Online retailer Petplanet.co.uk has announced it would be continuing to operate as normal and that all orders would be fulfilled despite news that administrators had been called in.

The announcement on its website stated: “Petplanet.co.uk is now operated by 12Paws Limited, following a recent business transition. The new ownership is focused on strengthening the business for the future – including improving stock availability and building stronger supplier partnerships over the coming months.

“We remain committed to providing a reliable service and supporting you and your pets every step of the way.”

The Gazette – the official public record – revealed that James Stephen and Kiri Holland of BDO UK were appointed as joint administrators to the business.

Newspaper reports claimed the business, set up in 1999, had suffered a cyber-attack last year, which left the firm with “no future”.

However, in its business update this week, the online retailer stated: “We remain committed to providing a reliable service and supporting you and your pets every step of the way.

“If you have any questions about your order or the business, please don't hesitate to get in touch – we're always happy to help.

“Our team is continuing to process and support all customer orders. Couriers are collecting six days a week from our warehouse.

“We aim to handle all customer queries, including returns and refunds, as smoothly as possible.”

The announcement added that the new owner 12Paws Limited was focussed on continuing the business and building a strong, reliable service for customers.