A high-street pet shop is moving 50 yards ‘down the road’ to new premises which offer greater opportunities for the business to grow.

Lynn Connell, who has been running a pet shop for more than 20 years, set up the current store Pet Pantry with her daughter Abbie in Winchester, Hampshire, five years ago.

But the business has since outgrown the premises and when a more suitable outlet became available on the same street the pair decided to change venues.

“The new store has a far better layout,” said Lynn. “It’s double the size of the current shop and is on one level compared to the two unworkable levels at the moment. We’re really excited about the move.”

Pet Pantry is family-run business with Lynn and Abbie working in the shop. Lynn said her husband was a massive support and helped with doing jobs around the store.

Lynn and Abbie will be welcoming customers to the new Pet Pantry with open day offers next week.

“Our customers have been very supportive and understanding,” said Lynn. “They mean everything to us, and we’re sure they’ll love the new shop as much as the old one.”

Jo Amit, co-founder HOWND, and her rescue dog Magi were interviewed on GB News at lunchtime yesterday (Wednesday) by TV presenter Liam Halligan.

Together with veterinary expert Professor Andrew Knight, Jo was quizzed about the growing business of vegan pet food and its health benefits.

You can view the full interview on the GB News YouTube channel by clicking here

Inspired Pet Nutrition, the company behind the popular Harringtons and Wagg pet food brands, is investing more than £6 million at its plant at Kinmel in North Wales. This investment will triple the site’s wet dog food tray capacity to more than a huge 75 million units a year.

The investment will follow a two-stage process, with the first stage coming later this year in the form of a second processing and filling line, boosting efficiency to great heights. 2021 saw this installation begin, with the investment being commissioned to be operational by January 2023.

The new line will be three times faster than the existing line – which already runs 24/7. It will be focused on the wet tray production for the popular brand Harringtons, whilst also seeing IPN move to create its own label products also.

Sales of the premium product, Harringtons wet tray range which features a hugely popular mix of human grade freshly prepared meat and vegetables. This has proven extremely popular, with sales seeing an increase of nearly 100%[1].

This increased product demand played an important role in the expansion of operations to ensure demand could be met. With the new investment, overall wet dog food capacity will be increasing by 75% compared to last year, with further increases over the next 18 months as the investment project is complete.

Dominic Whelan, Site Operations Manager at IPN Kinmel, commented: “The wet tray market in both the branded and own label sectors looks set for even further growth, and this significant investment will ensure we can meet demand.  Two years ago, IPN Kinmel produced about 4,000 tonnes of finished goods, this has now risen to an astonishing 10,500 tonnes.”

James Lawson, CEO at IPN, stated: “This is an exciting development for the business as we will significantly increase production at Kinmel - the UK’s only FreshCook and carbon negative wet food facility – and it will help us on our journey to become the UK’s most sustainable pet food manufacturer.  The investment will also play a key role in making Harringtons a £100 million Masterbrand across multiple categories and species.”

The new filling equipment will also enable IPN to offer pet parents a choice of wet tray formats, including fully recyclable aluminium trays, which will be a huge hit as pet owners become a lot more eco conscious.

Turnover at IPN Kinmel has risen dramatically from £11.5 million during the financial year ending June 2019 to more than £20 million in the last financial year ending in June 2021.  The site currently has a workforce of nearly 100 – up from 85 in 2019, with the new investment, these figures show no sign of slowing.

Paleo Ridge, a UK producer of high-quality raw dog food, has established a new leadership team to drive business growth following a £2million investment from private equity firm Ashridge Capital earlier this year.

Will Green, who joined the business in 2020 following an extensive digital marketing career in the music, paper and real-estate industries, has been promoted to Director of Sales and Marketing. Will now runs an extended team of eight covering sales, marketing and customer services.

Meanwhile Chris Jones has been promoted to Director of Supply Chain, having joined the team in 2018. Chris comes from a fast-paced Supply Chain background which has enabled him to develop the skills required to lead the supply element of a new and rapidly expanding industry. 

Dainius Kinta has been promoted to Head of Operations, having previously held the role of Operations Manager.

Tyler Daly, CEO, was joined by Ton Christiaanse earlier in the year as Chairman who has driven significant growth with household name brands including Brakes and Unilever. At the same time, Graeme Banfield joined the team as Finance Director and David Sherratt, Founder and CEO of Ashridge Capital joined the business as Non-Executive Director.

The newly established executive leadership team comes amidst a raft of new hires and promotions to support the rapid growth of the business. The Paleo Ridge team has expanded by roughly 10% since the beginning of the year, with key hires in the supply chain, sales and marketing and business development functions, amongst others. 

“We’re delighted to have welcomed such talented and experienced additions in recent times – not only to our executive leadership team but across the entire business,” said Tyler Daly.

“It has been a big year for Paleo Ridge and expanding our team is a key part of our plans to continue driving growth. We’re also really pleased to see so many promotions within the business and additional new hires. Paleo Ridge is a family of hard workers who bring passion and expertise to everything they do. We’re glad to support our staff in their individual growth alongside that of the business.”

Ton Christiaanse added: “I am thrilled with the promotions of Chris and Will to the director positions following their outstanding performance at Paleo Ridge. We are at such an exciting stage, and I look forward to continuing to grow the business and its standing in the pet food market. It’s a pleasure to be working with an accomplished team with the expertise to maintain the fast-pace of growth and development that Paleo Ridge has displayed in recent years.”

Pictured, from left to right: Dainius Kinta, Tyler Daly, Will Green, Chris Jones, accompanied by Rudy the dog.

Awarding organisation iPET Network has won a global award for its commitment and excellence in the animal education services.

Founded by Cheshire-based Sarah Mackay and Fern Gresty in 2018, iPET Network originally specialised in creating high quality qualifications in the canine and feline sector.

All of the qualifications are regulated by Ofqual, and after a thorough business review and audit by Ofqual iPET Network’s scope was expanded to the entire Animal Care and Veterinary Science sector so now qualifications can be created across all animal services.

This hard work and commitment to excellence has now been recognised at a high level, with the Cheshire based company being awarded the Global winner in the Animal Education and Training Services category at the Corporate Livewire Global Awards.  

A statement from the judges read: "The judging panel was particularly impressed by the company's aspirations to further develop its qualifications and implement new and exciting topics into the curriculum.

"iPET Network regularly collaborates with creatives and industry professionals to bring their ideas regarding new qualifications to fruition. This is particularly helpful for training providers, who may feel that a certain type of qualification could benefit their business and appeal to customers.

"Testimonials from these businesses have commented on the breadth of support that the iPET Network gives their providers, as they focus on the quality of the material rather than the quantity of learners."

Sarah and Fern, who started iPET Network after working in pet care industries, and realising that more regulation and qualifications were needed to protect animal welfare, added: "We are so thrilled to receive this award, and these wonderful comments from the judges really show what we always knew, there is real value in what we are doing, pushing ahead to drive up animal welfare standards.

"Of course we don't do these things for praise and awards, but recognition like this also helps to spread the word about iPET Network, the courses that we offer, and why it is important that anyone working with animals should have the appropriate qualifications."

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

More than one third of UK families have a loyal canine companion. However, while dogs may make lives richer, the use of conventional plastic bags to dispose of their waste is having a significant impact on the environment. 

An innovative new start-up is tackling the issue head-on with the launch of a water-reactive, non-toxic, and microplastics-free alternative that can be fully dissolved in hot water in as little as 10 minutes.

It’s estimated that up to 1.23 million tonnes of dog waste bags are disposed of each year around the world. In the UK, there are approx. 12.5 million dogs, assuming 70% usage of waste bags 2-3 times per day, that's a potential of between 17.5 - 26.25 million used dog waste bags every day.

Edinburgh-based Project Harmless is hoping that, by making the switch, dog owners can play a big role in keeping harmful plastics out of rivers and oceans, and help create a healthier, happier landscape.

While conventional plastics are affordable and convenient, many take more than 500 years to break down, and never fully decompose. Ultimately, around 10% of all plastic waste ends up in water, posing significant risk to marine life. If human behaviour does not change, National Geographic estimates that, by 2040, the world’s seas will contain a whopping 29 million metric tonnes of plastic.

The ‘Harmless Poop Bag’ from Project Harmless is an innovative solution to conventional dog waste bags. 100 million marine animals die each year from general plastic waste, however, the ‘Harmless Poop Bag’ rapidly disintegrates in seas and oceans, so won’t ensnare marine life. If digested, the non-toxic and micro-plastic free material will safely pass through the systems of marine animals and won’t endanger the animal or human food chain.

George Greer, Managing Director for Project Harmless, said: “On a tour of the Highlands, my partner and I stopped in Loch Long to walk our dog, Noah, but were immediately shocked to see a significant amount of debris and plastic bags washed on shore. It appears, like many locations worldwide, this shore was a deposit point for the local tidal waves. It struck us just how much harmful plastic is in our waters and got us thinking of how we could make a difference.”

While the concept of eco-friendly dog waste bags certainly isn’t new, George discovered that many of the biodegradable bags on the market weren’t living up to their promises. In fact, during research George uncovered data showing that all ‘biodegradable’ bags studied by a Plymouth University test in 2019 were still functional, even after spending three years in water and soil.

George’s partner, who had become familiar with pill capsule technology while studying in Pennsylvania, suggested using a similar approach to develop a truly eco-friendly bag using the same non-toxic and water-reactive material. Which is how Project Harmless was born. Today, the Harmless Poop Bag is emerging as one of the only sustainable solutions for dog owners, rapidly disintegrating due to heightened sensitivity to the open environment.

Project Harmless is on a mission to launch even more solutions to today’s biggest and most urgent environmental challenges. Its new carrier bag, known as the ‘Harmless Bag’, offers a responsible alternative to single use carrier bags.

Although some supermarkets have committed to switching out plastic bags for paper alternatives, Government reports confirm that ‘paper in landfills does not degrade or break down at a substantially faster rate than plastic does… because of the lack of water, light, oxygen, and other important elements’.

Project Harmless believes that cutting down trees is not the solution. The Harmless Bag can easily be fully dissolved at home avoiding any recycling costs or landfill usage, providing an environmentally friendly solution for retailers and consumers.

By using fewer harmful plastics in day-to-day lives and reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and oceans, Project Harmless hopes to change the world for the better.

To find out more about Project Harmless, visit https://projectharmless.com

Beco is leading the way in encouraging the pet industry to become more sustainable by achieving carbon neutrality.

Working with the certification body, Climate Neutral, Beco has successfully achieved its goal of carbon neutrality by measuring and reducing any business emissions, and compensating for every tonne. 

Since launching in 2009, Beco’s focus has been on creating food, toys, and accessories that pets love, whilst also reducing any impact on the planet.  

To strengthen this mission, Beco has implemented a number of policies that help protect and preserve the natural world, from switching to renewable energy to power the Beco offices, to replacing gas-powered machinery with electric vehicles, and using an air source heat pump that transfers heat absorbed from the outside air instead of relying on gas.  

Beco is taking its sustainability mission to the next level by continuing to set longer term reduction targets.

George Bramble, Beco founder, says: “Carbon offsetting can be contentious as some businesses see it as a way to buy your way out of trouble without addressing the problem, the initial emissions. We are not one of those. 

‘Our primary goal is to reduce as much as possible, and then offset what remains. We see offsetting as a way to repay our debts while we work on continuous improvements.”

Beco is proud that the offsetting of its unavoidable emissions drives critical funding into carbon-reducing projects all across the globe, including avoiding deforestation in Indonesia, generating wind energy in China, and reforestation in Costa Rica.

According to a recent survey from Burns Pet Nutrition, the true cost of owning a dog has risen to almost £250 a month and could add up to nearly £40,000 for a pet’s average lifetime.  

The new figures have prompted fears that animal lovers may be forced to give up their dogs as the recent cost-of-living crisis starts to set in. 

The survey has revealed that pet owners current monthly spending on their dogs includes £50 on food, £35 on insurance and £32 on dog walkers and doggy day-care. Experts are warning that these figures could easily rise by at least 10 per cent before the end of the year as inflation and the war in Ukraine pushes up the cost of raw materials and transport. 

However, leading healthy pet food brand Burns Pet Nutrition is able to reduce daily feeding costs for an average 10kg dog to just 47p and for a 25kg adult dog the price would come in at a low £1.09. These costs come in significantly cheaper than the £50 average and offer pet owners a chance to save on dog food without lessening the quality of meals they’d be feeding their dogs. 

Burns’ founder and leading veterinary surgeon John Burns (pictured above) urged owners to think carefully before switching to cheaper food for their pets: “Poor-quality pet food is often packed with bulking agents that have no nutritional benefit at all. Dogs fed on those will often produce more poo because their bodies cannot process all the useless ingredients. 

“Better quality dog food can often work out just as cost-effective because it is packed with nutrition and the animal needs less of it. There’s the added benefit of less poo to pick up too! You can’t skimp on the care you give an animal and that is an expensive lifetime commitment."

The amount dog owners spend on things, like food, vets’ bills, kennels, day-care, worming and flee treatments, toys, equipment and training comes to an average of £244 a month, according to a nationwide study of more than 2,000 dog owners. 

That is the equivalent of over £3,000 a year or £40,000 plus over the average 14-year lifespan of a dog. 

But the research shows that most owners love their pets so much they are prepared to spend whatever it takes to keep them happy and heathy. 

Two thirds say their dog is worth every penny, one third say they give it the best of everything, and a quarter say they shamelessly spoil their pet. 

More than a quarter say they already make financial sacrifices to own a dog, while a similar number say having one is worth going without holidays or new clothes. 

Supreme Petfoods is set to launch its innovative new Food for Life marketing campaign at Interzoo 2022, which is aimed at boosting brand awareness around its highly successful Science Selective range of species-specific small pet foods. 

With significant financial investment behind it, the campaign features a commercial targeted at You Tube, Instagram and Facebook and with versions in English, Dutch, French and German, it will reach a worldwide audience across the European, US and Australasian markets. This global marketing campaign will be launched at Interzoo 2022 on booth 4-610 with the unveiling of the Food For Life commercial. 

Extensive market research has been instrumental in strengthening the positioning of the Science Selective brand, as well as developing the new Food For Life campaign concept. 

Claire Hamblion, Supreme’s Marketing Director says, “With increased focus on the health benefits of optimum nutrition for us and our pets, the time is right to go global on a scale not seen before in the small pet sector. We have the utmost confidence in the palatability and high quality of our products, and this is reflected in our marketing spend on the campaign.”

Claire added:  “Selective has excellent brand loyalty and we are excited to be bringing the benefits of high quality nutrition to a worldwide audience.” 

Based on years of science based nutritional expertise, the Science Selective product range for small pets has been tailored to meet the specific needs of rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, degus, ferrets, gerbils, hamsters, rats and mice at every stage of life. With an emphasis on high quality nutrition that respects the natural diet, the range for herbivores contains the highest levels of fibre, natural prebiotics, omega 3 and 6 fatty acids and has no added sugar. 

Claire explains that these are strong trends in the pet food market. “Over recent years we’ve seen rising demand for natural products, with many owners seeking out diets and treats containing wild or foraged ingredients. Alongside this, we’re seeing people becoming more health-conscious about their small pets and many owners are now willing to pay a premium for healthy products and we’ve been pleased to see fantastic growth in sales over the last five years.”

Supreme’s Tiny Friends Farm range of wholesome fun quality food for small pets perfectly complements the Science Selective brand and as well as unveiling the new commercial at Interzoo 2022, Supreme will be launching new products in both the Science Selective and Tiny Friends Farm ranges.

Customers are invited to join Supreme for a complimentary glass of champagne at booth 4-610, Hall 4, to celebrate the continued growth of these two market-leading brands in the small pet category and toast the launch of the new marketing campaign and new products. The booth is easy to find, positioned on an eye-catching rotating podium, and customers will be able to view the exciting new commercial on TV screens. 

To find out more, contact Supreme Petfoods on experts@supremepetfoods.com or visit https://supremepetfoods.com/products/

The UK exhibitor group at this year’s PetQuip-organised British pavilion at lnterzoo is offering buyers from across the world a multitude of new product launches at this year's show. 

Interzoo, a key international exhibition for the pet sector, returns to Nuremberg in Germany on 24-27 May 2022 and, as last autumn’s edition of Zoomark International demonstrated, there is an appetite for attending shows again as constraints on international travel are eased.

The British exhibitors at the show will have new and exciting products on display, covering many sectors of the pet industry.

From plant-based pet food to bug-based treats, there will be an exciting and innovative range of products to attract visiting buyers to the stands of UK suppliers. Other product sectors to feature innovations include dog training accessories, pet bedding, microfibre towels, mats, feeding bowls, shampoos and cosmetics. 

In addition to the UK product supplier exhibitors, PetQuip is organising and manning a British pet product information stand (9-502a), which buyers can visit to find out more about sourcing thousands of British pet products.

The British companies and their products are as follows:

Akela Pet Foods Ltd (Stand 9-514c)

Akela 80:20 Complete Dry Working Dog Foods – Original, Fish Feast, Suffolk Duck, Scottish Salmon and Free Range Chicken – are a world first, using only freshly prepared chicken and no meat meal. The company will also be showcasing Akela 70:30 Complete Wet Working Dog Foods – Original, Spring Lamb, Fish Feast, Duck & Turkey, Angus Beef, Kangaroo and Wild Game. PoochPlay Dog Activity Tracker will track a dog’s activity, feed the appropriate amount, help it lose weight and save the owner’s money.

All About Pet Health (Stand 9-501b)

All About Pet Health will be exhibiting a range of soft chews and liquids that are veterinary formulated to address a range of common ailments found in dogs and cats, including allergy, urinary, joint, skin & coat, digestion, calming, dental, grooming and general health. The company’s brands, NaturVet and Overby Farm, will also be on show along with its private label opportunity.

Bob Martin (Stand 9-601a)

Bob Martin’s market-leading range of flea, tick and worm products help keep your pet flea-free, tick-free and worry-free. The treatments are regulated and approved by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate, giving pet owners the added peace of mind that they are safe and effective.

Bronte Glen (Stand 9-501a)

The firm manufactures the highest quality vet bedding in Europe, recommended and used by vets, breeders and pet owners alike. Bronte Glen produces a range of mats, throws and dog beds, including non-slip, waterproof and antibacterial options in a variety of styles, sizes and colours. Catering for all ages from puppy to senior, the products are designed and manufactured onsite in the company’s Yorkshire mill, using the best range of British textiles with a focus on excellent quality and value for money for customers and their pets. The products are luxurious, durable, non-irritant, and non-allergenic. 

Burgess Pet Care (Stand 9-613b)

Burgess Excel is introducing the new, world's first indoor guinea pig nuggets. While indoor guinea pigs might roam the lounge rather than the great outdoors, they still need to obtain all the nutrients from their diet that they would find grazing in the wild.

• High in beneficial fibre (36%)

• Prevents selective feeding

• Prebiotics support healthy gut bacteria

• Vitamin C immune support

• Calm formula with added L-tryptophan

Burns Pet Nutrition (Stand 9-507b)

A pioneering pet food brand, Burns specialises in using simple, healthy and wholesome ingredients to create award-winning recipes that pets love. Since the creation of its Original Chicken and Rice recipe almost 30 years ago, Burns has released a variety of healthy and hypoallergenic pet food ranges, all using a single protein source and ingredients that are as healthy, wholesome and sustainable as possible. The products have won multiple awards, including a recent win for Best Specialist Food at the 2022 Your Dog Product Awards for the Weight Control range, and a highly commended for the sustainably sourced wet food.

Byotrol (Stand 9-607b)

Byotrol develops and commercialises market-leading antimicrobial technologies and products. It specialises in high-performance, sustainable and regulatory-approved chemicals, providing powerful protection from viruses and harmful bacteria, without the use of bleach or alcohol. With a range of disinfectant products covering surfaces, air and skin, the hygiene experts at Byotrol work to protect and improve the health of pets and their families. Ideal for use by professionals as well as pet owners, all products have undergone significant testing to rigorous European standards, by both the company’s in-house technical team and independent laboratories, and are made in the UK to strict quality standards.

Canagan (Stand 9-503a)

Suppliers of the highly successful and award-winning Canagan pet food. The growing reputation of the Canagan brand can be attributed to high quality ingredients, robust customer retention, product performance and a determined loyalty to the independent pet trade. The overwhelming success story of Canagan combines consumer demand for UK made products with the growing trend for grain-free dog and cat food.

ChickenGuard (Stand 9-505b)

ChickenGuard, maker of the world’s most innovative chicken coop door openers, has just got better. With the launch of its new and improved door openers, which offer self-calibration and host of new features, chickens have even more protection against predators, giving additional peace of mind to chicken owners. With 10 million chicken owners in Europe, ChickenGuard is leading the way in helping to keep them safe from predators, while creating much desired free time for chicken keepers.   

Company of Animals (Stand 4-206)

Founded in 1979, Company of Animals is a hub of activity, research and innovation. The company is constantly developing exciting products that work to resolve pet-related behaviour and training problems, improve animal welfare and enrich the lives of pets and their families. The products it creates, including Halti, Baskerville, Pet Corrector and Pet Head, are shipped all over the world and stocked in thousands of independent pet shops, high street stores and online retailers. Animal welfare and happiness is at the root of everything the company does.

Dog Rocks & Be:Loved Pets (Stand 9-605c)

The company is seeking international partners to distribute its natural products for pets. Dog Rocks stops pet urine burning grass naturally.  Place this natural rock in a pet’s drinking water and no more pet pee burn marks. There is no change to pH balance of a pet’s urine and it is 100% natural; it is proven and endorsed by pets and vets worldwide. Be:Loved is the new range of British-made, award-winning wellness and lifestyle products for pets and their parents.  Offering shampoo bars, balms, sprays, oils and more, the ingredients contain no harmful substances at all. The company’s eco pledge equals ‘less packaging, less plastic’.

DogsLife (Stand 9-603c)

DogsLife has everything covered from nose to tail. From bad breath to anxious car journeys, the company has something to help pets. The dog-loving team has worked hard to develop purpose-built products to help dog owners become the person their dog deserves.

Group55/Animology, GRP 55 Ltd (Stand 9-127)

Group55 will be showcasing its flagship pet care brand, Animology, offering a comprehensive range of shampoos and grooming sprays for all dogs and coat types. The company will also be launching its new brand, Dirty Animal, offering a beautiful range of dog shampoos and sprays. Group55 will also be exhibiting its private label capabilities, offering a full development and manufacturing service for shampoos, sprays, gels, balms, serums and more.

Henry Wag (Stand 9-515b)

Henry Wag exists to improve the health and wellbeing of pets. The company does this by providing products for outdoor dog adventures, allowing more exercise and a closer relationship between dogs and humans. The range of cleaning and drying products for dogs, including towels, drying coats and drying bags, makes outdoor exercise possible whatever the weather. The in-car product range protects car seats from mud and dirt. With dogs increasingly considered part of the family, the travel range simplifies pet care and during days away and trips away from home. Product solutions for humans who are active with their canine companions.

HOWND (Stand 7-660)

HOWND’s 100% plant powered superfood is attracting plenty of interest just as vegan dog food is gaining momentum around the world. The company’s highly palatable, nutritionally complete recipes were created by vets and nutritionists and contain clean, hypoallergenic ingredients, providing a healthier option for dogs and better for animal welfare and our planet. The dry food is available in 2kg/10kg recyclable bags and the wet food in 375g tins with three mouth-watering flavours – Hearty Pumpkin Casserole, Fresh Blueberry & Coconut Porridge, and Papaya & Lentil Dahl. HOWND is accredited by the Ethical Company Organisation, PETA Cruelty Free and the Vegetarian (Vegan) Society.

Inspired Pet Nutrition (Stand 9-359a)

IPN is an innovative, well-established and award-winning pet food manufacturer. The family of brands include Harringtons, Wagg, Barking Heads, AATU and a selection of partner brands that trust the company to produce food on their behalf. The kitchens in Thirsk and Kinmel produce dry, wet and baked foods that are enjoyed by dogs and cats all over the world.

Interpet Ltd – Central Garden & Pet (Stand 1-213)

Interpet, owned by Central Garden & Pet, represents its parent pet brands of Nylabone, Kaytee and Four Paws with sales across Europe and around the world, as well as manufacturing and developing successful market leading in-house pet and aquatic brands, including Mikki, PetLove, Aquagarden and Interpet aquatics. Interpet will be exhibiting product ranges from these leading brands, including high quality dog chews, dental care, grooming, training and small animal care. The company will also demonstrate selected innovative indoor and outdoor aquatic products, including one of the world’s first fishmeal-free fish foods, and consumer-focused outdoor aquatic equipment.

James and Steel Ltd (Stand 7-317)

BAM! Super Potent North American Catnip toys are made in the UK using pure, long lasting North American catnip. The Sötnos Earth Aware Accessories for dogs are made using recycled materials and packaging to help reduce the carbon paw print.

Kompact9 (Stand number: 9-608f)

Introducing Kompact9, the first pocket size ball launcher. Kompact9 was born from a frustration, one shared by many dog owners. Do we go on a long walk and lug the lengthy and cumbersome ball launcher with us? Or do we just go to the park and play fetch? Kompact9 believed there must be a way you could do both. So, the company designed and built it. It’s completely portable, wonderfully hygienic (comes with a bag to banish dog slobber), recycled and sustainable, designed to be used by people of all abilities, and is manufactured in the UK.

Law Print & Packaging Management Ltd (Stand 9-515a)

Ready 2 Recycle range of sustainable mono material packaging solutions for the pet food market, in PE/PE or PP/PP materials, either glossy or matt finish, printed Rotogravure up to 10 colours and available in Pouch, Quad Seal Bag, Flat Bottom Bag or Heat-sealable Woven Bag.

Little BigPaw (Stand 9-508a)

Little BigPaw is launching a new range of 100% natural, soft and squidgy training treats.

Little Tricks is enriched with liver and healthy herbs to make the treat irresistibly tasty and perfect for reward-based training. Little Boostas contains honey and fresh banana for a natural superfood and sugar energy boost to keep active dogs tails wagging all day. Little Kips is a vegan version with delicious peanut butter, rejuvenating berries, turmeric and chamomile to aid sleep and rest after a hard day’s training.  All the training treats are grain free, 100% natural, hypoallergenic and are soft baked using wood-fired ovens in the UK. 

McAdams Free Range Pet Foods (Stand 9-302a)

McAdams Raw Preserve is the world’s finest freeze-dried food for adult dogs, made using 85% free range, boneless, chicken, sourced from UK farms and gently blended with grain-free ingredients, joint care, vitamins, and minerals. McAdams has created the finest raw food that pet owners can feed without the need for refrigeration. Raw Preserve uses only fresh muscle meat cuts of British free-range chicken and is the first raw food in the range. No need to refrigerate, open, pour and re-seal. All the benefits of raw without the mess or fuss.

MICRO-ID (Stand 9-505a)

Global ID Marketing Ltd (GID) manufactures the Micro-ID™ microchip for animal identification. GID is building a network of distributors for its radio frequency identification products and welcomes enquiries from all parts of the world to become exclusive distributors. See products at www.microidglobal.com

Mr Bug Ltd (Stand 7-317)

Mr Bug has released a new range of insect-based dog treats called ‘Bug Bites’ made in four great wheat-free flavours – The Nutty One, The Fruity One, The Cheesy One and The Veggie One. Packaged in 80g card pouches, they create a more sustainable product for an environmentally sensitive world. Mr Bug pet treats are made using the finest natural ingredients and mealworm insect protein. Mr Bug is the only insect-based pet food company in the UK that produces its own insect protein products from source to shelf, ensuring quality and taste.

Naturo Petfoods (Stand 9-505d)

A high level of care and attention is used to manufacture the company’s natural wet and dry dog food. The company provides healthy pet food from raw material reception to delivery to its customers. Natural wet cat food recipes are grain-free and include taurine for normal heart function and vision. Norsh Freeze Dried dog and cat treats are a natural raw treat with human grade meat and fish.

Neptunes Yard (Stand 9-515c)

Neptunes Yard Prebiotic Fermented Seaweed Supplement is a new innovative dog food supplement provided by nature and perfected by science. Seaweed has been used for millennia by coastal inhabitants as a nutritional, easily accessible and sustainable food source.

PARK LiFE (Stand 9-605d)

Introducing the world's first dog biscuit range made with seeds as the number one ingredient. The range includes:

Fris-Bix: Frisbee-shaped biscuits, for throwing, catching, and playful snacking. 

Love-Bix: Heart-shaped cookies with no added sugar for rewarding good behaviour.

Chill-Bix: Star-shaped biscuits with calming chamomile, for boisterous dogs, or when it is time to chill.

PATS 2022 & AQUA 2023 (Stand 9-504b)

PATS is the UK’s number one pet industry exhibition, taking place at Telford International Centre UK from 25th-26th September 2022. AQUA 2023 is the UK’s water gardening and aquatics trade exhibition and takes place at the Telford International Centre UK from 11th-12th October 2023.

Pet Rebellion Ltd (Stand 9-516a)

Pet Rebellion specialises in practical pet rugs and mats for the home and car to combat muddy paws and messy dogs. Designed in the UK, all the products are machine washable and absorbent. Pet Rebellion is a multi-award winning brand and has helped dog owners across the globe solve mucky dog problems since 2009.  

Pet Remedy (Stand 9-607c)

Pet Remedy natural de-stress and calming products help all pets including cats, dogs, rabbits, horses, birds, and starts to help instantly. Use in any stressful situation whether home alone, travel, bonding, training, visit to vets or fireworks. The unique plant-based formula includes valerian, vetiver, basil, and clary sage oils. The Pet Remedy actively works with the pet’s own natural calming mechanisms and is very gentle in its effect. Available as a plug diffuser, calming spray, battery-operated atomiser and individual calming wipes. Used daily by vets, rescue centres, groomers and other pet professionals, all over the world.

PetDreamHouse (Stand 9-516b)

PetDreamHouse creates fun and distinctive products that promote feeding enrichment to pets. The company offers two types of game-like feeders to keep dogs/cats entertained during meals while also exercising their minds.  PAW Slow Feeders are perfect for pet parents to prepare a food platter with different textures and encourages natural eating behaviours such as licking or sniffing. SPIN is the industry-first modular design interactive feeder, with various spinners for upgrade. It encourages re-use of the base bowl to reduce plastic waste while upgrading. Furthermore, some accessories are made with 50% recycled plastic to minimise the environmental impact.

Pets Choice Ltd (Stand 9-603b)

Pets Choice is a market-leading manufacturer of pet food, pet healthcare and accessories, based in the UK. The company supplies high-quality products worldwide. Pets Choice comprises 14 brands, including Webbox, Bob Martin, Felight, TastyBone, Meatiful and Vetzyme, with product experience spanning over 135 years.

Petzfoodware (stand 9-608a)

The company’s containers and lids come in various sizes and shapes for wet pet food – rectangular, octagon, round and square. There is also a choice of five colours – dusky pink, warm red, forest green, burnt orange and deep blue. Pet food pouches fit into resealable bags in three sizes. For frozen raw pet food there are 500gm and 1kg sizes. For tinned pet food, there are four sizes of lids to fit from 85gm to the largest 1,200gm. There is also a mini bag also for pet treats. Accessories include scoops with clips in three sizes, spatula, spoon and fork. The silicone is freezer, food, dishwasher and microwave safe.

Puppy Cuisine (Stand 9-514b)

Puppy Cuisine is the latest member to join the pack. By introducing a puppy to Eden, an owner will take them on a journey that will see it thriving at the time it needs the most nutritional support. Filled with high protein ingredients such as succulent Scottish salmon, juicy chicken, tempting turkey, flavourful herring, and delectable duck, Eden’s Puppy Cuisine is a complete food, meaning that it provides a puppy with all the nutrients it needs to fully optimise its whole health.

Red Gorilla International (Stand 9-604c)

Gorilla Tubs, shovels, forks, buckets, food scoops and stirrers, brooms, a whole range of products for the maintenance of larger animals. Designed and made in UK and Europe to CE standards.

Scoff Paper (Stand 9-504c)

Scoff Paper invented the world’s first edible cards for dogs, which are made with natural ingredients, are flavoured and contain no rawhide. Scoff Paper cards cater for all occasions – from birthday to Christmas, Valentines, Easter, Mother’s and Father’s Day and Get Well Soon alongside a range of general greetings. The cards are available in chicken, cheese, peanut butter, beef, bacon flavours and all outer packaging is eco-friendly.   

Simply2 Pet Products (Stand 9-607a)

ProFleece pet bedding has a thick, dense pile of 2.5-3.1cm. It prevents pressure sores and joint pain even on hard surfaces. This hygienic bedding is machine washable, quick drying or can be tumble-dried cool. It allows liquid drainage while remaining dry to touch, and resists staining and bacterial growth. Non-allergenic, non-toxic, and non-irritant, it is ideal for situations when comfort and hygiene are vital. ProFleece is made in the UK from 120-200 recycled plastic bottles p/m2. It is available in 50-plus designs or can be made bespoke or own-branded. It is supplied in cut pieces or full rolls. 

Supreme (Stand 4-610)

Supreme will exhibit two product ranges, Science Selective and Tiny Friends Farm. Science Selective single component extruded nuggets meet the unique nutritional needs of small pets at all life stages and Selective Naturals Loops and Science Selective Timothy Hay complement this quality range. Supreme’s original Tiny Friends Farm is an award-winning range of nutritionally balanced value for money diets, treats and bedding for small pets, including new TFF Eco Bedding. Supreme will also show case its new FOOD FOR LIFE advertising campaign. The campaign features a video advertisement that will be broadcast to a targeted audience on Facebook, YouTube and Instagram.

Symply (Stand 9-500a)

Symply was relaunched in 2020 with brand new recipes and a new  look, in 100% recyclable packaging too. The growing reputation of the brands can be attributed to high-quality ingredients, robust customer retention, product performance and a determined loyalty to the independent pet trade. The brands offer high margins, stunning packaging, staff training, free POS, great range of products and exceptionally high customer retention rates.

The company has experienced such great success since the relaunch so visitors are urged stop by the stand to find out more.

Tabcat (Stand 9-508c)

New Tabcat is a cat tracking device, helping owners to locate their cat or kitten if they get lost, in even the hardest to find places. Award winning directional technology guides owners exactly where to walk inside or outside. More accurate than GPS and no monthly subscriptions. The smallest, lightest homing tags available on the market, weighing only five grams.

The Barking Bakery (Stand 9-507a)

Manufacturer of pawlicking, doggyliscious woofins, birthday and occasion cakes, cheesey biscuits, domuttz and flavoured popcorn for dogs. All the products are highly branded in eye-catching and recyclable packaging, designed specifically to showcase this increasingly popular brand of dog treats. These products are supplied with a point-of-sale FSDU or CDU and come in eye-popping, shelf-ready packaging. Furthermore, all the products have a minimum shelf life of nine months and above. 

The Original Vetbed (Stand 9-514a)

Petlife International Ltd will exhibit at Interzoo as The Original Vetbed. The Vetbed products include: the original Vetbed, Non-Slip Vetbed, Vetbed Gold – with antimicrobial properties, and the latest addition to the range – Non-Slip Vetbed British Wool Blend. All products are available in a range of unique and innovative colours and designs.

Tribal Pet Foods (Stand 9-502c)

Launching at Interzoo – 85% meat sausages, complete wet food for cats. Tribal believes in clean eating and minimally processed pet food. The company uses ethically sourced ingredients and lower cooking temperatures to create nutritious meals. The range includes cold pressed dog food made with fresh meat and fish, 80% meat, single source protein sausages and natural hand baked treats with superfood ingredients. The super-premium design has maximum on-shelf appeal and reflects customers’ healthy eating trends and demand for high quality, natural pet food. As part of the company’s commitment to do good, the products are made with responsibly sourced meats, sustainably sourced fish, and all of the bags are recyclable and resealable.  

Vetfleece (Stand 9-508b)

Part of the Vetfleece family, AK-9 is a new range of dog leads, collars, harnesses and high raised beds. Featuring modern designs and unique hardware, the products have been manufactured using the highest quality materials, to ensure that the safety of pets is at the heart of everything the company does. It is also the manufacturer of Vetfleece, Drybed and Vet Bed, super soft pet bedding used by those involved in the care and welfare of animals. Currently available in three grades – Non-Slip, Greenback and Heavy Duty –  and 25 different colourways.

Vitalin Pet Food (Stand 9-608c)

A natural, hypoallergenic range of complete pet food, manufactured in Britain using the highest quality produce the UK has to offer.

Waterlife (Stand 9-504a)

Waterlife has been producing aquatic items for over 50 years from its automated site in West London. Waterlife products are well known in this sector for their effectiveness, reliability and value. The range includes medications, water conditioners, test kits, sea salt, reef additives, algicides and plant foods. New for 2022, Waterlife’s new Multi-Test Kits for aquariums and ponds. Tests included are:  

pH – the measure of acidity or alkalinity of an aquarium or pond as most fish thrive in a pH range between pH6.5 and pH8.3; 

Ammonia – this is the measure of fish waste and it is highly dangerous to all fish and invertebrates; 

Nitrite – Ammonia is broken down by filtration bacteria into nitrite and whilst not quite as lethal as ammonia, exposure to this stage of the nitrogen cycle can have similar devastating affects to aquatic organisms.

We.Pet (Stand 9-604a)

We.pet owns and distributes internationally Frogg, King Catnip, Sense6 and Great & Small – all are tried and tested premium products.

Frogg: Tough dog toys are made from natural rubber designed to last and keep dogs mentally stimulated!

King Catnip: Handmade Catnip toys are made in Great Britain using 100% organic North American catnip. Designed to stimulate a cat’s senses, they truly do go wild for these toys.

Sense6: A complete cat food! One of the most palatable cat foods ever created, designed to appeal to all of a cat’s ‘six senses’!

Great & Small:  A premium range of toys and accessories for dogs and cats of all sizes, with over 1,200 SKUs to choose from.  

YAKERS Dog Chews (Stand 9-605b)

YAKERS Dog Chews have been available in the UK for over four years, and have become a household favourite for dogs who love to chew. The company is introducing the new Fruit Infused chews and Herbal Infused chews. With Strawberry, Apple, Mint and Turmeric and Ashwagandha now available, visit stand 9-605b for more information and to get your hands on the new range.

Yora Pet Foods (Stand 9-513b)

Yora offers a full range of dog and cat food, treats and chews utilising a single novel and hypoallergenic animal protein source, the black soldier fly larvae (BSFL). In addition to a significantly lower environmental footprint over traditional meat proteins, perfect for the growing consumer trend towards sustainable products, BSFL has been shown to have unique nutritional and health benefits for dogs and cats. Manufactured in the UK with distribution from both the UK and the EU, Yora was the first brand in the world to launch an insect-only pet food in 2018.

For further information on the British exhibitor group at Interzoo, please contact Katie-Mai Smith at katie-mai@petquip.com.

For details of PetQuip membership, please e-mail info@petquip.com or visit www.petquip.com

A website advertisement for a horse food supplement has been banned because its was likely to cause serious offence.

The Advertising Standards Authority upheld a claim that the supplement called ‘Slut Mix’ was offensive.

The advert on the website of equestrian products company LeMieux Ltd was brought toe the attention of ASA by a complainant, who believed it to be sexist and perpetuated negative stereotypes of women.

LeMieux Ltd said it was a third-party stockist of the advertised product which was named by its manufacturer. The company said it did not advertise the product beyond its listing on their website. 

The manufacturer said that ‘slut’ was a term commonly used by horse trainers to refer to a problem filly. It said the product was exclusively for horses and it did not intend to cause offence to people. 

The ASA noted that the advertised product was a nutritional supplement for horses and that consumers would understand that the users of the products were horses. However, the term ‘slut’ was a well-known negative stereotype of women and was commonly used to refer to women who had or were perceived to have many sexual partners, in a derogatory way that passed judgment on those behaviours. 

The ASA added: “We considered that, even in the context of an ad for horse supplements, consumers were likely to consider the word ‘slut’ to be highly offensive, derogatory towards women and sexist. For those reasons, we concluded that the ad, which included an offensive gender stereotype, was likely to cause serious offence.

“The ad must not appear again in its current form. We told LeMieux Ltd to ensure that their future ads did not contain anything that was likely to cause serious or widespread offence, including the use of offensive gender stereotypes.”

The full ruling can be viewed by clicking here

This is the time of the year when our four-legged friends are prone to fleas, ticks and other parasites. The soreness and itchiness that bites create is often compounded by the remedies that are on the market that contain harsh chemicals which are not good for the skin or wellbeing of you or your pet and over a period of time, can help to breed resistance to these tiny critters.

Founded by herbalist, Gemma Stocks, The Herbal Dog Co provides an entirely animal-centric range of lotions and potions for any size or breed of dog. Each product has been lovingly created in the UK using natural ingredients and contains no harsh chemicals.  All the packaging is sustainable, compostable, reusable and recyclable. 

Herbal Dog Co has created the natural antidote to fleas, tick and parasites. From non-toxic spot on treatments, to flea shampoos, the flea and tick range is supercharged with effective essential oils that are safe for YOU and your pooches.

Herbal Dog Co’s new Spot On treatment can be purchased on a monthly subscription from the firm’s website or in packs from retailers. You use 1 drop for every 5kg of weight and apply to the skin at the back the neck. The treatment contains Aqua, Quassia Bark, White Vinegar, Neem Leaf, Aqueous Tinctures, Oils of Lemon Grass. 

Herbal Dog Co’s Flea Protect Natural Blend is easy to use and is a powder remedy. For best results take daily. Add 1 teaspoon per 5kg of weight per day to food or plain yogurt.(1 measured teaspoon = 0.5ml). It contains Kelp, Fenugreek, Enzyme, Thepax and Garlic.

Finally, Herbal Dog Co’s Flea Protect Natural Spray is easy to use and ideal for family life when you don’t want harsh chemicals in the home. Gently spray all over the body avoiding the eyes and mouth, no need to rinse. It is also ideal for spraying on bedding, doormats and sleeping areas in the summer months. It contains Aqua, Aqueous extracts of Quassia bark, Lemongrass, SLS parabin free surfactant and fragrance.

All Herbal Dog Co’s flea and tick products contain no Palm Oil, no chemicals and no nasty stuff. Herbal Dog Co also offers a range of flea repellent shampoos so check out the website for more details.

www.herbaldogco.com.

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TV star Tim Vincent is to officially open the new Jollyes store in Wrexham next month.

The Welsh actor presenter – who started his career at Theatr Clwyd in North Wales and is familiar to millions from his time on Blue Peter – will cut the ribbon to mark the opening of Jollyes’ new flagship store at Wrexham on Saturday 7 May at 10.00am. 

Shortly after the opening ceremony, Tim will host and judge the Pet Passion Show which will take place at the store as part of the UK City of Culture 2025 bid celebrations.  

The morning’s events will be broadcast live on community radio station Calon FM. 

Jollyes has teamed up with the borough’s UK City of Culture 2025 bid as it aims to clinch the coveted title after making it through to the final four shortlisted in the nationwide competition. 

Britain’s first ‘Pet Passion Show’ will take place outside the new store at 10.15am after Jollyes launched a search for the pets and owners with the most loving relationships to take to the Jollyes red-carpet catwalk. 

Jollyes’ pioneering Pet Passion Show is not about finding the most beautiful pets – of all varieties – in Wrexham – it’s about finding the 10 most amazing relationships between pets and their owners in the borough, to celebrate how pets can lift their owners’ lives. 

Applications have been pouring in from Wrexham borough-based owners who think their pet fits the bill. Would-be contestants can post their pictures and stories at the Jollyes Instagram site (https://www.instagram.com/jollyesuk/) with the hashtag #JollyesPetParade.  

Wrecsam 2025 bid team member and destination manager Joe Bickerton and his dog Milly will also take to the red carpet on opening day. 

Jollyes’ retail director Lucie Coleman said: “Wrexham is going to be special store for us here at Jollyes with the best we can give the pet parents of the borough.   

“And our best store deserves the best launch, so we’re delighted to be partnering with both Tim and the Wrexham 2025 bid team as it gears up to become the next city of culture.” 

Joe Bickerton, from the Wrecsam 2025 City of Culture bid, said: “We’re thrilled that Tim will be in town on May 8th to help support this Jollyes’ opening and the borough’s bid for the city of culture in 2025.  Tim’s a great example of the talent that’s come from the Wrexham and how we celebrate what we have here in the borough.” 

Tim Vincent said, “I am very happy to be back in my hometown of Wrexham to help put the spotlight deservedly on our town and our bid for City of Culture. 

“It’s always fun and a breath of fresh air when I come home, especially this time because I will be judging amazing animals and the bonds they have with their owners.” 

The new Jollyes Wrexham store will create 10 new jobs as part of a £1 million investment by the business. 

The Border Retail Park store will be Jollyes’ second store in North Wales, complementing its popular outlet at the Flintshire Retail Park, Flint. 

The opening will mark an important stage in the retailer’s plans that will see Jollyes open 20 stores in this calendar year across the UK. 

One of the world’s leading animal insurers, Agria Pet Insurance, has unveiled a striking incline in dog prices within the UK. With the most popular breeds of 2021 seeing some of the highest mark-ups, it reflects the Covid-fuelled demand for dogs over the past two years.

The puppy boom of 2021 has had such a substantial influence on the price of dogs and it’s evident through Agria’s data that the pandemic demand for our furry friends has caused this steep price increase.

With the delight our four-legged friends brought us in unprecedented times, it’s undeniable dogs really are ‘man’s best friend’, serving as caring companions and remaining a loving and essential part of the family.

In 2021, the average price of a Cocker Spaniel has risen to £1,800, a 45 per cent increase from 2020. Yet, it’s the UK’s favourite Labrador Retriever that’s experienced the largest increase of nearly 50 per cent. These high price points have created an equity problem in the UK dog market, especially with the rise in inflation and the impact on general living costs. Prices are now just beginning to plateau as the pandemic begins to fade and demand stabilises.

Tom Vaughan, Head of Marketing at Agria Pet Insurance, said: “We’ve seen the pandemic have a significant impact on various aspects of the pet industry over the past two years, but it’s the effect of lockdown on puppy prices that’s troubling.

"It can be challenging for safeguarding animal welfare and it means that many dog lovers wanting to expand their families are priced out of the market. Those that have made the commitment to a new dog however, are likely to have reaped endless benefit throughout such an uncertain period with our furry-friends proven to ease loneliness, increase sociability and reduce stress and anxiety.”

Top 10 dog breeds experiencing a price increase:

1. Labrador Retriever – 47%
2. Cocker Spaniel – 45%
3. English Springer Spaniel – 43%
4. Staffordshire Bull Terrier – 43%
5. Cockapoo – 36%
6. Crossbreed – 35%
7. Miniature Dachshund – 30%
8. German Shepherd Dog – 29%
9. French Bulldog – 26%
10. Bulldog – 24%

The Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association has welcomed Claire Robinson-Davies, Nestlé Purina Corporate Communications Director (UK&I, Netherlands, Nordics) as its new chair.

Claire brings a wealth of experience to the role following many years as a representative on the PFMA Executive Committee and Chair of the Sustainability Committee.

Sustainability will be a focal point for Claire’s two-year tenure: “As a responsible industry, environmental sustainability continues be high on the PFMA’s agenda. We also know pet owners want to feed their pets in a way that respects and protects the environment for future generations. We are working closely with government and other organisations to ensure we address common challenges, including sustainable raw materials, environmentally friendly production, and recyclable packaging materials.

"Supporting our members in their decarbonisation journeys is particularly critical, which is why we recently embarked on an exciting project looking at the sustainability of key pet food ingredients. We look forward to sharing the results later this summer. I am excited and honoured to take up this role and to help shape the way forward for our industry.”    

Michael Bellingham, PFMA Chief Executive, adds: “Claire joins a strong Chair team with Greg Van Praagh (Benyfit Natural) as Past Chair and Anna Horrell (Goldline Feeds) as Vice Chair. Work is already underway for an action packed two years ahead.”

The PFMA Annual Report 2022 is now available online at https://pfma-reports.co.uk/. The report highlights the projects undertaken in 2021 and plans for 2022 along with the key facts and figures for the pet population and pet food market.  

Premium raw pet food brand, Natural Instinct, has launched its new line of ambient treats.

Initially, the range will feature Beef Paddywack, Lamb Shoulder Strips, Fish Skin Cubes, Chicken Sausages and Pigs Ears giving a variety of longer-lasting chews and treats suitable for training. There is sure to be something for all dogs to enjoy.

The new line of ambient treats complements the current delicious raw and dehydrated treats and raw food for dogs and cats offered by Natural instinct. 

The treats come in newly designed packaging and various sizes.

• Beef Paddywack (pack of 4) £6.00
• Lamb Shoulder Strips (150g) £4.00
• Fish Skin Cubes (60g) £3.00
• Chicken Sausages (150g) £2.75
• Pigs Ears (pack of 2) £2.50

Passionate about happy, healthy pets, the new goodies from Natural Instinct are not only tasty but help support pet health and development.

The treats can be ordered online via the website naturalinstinct.com and will soon be available throughout stockists.

Phill Keen, Managing Director at Natural Instinct, commented: “We are delighted to announce the launch of our new line of tasty ambient treats. This new line of treats has been carefully created to ensure your pet receives the most natural treat possible.”

For more detail visit www.naturalinstinct.com

The incredibly selfless, brave and challenging work that firefighters do across the country every day is why they are a much loved, and highly appreciated, emergency service. However, it’s not just people that they save; for their work often includes saving our much loved four-legged furry friends - the mischievous moggy!  

Cats being stuck up a tree may seem like a lighthearted joke, but cats up and down the UK have found themselves in spots of bother where no one but our firefighting heroes can help. 

Leading cat fencing specialists ProtectaPet has gathered information from fire brigades across the country and can reveal from the data sourced that the Cat-ostropic Capital of the UK is London - with a whopping 2,061 callouts made to save our feline friends since 2015!

Cats in the West Midlands were second naughtiest, with over 100 call outs made. Brummie cats made up 52 of those callouts alone! Kent and Hertfordshire cats also rank high on the naughty scale, with 40 and 39 incidents reported that needed fire brigades to help. 

Cardiff, Humberside and Nottingham placed mid-league with 36, 32 and 28 callouts respectively being made. 

However, on the opposite end of the scale, some regions have very well-behaved moggies with little emergency help needed. It may be known for its bling and reality TV, but Essex can now also be crowned as the place where the best behaved cats live! With the least amount of callouts recorded from the Freedom of Information data received, only 9 times were Essex firefighters needed to save a cat. 

Liverpudlian cats also proved to be well behaved, with only 11 callouts to Merseyside brigades, along with those in Cornwall and Gloucestershire who both scored 10 cat rescue situations. 

The most common reasons why the fire brigade callouts were needed included cats stuck in trees and unable to climb down, cats stuck in chimney flues and also stuck on roofs of buildings. 

Eve Davies, Director at ProtectaPet, comments: “Cats love to be outside exploring. Sadly, with unrestricted territory, they can sometimes find themselves in some rather tricky situations. We recommend cat owners take the time to ensure their homes and gardens are safe and secure, whether that’s with cat fencing, cat enclosures or catios, or simply creating a good routine so owners can closely monitor their comings and goings...

Visit the ProtectaPet website for more information on cat safety and wellbeing.  

Pet product expert Petface has launched a partnership with supermarket giant Asda to provide selected stores with a dedicated Petzone containing toys, treats and accessories.

The Petzone has been installed in Asda stores in Gateshead, Eastlands, Minworth and West Bridgford.

From stylish collars and leads to balls and cuddly toys, the Petzone has everything owners need to keep their pets looking and feeling great.

Petface is a multi-award-winning pet product brand, with over 50 years of experience developing ranges of innovative design-led products.

Each individual product is thoroughly researched and expertly designed, with a new emphasis placed on the environment and sustainability through the Petface Planet range. 

John Pullen, category director at Petface, said: “This partnership is an amazing opportunity that brings Petface into Asda, creating a dedicated zone where Asda customers can find everything they need on a regular shopping trip”. 

And Matt Harrison, senior director of partnerships and business development at Asda, added: “We’re partnering with some brilliant brands to bring a wide range of pet products to these stores – including items that would usually only be found in specialist retailers. 

“A rise in the number of pandemic pets has led to demand from customers for greater choice in this particular category. We’re pleased that through partnerships with innovative brands we’re able to offer products for pets of all ages and satisfy the needs of our customers in these selected stores.”

See more pictures in the gallery below...

To mark a decade of celebrating excellence, this year’s PetQuip Awards will be presented to winners at an Oscar-style evening after the first day of PATS Telford on Sunday, 25^h September.  

The awards have become one of the most successful events to have been introduced into the pet trade sector and everyone is looking forward to celebrating again with colleagues and customers at this excellent networking occasion.

Two new categories – ‘Celebrating Green and Organic’ and the ‘Sustainability Award’ – have been introduced this year to reflect the growing trend towards ‘eco’ initiatives.

Entries for the 2022 awards are now open and the judging will take place in August.

The award categories are:

• The Theresa Swann Trophy for Exporter of the Year Award
• Celebrating Green and Organic
• Supplier of the Year
• Business Service of the Year (for groomers/kennels/catteries/pet services
• The Sustainability Award
• Product of the Year – three categories:
  Accessories/Technical; Food/Treats; Healthcare/Animal Grooming
• International Retailer, Wholesaler or Distributor of the Year
• UK Retailer of the Year
• Lifetime Achievement Award

“So many people in the industry have been asking since December last year when they can enter this year’s awards,” said Pat Flynn, award organiser and PetQuip’s Trade Association Manager.

“Winning an accolade for your achievements bolsters morale and gives any business excellent additional opportunities to promote their new product developments and successes.”

The PetQuip Awards will take place in a new ‘Oscar-style’ setting with even more opportunities for the whole trade to celebrate, network with colleagues and customers and to relax after the first day of the PATS exhibition.

The evening will start with a drinks reception followed by the ceremony announcing the winners of the PetQuip Awards. Guests will then be able to enjoy a meal and refreshments while networking and socialising. 

Visit http://www.petquip.com/pdf/Awards-2022-entry-form-A4-v5.pdf to download the entry forms. The closing date for entries is 30^th June.

PetQuip is happy to receive nominations for retailers and suppliers who in your opinion deserve to be winners in any of the categories.  The nomination can be made anonymously, and PetQuip will always contact anyone who has been nominated to progress the entry.

A digital edition containing reactions from PetQuip Awards 2021 winners can be viewed at https://bit.ly/3LZmlcA

If you would like to benefit from PetQuip membership or require any further advice and assistance, email info@petquip.com or visit www.petquip.com

Sion Pritchard and Paul Penketh, directors of Snowdon Holdings, are now majority shareholders of PetPlace having completed a management buyout (MBO).

The company has stores in Abergele, Ruthin, Mold, Llangefni and Chirk, and a headquarters on Tir Llwyd Enterprise Park in Kinmel Bay.

Both Paul and Sion, from Colwyn Heights, were already leading the North Wales business – supported by founder Gwyn Lewis – and are thrilled to be at the helm as PetPlace begins a new era.

With turnover exceeding £10m for the first time, plans to expand their 100-strong team with more sales and administrative staff and the potential to open further stores in the coming years, Sion says they are perfectly placed to grow further post-pandemic.

“The last two years have raised challenges but also given us the opportunity to advance the business in-store and behind the scenes,” said Sion (pictured).

“Everything is moving in the right direction, but we are looking at the future, which will eventually include further stores and more staff.

“Whatever happens, we will continue with our long-term and controlled approach and as always the pets and their owners are the number one for priority for everyone here.”

Among the biggest developments during Covid was the opening of a new dispatch warehouse to manage the growing number of online orders, and a popular loyalty app.

All a long way from the launch of Farm and Pet Place in 1970, which started from the back of a van and grew under Gwyn’s initial stewardship to become the region’s leading independent pet product retailer.

He is thrilled the organisation he founded will be in “safe hands” for the next generation and said: “I am excited to take a step aside and embrace this new era. Paul and Sion have so many wonderful ideas and will lead PetPlace to even greater heights, I’m sure.

“I am proud of them both and of course delighted to see PetPlace go from strength to strength after all these years – best of luck to you both.”

Paul added: “Both Sion and I are proud to have been part of the PetPlace family for a long time, so to now be taking it forward and building for the future is a huge privilege for us.

“There are many exciting developments on the horizon as we continue to evolve and have a positive impact on the local economy and the specialist pet retail sector – watch this space.”

For more information on PetPlace, including the PetPlace Plus+ loyalty app, follow @petplaceUK on Facebook and Instagram or email sales@farmandpetplace.co.uk. The app is available on platforms including Google Play and The App Store.

Jollyes has put the finishing touches to a makeover of its new Wakefield store following its acquisition from The Pet Store in October. 

This week a new Jollyes sign has gone up over the entrance and the store – at Snowhill Retail Park – has been given a new look and internal layout in time for re-opening. 

The makeover will make the shopping experience even more convenient for customers in the area and their pets, with more room to shop. 

The existing Jollyes store at Beck Retail Park, Ings Road, Wakefield, remains open as usual.  

Jollyes bought The Pet Store and its three Yorkshire stores in October, bringing together two business dedicated to high quality products and personal service for owners and their animals. 

The Pet Store outlets are at Wakefield, Barnsley and Denby Dale, and the Wakefield store is the first of the three to get a makeover and a new look as Jollyes. 

All the colleagues who worked at The Pet Store have been retained and Jollyes has hired three additional members of the team. 

Sarah Farrar, Jollyes regional manager, said: “The Pet Store has been a great addition to the Jollyes’ family, and we’re delighted to repay loyal customers, starting with this investment at Wakefield Snowhill. The new look and new layout will make shopping at the store even easier. 

“While we might look a little different, we’re all about the people here at Jollyes – and customers will find the same team, with the same pet expertise at the Wakefield Snowhill store. We’re looking forward to revamping the Barnsley and Denby Dale stores in the coming months.” 

The acquisition The Pet Store is part of an exciting expansion plan for Jollyes as it opens up to 20 new stores across the UK in 2022 through organic growth and acquisition. 

Pet businesses who want to be more visible and gain confidence talking about their work online are invited to take part in a free training event next week.

The Be Bold Bootcamp is a five-day training event created by journalist and PR coach Rachel Spencer who works with small businesses showing them how to gain media coverage.

The idea to create a training around being bold and confidence building came after seeing posts online from business owners who felt unable to talk about their products and services.

Rachel said: “The last two years have been so challenging for people running their own businesses and in recent months the energy price rises, cost of living crisis and world events have left many people feeling that they can’t promote their work, that it feels wrong.

“But if we don’t talk about our products and services, then how do pet parents know how they can get help or where to go for training and support? The Be Bold Bootcamp is a free week of training where I’ll be encouraging people how to be bold and put themselves and what they offer out there.

“This might be sharing a photo of themselves on social media so people see the face behind the product, going live on Facebook, sending a pitch to their favourite podcast or approaching their local paper with a story idea.

“The idea of the bootcamp is to show that you don’t have your own dog training TV show or have millions of followers on TikTok to get noticed and make an impact, and taking small steps to be more visible can lead to more customers and clients.”

The five day Be Bold Bootcamp challenge is taking place from Monday 25th until Friday 29th April and to register, visit https://publicityforpetbusinesses.mykajabi.com/be-bold-bootcamp