Pedigree Wholesale has announced new lower prices on over 150 bestselling products from its customers’ favourite brands. 

With savings on trade prices, RRPs, or both, these reductions are designed to support the independent pet store. The lower prices will help boost retailers improve margins.

Stock up your shelves with over 150 of the industry's top products and enjoy the benefits of new lower prices! Pedigree Wholesale regularly checks its prices to ensure it delivers quality products at the best prices. 

Don't delay, visit the website here to shop now: https://petproducts.co.uk/offers/p3-price-reductions/ or contact your Business Development Manager, Telephone Account Manager, or their friendly Customer Services Team for more information.

An independent pet shop owner hopes to continue operating her business despite mounting costs so that she can celebrate 20 years of trading in 2026. 

And in a bid to ease the financial pressures she has made an emotional plea to customers on social media, asking for their support during this difficult time.

Mandy Christopher opened Little Beasties in 2006 at the age of 19 and has navigated the business through many challenges but recently things have got really tough. 

Under the headline of PLEASE READ THIS IMPORTANT POST, Mandy wrote on the shop’s Facebook page: “At the moment I can’t see Little Beasties reaching its 20 year anniversary. We've had many ups and downs over the years but the last couple of years have been the hardest yet financially. It’s getting extremely hard to make ends meet and its now got to the point where I’m not able to take a wage.

“When I opened Little Beasties in 2006 I wanted to create a pet shop that put animal care, welfare and excellent pet keeping first, offer a place that you could come for advice or help anytime, I wanted it to help support the rescue work I already did and support other local rescues, somewhere kids could come see animals and find out how to correctly care for and respect them and provide a safe place for students to do their work experience. I feel very lucky that we have been able to do this over the last 19 years and would love to continue to do so.

“I'm generally a 'look on the bright side' kind of person and I don't like to worry people. I’ll put on a smile and pretend it’s all ok, but I feel it is important to be honest and let you all know how bad it is.

“We are determined to keep Little Beasties going and I want to keep my amazing team together, but we can’t do it without the help and support of our customers old and new.”

Mandy said that increased costs, including licence fees, insurance, utilities, wages, phone/Internet, delivery costs and vet fees, had put a strain on the business. She also cited changing buying habits, especially online shopping, as having an effect on the shop’s finances.

She urged customers to keep shopping with Little Beasties, ‘even if it’s a 50p dog treat’, and to make use of the store’s delivery service.

Following an instant reaction from customers on Facebook, Mandy wrote: “WOW, thank you all so much for your response to my post. I honestly can't thank you all enough for your support, shares, messages, comments etc – you’re all amazing! I feel very overwhelmed and lucky to have such amazing support. I will be in touch with everyone who has reached out to me. Again, thank you all so much, you don't realise how much this means to Team Beasties xxx.”

Picture of Mandy taken from the Little Beastie's page on Facebook.

New research from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has identified a set of key recommendations to further improve canine health and welfare research in the UK.

This includes the need for more efficient grant applications, stronger collaboration between funders and research institutions and the prioritisation of research that has direct welfare benefits for dogs. These findings provide funders and researchers with a framework to enhance the impact of future research and ensure funding is directed where it can most effectively improve canine welfare.

The RVC’s UK Canine Research Funding Analysis Project was structured in three phases to assess the state of canine health and welfare research funding in the UK. Phase one identified that animal-directed funders provided nearly 90% of all canine-specific research funding, with wide-scope funders contributing larger grants but primarily focused on One Health research (a collaborative approach to improving the health of people, animals, and the environment). Phase two then revealed research gaps, such as the underfunding of studies on responsible breeding, canine behavioural issues and the impact of human lifestyle on canine welfare.

Now, the third and final phase which explored the challenges in research design, processes and sector infrastructure, has been conducted concluding the project. This was undertaken using insights from phases one and two and was led by the RVC’s Dr Alison Skipper, Postdoctoral Researcher into Canine Research Funding; Dr Rowena Packer, Lecturer in Companion Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science; and Dr Dan O’Neill, Associate Professor of Companion Animal Epidemiology.

The findings revealed a number of common challenges researchers face in securing funding and delivering effective research. The research team then provided a set of key recommendations to help improve canine research in the UK.

These challenges and proposed solutions include:

1. Grant applications for canine health and welfare research are often burdensome and inconsistent, requiring researchers to rewrite and reformat proposals for different funders. The report recommends introducing a standardised, two-stage application process to reduce administrative barriers.
2. Lack of feedback on rejected grant applications prevents researchers from improving proposals, limiting their chances of securing future funding. The report suggests offering brief, structured feedback to unsuccessful applicants to enhance transparency and proposal quality.
3. Greater collaboration between funders and research institutions is needed to support large-scale, high-impact projects, particularly for complex canine health issues such as obesity, arthritis and breed-related diseases.
4. Early career researchers said they struggle to secure funding, as few grants provide postdoctoral salaries or structured career development opportunities. The report calls for dedicated funding and mentorship initiatives to support new researchers in the sector.
5. There is no centralised database tracking past canine health research funding, making it difficult for researchers and funders to identify gaps and opportunities. The report highlights the need for a publicly accessible platform to improve visibility and coordination across funders.
6. Stakeholders, including funders, researchers and practitioners, need a structured way to set research priorities to ensure funding addresses the most urgent canine welfare concerns. The report suggests adopting a model similar to the James Lind Alliance, which successfully prioritises human medical research.
7. Future research should prioritise projects that directly benefit canine welfare, with funders assessing proposals based on clear impact metrics such as ‘Benefit for the Dog’ and ‘Pathway to Impact’.

The findings provide a roadmap for the sector and funders to enhance the future of canine health and welfare research. By streamlining funding processes, increasing collaboration and focusing research efforts on projects with tangible welfare benefits, researchers can ensure better outcomes for canine health and welfare across the UK.

Dr Alison Skipper, Researcher in Canine Health Research at the RVC and lead author of the paper, said: “This extensive project highlights the need for significant improvements in how we fund and conduct research on canine health and welfare. While UK funders have made valuable contributions, our findings show that inefficiencies in funding processes, a lack of collaboration and limited support for early-career researchers are preventing research from having its full impact. By streamlining applications, increasing transparency and fostering strategic partnerships, we can ensure that future research is both effective and directly beneficial to dogs.”

Dr Dan O’Neill, Associate Professor in Companion Epidemiology at the RVC and co-author of the paper, said: “Canine health and welfare research plays a vital role in improving the lives of millions of dogs across the UK. However, this study has identified key barriers that researchers face, from complex grant applications to limited funding with direct welfare benefits. Addressing these challenges through greater collaboration and targeted funding will allow us to better tackle pressing issues such as breed-related diseases, behavioural problems and the impact of human lifestyles on canine wellbeing.”

The study was funded by The Kennel Club Charitable Trust, Battersea, Dogs Trust and the Waltham Foundation.

Jennifer Millard, Chair of The Kennel Club Charitable Trust, said: “As one of the largest funders of dog health and welfare research, The Kennel Club Charitable Trust welcomes these insights into how we can work together to ensure funding is directed where it can most effectively improve canine welfare.

“We remain dedicated to supporting research which makes a real difference for dogs and committed to collaborating with others in the sector to enhance its impact.”

Simona Zito, Battersea’s Grants and Programmes Manager, said: “As part of our commitment to driving positive change in the sector, Battersea is proud to fund this research. This study highlights key barriers but also outlines clear, actionable steps to improve funding processes and collaboration. We are dedicated to breaking down these obstacles and working with partners to ensure research is accessible, effective, and delivers real benefits for dogs.”

OSCAR Pet Foods Ltd, which celebrated its 30th anniversary last year, has ceased trading, the company announced on its website.

Over the three decades, OSCAR Pet Foods had built up an established network of franchisees throughout the UK.

The statement on its website read: “We are sorry to have to tell you that OSCAR Pet Foods Limited ceased operations on 30 January 2025.

“We are deeply sorry to have to share this devastating news. We have done everything possible to continue serving our loyal customer base and network of franchisees, but the challenges we faced were ultimately insurmountable.

“While OSCAR Pet Foods Ltd (Head Office) has ceased trading, this does not affect your local OSCAR franchisee. To place orders or enquiries about continued services for your pets, please get in touch with your local franchise.

“We appreciate your understanding and thank you for your continued support over the last 30 years.”

An iconic pet shop in Edinburgh, which closed 16 years ago, has been put on the market.

Pets & Things in Duke Street, Leith, closed down in 2008 and the retail premises have remained empty ever since.

Now the property, totalling 1,010 sq ft, has been put on the market with Zoopla and is being sold without an asking price.

The details on Zoopla reads:

“The unit comprises a single windowed retail unit arranged over the ground and basement of a 4-storey tenement.

“The unit is located within the Leith area of Edinburgh, approximately 2 miles north of the City Centre. More specifically the unit is located on the south side of Duke Street, close to its junction with Easter Road and opposite Leith Links. Nearby operators include Twelve Triangles, Nauticus Bar and Bombay Spice.”

The Zoopl listing can be found here https://www.zoopla.co.uk/for-sale/commercial/details/69417432/

Award-winning herbal pet care experts at Dorwest Herbs have launched a new digestive support supplement for all-round gut health, Probiotic Plus.

Adding to the already bestselling digestive range, Probiotic Plus provides daily microbiome support for optimal gut health and utilises the benefits of a pre, pro and postbiotic. 

Formulated by nutritionists and vets for maximum benefits, it effectively promotes normal gut function by supporting the good bacteria in a dog’s gastrointestinal tract. It includes the probiotic Calsporin, a robust soil-based organism (SBO) which has been tested for safety and efficacy and has been proven to improve stool consistency in dogs.

Designed for complementary action to other Dorwest products such as Tree Barks, Probiotic Plus is a great new way to ensure ongoing digestive health and function. With growing evidence suggesting a healthy gut microbiome is essential for gut health, alongside multiple requests for a probiotic from valued customers, it was the logical next step for the Dorwest development team.

Probiotic Plus only contains scientifically backed ingredients and each has a clear purpose, for a clean formulation, free of fillers and additives. The formulation includes:

• Prebiotic: Fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) and inulin provide both rapidly and slowly digestible food sources for probiotic bacteria, helping ensure their survival in the gut.
• Probiotic: Trusted, safety-tested and robust soil-based organism (SBO) and live probiotic (Bacillus subtilis C-3102 DSM 15544 - Calsporin®), is proven to improve stool consistency in dogs.
• Postbiotic: Inactivated bacterial species (Bifidobacterium longum CECT 7347), shown to benefit digestive health.

Probiotic Plus can be given daily to maintain optimal gut health in any dog but is especially beneficial for dogs with sensitive tummies and/or loose stools; providing all-round gut support.

Jo Boughton-White Msc, Managing Director at Dorwest said: “We spent a lot of time carefully designing Probiotic Plus with experts to best suit the needs of our customers and their dogs, while maintaining our trusted quality. Probiotic Plus sits beautifully alongside our bestselling Tree Barks, ensuring customers have standalone options that complement each other to support digestive health.”

With a new sprinkle capsule designed to either give to dogs whole, or mixed in easily with food, Probiotic Plus capsules are now available to buy as 100 or 200 pots with RRP from £19.90. To find out more, visit Dorwest.com, call 01308 897272 or email info@dorwest.com.

Building on the success of its top-selling dog fleece, Rydale Country Clothing has announced the release of a playful dog raincoat with an identical silhouette. 

Envisioned by an in-house design team, the rainy day essential is constructed from a soft-touch, durable, and water-resistant polyester. Every design detail promises to protect four-legged friends from muddy puddles and unexpected rain showers while looking like the coolest pooch on the block. 

• All-Weather-Ready: A waterproof rating of 10,000 mm prevents water ingress, taped seams stop wind and water creeping in, and a comfortable half-leg design protects the belly and chest from splashes.
• Owner-Friendly: After inserting the front legs, a Velcro neck fastening secures the coat in place, simplifying zipping up for wriggly pups.
• Reflective Piping: High-vis strips around the neck and lower back ensure dogs remain seen and safe throughout night-time adventures. 
• Playful Patterns: From pretty butterflies to comical ducks, traditional tractors, and classic checks, the brand has undoubtedly put fun into functional fashion for pups. 
• Best-Selling Fit: Rydale’s designers have mimicked the TikTok viral jumper silhouette to create a rainy day essential customers already know their pooch will love. 

Having recently teased the product launch on its social media channels, it’s clear Rydale’s customers are already eager to purchase the raincoat. 

Emily Jane, a fan of Rydale’s dog collection, spoke about her excitement for a well-fitting coat: “The fleece is the best fit for my mixed-breed dog, who typically doesn’t fit into standard S, M, L sizing. So, I can’t wait to get my hands on the raincoat, especially as it’s fully waterproof and covers the front legs and chest to minimise muck.”

Shoppers can now sign up to be notified of the raincoat launch at Rydale.com. Available in 10 striking patterns as well as five new vibrant block colours, with sizes ranging from XS to XL, this groovy collection promises to cater to pups of all shapes and personalities.

Since 1954, Rydale Country Clothing has helped families – and their pups – across the UK get kitted out for every adventure. Operating from its Driffield-based HQ, the heritage brand’s 2023 launch into the global market enabled country folks across the globe to relish their traditional style and functionality. 

Find out more at https://www.rydale.com/collections/dog-coats

Lily’s Kitchen has unveiled a new range of supportive supplements and salmon oil for dogs. The latest launches from the B Corp pet food brand are designed to be incorporated into a daily feeding routine.

Developed with a vet, the supplements range contains carefully selected ingredients, including concentrated botanicals, to help give four-legged companions support, whether it’s for their coat, their joints, or their digestive system. The range also includes pure Norwegian salmon oil, which contains Omega-3, to help pooches crack on with their everyday mischief.

Rory Cowlam, Lily’s Kitchen vet ambassador, said: “The new Lily’s Kitchen supplements and salmon oil are designed to help support dogs’ mobility, digestion and skin and coat condition. They’re brilliant for adult dogs at every stage of life, helping to provide additional support for a range of particular needs that are important to pet parents and their pets. I would recommend feeding your four-legged friend one of the supplements alongside their meal and, if needed, the tablets can be broken in half.”

The Lily’s Kitchen range of supplements and salmon oil is suitable for all dogs from 12 months old. 

Lily’s Kitchen Joints & Mobility Supplements for Dogs - 60 Tablets, RRP: £17.50

These tablets are formulated to support joint health and flexibility. Developed with a vet, they’re made with glucosamine and chondroitin (building blocks of cartilage that help to cushion joints), green lipped mussel powder (a naturally rich source of Omega-3 – great for supporting healthy joints) and Boswellia concentrate (known for its anti-inflammatory properties). 

Lily’s Kitchen Bum & Belly Supplements for Dogs - 60 Tablets, RRP: £17.50

Developed with a vet and made with natural ingredients, the digestive support supplements for dogs are made with a touch of ginger root powder concentrate (known as a soothing ingredient) with pre, post and probiotics to help support a healthy gut microbiome. Portioned in a handy capsule, Bum & Belly can be sprinkled onto your dog’s food at mealtimes. When we say probiotics, we’re talking one billion gut-friendly bacteria!

Lily’s Kitchen Skin & Coat Supplements for Dogs - 60 Tablets, RRP: £17.50 

Developed with a vet and made with natural ingredients, these tablets contain carefully selected nutrients to help aid healthy skin. Each capsule is made with a mix of hyaluronic acid (to help hydrate and condition the skin), biotin and vitamin C (to help maintain a healthy coat), nettle concentrate (known to have natural anti-inflammatory properties) and fish oil powder (rich in omega-3 to help support our furry friend’s skin and coat condition). Shine on, doggos. Cue the slow-motion dog shake.

Lily’s Kitchen Norwegian Salmon Oil for Dogs - 500ml, RRP: £14

Developed by a vet, this pure Norwegian salmon oil is a natural source of omega-3 fatty acids, including DHA and EPA, to help support a pooch’s skin and joint health. Throw in the fact it has a delicious salmon taste, pet parents will get themselves a tail wag (or ten). The Lily’s Kitchen Norwegian salmon oil is perfect served over wet or dry food.

Charlotte Henderson, Head of Marketing at Lily’s Kitchen, said: “At Lily’s Kitchen, we aim to help pets live their best lives, and that’s exactly why we’ve developed this new range of supplements and salmon oil which we hope will help dogs all over the country start the new year on the right paw. “Just as pet parents are becoming increasingly aware of their own health and wellbeing, they’re making the same considerations for their pets. Supplements can help provide dogs with additional support, beyond the nutrition from their regular meals, for a particular need that is important to a pet parent and their four-legged friend, such as joint mobility or skin and coat condition.” 

International pet trade show Zoomark, which talks place in Bologna (Italy) from 5th to 7th May 2025, is gearing up for the launch of Next 5.0, the space that puts the spotlight on pet-tech.

Pascale Sonvico, Show Office and Sales Manager of Zoomark, explains: "At Next 5.0, we want to offer a showcase to those who are shaping the future of pet care through technology and innovation. This area represents a key hub for start-ups that want to contribute to growing the market, offering increasingly cutting-edge solutions for animal well-being.”

The area, located in Hall 16, will offer a comprehensive overview of the latest innovations in the industry and will foreground new start-ups (in business for a maximum of 5 years, with a turnover of up to 5 million euros) from all over the world, from Seed to Scale-Up phase, giving them the opportunity to present their ideas to potential investors and international pet market players.

Alongside the start-ups in the Next 5.0 area, the same hall will play host to more established pet tech companies, which are driving growth and innovation in the pet industry, and offer advanced, diversified solutions in sectors such as food, grooming, care, monitoring and control, IoT, toys and more.

This unique combination of emerging and established brands will bring together the most innovative ideas and advanced technologies, making for networking opportunities and strategic partnerships with incubators and accelerators.

The Next 5.0 area will therefore attract a qualified audience of investors, distribution chains and online marketplaces interested in discovering the latest in high-tech and building new partnerships.

Unmissable events in the NEXT 5.0 area

 NEXT 5.0 will not only be an exhibition space, but a hub for networking and education on innovation and business in the pet industry. During the three days of ZOOMARK 2025, this area will host a series of exclusive events created for exhibitors, investors and industry professionals, including:

A Masterclass by Annamaria Tartaglia

On Tuesday 6th May, Annamaria Tartaglia – CEO of The Brand Sitter and Executive Director of Angels4Women - will lead an exclusive masterclass on how pet startups can strategically position themselves in the European market, attract investments and develop partnerships with big companies in the sector. A unique opportunity to access high-level insights on innovation, marketing and business development.

The award for the most innovative start-up

A panel of industry experts will select the startup that stands out the most for technological innovation, market impact and scalability. The award represents a launch pad for emerging companies that aspire to redefine the future of the pet industry.

With the launch of this new area, Zoomark 2025 will consolidate its preeminent role for the international pet industry, as a leading meeting place for those who see technology as a fundamental element for animal well-being.

For more information: www.zoomark.it

Nylabone has announced several new additions to its popular Gourmet Range. Designed for dogs that love to chew, the Gourmet products combine Nylabone’s renowned durability with irresistible flavours.

Crafted for powerful chewers, the new additions include: a Gourmet Femur Twin Pack with a chicken and baconflavour combination, a single Gourmet Femur in a new baby back pork ribs flavour, a Gourmet Bone in a filet mignon Flavour, and a Gourmet Twin Pack featuring one bone in tasty, aged cheese and a femur in baby back pork ribs flavour. 

Unlike other chew toys, these gourmet-inspired chews are infused with delicious flavour throughout, ensuring that every bite remains as enticing as the first. With no sprays, coatings, or dips, there’s no risk of the flavour being licked away, just pure, long-lasting enjoyment. Plus, flavour-infused chunks embedded within each chew add an extra burst of taste, making every gnaw a truly lip-smacking experience.

As with all the Gourmet range products the new chews have been engineered with Nylabone’s durable nylon material, ensuring dogs can safely satisfy their natural chewing instincts while promoting dental health by reducing plaque and tartar buildup

The new Gourmet chews are available to order now from Interpet’s trade website https://trade.interpet.co.uk/

Award-winning The Dog-G8 Company will be showcasing its range of highly versatile, concertina gates at Crufts.  The gates aid dog owners with training, prevent dogs from escaping, and reduce the potential risk of an attack on postal and delivery workers coming to the house.

They will be joined on their stand on Thursday and Saturday at Crufts by Professor Carri Westgarth, who is Chair in Human-Animal Interaction at the University of Liverpool department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences. 

Carri is an expert and researcher into all aspects of human-animal interaction or companion animal welfare and has specialised in dog behaviour particularly looking into dog bites and attacks at the front door. She is author of the book 'The Happy Dog Owner' (2021) Welbeck and ‘Dog Bites: A multidisciplinary perspective’ with Daniel Mills (2017) 5M Publications. She is a Full Member of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors and occasionally teaches dog training classes on the Wirral. 

Her PhD was conducted from 2005-2008 in the University of Liverpool Veterinary Epidemiology Group and was titled ‘Contact between dogs, and between dogs and people’. Carrie is advisor to the Royal Mail helping to educate postal workers on dog behaviour and preventing dog attacks and through the University of Liverpool advises the Mersey Side Dog Safety Partnership. This is a group of organisations including dog charities. The Police, The NHS, Royal Mail and County Councils who have come together to offer advice to the public and organisations on dog behaviour and the effects of dog attacks.. The Dog G8 Company has been collaborating with them for the past few years and this has led to the development of their dog safety gates.

Even the most docile dog can lash out when feeling frightened, startled, hurt, confused or provoked, leading to a nightmare scenario for the injured party, the pet parent and their canine companion.

Over the last 12 months, there were more than 2026 dog attacks on postmen and women across the UK. This is an increase of 15% from the previous year. Over 30,000 postmen and women have been attacked by dogs in the last decade! Over 80% at the front door. 42 postal workers are attacked by dogs every week, and over 1000 postmen and women have had a finger bitten off or severely injured whilst delivering the mail through the letterbox in the last 5 years. Some of the injuries have prevented people coming back to work and have in some cases, proven fatal. UK cities and towns that see the greatest number of people coming back to work and have in some cases, proven fatal. UK cities and towns that see the greatest number of attacks include Belfast, Sheffield, Portsmouth, Bristol, Swansea, Exeter, Nottingham, Brighton and Oxford according to Royal Mail.

Chris Maxted, Director of Dog G8 said: “The public need to be aware that if their dog attacks a postal worker, they will be prosecuted either by the Police, Local Authority or by Royal Mail via a private prosecution under the agreement between Royal Mail and the CWU. Police forces around the UK have also launched the LEAD (Local, Environmental, Awareness on Dogs) campaign which is all about encouraging the responsible ownership of all dog breeds – with the aim of improving public safety, reducing anti-social behaviour and ensuring dogs are looked after appropriately.”

There are approximately 13.5 million pet dogs in the UK, according to UK Pet Food’s Pet Data Report 2024. The number has risen due to the increase in dogs taken on as pets during the Covid lockdowns. These dogs were largely un-socialised and now with owners back at work, some dogs have behavioural problems or suffer with separation anxiety.

There is a whole host of reasons why dogs may bite. It can be to do with behaviour fallout resulting from a lack of early positive exposure, experience and comfort of being handled.

Other reasons a dog may bite could be to do with possessive guarding of items such as bowl, toy or bed. A dog may also be sensitive to handling or could be suffering with pain. Some dogs are fearful or are easily startled. Inappropriate handling especially from children can make a dog agitated. Some dogs are also easily redirected where a dog can become agitated on the leash and bite the first thing that comes to hand and this can then happen in the home environment leading to dog attacks.

The Dog-G8 gate was the inspiration of Peter Maxted, the founder of the company who has been a pet sitter for over 20 years and a dog owner for the same amount of time. He was very aware of the risks associated with dogs at front doors e.g. escapes, attacks, thefts and although there were other gates on the market, he felt they were inadequate and ineffective enough to work for all breeds. He therefore decided to design and sell his own version so he could keep his and client’s dogs safer at the front door. Peter’s son Chris is also a director in the business and has been working alongside Merseyside Dog Safety Partnership and the University of Liverpool to raise awareness of dog attacks and their impact on delivery workers.

The Dog-G8 product is British made and features a concertina, modular and retractable design. The product is incredibly versatile and can be used on multiple configurations ranging from the front door to stairways, hallways and many more. The gates modular design enables it to be spanned to any width, allowing the gate to be fitted to the widest of configurations such as patio doors where standard, conventional gates cannot fit.

The gate is made from mild steel, coated in chrome or white powder coat, bolted together with bespoke, customised clips which give the gate strength and durability.

When the gate is not in use it sits flat and compact to one side it’s neat, unobtrusive, and out of the way. Finally, it is removable, enabling it to be easily stored away or docked to other configurations such as the Stairway to the Doorway (if extra brackets are purchased).

The Dog-G8 can also be used in horse boxes, mobile home and caravans. When the gate is spanned across the entrance, this allows any motor home or caravan user to have their habitation door open, without the risk of their dog dashing out. The gate will provide dogs with much needed ventilation and offers great visibility.

The gate is excellent for when you’re parked up at campsites or beaches where perimeters cannot be formed but you wish to have the door open. 

For breeders, show dog owners and agility/dog sport competitors, the gates are ideal. For dog breeders who need to segregate their dogs in the house but also want to allow their dogs to be un-caged, the gates provide the perfect option. They will also keep puppies safe as well preventing them from escaping from a room. For competitors on the road, the gates will keep dogs safe in any van or mobile home once parked up.

Since launch the company has seen massive growth and now sells directly to customer in the UK, Canada, United States, and Europe. The product went viral on Tiktok and Facebook attracting over 100 million organic views across all videos and they were the Theo Paphitis' Small Business Sunday Winner in March 2021.

Sales of the Dog G8 Gate were boosted by a Christmas direct mail campaign by Royal Mail in 2024 which recommended to home/dog owners to install a front door safety gate to prevent dog attacks on postal workers.

For more information visit www.dog-g8.com

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Pedigree Wholesale has appointed Kirsty De’Pledge as its new Business Development Manager for the South West region.

Kirsty brings a wealth of industry expertise, having previously managed the Pet Store at Prior Park Garden Centre, and also worked for Pets Corner. She also holds a National Diploma in Animal Management, further strengthening her understanding of the industry. 

Beyond her professional experience, Kirsty is an animal lover who shares her home with two dogs (Nutty and Bella) and three cats (Kitty, Tilly, and Ginge).

Kirsty said: “It's been a whirlwind of learning and adaptation in this fast past environment. I've had the opportunity to connect with colleagues across different departments, which has allowed me to gain valuable insights from their experiences.

“Everyone has been so supportive, and I feel like I have had such a positive and productive start. I am thoroughly enjoying my new role and am incredibly excited to see what the future holds."

Neil Carver, National Sales Manager, said: “Our sales team is at the heart of our business, and finding the right people to support our customers is essential. Kirsty brings a vast amount of pet retail experience, having walked in our customers’ shoes. Her first-hand knowledge and industry insight are invaluable, allowing her to truly understand and meet the needs of our customers. She is already settling in fantastically, and we wish her every success in her new role.”

Interzoo has unveiled a refreshed brand identity incorporating vibrant colours, pet-inspired motifs, and a modern logo to emphasise the dynamism and diversity of the world’s leading pet supplies trade fair. 

“The colour green has long been associated with Interzoo. Thanks to the variation of different shades of green in the new key visual combined with the simplified logo, we are making a strong impact with our visual language,” explains Dr Rowena Arzt, Director Exhibitions at WZF (Wirtschaftsgemeinschaft Zoologischer Fachbetriebe GmbH). “With the pet silhouettes, we are also acknowledging the numerous product segments on display at our world-leading fair, given that pet products are at the very heart of Interzoo.”

The new brand image will be implemented gradually in all Interzoo communication channels from March 2025. Newsletters, press releases and all emails about Interzoo 2026 (12–15 May 2026, Nuremberg) will then appear in the new graphic design. The same applies for digital communication on our website www.interzoo.com, our social media accounts, and print and online advertising material for Interzoo. Particular attention was paid to improving access to our digital content.

As Gordon Bonnet, Managing Director of WZF, points out: “With the new design we are building on the recognisability and strength of our traditional brand, but at the same time are creating a design landscape that meets the stringent requirements of our digital branding and underscores the professional calibre of this leading international fair.” This is especially true of the iconic logo, whose uniqueness and recognition factor have been retained in the new look.

Patrick Jacobi, Managing Director of Lekkerwerken, the creative agency trusted with developing the new design, adds: “The corporate design with animal silhouettes in a stencil spray look and bright colours on dark green combines emotionality, modernity and versatility. The new design thus positions Interzoo as an innovative, vibrant and memorable meeting place for the pet industry.”

For more information about the new key visual for Interzoo and forthcoming events please go to the updated website www.interzoo.com/en

Leading market research company Arizton has predicted that the global pet food market is expected to reach $185.54 billion by 2030, growing 6.35% (Compound Annual Growth Rate) during the forecast period.

Arizton said: “The market represented a dynamic and rapidly evolving industry dedicated to catering to the nutritional needs and preferences of pets worldwide.

“With increasing pet ownership and the humanisation of pets, the demand for high-quality, nutritious and tailored pet food has surged, transforming the market into one that prioritises health, wellness and innovation.”

The report can be viewed here

https://www.arizton.com/market-reports/pet-food-market

CSJ-sponsored Vickie Pullin and her Huskies were crowned champions at the IFSS World Championships & World Masters on snow – bringing home a spectacular gold for the UK and making her dreams come true.

The event drew athletes and their dogs from all over the world on February 9-15 in Røros, Norway. 

Organised by the International Federation of Sleddog Sports (IFSS) together with Norwegian Sleddog federation (NHF) it was the first event where all On-Snow disciplines were organised together.

Making up Vickie’s World Champion winning team of Huskies were Frappi, Chino, Mac and Caramel.  She said: “We did it, team. There is nothing more special than you bond with a dog and memories we make we treasure for ever more.

“My way of life is my dogs, and I’m surrounded with so much support and team work to help make this life happen. Friends, family and sponsors who have become family … without you all none of this is possible.”

CSJ’s owners Ceri and Phil Rundle said: “Over the years we have been proud to sponsor Vickie and constantly marvel at her huge achievements in such a competitive and gruelling sport which demands peak fitness from her and her dogs.”

Ex-professional snowboarder Vickie founded her ‘Arctic Quest’ (Sleddog Experience in the UK) over 10 years ago and races her ‘Pullin Power’ race team all over the world. Her kennel has included Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Huskies, Euro Hounds, Greysters and Marley her Collie.

She added: “I enjoy this sport so much and every run is a real privilege so I must thank my amazing dogs for this special journey (real life hero’s).”

There’s more to see at: www.arcticquest.co.uk www.pullin-power.com or contact vickie@arcticquest.co.uk mob: 07968794758

For more on CSJ visit www.csjk9.com or call 01745710470.

Sustainability is proving to be more than just a buzzword on Britain's high streets, as independent retailers discover that eco-friendly practices are driving both cost savings and increased profits.

This emerging trend is explored in the latest episode of Bira's 'High Street Matters' podcast, "Greening the High Street - Smart Solutions for Sustainable Retail".

In this timely episode, journalist Steve Dyson interviews Victoria Robertshaw, founder of Green Street, which helps local businesses become more sustainable, alongside Keith Hunt, owner of Our Precious Earth, a thriving zero-waste shop in Minehead, Somerset.

Victoria said: "Small retailers often face a sustainability paralysis, unsure of the right actions to take. We're showing them that simple changes, like updating old refrigeration or switching to LED lighting, can save hundreds of pounds annually while benefiting the planet."

The episode reveals how sustainable practices are driving business growth, as demonstrated by Keith success story.

He said: "What I took from October to December was more than I took the whole previous year. People really want to switch to sustainable products, and we're providing that service."

Victoria also emphasised the commercial benefits of sustainability.

She said: "You can do good and have profit - the two aren't mutually exclusive. What's right for your business is also good for the planet."

This practical episode provides actionable insights for retailers looking to reduce their environmental impact while improving their bottom line, including guidance on upcoming recycling legislation and energy-saving techniques.

The 'High Street Matters' podcast series, which is available on all major streaming platforms, continues to explore crucial subjects impacting independent retailers.

New episodes will be released throughout the year, covering various topics relevant to today's retail landscape.

The decline in high street shopping has been blamed on the closing down of an independent bricks-and-mortar pet store.

The owner of Love for Pets in Norwich said the store had become increasingly unsustainable to run and will close the doors on the Magdalen Street shop tomorrow (Friday).

David Lee hopes to continue his business, which started eight years ago, with a home delivery service. The first shop was based in Sprowston before the shop moved to Magdalen Street in 2019. 

David told Norwich Evening News: 'I am sad and sorry to say that the shop will be closing due to the continued decline of high street shopping.” 

The shop offered 50% off sale on products ahead of the shop closure.

The Pet Industry Federation has raised concerns with Baroness Hayman of Ullock, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at DEFRA, regarding the lack of accurate and consistent animal licensing data across England.

Following a detailed analysis of DEFRA licensing data, required by The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018, PIF has identified significant issues with local authority reporting, making it difficult to track industry trends and ensure effective regulation.

The organisation's research reveals that in 2024, only 68% of comparable local authority licensing data was received, creating substantial gaps in market analysis. Further complicating the situation are inconsistencies in how local authorities record information, making year-on-year comparisons challenging.

Of particular concern are the dramatic shifts observed within the industry. A 27% decline in licensed kennels over the past year has raised serious questions about the UK's capacity to manage quarantine needs during potential zoonotic disease outbreaks. Additionally, a 23% decrease in licensed pet sellers during the same period has pushed more sales towards unregulated online platforms, where welfare oversight is minimal.

To address these pressing issues, PIF is calling on the government to implement:

• Consistent and meaningful licensing data reporting to ensure effective market monitoring
• Stronger regulation of online pet sales, requiring licence numbers to be displayed for all sellers and introducing a registration system for occasional sellers
• Support for pet shops to ensure they remain a viable and regulated source for small pet purchases, rather than driving sales to unregulated online platforms where welfare standards and consumer protections are lacking.
• The reintroduction of the dog licence, with revenue supporting designated quarantine kennels and industry infrastructure

"Accurate and transparent data is essential for effective regulation and safeguarding animal welfare," said Nigel Baker, CEO of the Pet Industry Federation.

"The decline in licensed pet businesses, particularly kennels and pet shops, could have serious long-term consequences for both the industry and pet welfare. We are calling on the government to take urgent action to improve data collection and enforcement."

PIF remains committed to working with policymakers to strengthen regulation and protect the future of the UK pet industry.

Following its success at the National SME Awards at Wembley in December, Pickles Pet Pantry is again being recognised for its outstanding contributions to the pet industry and business excellence.

The Buckinghamshire-based pet retailer has been announced as a finalist in the highly competitive SME MK and Buckinghamshire Business Awards 2025, securing a place in three key categories: Business Person of the Year, Business Woman of the Year and Business Innovation. In addition Katie has also been announced a Nominee in the Business Leader Public vote Category.

This achievement highlights the remarkable leadership and dedication of Pickles Pet Pantry’s founder, Katie, whose innovative approach has set new standards in the pet retail sector. The Business Innovation category, in particular, underscores the company’s forward-thinking strategies and commitment to enhancing the customer experience with high-quality, tailored pet products.

The SME MK and Buckinghamshire Business Awards celebrate the region’s most exceptional businesses and Pickles Pet Pantry’s recognition among them is a testament to their continued growth and impact. Winners will be announced at a prestigious awards ceremony on Monday, 31st March 2025, at the DoubleTree Hilton Hotel, Milton Keynes.

Speaking about the announcement, Katie said: “We are absolutely thrilled to be named as finalists in not one, but three categories at the SME MK and Buckinghamshire Business Awards.

“Following our success at the National SME Awards at Wembley, this recognition reaffirms the dedication and hard work that goes into Pickles Pet Pantry. We are passionate about providing the very best for pets and their owners and to have that acknowledged is incredibly rewarding.”

This Month has seen the launch of the brand’s innovative new range – Peterinary – a hydrolysed dog food for allergy prone dogs, as well as its Pickle Cani Running Group which will support their fundraising for local animal Charity Animals In Need Irchester.

You can vote for Katie on the SME awards Website. https://eventsandpr.co.uk/sme-mk-and-buckinghamshire-business-awards/award-categories/

For more information about Pickles Pet Pantry and its multi award-winning shop, visit www.picklespetpantry.com

The founder of My Anxious Dog, the brand behind yellow space awareness products, has received an Influential Women in Business Award – a recognition that celebrates leadership, innovation, and the impact women make across industries worldwide.

Sarah Jones said: “This award is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the importance of advocacy and awareness. Through hashtag#dogsinyellow, my mission has been to create a more understanding world for anxious dogs and their owners, ensuring they feel seen, respected, and supported.

“I am incredibly grateful to everyone who has been part of this journey – your encouragement and belief in my work continue to inspire me. This recognition reinforces the power of passion-driven businesses and the impact we can make when we lead with purpose.

“Here’s to championing change, empowering women in business, and creating a more inclusive future for our anxious dogs and their amazing owners.”

The Influential Women in Business Award, run by E2 Media, is a collective acknowledgement of the invaluable contributions women make to the business world. The awards programme celebrates the remarkable achievements of women in various industries and professions.

Sarah’s award will be publicised in a special edition to coincide with International Women's Day on March 8.