Pets at Home has halted plans to open a new store for the second time within the space of a month. The latest move sees the UK’s largest pet retail chain pulling out of a newly-developed Guisborough retail park, following a similar decision in Skegness last month.

The company has blamed a volatile property market for both decisions.

A spokesperson for Pets at Home told Pet Trade Xtra the retail giant was committed to future expansion, stating: “When we announced our results on 22 May we said we would open up to five superstores in the current financial year.  While we keep the details under careful review that is our plan.”

The decision to withdraw from a planned new store at Cleveland Gate Retail Park, Guisborough, was reported by the Teeside Gazette.

The newspaper stated Pets at Home had recruited staff for the new store.

Pets at Home said: “We keep our opening plans under regular review as store openings can take some time to come to fruition and both the retail environment and the property market can be volatile.

“At a recent review of our store opening plans we decided, with regret, not to progress with our plan to open a store in Guisborough.

“We appreciate that this will be disappointing to customers who were looking forward to a new store and apologise for the change in our plans.

“Colleagues who have started training with us will be offered alternative positions in one of our nearby stores.”

Similar comments were made after the decision not to open a store in Skegness in May.

The full story on the Cleveland Gate Retail Park decision can be read by clicking here

Rosewood Pet Products Ltd, who supplied cushions to Coletta and Tyson garden centre in Woodmansey, Yorkshire, has been fined £30,000 after the items were found to represent a serious fire risk.

Beverley Magistrates Court heard that tests revealed they could easily catch fire as well as failing to comply with fire safety regulations as they did not display permanent labelling.

Director Mark Bolland appeared on behalf of the company, where he pleaded guilty to both offences.

The court heard how officers from East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s trading standards team had visited the garden centre in December 2017 and saw cushions, featuring the faces of dogs and cats, for sale in the homeware and gift section of the store.

The officers inspected the cushions and found they were not labelled correctly and having raised concerns with garden centre staff, the cushions were removed from sale immediately.

The items were sent for independent testing which revealed the filling of the cushions was highly flammable.

The court heard how Rosewood had not included permanent labelling on the cushions to confirm they complied with fire safety regulations as they saw themselves solely as a pet supplies company.

The company claimed the items were not intended for decorative use around the home but for pet use only, and therefore claimed the cushions were not required to conform to the same flammability and labelling requirements.

But magistrates heard how the cushions were being marketed as gifts for pets as well as owners on the company’s website and had labels on them stating “pet faces – a pillow for you or your pet”.

Rosewood Pet Products Ltd was fined £15,000 for each offence, and ordered to pay prosecution costs of £2,651.23 and a victim surcharge of £70.

The Just for Pets retail business, rescued by Pedigree Wholesale eight months ago, has been given a fantastic new look thanks to a £1 million investment fund. A first glimpse of the new branding was seen at the grand opening of the flagship Coventry store at the weekend.

The exciting rebrand is part of a Just for Pets strategy to re-engage with pet owners. The specialist pet retailer is putting knowledge and an energised customer experience top of its agenda.

Signalling the start of a two-year, initial £1million investment strategy, Just for Pets has overhauled its market offer, placing focus on giving its loyal customers a five-star experience, coupled with attracting a wider audience.

At the opening of the Coventry store on Saturday and Sunday customers experienced the new look first hand.

Cementing its new brand proposition of passionate pet people, the rebrand will also see the roll out of a suite of new visuals, including a dedicated palette of colours, logo and even the introduction of a family of illustrated characters, Doodle the Dog, Bonnie the Bird, Rascal the Rabbit and friends – set to help engage and educate parents and their children in the wellbeing of pets.

Enlisting the help of specialist marketing and design consultancies to bring a fresh perspective to its existing market proposition − the company went through a series of extensive testing with consumer groups to map long-term trends in people’s purchasing habits and tailor and enhance the shopping experience of Just for Pets to make sure its product offer meets demand.

Further dedicated to energising its retail offer, the brand also engaged the expertise of renowned pet store owner Scott Hendry, of Natural World Syston, to guide Just for Pets, as it shaped its new strategy and proposition.

Commenting on the rebrand Steve Brown, Managing Director, said: “The Just for Pets proposition has always put passion for pets at the heart of our business and we’ve worked diligently to maintain this ethos. Our challenge is to create an exciting, engaging and evolving experience that keeps our customers coming back and this in turn drives us to bring great products, service and advice that will enhance the wellbeing of pets and their owners.

“We’ve tackled the rebrand passionately and feel our new offer delicately meets familiarity with a new energy that turns the page on the next chapter in the Just for Pets story.”

Unveiled just eight months after Just for Pets was rescued by established pet sector business Pedigree Wholesale, the start of this two-year store roll out reinforces the dedication to supporting a strong pet retail market offer for consumers and maintaining the presence of specialist pet retailers on the high street and in retail locations across the country.

The growing stature of PATS Telford in September has resulted in 43 companies taking stand space at Telford International Centre for the first time.

They will be joining a long list of regular exhibitors on Sunday 23^rd September and Monday 24^th September as the UK’s national pet trade exhibition shapes up to be another epic event. Currently, 160 manufacturers and suppliers have already booked their place at the show.

PATS Telford, now in its fourth year, has quickly established itself as the number one showpiece for UK and international companies to launch pet products and secure new business.

New to PATS Telford, Four Legged Fancies summed up how the exhibition can help a new company to grow. Victoria Rough, managing director of the natural treat firm, said: “We have a strong presence locally at shows and events in the South West, which has allowed us to secure a number of stockists in the area. However, PATS can showcase us to retailers from across the whole of the UK and beyond.”

It’s a similar story for Barney’s Biscuit Boxes, whose Matthew Stanley said: “Exhibiting at Telford is the best way for us to speak with a great range of potential buyers from small independent retailers to larger pet organisations about our handmade natural dog treats. Fingers crossed our biscuits, which contain fresh fruit, fresh vegetables or fresh meat, will be a real hit.”

And Stuart Malcolmson, of Arctic Wolf Ltd, commented: “We chose to exhibit at PATS as it allows us to meet with a large number of potential new retail partners in a central location.”

“Hugo & Hudson had such a fantastic response from PATS Sandown in March that we decided to exhibit at PATS Telford, where we’ll be showcasing our new designs of collars, leads and harnesses,” said the company’s Katie Berkeley.

Likewise for Slurps, whose Susan Gregory commented: “We launched the brand to the trade at PATS Sandown and were blown away by the response. At PATS Telford, we’re looking forward to showing our new Slurps concentrates and ready to present our products to an even bigger group of customers.”

Simon Freear, of Josera dog, cat and horse foods, was so impressed with the pet exhibition after visiting PATS Sandown that he decided to book a stand at Telford. “Our InsectDog and VeggieDog complete foods will be there after a successful Interzoo. We are looking to recruit professional pet partners across the UK and Ireland,” said Simon.

After six years of trading Oscar & Hooch has chosen PATS Telford as its show of choice to launch new dog accessory ranges, including dog collars, leads, dog bandanas and dog coats. “The new ranges will extend Oscar & Hooch’s consumer reach and reinvigorate its offering to the pet trade. We are excited to see faces old and new,” said Paul Steckler.

Wilsons, one of the country's longest established pet food manufacturers, will be unveiling its new range of Cold Pressed dog food, while Faithful Friends Collectables will be showcasing new ranges of soft toys for dogs and cats.

PATS Telford is also attracting international companies like Thai Inaba Foods Co Ltd, whose Nukanda Jettanachaiyada said: “We would like to show our quality treats and wet foods for cats and dogs that reached number one in Japan, and gain recognition from customers in UK.”

Chinese company Sunner Pet Products will be at Telford for the first time with Ivy Sun stating: “We hope that our pet products will be popular among European customers. Dog poop bag is our main product, and we also want our new cat litter scoop to be known among people.”

GoldPaw is an American brand looking to establish itself in the UK and owner Rebecca Gadd said: “We've shown at other international fairs but we decided to attend PATS because we wanted to focus our efforts on Britain this year.”

Vital Pet Trade Specialist had a major presence at Sandown and the company will be repeating the exercise in September. Director Sunny Sharma said: “Turnout at the Vital Grandstand and our enlarged stand in the Surrey Hall at PATS Sandown was beyond expectations. We couldn’t have been more pleased with the response from existing and prospective customers and suppliers. We’re excited to be building on this success at Telford, where we will have even more opportunities to partner with major suppliers offering exclusive products and promotions.”

PATS Telford will also again play host to popular visitor attractions like The New Product Showcase, sponsored by pbwnews, demonstrations and workshops from top dog groomers, and free-to-attend seminars from leading industry figures.

Parking is free at the Telford International Centre, and everyone will receive free tea and coffee, and a free show catalogue.

A full and up-to-date list of exhibitors is available on the website www.patshow.co.uk together with information on how to reach the venue and regularly updated show news.

Pet shops are being urged to enter the prestigious 2018 PetQuip Awards to stand a chance of walking off with the title UK Pet Retailer of the Year. The closing date for entries is June 30.

Cheshire-based Paws & Claws clinched Gold in the Awards last September and owners Jamie and Liz Gleave (pictured) admitted it had been a “game-changing” moment in their careers.

“This was a real honour for us and meant a great deal to us personally,” said Jamie. “We were incredibly proud to have won Gold in the category in 2017 against some serious competition from other long-established and innovative businesses across the UK.”

The PetQuip Awards will be presented at a special dinner on the first evening of PATS Telford on Saturday, September 23.

Entry to the awards is free for all to enter. Companies can put themselves forward for the awards or can be nominated by retailers and suppliers.

Entries will be put through an initial screening test, finalists will then be named before the independent judging panel sits down to choose the winners at the end of August.

Supplier entries are judged by a panel of retailers, retail entries by a team of independent specialists with retailing and marketing experience.

Entry categories are:

• Businees of the Year
• Pet Product Innovation of the Year
• Exporter of the Year
• Marketing Project of the Year
• UK Pet Retailer of the Year
• International Pet Retailer/Distributor of the Year
• Lifetime Achievement

Complete entries need to be sent to pat@petquip.com by June 30.

Ceva Animal Health has launched a national summer TV advertising campaign to raise awareness of its leading veterinary behaviour products, FELIWAY Friends and ADAPTIL Calm On-the-Go Collar (previously known as the ADAPTIL Collar).

It is the first time that Ceva has invested in a TV advertising campaign focusing on FELIWAY Friends, which helps cats live together in harmony and prevents the signs of conflict like fighting, chasing and blocking. 

The new advertisement highlights the real-life story of two cats, Zera and Dewey.  When Dewey joined the family, Zera would growl and hit him and, in the words of their owners, ‘it was a very stressful household’.  They started to use FELIWAY Friends which made an incredible difference and ensured that the family could finally relax.

The FELIWAY Friends advertisement will interchange with the ADAPTIL Calm On-the-Go Collar advertisement which features Ever the Australian Shepherd and highlights the collar’s benefits which are particularly relevant during the summer while owners are out and about with their dogs more. 

ADAPTIL Calm On-the-Go Collar helps dogs stay calm and adapt, even outdoors, to situations including loud noises, training and boarding in kennels. 

The ADAPTIL Calm On-the-Go Collar advertisement shows Ever, who was really nervous, scared of traffic and anything unexpected when he was on walks and the big change in his behaviour once he started wearing the collar.  Not only was Ever less anxious, but he started enjoying his walks and Ever and his owner now love spending time together.

Both advertisements are 30 seconds long and the campaign runs until the end of June.  It will target 24.5 million pet owners and will air on all Channel 4 and Channel 4 partner channels, including Channel 4, E4, More4, Film4, Drama, Good Food, Really, W and Home.

“Our summer TV advertising campaign will raise awareness of how FELIWAY Friends and ADAPTIL Calm On-the-Go Collar can help pets with behavioural issues and drive customers to retailers for further information and to purchase product,” comments Abigail King, product manager for FELIWAY and ADAPTIL at Ceva Animal Health.

For further information on FELIWAY and ADAPTIL visit www.feliway.com or www.adaptil.com

Pet Trade Solutions’ award for Best Pet Industry Recruitment Company UK in the Lux Awards 2018 came as a surprise to owner Lynda Ward as she was unaware of a nomination.

Lynda commented: “It’s always lovely to receive something unexpected but my most cherished rewards are always the compliments from satisfied clients and happy candidates.

"Having noticed that there were so many inappropriate people in roles within our industry and others very unhappy in their jobs I started Pet Trade Solutions in year 2000 and have since personally fulfilled innumerable recruitment assignments at all levels for major and minor companies in the UK and overseas.”

She added: “My goal has always been to swiftly, cost-effectively and impartially satisfy the brief and to save everyone’s time by head-hunting or introducing the right person for the right job for the long term and I put the success down to 35 years in the pet trade having ensured my in-depth knowledge of the industry, the roles and the people.”

Lynda is always happy to personally advise on any aspects of recruitment and marketing strategy and can be contacted on 07946 743784 or at lyndaward@pettradesolutions.com

Pets at Home is supporting Rabbit Awareness Week by continuing its ban on selling rabbit muesli, an initiative that has been in place since April 2013.

As a result of ground-breaking new industry research, Pets at Home immediately ceased the sale of rabbit muesli in all of its stores, calling on other retailers to follow its lead.

Rabbit Awareness Week (RAW), which runs until Sunday, is an annual event, where experts such as vets, pet retailers, welfare charities and manufacturers work together to educate people on how to give owned rabbits the best care possible.

This year’s theme is ‘Move Away from Muesli’, which is raising awareness around the dangers of selective feeding, encouraging owners to use a high-quality, hay based diet.

Dr. Maeve Moorcroft, Head of Pets for Pets at Home, said: “Rabbits fed on a muesli diet are more likely to suffer from dental and digestive problems, and these health issues can have a detrimental effect on rabbits – so we haven’t sold rabbit muesli in our stores and online for five years now.

"It’s great that RAW is continuing to draw attention to this issue and we hope that ‘Move Away from Muesli’ helps make a real difference to the welfare of all rabbits, by ensuring that they are fed the right diet to keep them healthy and happy.”

Earlier this year, Pets at Home suspended the sale and adoption of rabbits during the Easter bank holiday.

Pets at Home has also shared a list of considerations for prospective rabbit owners:

• Rabbits are sociable creatures that can make wonderful pets for experienced pet owners, and are naturally social, intelligent and inquisitive animals
• Rabbits can become friendly and confident around people if gently handled from a young age
• Housing will take up a significant area of your house and garden - you’ll need to make sure they have a large area at home
• Initial set-up costs for their hutch and accessories can be expensive at first
• Rabbits have very distinctive personalities and, once tamed, love spending time with you and other compatible rabbits (rabbits should ideally live in pairs)
• Rabbits can enrich your children’s learning environment, helping them to understand more about animals and the natural world. They make suitable pets for older children, with adult supervision
• Rabbits take time to clean out, feed and health check every day
• Owners must consider the costs of vet bills, bedding and food costs throughout the rabbits’ lives and must be able to commit to these on-going costs
• Rabbits must also be vaccinated and neutered. It’s worth noting that unneutered rabbits can become aggressive when they mature and are prone to cancer of the reproductive tract – so neutering is not just to avoid unwanted babies
• A decision to get a rabbit should not be taken lightly; rabbits can live up to 12 years so are a long-term commitment

Rabbits prefer the company of other rabbits – the temperament of any other pets you currently have, such as cats and dogs, should be considered when welcoming a rabbit into your home.

Rabbits shouldn’t be housed with guinea pigs as they have opposing diets and communicate in different ways.

The Pet Industry Federation has been shortlisted for the Marketing Campaign of the Year award at the prestigious Trade Association Forum Best Practice Awards 2018.

Formally supported by the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills, these Awards recognise, reward and promote best practice among UK trade associations.

PIF’s shortlisted entry focused on the in-house marketing campaign to launch its new public-facing website to the pet industry, www.mypetpeople.co.uk.

The campaign was launched at Crufts last year and has made creative use of a range of online and offline media to raise awareness about it – all on a restricted budget.

Development on the website also relied on research undertaken with PIF members, which highlighted the need for a signposting mechanism from PIF members to pet owners.

PIF members get free entry onto the www.mypetpeople.co.uk website.

Nigel Baker, PIF Chief Executive, said: “Being shortlisted for a Best Practice Award is a real honour and I’m delighted that the hard work of the PIF team has been recognised.

"The development of www.mypetpeople.co.uk relied on input from PIF members from the outset, and the campaign to promote its existence has resulted in 60,000 visits to the website and a growth in membership.”

The Trade Association Forum Best Practice Awards winners will be announced in London on Tuesday 10 July.

With the weather warming up, many fishkeepers will be looking for advice on caring for their pond this summer. But, with so much information out there, how can retailers really be sure what to recommend?

To help, Dave Hulse, Tetra’s Technical Expert has answered some of the most common questions around summer ponds, so retailers can rest easy, knowing they’re giving their consumers the right advice for a healthy pond.

Q. How can pondkeepers ensure their fish stay healthy over the summer? 

Dave says; “There are many things pondkeepers can do to support their fish and make sure they stay healthy and happy, but one of the most important things is to ensure they are feeding a well-rounded diet that gives them all of the nutrients they need. Tetra Pond Variety Sticks include BioActive Formula for increased disease resistance and combine three different varieties of food to provide a nourishing yet varied diet for all pond fish.”

Q. How can pondkeepers deal with the increased algae in their pond?

Dave says; “Algae growth blooms in the summer due to the warmer weather creating more nitrate and phosphate nutrients and the greater length of more direct sunlight. Pondkeepers should use treatments all year round to keep their pond crystal clear but should be extra vigilant in the warmer months.

It is vital to act early to prevent blooms of algae, so using treatments to lower phosphate levels in the spring will really help pondkeepers prepare for the summer months. Performing regular partial water changes and dosing the pond with Tetra PhosphateMinus and Tetra AlgoFin will also help keep algae at bay, and lead to a healthy pond with crystal clear waters.”

Q. How can my customers ensure their water stays crystal clear?  

Dave says; “The summer is where your pond makes a really great garden feature, especially when it’s looking in good condition. Keeping ponds clear and tidy by cutting back any plants, trees or shrubbery will not only help your pond stand out but also prevent loose leaves and debris from falling into the water, which if left can rot and affect water quality.”

Q: I’ve heard that aeration of the pond is much more important in the summer than the winter, is this correct?

Dave says; “Warm waters won’t hold as much dissolved oxygen as cold water, yet in summer, pond fish require higher oxygen levels due to the warmer weather. This means that aeration devices, such as filter outlets and air pumps, must be working flat out, especially at night when the photosynthetic activity of plants ceases. Pondkeepers shouldn’t rely solely on so-called ‘oxygenating weed’ to supply their fish with oxygen. Advise your customers to look out for fish looking tired in the margins of the pond or loitering near aeration devices as a sign that their pond isn’t oxygenated enough. Tetra Test O2 kits tests oxygen levels easily and precisely, allowing pondkeepers to react before it gets too serious.”

It’s now even easier for customers to understand exactly what makes a healthy pond with Tetra’s new pond packaging, which offers clear and modern labelling to help communicate product uses and benefits more easily for fishkeepers. Tetra’s 6in1 test strips also allow pond keepers to test their pond water quickly and easily and can download the Tetra Aquatics App to scan the strip and understand the water parameters and any steps that need to be taken.

For more information on Tetra’s products and pond range, please visit www.tetra-fish.co.uk or head to their Facebook page, Tetra UK.

With Bring Your Dog To Work Day, Britain’s favourite charity dog day just around the corner (June 22) we got some tips from Vulric, one of our favourite office dogs, on some dos and don’ts on bringing your dog to work.

Canine co-working is taking off and more businesses in UK and around the world are becoming dog friendly as they welcome well-behaved pooches into the office. Last year thousands of dogs took part in the annual Bring Your Dog To Work Day and more dogs are accompanying their owners to work throughout the year.

Taking a dog to the office can be very enriching for dogs as well as the staff in the office and since its launch in 2014 Bring Your Dog To Work Day has grown in popularity with lots of celebrities and large organisations getting involved as everyone benefits from having their four legged best friends with them during the working day.

This pupular day out always trends at number 1 on social media – it’s a great day out and our hall of fame on our website is packed with some pawsome pictures of dogs having a lovely time at work with their owners. Make sure you sign up now, get your company to sponsor your workplace for £100 that will go to All Dogs Matter, or to the charity of your choice, then you can donate a small amount to bring your dog in and post your picture on our website which we will repost on social media.

If you are taking your dog to work on June 22^nd for Bring Your Dog To Work Day to have are some essential tips from Lora and Vulric on how to make it a memorable day for all.

Vulric is an 11-month-old Czechoslovakian Wolfdog who has been going to work with his owners Lora and her partner since he was four months old.

Wolfdogs are big dogs and while Vulric is still only a puppy he’s already quite large, but Lora believes that if a dog has been well trained size should not matter and there is no reason why a big dog can’t be accommodated in an office environment.

Vulric alternates his time between two central London offices and doggie day care and like most London commuters travels to work by tube, he’s been well trained by Lora and has quickly learned how to fit in to office life.

Vulric and Lora say:

• Puppies in the office are cute but while they might be housebroken at home it might not be the same at work – take care!
• Take into account your dog’s personality - are they people dogs, friendly or reserved? If they are shy or not that friendly warn colleagues, like people some dogs can be overwhelmed by attention and too much petting. Sometimes it can be a good idea to put a cute jacket or jaunty bandana on a nervous dog and tell your colleagues to be cautious with the dog with the bandana.
• If you are going into a lift - check with the people on board before you get in the lift if they are nervous or ok with dogs
• Even if you dog is not a chewer at home the office cables might be irresistible – bring lots of chew toys to distract them from having a nibble on interesting looking wires
• Take them out for plenty of breaks but don’t let colleagues take your precious pooch out without you unless they know each other very well
• Keep them occupied, and while filing or data entry might be out of the question some puzzle toys to stimulate their brains will keep them busy at their desks – they might become an invaluable member of staff
• It might be a good idea to bring their bed in for the day so there is somewhere that feels familiar and it will encourage them to have a rest after all the initial excitement has died down.

Have fun – who knows, Bring Your Dog To Work Day could be the start of your dog becoming a more permanent fixture in your workplace. 

www.bringyourdogtoworkday.co.uk

From guiding their blind best friend to helping with the confidence of a fearful rehomed pup, a trio of dogs have proven that three really is the magic number.

Four-year-old Collie Cross, Storm, three-year-old Whippet Cross, Ellie, and one-year-old Border Collie, Jetstream, are the best of friends and all aid each other in different ways.

Storm was the first of the three special pups to be adopted by Sian Murphy, a 19-year-old freelance dog trainer from Cwmcarn in Wales when she was just 15.

Initially, Storm was adopted from the Dogs Trust at 8-months-old to help with Sian’s confidence issues that had caused her great difficulty when growing up. With Storm also suffering from a lack of confidence, the pair instantly connected and formed a strong bond.

Noticing that Storm was suffering from severe allergies, causing itching and bald sore patches to form on his skin, Sian decided to investigate the benefits of a raw diet and it was whilst researching, she came across raw and natural pet food brand, Natures Menu.

After switching to a Natures Menu diet Sian saw an immediate improvement in Storm’s condition and he has been fed on the brand ever since, as well as being sponsored by Natures Menu.

Sian comments: “Sometimes people do not realise that many dogs just need a change of diet to help improve health issues. With a simple switch to a raw diet, Storm’s condition has vastly improved and as a result so has her overall level of happiness and contentment. We have seen a big difference in him and it has definitely had a positive impact – we would never consider switching back!”

Three years on, Storm continues to have a spring in his step and benefiting from being fed a raw diet. He can now perform over 600 tricks including backflips, footstalls and even playing the tambourine at schools, nursing homes and dogs shows nationwide, as well as at events such as National Pet Show and DogFest.

However, Storm’s most amazing trait is his care and guidance of his best friend, Ellie whom Sian inherited two years ago unaware that she was partially blind in one eye. Soon she became totally blind in the other eye and required constant care.

Sian adapted her disc training appropriately to suit Ellie, such as putting holes in her Frisbees, so can hear them when thrown towards her, and she went on to become Wales’ first official disc dog. However, she also struggled with confidence issues.

This is where Storm stepped in. Noticing how much Ellie was struggling, Storm has become her guide, allowing her to lean on him as they walk and reassuring her with a cuddle should there be any loud noises she doesn’t like and ensuring strangers were not going to do her any harm – the pair have become truly inseparable.

The final addition to Sian’s terrific trio was Jetstream. Having been kept in a small flat with little training or socialisation, Jetstream’s unfortunate start to life has made him incredibly fearful and with little confidence.

Whilst Jetstream suffers from a fear of people, other dogs, cars and the outdoors, the only time Jetstream feels confident is in the company of his brother and sister, Storm and Ellie.

Sian adds: “They’re the best trio of dogs I could ask for. The amount they’ve taught me, friends they’ve allowed me to make and adventures they’ve taken me on are incredible! But most magical is the memories they’ve helped me make, ones which will certainly last me a lifetime. They’re completely inseparable, relying on each other for guidance, support and cuddles when needed.

“Storm, Jetstream and Ellie have not only helped me become the person I am, the fantastic trio have also grown in confidence with the help of one another. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them and couldn’t imagine them ever not being in my life. I am truly grateful!”

For more information on Natures Menu visit www.naturesmenu.co.uk

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Christie & Co, the agents handling the sale of 145 Wyevale Garden Centres, have said the deadline for first round bids is 26th June 2018.

Offers are being sought for multiple site purchases and also individual sites.  "This is a very open process," Christie & Co explained. "Once we have all of the offers at the end of the first round we will invite the selected bidders for each site to conduct more detailed legal due diligence and confirm or adjust initial offer."

An analysis of the sale of Wyevale Garden Centres and its implications can be found in the current issue of GTN. Click here to see the digital version.

A pet food store has been broken into and charity money stolen along with specialist tablet computers and float money, totalling over £4,000.

Petfood Kingdom in Windlesham just off the A30 London Road was broken into between 6pm Saturday (May 26) and 9.40am Sunday (May 27).

Full story click here

A pet shop, which opened Saltney, Chester, in December, is holding a fun day and dog show to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

The Royal Lodge Pet Shop, run by Chantelle Elson and her mum Alison Swift run Royal Lodge Pet Shop is organising the Beroyal's Fun Day and Dog Show.

It will be held at Westminster Park, Hough Green, Chester CH4 8JW on Sunday 24th June, starting at 10:30am and finishing at 3:30pm.

“There has never been anything like this event around the area,” said Chantelle. “We are doing it for Cancer Research UK as it is very close to our hearts due to family members passing away from Cancer.

“We opened the pet shop on December 11th last year. We’ve had a dog boarding, day care and walking business since 2014 and wanted to expand the business so decided to open an independent pet shop as there is none local to us.”

Pets at Home has signed a deal to implement a £2.5m warehouse automation project at its eCommerce distribution centre in Northampton.

The pet retailer will use warehouse automation technology to drive efficiencies, achieve greater productivity and deliver real-time visibility across the operation, so it can continue to provide accurate deliveries to its customers.

Full story click here

An excited Debra Harker contacted CSJ to tell them about her Gordon Setter’s RCC – an unusually high award for such a young dog.

Hector - Hernwood Achilles at Ettrick - had a brilliant start to his career with 6 x PBIB, including 2 breed shows and Crufts 2018, and became top Gordon in the country, but then came Bath Ch show….

At his first show in Junior, Hector won his class and then went on to win Reserve DCC.  It was certainly a day to remember for Debra as it is unusual for such a young dog to take such high awards.

Debra said, “Absolutely thrilled with his progress and he is certainly gathering a fan club!”

Follow more CSJ winners on www.csjk9.com

Pictured: Debra Harker and Hector after winning BPIS at the Gordon Setter Club of Scotland Ch. Show (Photo by David Alcorn)

Following on from the launch of YuCALM Dog in September 2016, Lintbells is launching YuCALM Cat, which is available to order from veterinary wholesalers.

The premium, natural calming supplement is suitable for short term stressors – such as travel or veterinary visits – and for longer term behavioural support.

There’s increasing awareness of the need to address all aspects of a pet’s wellbeing and in April 2018 the government updated its Code of Practice for the welfare of cats. It has been reported that 62% of cat owners would like to change at least one aspect of their cat’s behaviour.

Some 42% of cats live in a multi-cat home and half of them don’t get along with cats in the same household.

Experts at Lintbells say that the new triple-action supplement has a calming effect within a week, with optimal results seen between 3 - 8 weeks.

Scientifically proven ingredients in YuCALM Cat include Lemon balm, fish hydrolysate, L-Tryptophan and L-Theanine, which support the production and levels of serotonin, GABA and dopamine. The supplement also includes B vitamins for healthy nerve and brain function.

YuCALM Cat is a great option for fussy cat as it is palatable and well accepted by 85% of cats. It is available as a capsule which owners should break to sprinkle the powder on their cat’s food daily.

Brand Manager, Gemma Cunningham explains that YuCALM Cat promotes happy and calm behaviours without causing sedation, “YuCALM Cat works in three ways: it supports GABA levels to make cats more receptive and calm, supports serotonin to maintain levels of hormones responsible for happiness and wellness and supports dopamine, which is associated with reward and motivation."

The launch includes a range of support material, such as educational posters, digital materials, guides and leaflets to help cat owners identify the signs of stress in cats.

For further information visit www.lintbells.com

Following demand from customers, Johnson’s has introduced a new larger size of its popular Anti-Tangle Conditioning and Sensitive Hypoallergenic Shampoos.

Anti-Tangle Conditioning Shampoo is a 2-1 gentle luxury shampoo, which thoroughly cleanses, conditions and revitalises the coat, improving texture and appearance.  Regular use and proper grooming helps to prevent knots and tangles and leaves coat fresh and clean.

Sensitive Hypoallergenic Shampoo is a super premium shampoo, and is extra mild and non-irritant. It has been specially developed to be suitable for dogs with sensitive skin.  It is suitable for all breeds, has a balanced PH, aids relief from allergies and cleanses effectively, leaving the coat fresh and clean and helps to avoid skin problems.

For further details and information, contact:

Johnson’s Veterinary Products Ltd., Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands. B75  7DF.

Telephone 0121 378 1684; E-Mail: info@johnsons-vet.com; Website : www.johnsons-vet.com

CSJ’s first four-part ‘A Way With Dogs’ competition aired online in 2016 gained a global following and was so popular that top UK and overseas sheepdog handlers have been queuing up to enter Series 2.

This year’s 15 competitors are sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats again as they negotiate the unique trial set in the beautiful landscape of North Wales and vie for the specially commissioned bronze trophy and the title of ‘A Way with Dogs’ Champion 2018. 

The stellar line includes ever popular Katy Cropper – in 1990 the first lady to win TV’s One Man and His Dog – plus renowned triallists:

Sergio Perello - Reserve English National Champion 2017

Toddy Lambe - International Supreme Champion 2004

Nigel Watkins – Reserve World Champion 2005

Torbjorn Jaran Knive – World Champion 2017

Angie Driscoll – Welsh National Champion 2017

Ricky Hutchinson – International Supreme Champion 2017

Mosse Magnusson – Scandinavian Champion 2009

Aled Owen – 2 x World Champion 2002, 2008

Neil Gillon – Scottish National Champion 2017

Derek Fisher – US National Reserve Champion 2017

Kevin Evans – 2 x International Supreme Champion

Michael Gallagher – International Supreme Champion 2010

Allistair Lyttle – Irish National Champion 2017

James McCloskey - 2 x Reserve Irish National Champion 2016, 2014

With hundreds of titles between them and long lists of accolades too many to list here visit https://csjk9blog.com/awaywithdogsseries2/meet-the-a-way-with-dogs-handlers/   to see just how tough the competition will be.

CSJ are delighted to have retained their presenters – Bryony Billson and sheepdog triallist, Mike Northwood for the trials which will be filmed to make 8 online programmes on CSJ Specialist Canine Feeds YouTube channel… CSJ’s founder and sheepdog triallist Ceri Rundle says, “I can’t imagine that there could be such a stunning gathering of handlers and dogs again.”

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

Jollyes, one of the UK’s leading pet retail groups with over 70 superstores and concessions across the country, has been sold to Kester Capital LLP , a mid-market private equity firm.

The company, founded in 1935, was advised on the sale by Cavendish Corporate Finance, the UK’s leading sell-side mid-market M&A firm.

Kester’s investment provides Jollyes with an opportunity to significantly expand its network of stores and its service offering to its customers.

Jollyes focuses on providing its loyal and growing customer base with pet products and services that combine great quality and value and over time has developed a very successful range of own brand products, including its K9 and Lifestage brands. 

In 2014, Jollyes launched an e-commerce website to develop its multi-channel offering.  It has also recently expanded its offering to customers to include grooming and veterinary services in store.

Nick Pollard, Shareholder of Jollyes, said: “The Cavendish team did an excellent job and provided expert advice throughout the transaction and most importantly ensured the deal crossed the line. I am pleased that Jollyes has passed into experienced hands and I truly believe the business has an exciting future ahead.”

Fiona McCormick, Director at Cavendish, said: “Jollyes has an established position in the pet market and benefits from a highly loyal customer base. The pet care market has proven to be extremely resilient and there is a clear market opportunity for Jollyes. The new partnership with Kester enables the company to build on this position and accelerate its growth.”

Jonathan Buxton, Partner at Cavendish Corporate Finance, said: “The Jollyes transaction shows that, despite the headlines, there is still considerable value in UK specialist ‘bricks and mortar’ retail, especially where, like Jollyes, there is proof of a strong consumer following.  It was a pleasure to work with Nick Pollard over the past few years and this preparation work was essential to the transaction achieved. 

“As well as building on our pet sector and retail experience, the Jollyes sale highlights Cavendish’s ability to develop creative Private Equity solutions to match our clients’ requirements.”

Three pet food suppliers are dominating the industry, but they're facing increased competition as consumer preferences change according to a leading analyst...

"There are signs that the leading pet food brands are not adapting fast enough to consumers' changing needs," said UBS analyst Pinar Ergun. "This leaves significant market share opportunity for challenger brands."

Full story, click here

PATS Sandown - which celebrated its 10^th show earlier this year - is entering an exciting new era with news that it will be moving to a new date in 2019. The two-day pet trade exhibition will now be held on Sunday, February 10^th, and Monday, February 11^th, again at Sandown Park, Surrey.

The new dates mean that PATS Sandown will be the first major pet exhibition of the year and avoids the busy March show period.

For the first time, PATS Sandown will be held on a Sunday and Monday, days of the week that have a proven track record of success for the Telford show.

PATS Sandown organiser Gordon Thomas said: “We are delighted to announce brand new show dates for PATS Sandown in 2019.

“After extensive research amongst our buyers, we are altering the open days to a Sunday and Monday. This will offer PATS exhibitors a broader range of visitors and align Sandown with the Telford open days.

“The new show dates will allow exhibitors to launch their new products to the trade at PATS Sandown, thereby making certain that retailers stock their products in time for consumers at Crufts. It will also avoid any clash with international shows.

“The new show dates are just one of our exciting initiatives to continually refresh PATS, which is The UK’s pet retail show brand.”

PATS Sandown has gone from strength to strength since the exhibition was launched in 2009.

With PATS Telford on course for another successful show later this year (September 23^rd-24^th), there are exciting times ahead for the UK’s number one pet trade event.

For all the latest information from PATS visit www.patshow.co.uk