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.

Nutriment has launched a new portfolio of innovative raw pet food solutions called Nutriment Nuggets, which are available in five varieties – Chicken, Lamb, Beef, Puppy (mixed protein) and Senior (mixed protein).

Featuring high-quality ingredients, these handy sized 20g individual nuggets are easy to portion and quick to defrost.

Each variety is raw, grain-free, filler-free, and composed of a minimum 84% high-quality meat, complemented by vegetables and superfoods such as broccoli, pumpkin, blueberries, salmon oil and kelp. The Senior variety also includes joint-friendly ingredients such as green lipped mussel for supporting optimal joint and bone health in ageing dogs.

With many years of market expertise and customer insight, Nutriment has introduced this range to their portfolio to provide yet further convenience for time- and effort-conscious pet owners. All pet owners need to do is portion out the number of nuggets required, defrost and serve, to deliver first-class nutrition for their pets in a delicious format.

Nutriment Nuggets were first announced to the market at PATS UK in September of this year, where UK pet supplies specialist, Cookes Pet Supplies, were thoroughly impressed with the new products. 

“We’ve been looking for a wider choice of nugget for some time, in response to consumer feedback we’ve received. We saw Nutriment Nuggets at PATS and just loved them,” commented Andrew Cooke, Managing Director of Cookes Pet Supplies. “We review all products before we approve them for sale in our stores and the quality of these nuggets in particular was superb. It’s great to be able to give our customers an alternative nugget format following excellent recipes with superfoods.”

“We’ve known for some time that the market was looking for an alternative brand of nuggets. This range is superb quality; the best I’ve seen in frozen raw feeding. It gives the retailer and the consumer some choice in this unique and well-liked format, I’m delighted they are now available to the Pet Trade, and that we were able to launch with Cookes in Sheffield,” commented Peter Roy, UK Managing Director of The Nutriment Company. 

“The team at The Nutriment Company are all ‘pet people’: we understand the pet market and look to support it with innovation. Getting the support of such a well-known independent pet specialist at launch has been very exciting for us.”

The launch of Nutriment Nuggets follows the successful launch of Nutriment’s Gentle Steamed range earlier this year. Gently Steamed is a 7-product range of high-quality, natural, balanced, shelf-stable meals, which do not require freezing and are simply stored in the fridge once opened. Nutriment’s commitment to create solutions to customer pain-points is unwavering and this is evident in its product development strategy over the last 24 months.

Nutriment Nuggets are available now. Speak to your Nutriment contact for more information on pricing, support and POS materials – and explore Nutriment’s portfolio of recipes today at www.nutriment.co.uk.

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.

Leading preventative supplement brand Nature's Zest is expanding into the world of pets, launching four brand new products for cats.

After establishing as a market leader in human natural preventative care, Nature's Zest is launching a Nature's Pet range, and its first four products are aimed at helping to alleviate common feline ailments.

The family-run business launched after spotting that many natural supplements for people did not work, and inspired to create products which would have a real benefit for buyers Nature's Zest was born.

And the same brand values have been applied to the new feline range, which consists of Flexi Paws For Cats (£33.95), LiverEase (£49.95), UTICalm (£33.95) and Renal Relief (£49.95).

Jason Layton, of Nature's Zest/ Nature's Pet, said: "We are so excited to be launching these feline products, and we are confident that our new animal clients will see the same lasting benefits that Nature's Zest customers are enjoying.

"Our brand is all about making natural products that really work, and we take these values very seriously, we can't wait to hear from all of new happy cat customers in the future."

FlexiPaws for cats is a unique vet-strength formula designed to keep your feline friend active and comfortable.
The product is packed with premium ingredients like Green Lipped Mussel, Glucosamine, Hyaluronic Acid, Manganese, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Calcium, FlexiPaws billed as a go-to solution for supporting joint structure, mobility, and overall well-being.

LiverEase for Cats is an advanced liver care supplement which is sold as a 120ml liquid.
This new product gives cats a liver health boost, which is designed to help support healthy liver function in cats and keep your feline friend active and comfortable.
The product is packed with premium ingredients like Milk Thistle, Lecithin, Vitamin B5, B1, B2 and B6, B12 and Alpha Lipoic Acid to naturally maintain healthy liver function.
It is available in a liver and bacon flavour liquid for easy administration.

UTICalm for Cats is an advanced UTI care supplement for cats.
The product is a professionally formulated, vet-strength supplement designed to support a healthy urinary system and promote overall comfort and vitality.
This advanced formula features premium ingredients such as N-Acetyl D-Glucosamine, Hyaluronic Acid, L-Tryptophan, and L-Theanine, working synergistically to naturally maintain and support optimal urinary health. For ease of administration, UTICalm comes in a palatable liver-flavoured sprinkle capsule, ensuring a stress-free experience for both you and your cat.

RenalRelief for Cats is an advanced UTI care supplement for cats.
RenalRelief is a specialised urinary support supplement designed to support and maintain optimal kidney health in cats of all ages. This advanced formulation features a blend of premium, high-quality ingredients renowned for their supportive and detoxifying properties. These ingredients work synergistically to support healthy kidney function, enhance detoxification processes, and support your cat’s long-term health and overall well-being.

To find out more about the new products go to https://natureszestnutrition.com/collections/pet-health

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

Nestlé Purina Petcare Europe has launched Fine Cuts in Gelée, a new cat food in its Gourmet Revelations range. The combination of transparent jelly and finely diced tender cuts is the first of its kind for Purina. 

It comes in 57 gram pots in three varieties – with Chicken, with Salmon and with White Fish – and in multipack pack sizes of two, four and 48 pots.

Following years of development, Fine Cuts in Gelée builds on the success of the Gourmet Revelations range. It was developed with the insights of a behavioural study into the impact of the product shape, conducted by Purina scientists, which suggested that the jelly pyramid shape could encourage the full range of natural wide bite/lick-bite/lick/chew behaviours.

The jelly-based cat food features finely diced tender cuts with salmon, chicken or white fish within. Many consumers describe their cats as mousse, gravy or jelly lovers, so with this new texture, the Gourmet Revelations range is now able to provide exquisite mealtimes to a wider range of feline connoisseurs! The product is designed for owners who are increasingly looking to bond with their feline companions and want to feed them visibly appealing and delectable food, whilst also being convenient to serve.

The Gourmet Revelations range has been developed to provide an elegant collection of cat foods through its unique patented pyramid packaging pot design and super premium proposition. The ‘easy release’ design of packaging pots enables an easy serve and the food retains its pyramid shape as it is released from the pot, meaning there is no need to use cutlery or clean up spills whilst serving. Starting with its breakthrough product in 2021, Gourmet Revelations Mousse with Cascading Gravy, the range is perfectly shaped for an exquisite serving experience and is made with high-quality ingredients - an exquisite meal for feline foodies who enjoy a daily delight.

Rossana Regalia, European Marketing Manager for GOURMET, said: “Owners actively seek ways to show love and affection towards their cats - seeing them admire and savour their food is a crucial part of that. We’ve undertaken extensive research to develop a product which is perfectly shaped to create the ultimate feline foodie ritual. In addition, our patented packaging design is truly unique in the category and helps to offer a premium serve, elevating the serving experience for pet owners who want to pamper their feline companions.”

The new product is being rolled out across various European markets including Italy, France, UK, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, Poland, Portugal, Ireland, Belgium, Netherlands, Austria, Czech Republic, Greece and Malta.

The Zoomark 2025 ticket office is finally open. This leading pet industry event is the place to catch up with all the international trends, scope out innovations in the sector and interface with more than 1,500 exhibitors from all over the world.

Zoomark takes place in Bologna, Italy, on Monday 5th and Tuesday 6th May from 9am to 6pm, and Wednesday 7th May from 9am to 5pm.

The exhibition is the ideal opportunity to connect with the leading players in the international pet industry. During the three-day show you will be able to attend seminars and conferences completely free of charge, featuring industry experts primed to share the latest innovations and crucial insights to keep you up to date with market trends. Our events calendar will be online soon!

This year the programme includes a host of unmissable new events, many of which will take place directly on the four new stages set up in Halls 16, 19, 25 and 28 of Zoomark.

Everything will kick off with our customary inaugural Conference on 5th May, presenting the Assalco-Zoomark Report, and continue with our round tables, a chance to hear directly from industry experts, as well as a series of conferences exploring emerging markets and data from the latest research on pet owners and retailers.

Brand new this year: live grooming demonstrations during the shows by On Hair, and key insights into sustainable packaging and international innovation, courtesy of the Carta e Grafici Federation, and the Masterclass on start-ups by Annamaria Tartaglia. 

The packed schedule includes numerous events by exhibitors and our media partners, and will round off with the much-awaited Pet Awards.

Themed pathways

Zoomark 2025 extends to 10 halls - a surface area of 90,000 square metres - to offer an even more complete overview of the pet market. 

To help you connect with exhibitors and make the most of your time at Zoomark, we have created three pathways to guide you towards your areas of interest:

• Italian Style: explore the design excellence, superlative quality, innovation and creativity that characterise the finest Italian-made products for pets.
• Greenmark: discover the companies prioritising sustainability, offering eco-friendly solutions for the pet industry, with a commitment to green manufacturing practices and promoting a greener future.
• Tech for Future: meet the exhibitors at the forefront of technological progress and explore the cutting-edge ideas and innovations that are shaping the future of the industry.

An immersive experience

Zoomark 2025 is in a class of its own, offering an authentic immersive experience! This year, for the first time, we will be presenting five special themed areas that offer unique opportunities designed to respond to the specific interests of the industry professionals in attendance, from Pet Vision – featuring the brand new products launched by our exhibitors, showcasing the trends taking the market by storm –  to Factory, devoted to the supply chain; the high-end world of Atelier; high-tech start-ups at NEXT 5.0, and the latest innovations in the aquarium sector at Aqua Project, making Zoomark a truly stand-out event.

• Atelier: this area is devoted to premium products in pet fashion, design, grooming and food, offering everything from accessories and clothing crafted with the utmost attention to detail, to gourmet foods made using the highest quality ingredients: the very best in terms of style and nutrition.
• Factory: the hub for innovation and quality in the pet industry supply chain. This area will showcase the advanced, sustainable solutions that are shaping the future of manufacturing, offering new perspectives for a sector that is increasingly attentive to the environment and efficiency.
• Next 5.0: an unmissable overview of new start-ups, with a focus on technology, innovation and the latest trends in pet tech. A unique opportunity to explore the future of the pet industry.
• Pet Vision: our iconic space dedicated to brand new products and services. See all the best new launches right here at Zoomark.
• Aqua Project: the aquarium and terrarium industry presents state-of-the-art tanks, fish food and high-tech accessories.

International Buyers Program

If you are looking to level up your show experience, apply to join the International Buyers Program, an exclusive opportunity offered by Zoomark 2025 that puts you in direct contact with exhibitors to scope out the industry's premium solutions. The programme offers access to the lounge area, where you can count on a range of exclusive services and have the opportunity to interface with the industry's key players in a reserved area. 

For more information: www.zoomark.it

London Pet Show Live is an all-pet consumer event coming to the capital, proudly supported by UK’s No 1 award-winning pet insurer Petplan.

Petplan will be the headline supporter of this one-of-a-kind show, joining many of the world’s best-known pet brands at a newly refurbished London Olympia for the UK’s largest consumer pet show.

The iconic exhibition halls and location will have just undergone a £1.3 billion redevelopment when thousands of pet lovers arrive for an exciting weekend of pet-focused fun and activity.

London Pet Show Live opens at Olympia, London on the 20th and 21st September 2025 to combine an engaging, family-focused mix of pet-related retail opportunities, as well as animal shows and performances, dog demonstrations in the Dog Activity Arena and have-a-go events and competitions. 

There will also be plenty of opportunities to meet a wide range of different popular pets, including dogs, cats, small furries, reptiles, indoor birds, and fish…in amazing aquariums.

Visitors will be entertained and also educated on all things pet-related, with live exciting and informative talks taking place throughout the weekend, alongside interactive workshops from the UK’s leading celebrity animal experts and specialists. 

Bella Von Mesterhazy, Pet Trading Director at Petplan, said: “We are very excited to be part of London Pet Show Live, as it’s a fantastic new opportunity to bring pet lovers to one big, fun, educational show. Our expert team will be helping visitors understand what to look for when choosing pet insurance and will be on hand to answer questions. We also look forward to seeing many of our customers during the event and welcoming them to our exclusive access Customer Lounge where we will have lots of treats and surprises in store! “

For more information about London Pet Show Live email sales@eliteevents.live

BOOK NOW for 15% EARLY-BIRD TICKET DISCOUNT: https://londonpetshowlive.com/

YDOLO is harnessing the power of the ‘shroom’ to revolutionise canine diets. The superior quality dog food, which uses 100% natural ingredients, is turning the spotlight on the health benefits of medicinal mushrooms, as featured in its Wild Fish and Duck recipes.

They include shiitake and cordyceps mushrooms valued in traditional medicine for centuries for their health-boosting properties. Considered ‘superfoods’, they offer a range of shared benefits, supporting immunity, organ health, and overall vitality.

Key benefits of these mushrooms include:

• Immune system support: packed with compounds like beta-glucans, zinc, and selenium, they strengthen immune defences, helping dogs combat illness and inflammation.
• Enhanced energy and stamina: by improving oxygen utilisation and lung function, they support active dogs and boost energy levels.
• Rich in antioxidants: neutralise harmful free radicals to protect cells from oxidative stress and promote healthy ageing.
• Skin, coat, and joint health: nutrients like selenium and zinc promote a shiny coat, healthy skin, and support collagen production for joint health.
• Organ protection: help shield vital organs like the liver and kidneys from oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting long-term health.
• Heart and gut health: reduce blood pressure, improve digestion, and support overall metabolic function.

Said Gary Gilmore, owner of YDOLO UK and Ireland: “At YDOLO, we’re dedicated to bringing the very best of nature to your dog’s bowl. By including medicinal mushrooms in our Wild Fish and Duck formulas, we’re highlighting their transformative benefits and redefining what premium dog nutrition looks like.

“Mushrooms have become a ‘go to’ supplement for dogs but like all things, you can have too much of a good thing. Including safe amounts within a complete food takes away this worry for dog owners. There’s no measuring or having to add extras to the bowl, it’s all there within the recommended daily measures that you give your dogs for their meals.”

These carefully crafted recipes combine high-quality, single source proteins with fruit and vegetables in a 75/25 mix for a balanced, nutrient-rich diet for dogs of all breeds and life stages. Every ingredient is sustainably sourced and rigorously tested for quality and safety.

It undergoes a unique production process. The food is not extruded like most kibble but slow-cooked at low temperatures, then pressed – resulting in a softer, highly palatable food.

For more information on how to become a YDOLO stockist visit www.ydolo.co.uk or email info@ydolo.co.uk

WildWash has announced the ‘How Grooming Can Save Lives’ initiative, which celebrates the life-changing power of grooming, especially for rescue dogs. 

Through this campaign, WildWash highlights the crucial role that grooming plays in improving the health and wellbeing of dogs, particularly those in need.

As part of this initiative, WildWash is recognising its ‘Top Contributors’ – groomers, salons, and retailers who purchase 50 or more bottles of WildWash’s Charity Dog Shampoo and Conditioner. This product is specially designed to support dogs in need, with £1 from every bottle sold donated directly to All Dogs Matter, a charity dedicated to rescuing and rehoming abandoned dogs across the UK.

‘Top Contributors’ enjoy exclusive promotions and will be featured on WildWash’s website and social media platforms, gaining recognition for their commitment to providing high-quality, natural grooming solutions and supporting a charitable cause.

How Groomers and Salons Can Get Involved:

• Become a Top Contributor: Purchase 50 or more bottles of WildWash’s Charity Dog Shampoo and Conditioner and receive exclusive promotions.
• Get Featured: Top Contributors will be showcased on WildWash’s website and social media, highlighting their support for both great grooming and a great cause.
• Raise Awareness: Share the message that grooming can save lives and encourage clients to make a difference by supporting All Dogs Matter.

WildWash has also created the hashtag #washforachange to help raise awareness. Groomers and salons are invited to share their involvement on Instagram, amplifying the message of how grooming can help transform lives. You can become a Top Contributor by contacting info@wildwash.co.uk or find out more at: www.wildwash.co.uk/charity-dog-shampoo.

The Innocent Hound is excited to announce the launch of its brand-new online ordering platform, designed exclusively for trade customers. This new system simplifies the ordering process, allowing retailers to easily browse and purchase their premium air-dried food and treats.

This initiative aims to enhance convenience for independent pet retailers, making it easier than ever to stock high-quality, air-dried treats that customers love. With a simple and intuitive interface and streamlined checkout process, trade customers can now place bulk orders efficiently, at a time to suit them. 

“We wanted to create a seamless ordering experience for our valued retail partners,” said Chloe Heaton, Founder of The Innocent Hound. “We’ve listened to our retailers, and they said they want to be able to order easily, quickly and conveniently. We think they’ll be very happy with the new system, and can’t wait for even more pet owners to discover air-dried through independent retailers.”

Retailers can access the new platform at www.innocentpetcare.co.uk and register for an account now.

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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 closure of one of Britain's oldest department stores due to recent tax rises signals a "devastating new chapter" for Britain's high streets, the country's leading retail body has warned.

Beales, a 143-year-old retail institution that opened its doors in Bournemouth in 1881, has announced the closure of its final remaining store in Poole's Dolphin Centre by the end of May, blaming increased tax burdens introduced in last October's Budget for making the business unviable.

Jeff Moody (pictured), Commercial Director of the British Independent Retailers Association (Bira), said: "We are deeply saddened to learn of Beales' closure. This is not just the loss of another shop – it represents the end of a retail institution that has served communities for nearly one and a half centuries. This closure starkly illustrates the devastating impact that recent tax increases are having on our retail sector."

The closure announcement follows the October 2024 Budget, which introduced significant increases in employers' National Insurance contributions from 13.5 per cent to 15 per cent, alongside a rise in the minimum wage to £12.21 per hour for workers aged 21 and over.

Tony Brown, Beales' chief executive, confirmed that these tax rises, combined with the uncertainty of future increases, have made the business "unviable". The closure will be managed to ensure no suppliers face financial losses, though it marks the end of an era for British retail.

Bira, which represents 6,000 independent traders across the UK, has warned that this closure could be the first of many as retailers struggle with mounting costs.

Recent Bira survey data shows that 46% of retailers reported worse trading conditions in early 2024 compared to the previous year, with confidence levels remaining low for the second quarter.

Mr Moody added: "The closure of Beales is, tragically, unlikely to be an isolated incident. With the reduction in business rates relief from 75% to 40% set for April 2025, alongside these other tax increases, many of our members are facing impossible decisions about their future. This is a critical moment for British retail, and we urgently need policy makers to recognise the devastating impact their decisions are having on our high streets."

Bira is currently in discussions with government departments to address the impact of these changes and develop a fairer business rates structure.

New research from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) pandemic puppies research programme has highlighted the negative impact of problem behaviours in young adult dogs on the strength of the owner-dog relationship.

These findings can be used to support interventions targeted at supporting owners of dogs with problem behaviours. Reducing or preventing unwanted behaviours in dogs could improve owner-dog relationships, enhance dog welfare and even prevent relinquishment or euthanasia. The boom in acquiring puppies during the COVID-19 pandemic (the so-called Pandemic Puppy phenomenon) led to welfare concerns for this cohort of dogs.

These concerns include the impulsive purchase of puppies to homes that may not be appropriate in the long-term, increased production of puppies from poor welfare sources and restricted early-life experiences and socialisation for puppies that would lead to problem behaviours. Combined, these changes were feared to weaken owner-dog relationships and increase future relinquishment in this uniquely vulnerable Pandemic Puppy generation.As part of the RVC’s response to these welfare concerns, the ‘Pandemic Puppies’ longitudinal study explored the strength and threats to the owner-dog relationship – a key component to ensuring sustained dog ownership and care.

The emotional relationship between an owner and their dog is widely recognised to affect the wellbeing of both the dog and the human. This RVC research team set out to identify what factors were associated with weakened owner-dog relationships in UK dogs acquired during the key Pandemic phase of 2020. This information would deepen the understanding of owner-dog dynamics and in turn, can help develop processes and tools to support owners experiencing poor relationships with their dogs and to mitigate against relinquishment and even euthanasia.The outcomes are also helpful for advising future puppy buyers on key risks to avoid that might endanger them building a strong and long-lasting relationship with their dog.

The study – published in PLOS One – included data from 794 dog owners within Pandemic Puppies who shared information when their dog reached 21 months of age. Different facets of the owner-dog relationship were investigated by analysing the scores from two Monash Dog-Owner Relationship Scale (MDORS) subscales: Perceived Emotional Closeness, or how much companionship, attachment and love owners felt towards their dogs; and Perceived Costs, or how burdened owners felt by dog ownership (including time, emotion, effort as well as financial costs). Risk factors such as health, behaviour and acquisition-related variables were also analysed for their link to these two relationship scores assessing emotional closeness and the burden of dog ownership.

Some of the key findings included:

• Owners who reported their dog had problem behaviours considered dog ownership to carry a higher burden than owners who were satisfied with their dog’s behaviour.
• Owners who reported their dog showed multiple types of aggression felt less emotionally close to their dog than owners whose dogs did not show aggression.
• Owners who used mainly reward-based training methods with their dog felt more emotionally close to their dogs than owners who used punishment-based training methods (e.g., things their dog found unpleasant such as shouting, pushing and smacking).
• Owners who bought puppies specifically because of the pandemic now felt that these puppies were a higher burden that owners who had already planned for a puppy even before the pandemic.

Dr Bree Merritt, PhD student at the RVC, and lead author of the study said: “Relationships with our dogs can be immensely rewarding, but it’s not all fun and games. Looking after them can be hard work, expensive or even change day-to-day activities. When the owner-dog relationship goes wrong, the wellbeing of the dog and owner can be affected.

“Problem behaviours have the biggest influence on the burden of dog ownership felt by our Pandemic Puppy owners. This is after pandemic-related factors such as lack of training and socialisation opportunities were taken into account, so problem behaviours are likely to be a much wider concern beyond just those dogs who were brought home during the pandemic.

“These results show how important it is to find evidence-based help for problem behaviour to improve the emotional health of dogs, their owners and sustain their relationship. Owners who are struggling with problem behaviour in their dog should contact their vet who can look for any underlying physical problems, and refer them to an accredited behaviourist.”

Dr Rowena Packer, Senior Lecturer in Companion Animal Behaviour and Welfare Scientist at the RVC, and senior author of the study said: “Impulsive acquisition of dogs based on short-term circumstances is an enduring challenge for the canine welfare sector. Here, we demonstrate that puppy purchases that were a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic, such as having increased time for a dog during this atypical period, resulted in owners who felt a greater burden of dog ownership by the time their puppy was a young adult, compared to owners whose purchases were planned based on longer-term circumstances.

"UK campaigns have long encouraged owners to consider their ability to care for a dog for the duration of its lifetime at acquisition. However, if the efficacy of these messages remains limited, greater interventions may be needed to emphasise the responsibilities of dog ownership, ideally prior to purchase. As seen in some European countries, this could include compulsory courses as a deterrent to impulsive and uninformed acquisitions, which could also act as a vehicle to increase awareness of the legal obligations of dog ownership.”

Dr Dan O’Neill, Associate Professor in Companion Animal Epidemiology at the RVC, and co-author of the study said: “Acquiring a new dog is often one of the most exciting moments of our lives. This wonderful new research from RVC now gives us the keys to ensuring this happiness for us and our dog can only get stronger with time. Spend months or years planning how and where to get your new and well-socialised dog and follow this with patient and positive training: it may not be rocket science but it is very good dog welfare science.”

The co-founders of pet health brand Omni – Dr Guy Sandelowsky and Shiv Sivakumar – appeared on BBC One’s hit programme Dragons’ Den last night (Thursday) and won a £75,000 investment.

They secured the investment in exchange for two-and-a-half percent of their business from Dragons Deborah Meaden and Steven Bartlett.

The business which makes sustainable pet food and supplements has witnessed impressive growth since launching four years ago.

If you missed the episode of Dragons' Den you can view it on BBC iPlayer by clicking here.

The Nutriment Company (TNC), which bought British firms The Dogs Butcher and Your Pet Nutrition earlier this year, has made its third acquisition of 2025 with the purchase of Spanish raw pet food brand Puromenu.

The acquisition by Europe’s leader in premium natural pet food highlights the company's commitment to entering strategic, high-growth regions. 

Puromenu has experienced rapid growth in recent years, driven by its highly innovative product offering, which includes gently cooked fresh meats, raw patties and sausages, as well as treats, chews and supplements for dogs and cats. The range also features the use of vegetable ferments and probiotics to improve digestibility and palatability, setting a new standard in pet nutrition.

Each Puromenu product is made from 100% natural ingredients and meets the National Research Council (NRC) nutritional standard. The recipes are nutritionally balanced, with muscle meat as the main ingredient and contain no by-products, meat meals, grains or synthetic additives.

The acquisition of Puromenu reinforces TNC's strategic focus on providing high quality, natural pet food solutions while expanding its presence in high growth markets. Joining forces with TNC will broaden the product offering and provide a one-stop-shop for large and small retailers who will now get access to more TNC products in one single shipment.

Magda Kayali and Raúl Zamorano, founders of Puromenu, said: “Since founding Puromenu in 2014, our goal has always been to set new standards in pet nutrition and create the best, biologically appropriate food for cats and dogs to live healthier, happier lives. Joining forces with The Nutriment Company feels like a natural next step in our journey. TNC shares our vision for pet nutrition, and together we can strengthen our impact in the market and continue to push the boundaries of what pets deserve in their diet.”

Anders Kristiansen, CEO of The Nutriment Company, stated: "Magda, Raúl and the team at Puromenu are a fantastic addition to The Nutriment Company. Already from our first conversation it was apparent that we think and act the same way, and I am thus confident that we can together replicate TNC's broader European success on the Iberian Peninsula.”

Meatly becomes the first company in the world to supply cultivated meat for pet food on sale. Produced in collaboration with plant-based dog food brand THE PACK, a limited-release of “Chick Bites” is on sale at Pets at Home Brentford, London from tomorrow (Friday 7th February).

Chick Bites combine plant-based ingredients with Meatly Chicken, to provide a nutritious, healthy and sustainable alternative to traditional dog treats. Pets can enjoy the same great-tasting meat they crave, but in a way which is kinder for animals and better for the planet. Meatly plans to raise additional funds to expand production and make Meatly Chicken more broadly available in the next 3-5 years, with further collaborations planned with THE PACK and Pets at Home.

Pets at Home – one of the largest investors in Meatly – is the first retailer to sell pet food made from cultivated meat globally, aligning with its ambition to make pet food more sustainable by making and selling products using less carbon, land, and water.

To produce Meatly Chicken a single sample of cells was taken from one chicken egg, from which enough cultivated meat can be produced to feed pets forever. Meatly Chicken is just as tasty and nutritious as traditional chicken breast, containing all the essential amino acids, critical fatty acids, minerals and vitamins needed for pet health.

Owen Ensor, Founding CEO of Meatly, said: “We’re incredibly excited to introduce cultivated meat to the pet world. Just two years ago this felt like a moon shot. Today we take off. It’s a giant leap forward – toward a significant market for meat which is healthy, sustainable and kind to our planet and other animals. We’re proud to work alongside fellow pioneers Pets at Home and THE PACK for this momentous endeavor.

It’s also a day to celebrate our incredible team at Meatly. Despite only raising 1% of total European cultivated meat investment, we are the first company to sell cultivated meat in both the UK and EU. At Meatly, we’re proving the potential of cultivated meat, and that there is an efficient and cost-effective route to market.

And we’re just getting started. Next we’ll scale our production and make products more widely available to consumers.”

Anja Madsen, Chief Operating Officer, Pets at Home said:

“At Pets at Home, we’re guided by our purpose to create a better world for pets and the people who love them, and that includes looking after our planet. We’re also always looking to the future of pet care, and to make sure we’re developing and providing the products that matter to our customers. This mindset is best demonstrated by our investment in Meatly. We are thrilled to be working with Owen and the team to provide cultivated meat pet food products to our customers for the first time in the world.

“This innovation has the potential to significantly reduce the environmental impact of pet food and will be a game-changer for the industry.”

Damien Clarkson, CEO and Co-Founder of THE PACK said:

“The launch of our Chick Bites treats is a watershed moment for the pet food industry. Cultivated meat offers a tasty, low-carbon, and healthy protein source, which has the potential to eliminate farmed animals from the pet food industry.

“Our mission at THE PACK is to develop highly nutritious products that dogs love, and we are delighted to partner with Meatly and Pets at Home on this world’s first. For us this is a continuation of our work in developing high-quality alternative protein products for all dog lovers.”

Pooch & Mutt has acquired BIOME9, a company renowned for its personalised gut health testing and science-backed supplement plans for dogs. 

This strategic move reinforces Pooch & Mutt’s commitment to improving the customer experience and delivering holistic solutions that help dogs of all needs and breeds lead happy, healthy lives.

Vafo’s acquisition of Pooch & Mutt in 2020 has enabled the brand to expand its presence in the UK. With Vafo’s support and backing, Pooch & Mutt has further strengthened its innovation strategy by acquiring BIOME9, ensuring it stays at the forefront of the pet health food market. 

Founded in 2023 by James Cox, founder of consumer specialist Stonebridge (Simba Sleep, Revolut, Castore, Townhouse etc), BIOME9 has gained a loyal customer base through its unrivalled gut health check service and supplement plans. With pioneering cutting-edge science, research and AI, BIOME9 deep-dives into dogs’ microbiomes, identifies gaps, and offers personalised support strategies to combat the effects of modern lifestyles. 

By leveraging BIOME9’s expertise, Pooch & Mutt can now provide more precise, science-driven recommendations tailored to each dog’s unique microbiome. This will align with its mission to provide pets with what they genuinely need while strengthening the company’s position in the pet nutrition space.

“We’ve always believed in giving pets what they genuinely need, because we genuinely care and BIOME9 is going to help us achieve a better understanding of exactly what that is”, says Paul Dennison, CEO of Pooch & Mutt. “The acquisition of BIOME9 allows us to expand our offerings with products that perfectly complement our existing portfolio and we will be positioned better to give our customers tailored advice as well as products that ensure dogs' health needs are supported allowing them to thrive.”

BIOME9’s team and operations will integrate smoothly into Pooch & Mutt, ensuring continued excellence and innovation in pet nutrition. The company will continue innovating in pet gut health science to enhance pet well-being.

“I am incredibly proud of the work our team has done to establish BIOME9 as the market-leading microbiome analysis platform, delivering proven, tangible health benefits for dogs. With the canine microbiome facing unprecedented challenges, our mission has always been to develop advanced solutions to address this emerging crisis.” says James Cox, Founder of BIOME9. “We believe Vafo Group’s passion for pet wellbeing, global reach, and significant resources make them the ideal partner to bring BIOME9 to the worldwide audience it deserves. We look forward to seeing how our innovation will continue to improve the lives of pets around the globe under Vafo’s stewardship.”

The acquisition underscores Pooch & Mutt’s ongoing commitment to delivering products that dog owners can trust. As the demand for knowledge and expertise behind gut health continues to grow, Pooch & Mutt is well-positioned to lead the way.

At PATS in 2023 DotDotPet launched Eco Dog Towels and since then this product has proven to be hugely successful; winning two industry awards, continually receiving positive reviews online, being viewed over 5 million times on TikTok and drying over 30,000 paws! 

The Eco Dog Towels are perfect for all of life’s muddy adventures, DotDotPet are launching Mini Eco Dog Towels which are perfect for all mini adventures. 

DotDotPet will be at Crufts this year in Hall 1 Stand 30 where they plan on launching the Mini Eco Towels to the market.

Mini Eco Towels come in a box of 10 with the towels measuring 30cm x 30cm, making them perfect for when you only need to deal with wet paws, mucky chops, cleaning sensitive areas or dealing with a dribbling dog! The towels are made from the same high quality, natural, biodegradable material as the original. 

The box is lightweight and with a retail price of £4.99 it makes them the perfect addition to any basket, as what pet parent doesn’t have to deal with a clean up on a daily basis.

Harry Chapman general director of DotDotPet says ‘We have been blown away by the success of the Eco Towels and wanted to develop the Minis for smaller dogs and for when pet parents only need to dry wet paws or wipe mucky or dribbly faces. We have also made the packaging more eye catching for pet owners to make the product stand out on shelf’

For more information about DotDotPet or the Mini Eco Towels please contact DotDotPet at hello@dotdotpet.com or visit their website www.dotdotpet.com