melinda Messenger (pictured above).

Peggy, who’ll bite through a string of sausages to officially open the store, will be at home in Jollyes new flagship – it’s 91st location in the UK.

The store will be one of the first in the UK to get both a new-look Community Pet Clinic and ‘Jolly Groomer’ - part of a £1million investment over the next 18 months to supercharge Jollyes’ provision of vet clinics, grooming parlours and other pet services in its UK stores.

Jollyes’ service expansion at Swindon will reflect its commitment to extraordinary value. Vet-supervised dog and cat vaccinations in the clinic will start at just £14 and £13 for rabbits with primary course jabs for dogs and cats at £33.

Microchipping, already compulsory for dogs and compulsory for cats in England from 2024, start at just £13, offering significant savings against average prices charged by formal vet practices.

The Jolly Groomer at Swindon will offer straightforward pricing for a quality groom that doesn’t cost a paw and a leg.

Customers can choose precisely what grooming service they need, so they don’t pay for ones they don’t. Prices for a bath and brush will start at just £15.

What’s more Jollyes in Swindon will also be the first store to have its own ‘bedroom’ where dogs. cats and other for-legged friends can try out the wide selection of pet beds before their parents buy.

The appearance of Peggy and Melinda isn’t the only fun planned for the store’s opening weekend.

The first 100 customers on Friday will receive a free goody-bag and every customer will have the chance to spin Jollyes’ iconic ‘Wheel of Fur-tune’ to win prizes. There’ll be animal-themed stilt walkers for selfies on Friday and on Saturday, there’ll be a special appearance by three meerkats – Oreo, Wallace and Otto - from the Swineford Brook animal feeding experience.

Jollyes’ new Swindon store and its team of 12 will be led by Tanya Paterson who’s joined from McColls with a mission to bring the ranges, service and pet care Jollyes is famous for, to town.

Its new store will provide pet parents in Swindon access to Jollyes’ raw food frozen ‘shop-in-shop’ alongside high quality private label pet food such as its own Lifestage, K9 and Rileys brands which offer a premium experience without a big brand price tag.

“We’re starting work today to get the store ready to welcome Peggy, Melinda and the pet parents of Swindon at the end of the month.” said regional manager Sam Wells. “We’re looking forward to bringing the kind of value and service that’s already available at all our other Jollyes stores to the heart of Swindon.”

Jollyes recently outlined an innovative package of benefits for all its colleagues – including those recently recruited to Swindon.

The package includes, birthday leave, a ‘pet-eternity’ day for colleagues getting a new pet in the family, a week off on full pay for all colleagues on when they get married, enhanced maternity and paternity leave and an enhanced 20 per cent discount off all Jollyes services.

The opening of the new Swindon store – its 91st in the UK – is part of Jollyes’ ambitious expansion plans which has seen it exceed £100 million turnover in FY2023, employ over 1,000 colleagues and put it well on the way to having 100 stores within the next 12 months.

Jollyes will also open its 92nd store on Boucher Road, Belfast on the same day.

Award-winning herbal pet care expert Dorwest Herbs has announced a partnership with professional dog trainer and behavioural specialist Amelia Steele.

With over 250,000 followers across social, Amelia specialises in addressing and preventing behavioural issues in dogs such as aggression, separation anxiety, resource guarding and reactivity.

Already recommending Scullcap & Valerian Tablets, Valerian Compound, Keeper’s Mix Sensitive, Tree Barks Powder and MoveWellia to her clients, Dorwest is partnering with Amelia to outline key training tips, aligning natural supplements to force-free and ethical training.

Incorporating positive reinforcement and science-based techniques to make training fun and motivational for all involved, Amelia states: “By constantly focusing on the end goal, you’re probably setting yourself up for failure.” 

Instead, she emphasises all training needs to start with building the relationship between the dog and its owner, and seeing progress through small steps such as eye contact.

Managing director at Dorwest Jo Boughton-White  commented: “We’re excited to work with Amelia as it felt like a natural partnership, as Amelia already loves and recommends Dorwest and we love Amelia’s easy to follow and engaging dog training content.’’

From July 2023, Amelia will be providing a whole host of tips through: blogs, videos and Instagram Live appearances, covering topics including general anxiety.

A study exploring changes to UK puppy buying habits both before and after the COVID-19 pandemic, has revealed concerning ongoing trends. 

Findings showed that several worrying changes seen during the ‘peak’ 2020 phase of the pandemic persisted into 2021, with 2021 purchased puppies still less likely to be viewed in-person before purchase or collected from inside the breeders’ property, compared to 2019 puppies. 

The study by the Royal Veterinary College also revealed year-on-year increases in the number of puppies being sold with a passport between 2019-2021, indicating importation to the UK, often under the minimum legal age for import (15 weeks). This information is key in helping prospective owners know what to look out for when buying a puppy to ensure the protection of canine welfare in the future.

The COVID-19 pandemic gave rise to an international shift in the volume of adult dogs and puppies that were acquired by domestic households, the latter dubbed the “Pandemic Puppy” phenomenon. Despite what was often reported as a positive phenomenon in the media, with benefits to human mental wellbeing, pandemic-related dog purchasing also had some unintended negative impacts on the welfare of the dog population, due to changes in how pets were acquired during this period.

The study aimed to explore whether the changes to puppy purchasing in the UK documented during the 2020 phase of the COVID-19 pandemic had persisted into 2021 or had returned to pre-pandemic 2019 levels. The research team – led by Dr Rowena Packer – conducted a large-scale investigation which compared puppies purchased aged under 16 weeks from private sellers between 23 March–31 December 2021 with those purchased during the same date-ranges in 2019 and 2020. Valid responses were analysed from the owners of 1,148 “2019 puppies”, 4,369 “2020 Pandemic Puppies”, and 2,080 “2021 puppies”.

Key findings included buyers in 2021 remaining less likely to view their puppy in person prior to purchase; more likely to view their puppy via live video calls, video recordings and/or photographs; and less likely to collect their puppy from inside their breeders’ property. This is despite Lucy’s Law being passed into English legislation in 2019, making it illegal for to sell a puppy away from the place the puppy was born*.

Another key concern was the significant increase in puppies sold with a passport in 2020 compared to 2019. Findings showed this did not normalise to pre-pandemic levels in 2021, but instead, significantly increased beyond peak-pandemic 2020 levels; more than doubling since 2019. More than 1 in 10 puppies purchased in 2021 were sold with a passport, with 2021 puppies at a 2.62 increased odds of being sold with a passport than 2019 puppies. An increasing number of these puppies were sold with a passport under the age of 13 weeks in 2021 compared to 2019 and 2020. Given that the minimum age at import is 15 weeks, this indicates an increase in illegal importations of puppies to the UK – or making use of loopholes – over this three-year period. 

A concerning new trend was also identified, with buyers in 2021 less likely to seek out a breed or crossbreed based on them being perceived to have good health compared to 2019 or 2020 buyers. Purchase prices, elevated by the pandemic, had not normalised to pre-pandemic levels in 2021, with over 1 in 4 owners in 2021 still paying between £2,000-2,999 for their puppy, compared to fewer than 1 in 50 in 2019.

These sub-optimal purchasing behaviours leave owners vulnerable to purchases from unscrupulous breeders and dealers, including puppies sourced by illegal importation and/or reared on puppy farms.

Dr Rowena Packer, Lecturer in Companion Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science at the RVC, said: “Although our study reports many pre-purchase and purchase behaviours returning to their pre-pandemic levels, many buyers in 2021 did not adhere to best practice when purchasing their puppy, with many hangover effects of the pandemic. This continues to leave buyers vulnerable to purchasing puppies from poor-welfare sources. Given the critical importance of both breeding and early life experiences upon the future health and behaviour of puppies, this shows there are significant efforts required to improve buyer behaviours and safeguard the welfare of future generations of UK dogs.

“The continued rise in puppies being sold with passports, even beyond the peak phase of demand for puppies during the pandemic, indicates a concerning shift in the supply of puppies to the UK market from domestic sources to a reliance on importations, often of puppies under the legal minimum age for import. This is deeply worrying and requires urgent measures to avoid associated welfare harms upon the puppies themselves, but also their mothers’ outside of the UK and to public health, given infectious disease risks posed by importation to owners and other dogs in the UK.

“Measures to improve puppy buying include continuing efforts to raise awareness and change the behaviour of prospective puppy buyers, but also legislative change, including raising the minimum age of dogs at importation, to prevent the greatest harms.”

Mr Bug became the latest winner of Global Good’s Product of the Year category, a sustainable-centric award.

The awards highlights not only those brands blazing a trail for purpose-built sustainability but also scalable businesses with the growth potential to achieve meaningful world impact.

Having already won a coveted ethical award from Good Shopping Guide and a much sought-after Innovate bursary for its pioneering work on insect protein, the Global Good accolade provides Mr Bug with the icing on the cake.     

Clearly sustainable, planet-friendly dog treats is only one tranche of Mr Bug’s bigger vision that actively encompasses championing both the circular economy and new-age farming.

Mr Bug co-founder Conal Cunningham said: “For all our business’ light touch and informal tone, it’s clear to see that our big idea – sustainable insect protein – extends far beyond healthier snacking for dogs into human food consumption.  

“That said, pet treats is a highly competitive marketplace which provides all the perfect touch points needed to test and fine-tune our wider farming vision – using less land, feed and water – to create ‘everyday affordable’ yet sustainable food proteins.”

Trusted pet specialist Kennelpak has announced the launch of a new YAKERS website, dedicated to showcasing the extended range of dog chews and treats, while offering an enhanced user experience.

The website aims to be the go-to resource for anyone looking to discover more about YAKERS, including pet parents and businesses looking to stock the award-winning products. 

“We are delighted to introduce the new YAKERS website to our valued customers,” said Nigel Wright, Commercial Director for Kennelpak. “Our goal is to provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for both pet parents and business owners, making it easier than ever to explore the world of YAKERS and all the benefits our chews and treats offer.”

The YAKERS website features a new design, allowing users to navigate through the full product range. From the traditional smoky yak milk chews to innovative new flavours, there is a treat to suit every dog's taste. 

In addition to being a comprehensive resource for pet owners, the new website offers business owners the opportunity to explore wholesale and stocking options. Retailers, distributors, and pet businesses can easily access information on becoming an official YAKERS stockist and join the network of trusted sellers offering these highly sought-after chews to consumers.

“We understand the importance of collaboration with retailers and businesses in bringing our exceptional products to pet owners everywhere,” added Nigel Wright. “Through the YAKERS website, we aim to establish strong partnerships and make it convenient for businesses to join the YAKERS community.”

With a thorough understanding of the Kennelpak brands thanks to a 15-year working relationship, Nottingham-based agency m360 was selected to refresh the YAKERS website. Managing the project from the initial brief through to photography and in-house development. 

Kennelpak's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is reflected in the launch of this user-centric website. With its modern design and improved functionality, YAKERS.co.uk ensures a seamless and engaging browsing experience across all devices.

To learn more about YAKERS and explore what’s available to support sales opportunities of YAKERS dog chews and treats, visit the new website at yakers.co.uk.

Leading US wellness pet brand, Comfort Zone, has launched its highly popular, drug-free, cat calming pheromone plug-in diffusers and refills in the UK.

Designed to help alleviate stress-induced behavioural problems such as urine marking and excessive scratching, the new Comfort Zone Plug-In Pheromone Diffuser omits a drug-free vapour that mimics a cat’s natural facial pheromone. Recommended by vets, pheromones aid in creating a relaxed home environment which in turn helps to promote positive cat behaviours. 

Simple to use, the Diffuser costs only three pence per day to run, thus providing cat owners with a cost-effective calming solution. 

Commenting on the latest addition to the range, Adrian Exell, Interpet Central’s Commercial Director said: “Unwanted cat behaviours in the home are not always easy to understand and can often be linked to stress and anxiety. With the huge increase in popularity of human wellness products, Interpet is thrilled to be able to support cat owners with the wellbeing of their beloved pets by re-establishing harmony in the home using a drug free, natural pheromone product.”

The new range comprises a: Starter Kit which includes a diffuser and refill, a single refill, and a four-refill value pack. Each refill lasts for thirty days, whilst the diffuser remains effective for twelve months. 

The Comfort Zone Plug-In Pheromone Diffuser Kit and Refills are available to order now via Central Interpet’s trade website https://trade.interpet.co.uk/

Pawer Water is a ground-breaking canine wellness supplement aimed at optimising overall well-being for dogs through hydration. 

Pawer Water is set to transform the way dogs hydrate, ensuring they receive the vital hydration necessary for a healthy and active lifestyle. 

Water plays a critical role in maintaining a dog's health, but sometimes our furry companions don't drink enough to stay properly hydrated. Dehydration can lead to a range of issues, including lethargy, decreased organ function, and other serious health complications. 

Pawer Water addresses this concern by providing a premium supplement designed to enhance the hydration process and promote optimal wellness.

Pawer Water’s formula is carefully crafted with a range of ‘pawerful’ ingredients, specifically chosen to support canine hydration and wellness needs. This innovative blend includes electrolytes (potassium & sodium) to replenish essential minerals lost during exercise or hot weather, collagen and hyaluronic acid to support bones, joints and skin, as well as vitamins C & E and antioxidants (grapeseed extract) to support the immune system and promote overall vitality. Each ingredient is meticulously selected to ensure maximum efficacy and safety.

“Our mission at Pawer Water is to provide dog owners with a reliable solution to optimise hydration and improve the well-being of their furry companions,” said Nathalie Ohana, Founder of Pawer Water.

“We understand the importance of proper hydration for a dog's overall health, and we're excited to introduce a supplement that not only addresses this need but also enhances their daily lives. It’s not just about drinking, it’s about drinking well.”

Pawer Water is easy to incorporate into a dog’s routine. Simply add the supplement to their regular drinking water. Its delicious natural chicken broth flavour is specially crafted to appeal to dogs’ palates, encouraging them to drink more water. With Pawer Water, pet owners can have peace of mind knowing their furry friends are boosting the hydration they need to thrive.

For more information visit www.pawerwater.com or contact Nathalie Ohana, founder & CEO, by email hello@pawerwater.com

Pawer Water will be exhibiting at PATS Telford on 1-2 October 2023. 

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The Pet Industry Federation has launched a new Associate Membership category.

Associate Membership is aimed at businesses that don’t directly provide or manufacturer products or services which are destined for companion animals and therefore aren’t eligible for full PIF membership, but who wish to raise the profile of their brand with pet industry businesses. 

“We have developed the Associate Membership package in response to an increasing number of non-pet companies who can see the dynamism and robustness of the pet industry and want to seize opportunities to create meaningful partnerships with pet businesses” said Nigel Baker, CEO at the Pet Industry Federation.

The package has been designed to allow Associate Members to attend networking opportunities, get in front of pet businesses and gain member-only access to the PIF website and resources. Additionally, companies can benefit from bespoke marketing opportunities through PIF newsletters, opportunities for editorial collaboration and event sponsorship.

Currently celebrating its 75^th anniversary, PIF is the trade association which represents the widest range of pet businesses in the industry. From pet groomers and boarders to large multi-branch retailers, manufacturers and wholesalers, PIF exists to support and represent its 2000 members with benefits, advice, training, industry news and collaborative opportunities.

“Having reached a fantastic milestone in our company’s history, the addition of Associate Membership is a really positive move forward for PIF,” continued Nigel. “It will enhance the spectrum of our members and bring greater engagement between existing members and those who wish to be more closely aligned with the UK pet industry.”

Further details and registration are available from www.petfederation.co.uk

The Pet Industry Federation has announced a special membership offer as part of its 75th anniversary celebrations.

Pet businesses are invited to take advantage of a 10% discount on PIF membership when joining before 31st July.

For 75 years, PIF has been at the forefront of providing invaluable resources, networking opportunities and expert support to businesses in the sector. With a focus on enhancing knowledge, fostering connections and driving success and adapting as the pet industry continues to grow and evolve, PIF has established itself as a trusted ally to pet industry professionals.

"Reaching our 75th anniversary is a significant milestone for PIF and we are excited to commemorate this occasion by extending a special offer to pet business owners," said Nigel Baker, CEO, Pet Industry Federation. "Our mission has always been to champion the pet industry and empower businesses to thrive. This discounted membership offer is our way of expressing gratitude to the community and inviting new members to experience the benefits and opportunities available through PIF."

By joining PIF during this limited-time offer, pet industry business owners will gain access to a range of exclusive benefits, including:

• Networking events and conferences: Connect with fellow industry experts, share insights and build valuable relationships through PIF's networking events and conferences.
  Educational resources: Stay ahead of the competition with industry-leading educational materials tailored to the pet industry's unique challenges and opportunities.
• Exclusive discounts from trusted partners: Enjoy special discounts and offers from PIF's esteemed partners, including Dell Technologies, Fuel Card Services, Lopay, Sprintlaw and Tuft, who have joined hands to support the pet industry community.
• Expert advice and guidance: Benefit from PIF's wealth of expertise and guidance on running a successful pet business, ensuring continued growth and prosperity.

With just 75 discounted memberships available, pet businesses are encouraged to seize this opportunity and become part of the dynamic PIF community before the offer expires.

To redeem the discount and celebrate PIF's 75th anniversary with us, interested businesses can visit www.petfederation.co.uk and enter the discount code: PIF75.

Terms and conditions apply and can be viewed on the PIF website. 

With an estimated 11 million pet cats currently living in the UK, it’s safe to say we are a nation of cat lovers. As of 10 June 2024, it will become law for all cat owners in England to have their feline friend microchipped, leaving millions up and down the country just 12 months to abide by the new law.

At present, 75% of cats across the UK are microchipped, leaving 25% of the population, nearly 3 million cats without a microchip.

By 10 June 2024, owners found without their cat microchipped will have just 21 days to have one implanted. After the 21 days, owners may then face a fine of up to £500.

The 2023 PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report revealed that 67% of cat owners are unaware that the new legislation will mean that all cats in England must be microchipped.

PDSA Vet, Lynne James said: “Microchipping is a one off cost, which provides a lifetime of security for pet owners. We strongly recommend all cats are microchipped before they start going outside. Even if your cat prefers the indoor life, microchipping provides an extra safety net, should they manage to escape and become lost.”

OATA has joined forces with the National Centre for Reptile Welfare (NCRW) to offer a two-day course for local authority inspectors who undertake animal activities licensing for pet vending establishments.

It’s estimated more than three-quarters of all pet shops that require a licence to sell animals sell fish, with many also selling reptiles and amphibians, making it very likely inspectors will visit businesses which sell these animals.

The first day of the course will look at reptiles and amphibians while the second day will focus on fish and other aquatic species. Each day will include plenty of theory and hands-on training to bring the English Licensing Activities Involving Animals guidance to life. Inspectors will also get the chance to put it into practice during ‘mock’ inspections in the custom-built shop set-up at the NCRW, located at Hadlow College, Kent.

“It’s vital that local authority officers tasked with inspecting businesses which sell animals, whether that’s a breeder, wholesaler or pet shop, feel confident to carry out that inspection,” said OATA Scientific and Technical Adviser Dr Matthew Bond, who will deliver the aquatic species training.

“While guidance may be mandatory, the implementation of that guidance depends on the experience and knowledge of inspectors. They have such a wide range of businesses they need to be competent in so, when it comes to animal welfare, we wanted to play our part in ensuring inspectors feel confident when they visit establishments selling reptiles and aquatic species.

“So we have created this specialist training to help them improve their knowledge of businesses that sell fish and reptiles. We’ve worked with the NCRW to build on its one-day training course on reptiles to create a second day focusing on aquatics. These two days will run consecutively, making it easier for inspectors to do both courses in one go.”

The first two-day course takes place at Hadlow College in Kent on 8 and 9 August with an introductory offer of £400 for both days. Each day can also be booked separately. To find more about what’s covered in the course and to book visit https://ornamentalfish.org/training/training-for-local-authority-council-inspectors/

Town & Country has launched a new range designed especially for dog walkers.

The trendy collection consists of two styles of hats with a built-in light, torch which dispenses doggy bags, sturdy thermal and water-resistant gloves in four sizes, and an olive-green walking pocket flask with a handle. 

Not only that, but Town & Country has also created an enticing display solution for the ‘Go Walk’ range, which will encourage shoppers to pick up some dog-walking goodies on their way around the garden centre.

Both the men’s and women’s hats have a rechargeable, built-in L.E.D light with three brightness settings, ideal for darker summer evening walks and keeping hands free for other tasks. Cosy, comfortable and warm, the thermal insulation traps in heat for longer, keeping walkers snug in all conditions.

The ingenious combined torch and doggy bag holder allows users to light up paths, while also storing a roll of 20 bags. It also comes with two additional rolls.

The thermal-lined and water repellent all-weather gloves help to keep hands warm in unpredictable weather conditions and feature additional padding on the palms and fingers to ensure extra comfort and protection. Available in four sizes, from small to extra-large, there’s sure to be a glove to fit everyone.

Lastly, the modern design of the olive-green walking flask with a handle makes this product a sure-fire winner. Designed to fit into your pocket or bag, this slim and stylish stainless steel water bottle is ideal for dog walks, hiking and everyday life.

For more information on products by Town & Country, visit https://www.townandco.com/

The British Independent Retailers Association has said while it's happy to see the UK inflation rate dropping to 7.9% in June, it is still concerned that food prices remain high.

BIRA, which works with over 6,000 independent businesses of all sizes across the UK, said the inflation rate for food is a worry as it reduces the discretionary spend that is the 'lifeblood of thousands of independents'.

Today it was announced that the UK's rate of inflation dropped to 7.9% according to the Office for National Statistics. But this means the rate of price rises in the UK has slowed more than expected, down from 8.7% in May, although this still remains high.

Falling fuel prices have contributed to the drop but food prices have risen less quickly than in June last year the report has shown.

Bira CEO Andrew Goodacre said: "It is always good to see inflation falling and this month by a larger amount than expected.

"However, we remain concerned about food inflation at 17% because this reduces the discretionary spend that is the lifeblood of thousands of independent retailers. We can see that the producer price inflation ha fallen significantly and we must hope and expect the food price inflation to fall much more in the near future.

"I also hope that the larger than expected fall in inflation change the thinking at the Bank of England with regards to interest rates. Future increases may not be necessary and if they insist on raining rates, we must surely expect the size of any increase to be reduced. Higher interest rates are hurting small retailers who may still be paying back bounce back loans and at very high rates," he said.

A new study by the VetCompass team at the Royal Veterinary College has found that dogs with heatstroke may be suffering even further due to outdated first aid practices.

The research calls for updated guidance to be promoted more widely for dogs with heatstroke – including cold water immersion and using fans or air conditioning on soaked dogs – to support owners to provide the best possible care.

Heat-related illnesses (HRI) such as heatstroke are potentially fatal for dogs and can occur following exercise or from exposure to hot environments. While many risk factors can increase the probability of HRI occurring, the priority is to cool dogs early and to ensure rapid reduction in their core body temperature to limit disease progression.

Veterinary surgeons and canine scientists from the RVC, Scotland's Rural College and emergency veterinary care provider, Vets Now, conducted a study into HRI using data from a cohort of 945,543 dogs under primary veterinary care at 886 UK veterinary practices between 2016 and 2018. Overall, 856 dogs presented for veterinary management of HRI.

The findings showed less than a quarter (21.7%) of the dogs presented with heatstroke to UK vets during this period had been actively cooled before being transported to the veterinary clinic, and only 24% of these dogs had been cooled using currently recommended methods of either immersion or soaking combined with air movement. More than half (51.3%) of these cooled dogs had been cooled using outdated advice by applying wet towels. While better than no active cooling, the application of wet towels is not nearly as effective as water immersion or evaporative cooling for rapid and steep reduction in body temperature.

Many websites continue to offer outdated first aid advice to dog owners that recommend “slow” cooling using “tepid but not cold water”, despite no substantial evidence to support this guidance. Similar myths about using tepid water in human medicine have been dispelled by extensive research demonstrating that cold water immersion and evaporative cooling are the most effective treatments for heatstroke. The VetCompass study also showed there had been no increase in the use of recommended cooling methods over the three-year study period, despite the publication of the recommended guidelines in 2016 by the American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care’s Veterinary Committee on Trauma.

This new research calls for first aid advice to be updated to the current best practice veterinary guidelines which recommend to “cool first, transport second” as the immediate first aid response for dogs with heatstroke. Recommended cooling methods include cold water immersion for young, healthy dogs, or pouring water of any temperature that is cooler than the dog over them combined with air movement from a breeze, fan, or air conditioning (evaporative cooling) for older dogs or dogs with underlying health problems. Owners should also seek veterinary advice as soon as possible.

Emily Hall, Lecturer in Veterinary Education at the RVC, and lead author of the paper, said: “The key message for dog owners is to cool the dog quickly, using whatever water you have available provided the water is cooler than the dog. The longer a dog’s body temperature remains elevated, the more damage can occur so the sooner you can stop the temperature rise and start cooling the better.”

Anne Carter, Senior Lecturer in Animal Science at SRUC, and co-author of the paper, said: “It takes time to put research into practice, and this can be harder when you’re faced with long-standing myths. We urge veterinary professionals, dog owners and any sources of first aid advice to review the recommendations on cooling methods, dispel the myths and promote the message to ‘cool first, transport second’.”

Dan O’Neill, Associate Professor in Companion Animal Epidemiology at the RVC, and co-author of the paper, said: “Our previous research** showed that 97% of dogs treated for mild heat-related illness survived while only 43% of dogs treated for severe heat-related illness (heatstroke) survived. The data are very clear; acting early to cool dogs as soon as mild signs of overheating are observed will save lives. During exercise in warm weather, if your dog pants excessively, has difficulty breathing, or becomes unwilling or unable to continue exercising, then you should stop the exercise, seek shade, cool them with water and seek veterinary advice.”

Amy Luker, Senior Training Veterinary Surgeon at Dogs Trust, said: "Dogs Trust is delighted to have provided funding for this latest study by the Royal Veterinary College into the complex area of heatstroke. Our Canine Welfare Grant programme provides funding for research projects with clear pathways to positive welfare outcomes. This latest study further extends our knowledge of the most effective way to treat dogs presenting with heatstroke symptoms, information that will help formulate advice given to vets and dog owners moving forward and undoubtedly help save the lives of many dogs in the years to come."

Pooch & Mutt, one of the UK’s fastest growing pet food companies, has been acquired by Vafo Group in a multi-million pound deal. 

Vafo is Pooch & Mutt’s long-term production partner. It took a minority share in Pooch & Mutt in 2020, upped this to 40% in 2022 and has now acquired the final 60%.

With Vafo’s financial and production backing, Pooch & Mutt has grown over 400% in the past few years and is on track to turnover £18m in 2023.

Pooch & Mutt’s founder, Guy Blaskey (pictured right) will stay on at Pooch & Mutt as a CVO (Chief Visionary Officer) as well as continuing his role on the Vafo Group’s management team. Day to day running of Pooch & Mutt will be handled by MD Paul Dennison, who has been fulfilling that role for the past 12 months, along with Pooch & Mutt’s management team.

Guy Blaskey commented: “We have been part of the Vafo Family for a few years now, and it genuinely does feel like a family. We are all aligned on making great quality products, to help pets lead their best lives.

“Unlike many corporate takeovers, this is not an exercise in efficiencies and cost cutting. Vafo has supported our growth over the last few years, during which time we have trebled out staff, quadruped our turnover and developed a whole host of amazing new products.

“The success is not just about the Pooch & Mutt brand. As part of the Vafo family we are the UK representatives for all of their manufacturing capabilities, which are the best and broadest in the European pet food market. We are working with them to supply some of the largest retailers in the country. Later in the year we have a 2nd brand launching, “Planet Pet Society” which has been a ‘pet project’ of mine to develop the world’s most sustainable pet food, based on ‘Second Chance Ingredients. Additionally, we are using our significant online capabilities to grow the group’s digital business across Europe. This is a really exciting for me, for the team and Pooch & Mutt and for the whole group.

“It’s great to see my baby grow up and go to a new home, and even better that I can stay involved and help it achieve the potential I have always known that is has.”

Petr Kriz, Vafo board member responsible for M&A and strategy, commented, “Pooch & Mutt’s growth since our first investment has been incredible. A lot of companies promise big things in investment pitches, but few deliver. Pooch & Mutt promised very big things and delivered far beyond them. The team have done an outstanding job and they will be a huge asset to the group”.

Vafo is a 400m+ eur company, with 8 factories in The Czech Republic, Finland, Estonia and beyond. They are the owner of multiple category-leading brands as well as being private label manufacturers for most of the largest pet retailers in Europe. 

Find out more about Pooch & Mutt at www.poochandmutt.com

An online fundraising appeal to help a much-loved pet store continue delivering food to customers despite it having to close down, has reach 61% of its £3,000 target. At the timing of going to press 52 people had donated a total of £1,850.

Pet Trade Xtra reported on the fate of Poppy’s Paws in Exmouth, Devon, which announced it was being forced to close its premises due to reasons ‘beyond its control’.

A friend of the owners has launched a fundraising appeal on the Just Giving platform so that the pet store c continue to supply its specially formulated and popular pet food.

Lance Vernon, who opened Poppy’s Paws six years ago with his mother Shirley, announced the store’s closure on Facebook last week.

He wrote: “It is with huge upset that we write this post but sadly for reasons beyond our control myself, my mum and sister have been forced to close Poppy’s Paws. This really has come as a shock to us all and we are all so sad about this. 

“We would like to thank all our customers and partners who have shopped and supported us over the last six years – you have all been amazing. It’s has really been the best six years, so thank you all. 

‘I can’t believe I’ve had to write this post, it’s heartbreaking.” 

The announcement, which shocked the local pet owning community, led to a family friend launching an appeal to raise £8,000.

Frankie Perry wrote on Facebook: “Lance’s shop is a beloved part of the Exmouth community, so I have set up a fundraising page, so he can continue to supply his specially formulated and incredibly popular pet food. He has been inundated with requests since the announcement of the shop closure.

“The money donated will help purchase a van, so Lance can create a new Poppy’s Food mobile pop-up shop.”

Click here to visit the fundraising page. At the timing of going to press 41 people had donated a total of £850 of the £8,000 target.

Picture courtesy of the Just Giving page.

A popular independent pet store has a new owner, a new look and a new name.

Pets Pantry in Appleby-in-Westmorland, Cumbria, has been taken over by qualified pet groomer Suzanne Jones, from Keswick.

“I had planned to open a grooming parlour in Keswick. However, when that didn’t work out and I heard the Appleby pet shop was on the market I decided this was the ideal opportunity for me,” Suzanne told the Cumberland and Westmorland Herald.

Suzanne is renaming the store Appleby Pet Shop and plans to redesign the interior of the premises, with an area for fitting and measuring harnesses, providing new ranges of pet food, raised pet and bird feeders.

To read the full story click here

Pawable has renewed its commitment to supporting small businesses by pledging to always prioritise independent retailers as the brand grows.

The supplements brand, which was the first in the UK to introduce a highly popular Collar-Gen product for dogs, sells only in independent pets stores and via the Pawable online store.

And in an announcement this week, Dale Nash, Product Development Manager of Pawable renewed the brand's commitment to the independent sector and the army of small stores who have sold the £29.99 product since its launch.

He said: "We are so grateful to all the independent retailers who stock Pawable's Collar-Gen and Calming products, and going forward independent is always going to be our focus.

"We believe that our product sits best in locations where staff are passionate and knowledgeable about natural pet care, and really value the relationships that we have with our stockists."

Pawable launched in 2022 and the Collar-Gen product has been a trailblazer in the UK, the first product of its kind, with hundreds of dog owners reporting a huge difference in the mobility and health of their pets.

The brand has also received regular national and local media attention, with pet owners sharing their dog's heartwarming story of taking and benefitting from the product.

Earlier this year the brand added to its roster with Calming, which uses natural ingredients including thyme to enhance breathing and promote a calm and settled state.

Canine expert  Anna Webb said on the launch of Calming: "We’ve all had an onslaught of stress through the pandemic reflected in anxiety in our pooches at a record high. Adding to this, the ‘cost of living’ crisis and an uncertain economic forecast is fuelling stress at an expensive time of year.

"Minimising responses to stressors can be achieved over time with careful training, desensitisation, socialisation and diet.

"The aim for a calm, trained and well socialised dog that can cope with everyday events, travelling, being home alone, trips to hotels. A dog that relishes life and the fun adventures to experience with their owners.

"If you are what you eat, investing in your dog’s diet is a cost saving! Just as I take certain supplements like collagen to help replace what depletes naturally with age, I’m keen to boost my dogs Prudence and Mr Binks biologically, mentally and physically."

Dale, pictured above, added: "Pawable as a company is going from strength to strength, and we don't want to be a company that forgets about all the wonderful people who helped us on the way up.

"As we develop our brand we will be looking for even more independent stockists, who can become part of this lovely community that has shot up around Pawable."

Calming by Pawable and Collar-Gen by Pawable are available from www.pawable.co.uk and are priced at £29.99 for 225g, which can last for between 30 and 90 days depending on the size of the dog.

A number of animals were rescued from a Pets at Home store in Oxford after a fire broke out on Tuesday afternoon.

Three fire engines were called to multiple reports of a fire in the John Allen centre, Temple Cowley, Oxford.

Fire crews were faced with a developing fire at the rear of the Pets at Home store. Two Ffrefighters wearing breathing apparatus quickly extinguished the fire using hose reel jets.

With the fire extinguished, crews faced a large amount of smoke, which posed a danger to the animals trapped inside the store.

With additional crews arriving, positive pressure fans were used to clear the smoke and provide vital air to the animals while multiple breathing apparatus wearers were sent in, transferring the animals into potable cages, before bringing them to the staff outside.

Incident Commander Henri Ind, said: “The staff had done an excellent job evacuating the store and rescuing as many animals as they could safely. This allowed us to focus on extinguishing the fire and stopping it from spreading to neighbouring properties. 

“We evacuated the surrounding retail units as a precaution as the smoke travel between these were extensive.”

Crew Manager Ind continued: “We're also pleased to say that all the animals were safely rescued and, after a stressful few hours, are now back in their homes, being cared for by the staff.”

Picture courtesy of Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service.