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Computer giant Acer enters UK pet market
The team behind world-leading Acer computers has launched a revolutionary pet care product called Pawbo, a web camera which enables pet owners to interact with their animals even if they're not in the same room. The camera features two-way communication and even contains a treat dispenser...
Products that offer pet owners peace of mind, and increase their pets’ happiness and wellbeing, are without doubt bestsellers within the retail environment.
The growth of pets as family members has far outstripped expectation in recent years, leading to this ongoing trend within pet products – from organic foods to accessories that drive better quality of life building strong profitability for retailers. This year, retailers need to look no further for the ‘next big thing’: introducing the Pawbo - a revolutionary pet care innovation.
Created by the team behind world-leading Acer computers, the Pawbo packs a lot of technology into one sleek unit. Taking the concept of a web camera, the Pawbo offers so much more.
 The interactive camera features two-way communication, live games for direct pet/owner interaction, a treat dispenser, video/ imagery storage via DropBox as well as social media link-up routes, and multi-user compatibility.
All of this comes as a single robust product that is designed to withstand the inevitable wear and tear that unattended pets can create.
A spokesperson for Pawbo said: “No matter where we look, it has become clear that the role of a pet has changed greatly in recent years.
"Many cats and dogs are now viewed as a part of the family, and as such the annual expenditure on pet-related products – particularly those that focus on happiness and wellbeing – has risen significantly.
"We therefore felt that now was the perfect time to bring the Pawbo to the marketplace. Offering peace of mind, the product is set to revolutionise the lives of both pet owners and pets.”Not only does the Pawbo offer an unrivalled opportunity for pet owners, but it is also set to help retailers drive profits in the year ahead.
Each unit comes complete in compact packaging, that includes everything consumers need to set the unit up at home. This specially designed packaging means more unit per shelf, and ultimately more money in the tills.
Additionally, for e-commerce sites, the packaging is designed for easy and low cost shipment, keeping the profitable margin healthy.
The Pawbo team has also created some great video content that can be used to support sales in the retail environment whether in person or online. Demonstrating how the Pawbois used, the video is an eye catching and aspirational sales tool.
Add-on sales complete the Pawbo offering. A whole family of Pawbo interactive tools and accessories will shortly be made available, offering retailers a great opportunity for repeat sales and increased brand loyalty. At a glance to Pawbo - Treat dispensing camera designed for small dogs and cats
- 720P HD live video and 130° Wide-Angle Lens, supported by high-quality sound
- Allows up to eight users to chat with your pet through Pawbo at one time, with all users able to operate the interactive functions simultaneously
- Six built-in ringtones to attract your pet’s attention
- Built-in games for interacting with your pet, with the capability of extending functions via wireless connection
- Push-to-Talk function allows your pet to hear your voice at the touch of a button
- Via the Pawbo Life app users are able to to control multiple Pawbo devices and operate multiple Pawbo accessories
- The Pawbo Life app is also compatible with social media platforms, enabling users to instantly upload images of their pets
- Supports video storage via Dropbox, allowing a maximum 15 minutes of video recording.
To find out more about Pawbo please visit www.pawbo.com.
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Award-winning Scampers Natural Pet Store is supporting a Cambridgeshire police initiative in schools which aims to get pupils engaged with animals and their wellbeing.
Scampers will be funding the public liability insurance and publicity materials needed to be able to go into schools with the amazing animals owned and cared for by Police Community Support Officer Kat Deronal.
 Kat has a collection of over 40 snakes, spiders, and reptiles. She also keeps and cares for a large number of guinea pigs and domesticated rabbits.
This fabulous collection of animals are cared for and homed to the highest standard after years of passionate learning.
Sergeant Phil Priestley said: "We want to embrace every opportunity that we can to engage with young people. Animals reach people of all ages without personal boundaries, without prejudice, and even overcome the obstacles of language.
“For children with learning difficulties, behavioural difficulties or other disabilities, animal engagement is a huge advantage. We are incredibly lucky that PCSO Kat Deronal has this amazing collection of animals and such a wealth of knowledge to share.
“We're very grateful to Piers and Michelle Smart at Scampers, who are devoted to the ethical care of animals of all types. They are an ideal partner on this initiative and we couldn't fund it without their support.”
Piers, who got the chance to handle some of Kat’s animals including a snake, said: “I am so proud to be asked to help.”
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Dog treat bakery grows into thriving business
In the space of just four years conservationist Victoria Stent has built a thriving dog treat business called Four Legged Fancies. She tells Pet Trade Xtra how she has achieved so much so soon, and reveals her plans for future growth...
In the space of just four years conservationist Victoria Stent has built a thriving dog treat business called Four Legged Fancies. She tells Pet Trade Xtra how she has achieved so much so soon, and reveals her plans for future growth.
“In the early days I would trundle off to the local farmers’ market with freshly baked treats and goodies packed into the back of my boyfriend’s car,” says Victoria.
“Since then the business has grown tremendously and we now supply Pets at Home’s Barkers stores, and our treats have been seen on ITV's This Morning.”
“All of our treats are natural, wheat-free and handmade. What separates us from other dog bakeries is we put the time and effort into making things look beautiful.”
 What gave you the idea for the business?
My family have been puppy walkers for Guide dogs for the blind for over 35 years and we have helped train over 50 dogs for the charity. Some of my earliest memories are playing with little puppies and being surrounded by dogs. They have always been such a huge part of my life from the day I was born so it's been a natural progression for me to work with dogs in some way.
What's your background?
My background is actually in conservation. I have a Masters in 'Biodiversity Conservation' and before I set up Four Legged Fancies I was working with search dogs on the 'National bats and wind turbine project'. I was one of the researchers and would use my sniffer dog 'Ozzy' to find bat carcasses beneath wind turbines to monitor the effect wind farms had on bat populations. Before that I was working as a Safari Guide in South Africa.
How did you get the know-how to make nutritional treats for dogs?
I actually have a mini library of dog cooking books. I find the books are great for the basics but are sometimes a little boring so once you know what you can and can't put in treats then you can start to be creative.
Do you bake the treats yourself?
Every single biscuit, cake, pie, doughnut that comes out of our kitchen is hand made by me – and sometimes mother when she comes round.
Did you start baking them in your home kitchen?
Yes but I soon outgrew it. My partner would come home on his lunch-break and find me rolling out biscuits on the dining room table. He would also have to move his way round sacks of flour to go to bed. It got a bit ridiculous when he didn't know what he could or couldn't eat in the fridge. We have now moved house and I have a separate bakery. To be able to separate work and home life is vital and it has meant I am able to produce five times the amount I could before.
How many different products do you produce?
We have over 22 different types of biscuit, several different types of 'pupcakes', pies and doggy doughnuts. We also have a selection of many different doggy Birthday cakes including our 'party pack' which includes pass the parcel made with edible wrapping paper! We also produce a large range of seasonal treats and at Christmas time our range grows even more to include 'Magical marmite reindeer' biscuits and tons of hampers and gifts.
 The dog treats market is difficult to compete in, what makes your products so appealing?
Here at FLF we take the time to make things look beautiful. Yes there are other dog bakeries out there with perhaps better packaging but when you take that away all you are left with is a boring square biscuit. Many of these bakeries produce things by machine so they can only make plain shapes. We make things by hand so we can produce ridiculous shaped biscuits that are fun for owners and that really make beautiful and unique gifts such as our 'Lamb Terriers' or 'Chicken Labradors'.
What recognition have you gained for your unique approach?
I have won six separate trade stand awards at huge agricultural shows in the ‘best trade stand' category and have just received first prize from the USK agricultural show for best trade stand, beating over 520 other stalls. I have always made an effort with the way the products are made and presented as well as ensuring the stalls look beautiful. I know that the dogs may not appreciate the presentation and decoration that goes into each cake but people do and they enjoy visiting a stall that looks beautiful. I have been nominated and shortlisted for the 'best creative business' at the Bath Life awards and last year I was shortlisted for the 'best small business' at the Mendip business awards.
 What's your goal for the business?
So far our products are available in a number of stores, ranging from small farm shops and pet friendly hotels to Pets at Home in their boutique stores 'Barkers'. We have worked on bespoke Christmas biscuits for Dorwest Herbs and we also work with online retailers such as 'Pets Pyjamas' and are currently working with Amazon. I would like our products to be in many more stores across the UK and I would like to have another team that can visit the shows in the rest of the UK. So far we really only trade around the South West but we know there are thousands of dogs up and down the country that would like to taste our scrummy biscuits!
Would you call it a labour of love?
Absolutely, this business has totally consumed my life, I live and breath it. I love what I do and I have never had such job satisfaction. But it's certainly hard work – when you start your own business you will never 'clock off' again.
If you would like to contact Victoria email fourleggedfancies@gmail.com or visit www.fourleggedfancies.co.uk
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The founders of ethical dog grooming company HOWND have been named as finalists for a prestigious national business award.
Mark Hirschel and Jo Amit are one of a dozen entrepreneurs from across the UK have reached the final of BQ's first national ‘Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year’.
Hosted by the BBC's Mark Easton, the evening will see 12 entrepreneurs and their supporters from around the UK descend upon the Newcastle Gateshead Hilton for an evening of business inspiration.
“It’s an incredible feeling to make the final twelve. All of the finalists have special business ideas that have the power to change lives, so it’s an honour to be included,” explains Mark Hirschel, co-founder of HOWND.
“We’re thrilled to be representing the UK pet industry - and hope our commitment to innovative cruelty-free grooming products shines through.”
Amongst the finalists are a range of entrepreneurs who have disrupted their respective industries, including specialist digital companies, designers of safety devices and even manufacturers of emoji cushions.
BQ's managing director, Bryan Hoare, says: "We've never seen a more diverse set of finalists, which is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit which BQ is now seeing in spades across the UK.
"We have found individuals in this shortlist who have the potential to make a tangible difference to the business landscape, not only in their own companies but in their sectors and in the business community as a whole."
This year's emerging entrepreneur awards are being powered by Atom. The company’s CEO, Mark Mullen, will take to the stage to share his story of starting a digital bank to change the way people and businesses related to their money.
Atom’s managing director of business banking, Craig Iley, has this to say of the finalists: “We are proud to continue our support of the BQ National Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year campaign. We know what it takes to build, grow, and run a startup business.
“We hope this campaign will help celebrate and inspire entrepreneurship to make a positive impact on local, regional, and national economies. With such a strong shortlist for 2017, we’re really looking forward to following their successes on the night.”
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Multi award-winning manufacturer Evolution Aqua has expanded the PURE bacterial product portfolio with the launch of the PURE Aquarium Bomb.
Joining PURE Aquarium, the unique, clear, live bacteria gel balls used in aquariums, PURE Aquarium Bomb is a much larger single treatment dose of live nitrifying bacteria designed specifically at cycling new aquariums and making them ready for fish. It also rapidly combats water quality emergencies in new and established freshwater aquariums, when life threatening levels of ammonia and nitrite are detected.
Beneficial bacteria inside the filter can be lost through cleaning media under the tap, replacing mature media with new, or the use of medications. Increased fish numbers, uneaten food and dead, decaying fish can also lead to levels of ammonia and nitrite.
 One easy to use treatment
Simply place PURE Aquarium Bomb directly into the main aquarium or better still into a space within a biological filter. One Bomb should be used per 200 litre aquarium, and will even work with a full stocking of fish.
PURE Aquarium Bomb contains millions of live aerobic (oxygen consuming) bacteria. Use in conjunction with an airstone or strong aeration and surface agitation from a filter outlet or venturi. Always dechlorinate aquarium water before using this product.
Trade customers can order PURE Aquarium Bomb from their Key Account Manager or by calling head office on 01942 216 554.
RRP: £9.95
For more info go to www.evolutionaqua.com
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Health and wellness A-listers choose Pooch & Mutt
 
Health and wellness experts Ella Woodward and Jasmine Hemsley have revealed they both use Pooch & Mutt for their dogs as it supports their ethos that ‘good health starts with what we eat’ and that healthy living is for all...
A wellness revolution has swept through the nation, growing a desire in UK consumers for all things healthy and natural. The voice of food writers has never been so influential, and their message is now hitting mainstream media, advocating for change in our eating habits and lifestyle choices.
Health and wellness A-listers Ella Woodward (above left) and Jasmine Hemsley (above right) have been leading the way with their healthy recipes and talks on wellbeing.
They both spoke recently about using Pooch & Mutt for their dogs as it supports their ethos that ‘good health starts with what we eat’ and that healthy living is for all.Ella Woodward, known under the name of Deliciously Ella, is a big fan of Pooch & Mutt. Cast as the poster-girl of the wellness movement with a debut cookbook becoming the fastest-selling cookbook on record, she is also conscious what she feeds her cocker spaniel, Austin.
Ella has revealed she is a big fan of the grain-free functional ingredients in Pooch & Mutt’s products and is happy to find food for her dog that is ethical, natural and nutritious. Jasmine Hemsley, of the influential wellness brand Hemsely + Hemsley and best selling author and chef, also loves stocking up on Pooch & Mutt’s healthy food for her dogs.
Jasmine works with a rescue dog charity in India and adopted Arjuna and Bheema, eight-month old puppies who are now happy members of her family in the UK and fed Pooch & Mutt. For Guy Blaskey, the founder of Pooch & Mutt, the success of the company stems from its dedication to the cause.
“Our mission remains at the centre of all that we do; to produce food that is packed with natural, powerful active ingredients, helping dogs lead happy, healthy lives. We’re very proud to have the support of leaders in the wider health and wellness movement, the message is clear - healthy living really is for all,” he said.
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Collarways is launching Qwizl – the latest toy in West Paw Designs’ Zogoflex range – at PATS Sandown in March.Pet owners are looking for toys that prolong play while making tasty treats last longer. This challenge inspired the designers to create Qwizl, a durable and challenging dog toy that extends the life of treats such as dental chews but can also be used for all types of tasty morsels. A continuous interior hole allows treats to extend out Flexible inner ridges grip different size treats, and the toy’s durability withstands heavy chewers. It contains side openings to release scent and taste. All Zogoflex toys are made with an amazingly tough material that is buoyant and pliable, non-toxic, BPA and Phthalate free and FDA compliant. Zogoflex is a recyclable plastic composite which includes recycled plastic bottles, so whilst they look and feel like rubber toys, they’re not and that’s what makes them so durable. They float, can go in the dishwasher and come with a one-time refund or replacement guarantee against dog damage. Zogoflex is distributed in the UK by Collarways Limited www.collarways.com
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A man accused of murdering a pensioner in a pet shop more than 20 years ago, admitted the killing to a friend at the time, a court has heard.
Stuart Jenkins, 41, of Ossett in West Yorkshire, denies murdering Arthur Brumhill, 76, in Northampton in 1993.
Mr Brumhill was found dead in the basement of Denton's pet and garden shop. He had 26 injuries and his body had been covered in straw.
Mr Jenkins was arrested at the time but released because of a lack of evidence.
He was rearrested and charged in May 2015 after Northamptonshire Police reviewed the case.
Northampton Crown Court heard Mr Brumhill, a "gentle, timid" man was "brutally beaten to death" during a robbery at the shop where he worked on Wellingborough Road on 21 January 1993.
A worker found Mr Brumhill's body in the shop basement
He died from multiple injuries including skull fractures, and his body was found coated in straw the following morning by another member of staff.
Mr Jenkins, who was 17 at the time of the alleged killing, was questioned in connection with the murder in 1993 but jurors were told police took no further action as there was no forensic evidence linking him to the scene.
However, the former army sergeant was rearrested after his fingerprints were identified on a bag of straw found in the shop after the murder.
The court heard he had worked there for six weeks, but left as he "failed to impress his employer".
James House QC, prosecuting, told the jury Mr Jenkins admitted to a friend at the time that he had been involved in the killing but when he was re-arrested, told police it was "said in jest".
He also told his now ex-wife he had been responsible, but she dismissed it as a "foolish joke", Mr House said.
The trial continues.
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- 78% of owners say their pets are more loyal than their partner
- 86% would rather curl up on the sofa with their pet than their partner
- 90% more likely to buy a treat for their pet than their partner
Love might not have been in the air on Valentine’s Day this week as over three-quarters of pet owners say their four-legged friends are more loyal than their partners.
New research from PDSA Pet Insurance also found that owners value the unconditional devotion shown by pets over attention from their human partner. In fact, with a whopping 86 per cent of pet owners prefer to curl up on the sofa with their pet, rather than their other half.
Tina Sleigh, PDSA Pet Insurance Manager, said: “The loyalty and devotion that our pets show towards us is unwavering and it’s heart-warming to see so many owners want to repay some of that friendship to their pets; even though they might end up in their partner’s bad book!”
The survey^ also found that 90 per cent of owners were more likely to buy a treat for their pet than for their significant other.
The reciprocated love for their pets sees owners going to great lengths to keep them happy: three per cent of owners say they have even cancelled or changed their holiday plans because their pet was unwell.
Meanwhile, one-in-ten pet owners say that providing vet treatment has been their biggest commitment to their pet, sometimes shelling out thousands of pounds for treatment when their pet became seriously ill.
Tina added: “Nine-out-of-ten pet owners admit to buying treats for their pets and ten per cent say their pet’s health is their biggest commitment., But despite this we know that 65 per cent of cat owners and 43 per cent of dog owners haven’t insured their pet**. So I’d encourage anyone looking to treat their four-legged friend this Valentine’s Day to consider a pet insurance policy. It might not taste as good as a treat but it’s much better for them.”
PDSA’s Defaqto* 5 Star rated Pet Insurance offers four levels of cover and includes holiday cancellation cover as standard (limits apply). Sales of policies raise funds to help the charity’s vets and nurses to provide veterinary treatment for the most vulnerable pets in society.
For more information go to www.pdsa.org.uk/petinsurance.
^Research conducted via online poll 4–7 February 2017 by 249 pet owners
*Defaqto 5 Star Rating applies to our Plus and Premier policies only. Defaqto’s Star Ratings provide an independent assessment of the quality of financial products.
**Insurance data from the PDSA Animal Wellbeing Report 2016, produced in association with YouGov
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 Naturo Pet Foods has become an official supporter of the world’s largest dog show, Crufts, as part of a wider marketing drive to raise the brand’s profile across the UK.
The 2017 Crufts sponsorship allows Naturo to promote its range of 100% natural dog food with 60% high quality meat and no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives to thousands of breeders, exhibitors, dog loving visitors and television and streaming viewers who take part in the prestigious annual event.
Show branding, screen advertising and email and exhibitors’ mailing campaigns are all part of the supporter package as well as social media support and access to customer and exhibitor insight research. Naturo will also have a stand at the show enabling it to engage directly with visitors with exclusive offers, vouchers and treats.
Naturo’s decision to become a Crufts supporter is part of a wider UK-wide marketing drive for the brand which will see it having a strong presence at a number of other dog shows throughout the year.
Comments Claire Mc Cann, Naturo brand manager: “We’re delighted to become an official supporter of the world-renowned Crufts and we look forward to engaging with some of the thousands of dogs and their owners who will be visiting the show.
“Our sponsorship comes at a time when more and more pet owners are looking for more natural food choices for their pets and Naturo, with its 100% natural ingredients, 60% high quality meat and no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives, meets that need. Britain’s dog owners recognise this and we are already the fastest growing wet dog food in supermarkets. Our aim is to replicate that success across the whole of the industry, including in pet shops. Our marketing plans for 2017 support that ambition.”
Just last month the company revealed it had undertaken a £3 million investment in its plastic manufacturing facility in Moy, N. Ireland enabling it to more than double production of its quality, natural dog food.
A high level of care and attention is given to the manufacture of Naturo dog food throughout every stage; from sourcing raw materials to delivery to customers. The process is audited externally by the British Retail Consortium (BRC) and Naturo’s quality systems comply with the best as their “A grade” status confirms.
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Pets Choice launches new Webbox cat treats
Building upon the huge success of Webbox Tasty Sticks and Lick-e-Lix treats for cats, the leading UK pet food brand has launched Yum-e-Yums, a semi-moist meaty treat...
 Building upon the huge success of Webbox Tasty Sticks and Lick-e-Lix treats for cats, the leading UK pet food brand has launched Yum-e-Yums, a semi-moist meaty treat.
The new line of treats is a sugar-free recipe and contains added taurine, which aids in supporting healthy heart development and function.
Zoe Hardaker, product manager at Webbox, commented: “Our current treats are extremely popular with pet owners and their cats up and down the country and Yum-e-Yums are a great addition to the range. Yum-e-Yums are available in two flavours, Salmon and Cheese and we’re certain that the nation’s cats will love these meaty treats.”
The treats come in a 40g resealable pack and are available in printed SRPs with an RRP of £1.00.
Yum-e-Yums are available to order now with the Pets Choice sales team on 01254 54545.
For further information on Pets Choice, please visit www.petschoice.co.uk.
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The new King British Product Guide provides retailers with a comprehensive guide to the company's extensive range.
It also lists handy ‘go-to’ product data, training opportunities and marketing support such as in-store material and online digital support.
A spokesperson said: "We have carried out extensive research, into developing nutritionally advanced formulas with optimum vitamin levels and amino acid profiles. Our sophisticated delivery formats (such as stabilised Vitamin C) ensure that King British foods are ideal for feeding continuously to ensure healthy, colourful and active fish.
"All King British fish foods are made using only the finest ingredients, such as hydrolysed fish protein (as supposed to fishmeal). Enzymatic hydrolysis is used in the processing of the fish protein. This increases protein digestibility, therefore increasing the amount of protein available to the fish and reducing the amount of waste produced. This ensures good water quality, which is so vital in maintaining fish health.
"Unique, only to King British, is our Immuno Health Booster (IHB). IHB is an ‘immunomodulator’ and a major breakthrough in nutritional science. It regulates the immune system, producing immunostimulants as well as suppressing them when necessary, helping to avoid auto-immune diseases or infections. This naturally helps fish to reduce stress to optimise their health and longevity. IHB is suitable for all coldwater, tropical and marine fish that will eat prepared dry food.
"All King British flake foods and some of our specialist foods contain IHB including King British Goldfish Flake, King British Tropical Flake and King British Cichlid Flake, King British Cichlid Sticks and King British Algae Wafers. In trials, 97% of fish keepers reported improvements in vitality, general health or an inclination to breed after feeding with King British flake foods.
"To complement our King British fish foods, our water treatments and medicines, will provide all types of fish keeper; from the first timer to the hobbyist, with a fully comprehensive range to ensure that they maintain healthy, happy fish.
"King British Safe Home is a single application treatment which has been specially formulated to aid fish health during times of stress. Stressful situations include being netted, travelling, exposure to poor water quality, introduction to a new environment and water changes.
"King British offer aquatic retailers a neat and compact safe home station for use in-store, which comes complete with King British Safe Home and King British Fish Bags, allowing your customers to take their new fish home with the peace of mind that they will travel safely and be introduce to their new environment without stress."
If you would like to request a King British Product Guide call 0333 0066236 or visit kingbritish.co.uk.
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Brewdog, Scotland's largest craft brewer, is now giving employees a week's paid holiday to look after a new dog.
It allows staff to make sure their four-legged friend gets comfortable in its new home without being left alone for long periods of time.
Once the week is over, the company encourages staff to bring their dogs with them to work.
Brewdog co-founder, James Watt, hopes the initiative reflects the company's commitment to a great benefit scheme, as well as a love of dogs.
"It's not easy trying to juggle work and settle a new dog into your life, and many members of our crew have four-legged friends at home," Watt said in a statement.
"So we wanted to take the stress out of the situation and let our teams take the time they need to welcome their new puppy or dog into their family.
"We always want to raise the bar when it comes to offering our staff the best possible benefits; at BrewDog, we care about two things above all else. People and beer. We also just really really like dogs."
The company's Aberdeen HQ currently has around 50 office dogs, but this new bonus will be available to all BrewDog employees around the world, including the brewery's new base in Columbus, Ohio.
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