An award-winning pet store has installed a specially-designed ‘mega’ freezer called the ‘Beast’ to cope with the growing demand for raw food.  And Devon-based Redpaw Pet Supplies is already reaping the benefits with increased sales.

Owner Sammie Hunt told Pet Trade Xtra: “After Redpaw won the PIF Independent Retailer of the Year, I wanted to do something to push and grow my business even more.

“With customer demand for raw food increasing every week, I spoke to Cold Store Rentals, who I already had a walk in freezer with, about building something that would fit these customers’ demands along with my storage requirements.

“They came up with a brilliant design. Our freezer is 6m x 2.4m x 2.4m which is called the ‘Redpaw Beast’ but CSR can do whatever the retailer needs and can suit individual budgets. 

“For Redpaw it means we can have more products on display and allow customers to easily see our huge choice. It has given our shop a fresh modern look, which many customers have already said they love.

“Moving with the times and keeping up with what customers like, has led to increased sales, as well happy customers and happy pets.“

Cold Store Rentals Ltd/Misa UK CSG Ltd said the company is excited to bring to the raw pet food industry the latest in glass fronted point of sale cold storage. 

“The glass fronted units are available in both a chiller and freezer option and come complete with gravity fed shelving and LED lighting,” said a spokesperson.

“Combined with additional storage at the rear, this allows for great stock holding and rotation, as well as an improved customer experience, and boosted sales. 

“The units start in a 3 glass fronted door option, and can be purpose built to any size, to meet the growing needs of the booming industry. 

“We offer flexible rental terms complete with peace-of-mind service and maintenance.”

Cold Storage Rentals will be showcasing one of its units at PATS Telford in September, but if you would like any more information or to arrange a visit from one of the team, get in touch on ‪0800 1223308 or email info@misaukcsg.co.uk.

Pampered pooches are enjoying everything but a dog’s life….with canine treats sales literally going through the kennel roof...!

The Barking Bakery Limited based in Kirkham, UK is the only manufacturer of low calorie pawlicking doggylicious woofins, birthday and occasion cakes, cheesy biscuits and flavoured popcorn for dogs..and is reporting major increase in sales with woofins and pawty cakes for dogs more than doubling compared with sales last year.

“There is a definite rise in trend towards upmarket and bespoke treats” explained founder and managing director of The Barking Bakery Michelle Turnbull…”This may be a valentines cake or personalised birthday or pawsome iced woofins and even flavoured popcorn….all made from human grade ingredients whilst being doggy friendly…these are all my  best sellers.  Owners love to treat their dogs Michelle added “and as a society we are becoming increasingly aware of giving them the right treats……

The Barking Bakery was set up in 2012 by Michelle and her pet pooch Spot….after much research and testing, she launched onto the high street in 2014 and now supplies numerous pet shops, garden centers across the country….Booths ,Ocado supermarkets and Pets at Home stores are to name just a few.

The Company is going from strength to strength, and we really need more stockists throughout Europe as people see our doggylicous treats often whilst on holiday and then get disappointed when they cannot buy them locally when they get home.  

We are actively looking for wholesalers throughout Europe to join our selected distribution group.  Michelle is meeting prospective distributors  whilst visiting  Zoomark Bologna, if you are interested in hearing more about The Barking Bakery please email michelle@thebarkingbakery.co.uk or contact our office direct +44 1772 671911 to secure a meeting with Michelle whilst she is at the show.

The largest number of UK pet product suppliers and manufacturers are heading off to Bologna in Italy to exhibit as part of the British group organised by the PetQuip export association at Zoomark.

New product innovations will be displayed across most areas of the pet sector.  Pet foods and treats take high priority in the list of exhibits with new veterinary formulated varieties, tinned and wetfoods, grain-free natural dog foods, locally sourced fish treats, new bones with human grade flavouring, gluten-free sausages, new dental ranges of dry foods and meat-free and vegan chews. Two unusual and innovative products are new lickable frozen yoghurts for dogs and ostrich based dog treats.  Included in other pet product sectors are the latest chicken coop accessories, de-stress and calming sprays and wipes, shampoos and balms, cat and dog repellents and aquarium products.

For the benefit of visiting buyers, PetQuip is also organising and manning a British pet product industry information stand (Hall 26, Stand B37) and will be offering a free UK product sourcing service to overseas buyers.

The British group includes the following companies:

Benevo Vegan Pet Foods (Hall 26, Stand B19) is exhibiting Pawtato Ocean Treats: environmentally conscious chews that are not only entirely meat-free and vegan, but are made with sustainably-farmed spirulina, wakame and kelp seaweeds.  Packed in biodegradable bags, these fun sea animal-shaped dog chews are delicious as well as environmentally friendly.  An excellent hypoallergenic treat, they are grain-free, wheat-free and soya-free, with the additional bonus of being low in fat content.  Each purchase of Pawtato Ocean Treats will result in a donation from Pawtato towards ocean conservation projects.

GET OFF – Blumen International Ltd (Hall 26, Stand C36) is launching its new Natural range of products that are based on natural ingredients to care for a pet’s home environment.  The range includes seeds that allow pet owners to grow their own herbal additive for small animals and birds as well as a selection of natural dog calming products.  The company is also launching its new look GET OFF cat and dog repellent range.  New lifestyle labelling portrays how the product can relate to pets.

Broadreach Nature (Hall 26, Stand B31) is launching a new daily digestive support food for dogs, puppies, cats and kittens.  There will also be new digestive treats and specialist veterinary- formulated Fibiotic-Pro, which is a Probiotic Fibre Blend for daily use. It helps to support and maintain a healthy digestive system for dogs, cats, rabbits and guinea pigs.  The company is interested in meeting with distributors, wholesalers and retailers, and there will be a number of special show offers available.

Canagan, Piccolo and Symply Pet Foods (Hall 26, Stand B11-C16) is a UK specialist in grain-free dog food and is expanding its Dental range of dry food, which is specifically aimed at improving dental health.  Launched late in 2018, Canagan Dental for Dogs was the first recipe from the company to include the clinically effective ingredient ProDen PlaqueOff®, which helps to reduce plaque naturally.  Following the successful launch, Canagan has added Canagan Dental for Small Breed Dogs and also Canagan Dental for Cats.

Cath Kidston (Hall 26, Stand B25) is the latest licensed collaboration for Pet Brands, the UK designer and manufacturer of accessories and treats for pets and wild birds.  The launch of the Cath Kidston brand into stores will be in autumn/winter 2019 and will include bedding, apparel, feeding and other items. The range features exclusive Cath Kidston prints and utilises strong Cath Kidston logo placement for key brand representation. The company is seeking key retailers to stock the range globally.

ChickenGuard (Hall 26, Stand C24-C26) is the manufacturer of one of the world’s most innovative chicken coop door openers.  The company is showing its newly launched Locking Door Kit that is compatible with all versions of the ChickenGuard door opener.  The locking door’s innovative self-locking mechanism provides greater protection against predators as well as providing peace of mind and additional free time for chicken owners.  With 10 million chicken owners in Europe, ChickenGuard is leading the way in helping to keep their chickens safe.  

Company of Animals (Hall 25, Stand C73-B74) are the training and behaviour experts behind the bestselling Halti, Baskerville, Pet-Corrector and PetHead products.

Eden Holistic Pet Foods (Hall 26, Stand B35) is showing a range of foods and treats for dogs and cats.  They include an air-dried range of treats with 70 per cent meat content. The treats contain an Eden Health Pack to support digestive, joint and dental health.  There is also a wet food range for cats and dogs that focuses on high-meat content and superfood herbs and vegetables. Also on show is a supplement range that brings together modern-day supplements and herbal remedies in the form of digestive support, joint support and skin and coat formulas.

Forthglade (Hall 26, Stand C35) is showcasing its award-winning Complete Grain-Free wet range of natural pet food.  Included in the range is a new sardine recipe that contains sweet potato and vegetables.  Containing 75 per cent quality meats, vitamins and minerals, the nutritionally balanced monoprotein complete meals are all a dog requires for optimum health.  A new 150g complete grain-free range is also being launched at Zoomark.  The new cold pressed grain-free natural dry dog food is available in 1kg, 2.5kg and 6kg packs.

Frozzys – Lickable Frozen Yogurt for Dogs (Hall 26, Stand B29) is exhibiting a new lickable frozen yogurt that is a healthy and nutritious treat for dogs. The treats are low in calories, low in fat and lactose free.  They provide natural health benefits, as the primary ingredient is milk to provide calcium for the support of healthy teeth and bones.  The Frozzys® lickable Frozen Yogurt is enriched with essential vitamins, minerals and prebiotic fibre to boost its nutritional benefits.  The product is available in five flavours – original, cranberry, strawberry, blueberry and peach. 

Hero Pet Brands (Hall 25, Stand B69) produce simple, yet highly-effective care and hygiene solutions for dogs and cats.

Hugo Kamishi (Hall 26, Stand C18) is showing its designer aquarium products that include ornaments, fish tanks and accessories that change with the seasons and allow new colours and themes to be experimented with throughout the year.  The range includes a wide selection of imitation plants made from a selection of materials, including coloured and natural gravels, decorative stones and ornaments.

Interpet Ltd (Hall 26, Stand B78); since 1955, Nylabone has made the world's best chew toys.

JR Pet Products (Hall 26, Stand C11) is showing its 100 per cent natural range of innovative dog treats, including a new Ostrich range.  The treats are naturally rich in nutrients, hypoallergenic, very high in protein and have less than three per cent fat.  The range of ostrich products are shaped to represent bones, crisps, spaghetti, braided tendon, kebabs and biltong.

Law Print & Packaging Management Ltd (Hall 26, Stand A73): Innovative and sustainable packaging solutions to the pet food industry.

Lily’s Kitchen (Hall 26, Stand C17) is showing its new ‘Woofbrush’ expert dental chew that is made with natural ingredients.  Thanks to its clever spongey texture, the chew gets down to the gumline to wipe away plaque, and it is all due to ingredients like parsley, coconut oil and fennel.  Woofbrush has been carefully crafted with help from the company’s pet dental expert to make sure that it works efficiently, but also tastes delicious.

Little Big Paw (Hall 26, Stand B23) is a multi award- winning brand and is launching a new range of dry cat foods and also wet multipacks.  The company is well placed to meet the increasing consumer demand for premium quality, natural, grain free, hypoallergenic cat foods.  The new lines include a delicious range of complete dry foods for kitten, adult and senior cats and two new variety packs of wet food.  Little BigPaw is now one of the fastest growing brands in the pet industry and was awarded The Queen’s Award for Enterprise.  All packaging now proudly carries the Queen’s emblem.   The growing range includes tinned food for dogs, wet food for small dogs, oven baked treats as well as the new wet multipacks and complete dry food for cats.  Little BigPaw is distributed internationally and works with leading UK wholesalers.

Meatiful (Hall 26, Stand C34) is displaying its range of hypoallergenic and gluten-free products including healthy and tasty sausages.  The vet-approved recipes contain single source proteins with 80 per cent fresh meat and are available in several mouth-watering varieties.  New to the range are two sausage varieties, turkey and white fish, as well as brand new oven-baked kibble and a delicious range of meaty treats.

Mr Johnsons / Dog Gone Fishin’ (Hall 26, Stand C20) is showing its Dog Gone Fishin’ range of dog treats that are made in Cornwall in the South West of England.  The treats contain nutritious tasty fish that has been sourced to ensure that only quality fish and ingredients go into the manufacture.  They contain naturally occurring Omega 3.  There are four categories consisting of bakes, crunchies, crunchies plus and dried fish.

Nutriment Ltd (Hall 26, Stand C31) is exhibiting its new Support range of raw food products for dogs.  There are five items in the range: Light, Low Purine and Phosphorus, Liver, Kidney and Recover.  All of the foods are low in fat and highly digestible and their recipes are specially designed to provide nutritional support for ongoing health concerns that are more prevalent in today’s dogs.  Each meal is manufactured by hand with care and animal health and happiness in mind.

PATS 2019 and AQUA 2019 (Hall 26, Stand C33) is promoting its trade exhibitions for the pet and aquatic sectors.  PATS is the UK’s only pet trade event and its two annual editions will take place at The Telford International Centre UK from 22 to 23 September 2019 and Sandown Park from 9 to 10 March 2020.  AQUA 2019 is the UK’s water gardening and aquatics trade event due to take place at the Telford International Centre from 16 to 17 October 2019.

Pet Remedy (Hall 26, B17) is exhibiting its clinically proven, natural de-stress and calming products that are designed to help all pets in stressful situations such as when moving to a new home, travelling, training, separation, bonding, party season and  grooming.  Valerian based, the products bring instant results and work with the pet’s own natural calming mechanisms. The new range includes a plug diffuser, calming spray and wipes, an atomiser and a calming bandana.  Pet Remedy is one of the UK’s best selling calming brands and is available worldwide.

PetQuip (Hall 26, Stand B37) is the International Trade Association of Pet Equipment Suppliers. The PetQuip team assists and promotes the development of international trade in the pet equipment sector, providing a catalyst for business contact between manufacturers, suppliers and international buyers around the world.  As part of its free UK pet product sourcing service to overseas buyers, PetQuip has published the PetQuip Buyers’ Guide, which includes a directory of members’ product ranges, and copies will be available to all buyers visiting the PetQuip stand.

Podium Pet Products (Hall 26, Stand C32) is exhibiting its selection of 100 per cent natural shampoo bars, balms, candles and coat oils for pets, including a number of vegan options.  The company, which is well recognised internationally for bringing innovative pet products to the market, will be providing free samples to every visitor to the stand.

Scruffs Luxury Pet Bedding (Hall 25, Stand B96-C97): manufacture luxury bedding and accessories for dogs and cats.

Simply2 Pet Products (Hall 26, Stand C27) is showing its ranges of non-slip backed fleece bedding, including a new charcoal with pink and white paws design that is both stylish and practical.  The bedding is hygienic, non-irritant and non-allergenic.  The non-slip latex ribbed backing allows free drainage and prevents movement on slippery surfaces.  Machine washable up to 40°, the bedding can be cool tumble-dried.  A large range of sizes and colours is available.

TastyBone (Hall 26, Stand B33) is showing its wide range of bones that are made from 100 per cent virgin nylon and have been tested on the most vigorous of chewers.  Using human grade flavouring, TastyBones are infused to the core, meaning they stay tasty for longer.  New additions to the range include the TastyBrush, available in two fresh new flavours, and the Flexi range designed especially for puppies, soft chewers and senior dogs.  There is also a Natural range with two authentic shapes designed as a safe and super-tough alternative to the real thing.

Tribal Pet Foods (Hall 26, Stand C23) is showing its clean, wholesome and natural, super premium dog and cat food that consists of fresh meats, with no meat meal.  The company also offers cold-pressed dog food and hand baked dog treats with superfood ingredients that are designed to keep pets healthy and nourished.  Newly launched at Zoomark are extensions to the company’s range of popular cold-pressed dog food, including a small breed variety, a new range of cold-pressed cat food and 80 per cent single-source meat sausage for dogs.

Yakers Himalayan Dog Chews (Hall 26, Stand C30) is exhibiting its dog chews and crunchy snacks that are made from the finest Himalayan yak milk.  Using traditional methods, the handmade YAKERS are 100 per cent natural, rich in protein, preservative and gluten free.  YAKERS help fight plaque and tartar, so they are great for a dog’s dental hygiene.  The Chews are available in small, medium and large sizes.

Companies wishing to learn more about the comprehensive range of services offered by PetQuip to British manufacturers and exporters of petcare products should contact the association on: 01959 565995; e-mail: info@petquip.com  or visit the PetQuip website on www.petquip.com

Company of Animals will be launching its new and improved Baskerville Ultra Muzzle at Zoomark.

The innovative new design incorporates new features to improve ease for the user and dog comfort, whilst retaining the product promise of safety first.

The new Ultra Muzzle allows dogs to pant freely, drink and receive treats, and features a clip-on neck strap for quick fitting and removal of the muzzle. The clip design also has an optional lock, and this, together with a detachable head strap, reinforces the brands reputation for combining security with animal welfare, whilst offering dog owners and trainers extra peace of mind.

To make the muzzle lightweight and even more comfortable for the dog, metal components have been removed, whilst the clever design of the head strap fitting is curved to match the shape of a dog’s head. 

Dr Roger Mugford states: “Muzzles are an extremely useful accessory in the re-training of difficult to manage or over boisterous dogs, and can be extremely beneficial to use whilst they undergo behaviour therapy and training, helping to give these dogs a second chance.”

The new Baskerville Ultra delivers a kind, yet effective muzzle solution, which is perfect for a host of activities, from safely socialising reactive dogs or introducing new dogs into a family, right through to taking dogs on public transport, to the vet or groomer. The Ultra is renowned for its highly effective muzzle basket, made from specially designed Thermo Plastic Rubber, which is incredibly strong. One of the unique properties of this material is that it can be shaped in warm water to offer a tailored fit for each dog, whilst maintaining its durability and strength.

The launch of the new and improved product reflects the high global growth Company of Animals is witnessing in its Baskerville Muzzle range. 

Paul Nolan, CEO, said: “The view that muzzles are only for aggressive dogs is changing and we are seeing increased interest in our muzzles from dog owners, groomers and trainers alike, with people now recognising the many uses and benefits of the product.”

The new Baskerville Ultra Muzzle is available to the trade now and features the Company of Animals new look packaging and easy to follow user instructions.

For more information on Company of Animals please visit www.companyofanimals.com

The UK’s number one pet trade shows – PATS Telford and PATS Sandown – are set to have a strong international presence with a growing number of pet buyers and exhibitors from around the world expected to attend the shows.

In a further move to create more interest with international buyers, the PATS team will be travelling to Bolognia in Italy this weekend to exhibit in the British Pavilion at Zoomark.

“Our primary aim for exhibiting at international shows is to meet, talk to and encourage international retailers and distributors to come to PATS, both in Telford and Sandown,” said Gordon Thomas, of Impact Exhibitions, organisers of PATS.

“We will also be working with PetQuip on the PATS International Buyers’ Programme, identifying key European pet product buyers and inviting them to visit PATS Telford.

“This programme has been successfully running for three years and at previous PATS exhibitions we’ve attracted buyers from 15 countries, including Germany, Spain, Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark and Switzerland.

“All buyers on the programme take part in the PetQuip ‘Meet the Buyer’ sessions, which take place at the International Buyers’ Centre at PATS Telford.”

With its proximity to both Birmingham and Manchester airports, Telford International Centre – the home of PATS in September – is an ideal location for international visitors.

“UK pet products are very popular and representatives from international pet companies can see the advantage of meeting up with British suppliers all under one roof,” added Gordon.

“They agree that PATS is the perfect venue to discover what’s new in the market for the year ahead, and an ideal opportunity to talk to UK-based manufacturers and suppliers.’

Visitors to PATS Telford under the International Buyers’ Programme will also receive an invitation to the prestigious PetQuip Awards gala dinner, taking place on the evening of Sunday, 22^nd September.

PATS Telford 2019 and PATS Sandown 2020 are shaping up to be highly successful shows. With five months still to go, more than 130 companies have already booked their stand space for the Autumn showpiece, while PATS Sandown is two-thirds full as 80 exhibitors have confirmed their place at the Spring event.

A full list of exhibitors can be found on the PATS website www.patshow.co.uk where visitors can also register to attend for free.

Dates for your diary:
PATS Telford - 22-23 September 2019

PATS Sandown - 9-10 February 2020

Podium Pet Products is attending Zoomark which takes place from Monday 6 to Thursday 9 May 2019 in Bologna. The attendance reflects the company's broader ambition and commitment to growth within international pet markets.

"We at Podium Pet Products would like to demonstrate our emphasise and commitment to the pet care sector in Europe. We have ambitious line extensions and new products to show case and of course are delighted to be in Bologna," said CEO Carina Evans.

Dog Rocks remains the flagship brand for Podium Pet Products whose growing EU portfolio includes: 

• Dog Rocks – 100% natural prevention & cure to pet urine burn marks on grass, shrubs & hedging.  Sold through Podium Pet Products in Europe & North America.
• Cosmetics for Pets – A range of natural cosmetics for pets including shampoo bars, dry shampoos, balms, oils, creams and candles
• Torus Water Bowl - A travel friendly watering system that auto refills and filters water without the need for batteries or power and comes in 1L or 2L variants.  Sold through Podium Pet Products in Europe.
• PetproBio – A natural prebiotic supplement for your pet’s overall health and wellbeing.
  Sold through Podium Pet Products in Europe.
• Pet Angel - Stylish antibacterial grooming tools for all pets designed & produced by Royal and Celebrity hairdresser Richard Ward.  Sold through Podium Pet Products in Europe.
• Non-Tip Feeder – Safe, durable and stackable feeding solution for your horse.  Sold through Podium Pet Products in Europe.

The company has experienced a rapid change in a short time and continue to grow having won a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade. 

Podium Pet Products is owned by three ex GB athletes who have transferred their skills from sport to business; Andrew Hine and Nick Evans having represented GB during their careers playing International Polo and Carina Evans having represented GB as a World Cup Skeleton athlete.

For more details about their products visit www.podiumpetproducts.com

Fish4Dogs celebrated a new trading partnership in the United Arab Emirates in fine style by hosting a  ‘discovery event’ at the elite Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club.

The premium pet food company, together with Arab Land Trading, played host to more than 80 guests from pet retail outlets and veterinary centres far and wide.

The event outlined an extensive range of treats and complete foods available for both dogs and cats, examined how fish appeals to pet palates and why it is the perfect protein for health and nutrition.

Arab Land Trading  is run by husband and wife team Farah Al Khojai and Fareed Belalcazar who set up their business in 2001. It acts as a wholesale distributor to retailers and veterinary centres in the UAE and Gulf states and focuses on natural and nutritious pet foods to support pet health and wellbeing.

The couple also runs a retail chain, Pets Delight, and an e-commerce platform.

Pet ownership in the UAE is on the increase especially among ex-pat residents who are keen to purchase premium pet products.
 
Samantha Randle, UK and International Sales Manager for Fish4Dogs, said that she was delighted to welcome Arab Land Trading as a Fish4Dogs distributor.
 
“I have worked with Farah and Fareed previously and know Arab Land Trading to be a very reputable business which has pet welfare at the heart of everything it does. The UAE has a strong ex-pat community who may already be familiar with the Fish4Dogs brand so we predict that it will become a firm favourite with its customers.”
 
Samantha led the presentation for the discovery event which provided a networking opportunity for attendees – many of which had travelled from the nation’s capital Abu Dhabi. It was followed by a reception at which goody bags were distributed.

Said ALT owner Fareed Belalcazar: "We are constantly listening to the feedback from our customers in the UAE, and were receiving more and more requests for a fish-based line of products from customers who have pets with allergies or intolerances that make a fish diet the best choice. Fish4dogs fills this gap in the market with its vast range of complete foods and treats for cats and dogs.

"Fish4Dogs is a reputable brand across the world, which makes it popular with our expat customers, and we are delighted to welcome it into our portfolio."

For trade account information visit: www.fish4dogstrade.co.uk

Pictured (left to right): Alexandra Berry, Emma Kay-Flowers, Sarah Fowler, Fareed Belalcazar, Samantha Randle, Samantha Frost.

Innovative UK pet products, including items from Pet Rebellion and Henry Wag, are becoming the stars of a new day-time BBC1 TV series called ‘The Customer Is Always Right’.

There have already been six episodes of the show, presented by Lucy Alexander of 'Houses Under The Hammer' fame, and pet products have featured in three of them.

And still to come are the Car Seat Carpet from Pet Rebellion and the Noodle Glove Dog Drying Towel from Henry Wag.

In each show some of Britain’s best entrepreneurs are seen putting their precious products to the customer test. Customers unbox, test and score the products to find a winner of each show.

Pet Rebellion sales director Tommy Weedon said: “We filmed here at our HQ in Pewsey and I then flew up to Glasgow to film in the studios. It’s a great new series with a Gogglebox/Dragons Den theme on innovative products.”

Tommy and the company’s Car Seat Carpet will be featured in the show’s 11^th episode, which is due to be aired at 10.45 am on BBC 1, Monday, May 6^th.

Meanwhile, the Henry Wag Noodle Glove Dog Drying Towel will be presented by Grant Rogers, managing director of 3P Enterprise at 11am on Friday (May 3^rd).

The Henry Wag Noodle Dog Towel was created by Grant, to overcome the wet and dirt which is a feature of rural dog ownership. The highly absorbent microfibre towel features gloved ends for greater control of the dog and the towel during drying. During the TV show, the product was tested for use on dogs and humans, in a range of real life scenarios, and judged for price, innovation, design and usability.

During the making of the show the TV film crew visited Grant at his home in the beautiful Wye Valley to understand the story behind the creation of the product.

“Living in the country presents its own challenges for dog owners. Dirt and water are a fact of life and can be a barrier to regular exercise,” commented Grant.“ I set out to create a range of products to remove these barriers so enabling regular exercise for dogs and owners and the building of closer relationships.”

There has been at least one winning pet product on the new BBC1 day-time hit show 'The Customer Is Always Right'. Find out by tuning into BBC iplayer...

Episode 1:

Rollabowl – Andrew Hibbert, Easypets.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0004hbt/the-customer-is-always-right-series-1-episode-1

Episode 3

GPS cat tracking device – Jeremy Price, Pawtrack

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0004j90/the-customer-is-always-right-series-1-episode-3

Episode 6

Innovative dog lead – Jen Ives, Grippy Leads

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0004psx/the-customer-is-always-right-series-1-episode-6

The Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association is urging people to refuse to accept prize live fish at fairs and is calling on local authorities to support its position that fish should not be given away in this way at places like fairgrounds.

As the fair season approaches, the UK trade body which represents the tropical fish industry is asking local authorities to check the terms of any licences issued to these businesses to make sure they comply with animal welfare standards.

OATA does not condone the use of live fish such as goldfish as prizes at places like fairs, says its Chief Executive Dominic Whitmee.

“Fish are like any other pet and should never be taken on as an impulse, such as winning it from a fairground stall,” said Dominic.

“Fish are vertebrate animals which means they have the same protection from cruelty as other animals like dogs and cats. As the season for these forms of travelling entertainment starts to gear up we would ask local authorities to use their powers to prevent fish from being given away as prizes to an unprepared public.

“More importantly we would urge the public to refuse these fish if offered them as a prize because that may be the best way to stop this unsuitable practice for good.

“We know that in the past winning fish in this way may have been an introduction to the great hobby of fishkeeping but the world moves on. Goldfish are great for those with big tanks or garden ponds but they live for a long time so they are quite a commitment to take on. Winning one at a fair is not the right way to take on a fish which can live for 20 years if well looked after.

“There are plenty of beautiful and better ‘first’ fish to be found in a proper fish shop where you’ll also get expert advice and a helping hand to create a welcoming and properly matured tank ready to take on your new pets, which a prize fish won at a fair certainly won’t get.

“We feel strongly that anyone offering fish to the public should at least meet the conditions applied by the local council to pet shops in that area, such as stocking, holding and water quality criteria. We cannot see how these conditions can be achieved in a fairground situation so would urge local authorities to use what powers they have to stop this practice continuing in their area.”

The full position statement from OATA can be found on its website at http://www.ornamentalfish.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Fish-as-prizes-apr-2015.pdf

Chuckit! has teamed up with specialist canine photographer, Emma Bearman to judge the entries of this year’s Chuckit! Challenge competition, as well sharing her top pho-dog-graphy tips to help owners capture a winning shot.

With 24% of us now sharing more pictures of our fur-pal online than of friends or family, according to Rover.com, the Chuckit! Challenge gives owners the chance to win a dog-friendly holiday from Forest Holidays by posting their proudest pic on the Chuckit! Twitter or Facebook page.

As the owner of social media pup-star Alfie Bear, boasting an impressive following of 29,000 fans, head judge Emma knows a thing or two about what makes a super snap.

She said: “I’m incredibly excited to be judging this year's Chuckit! Challenge, there is nothing I love more than seeing dogs having fun – action shots are definitely my favourite, I will be looking for happy dogs enjoying their playtime.”

So, whether your pup is camera shy or loves being centre stage, check out Emma’s top five tips to help capture your fur-pals best angle.

1. Get down low

When it comes to taking the perfect picture, the lower you can get to take the photo the better! Yes, you are probably going to get wet and muddy, but the results are definitely going to be worth it. Just being down at your dog’s level will significantly improve your photographs.

2. Focus on eye contact

For me this is the most important part, your dog’s eyes should always be in focus. The eyes are always what draws you in to an image, it doesn’t matter if it’s a portrait or action shot, focusing on the eyes is a must.

3. Pick the perfect lighting

This may be a surprise to you, but I always prefer to shoot on a cloudy a day, you will find that the colours will be lovely and soft. Most people think that a bright sunny day is ideal, but the harsh light can create dark shadows which can really limit your photography.

4. Have fun together

There is nothing your dog loves more than having fun with you, and this will really show in your photographs. Taking photos should be one big game, their face will say it all.

5. Reward your fur-pal

It’s always a lot easier to photograph a dog that wants to work with you, keep your photo sessions short and sweet and always reward them for posing for the camera - this could be with treats or chasing their favourite Chuckit! ball.

With the opportunity to win big, the Chuckit! Challenge competition gives pet parents the chance to win a £1,000 dog-friendly holiday by Forest Holidays by showing off their pho-dog-graphy skills. Dog owners will have until the summer to submit their entries.

To enter all they need to do is post their pups most impressive action shots with their favourite Chuckit! toys to the brand’s Facebook and Twitter pages, using the hashtag #ChuckitChallenge2019. From there, entries will be judged by a snap-tastic head judge which will be announced very soon.

Will Baggaley, UK Brand Manager for Chuckit! comments: “Following the success of the Chuckit! Challenge over the last three years, we wanted to give our fans another opportunity to take part in the competition and show off their dogs’ skills in front of an amazing head judge.”

For more information or to find your nearest stockist or for more information on Chuckit! visit http://chuckit-toys.co.uk.

The Pet Industry Federation has developed specialisms in the City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate of Technical Competence in Health and Husbandry qualification for reptiles and small mammals, as part of its package of benefits to help businesses comply with the new Animal Activities Licensing regulations.

The first learners of the reptile and small mammal units within the qualification were rangers from Zoolab, a nationwide provider of live animal handling workshops and animal encounters, after a PIF assessor trained two Zoolab employees to deliver and assess the qualification.

The qualification covers basic animal husbandry including; handling, health checking, accommodation set up and maintenance and feeding requirements. 

As a PIF school for this qualification, Zoolab are now able to train and assess all new rangers to ensure animal welfare is maintained within the company. 

Vicky Skinner, PIF’s Education Manager said: "This qualification provides a great comprehensive grounding in the husbandry requirements of reptiles and small mammals.

"Our exciting work with Zoolab has enabled a large organisation to manage the training of its staff and comply with legislation in a more straightforward and cost-effective way.

"The fact that the qualification is Ofqual regulated provides the reassurance to local authority inspectors that is meets rigorous standards of external verification and assessment to ensure that learners have obtained the requisite knowledge required to achieve it."

The Certificate of Technical Competence in Health and Husbandry for reptiles and small mammals is available as a bespoke qualification and further information can be obtained by contacting the Pet Industry Federation on 01234 273933 or emailing education@petfederation.co.uk

Details of all PIF’s courses and qualifications, both online and face to face, are available at www.petfederation.co.uk

The Pet Industry Federation has announced details of a seminar on canine behaviour in a group setting, aimed at businesses such as dog daycares, home boarders and dog walkers, where understanding dogs’ temperament in an environment that includes a mix of dogs is crucial to maintaining harmony and safeguarding welfare.

Taking place on Sunday 14 July at Willow Tree Canine Daycare in Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, the day-long seminar will be delivered by Yvonne Mackender DipCAB of the Centre of Applied Pet Ethology.

The course is an ideal contribution to staff training requirements as part of the Animal Activities Licensing regulations. The day will cover: assessing temperament, introducing dogs to established groups, how dogs learn and communicate; as well as including practical observations of dogs in a group environment and intervention tactics.

The seminar costs £125 for non-members and £100 for PIF members and includes refreshments and a CPD certificate to evidence attendance.

Places are limited and can be secured by contacting the Pet Industry Federation on 01234 273933 or emailing education@petfederation.co.uk

Award-winning pet accessory company, Dogrobes has announced today that they have signed major contracts with two new distributors which should help to see sales of their popular range of dog drying coats soar even more this year.

Dogrobes will now be distributed by the UK arm of Orvis, an American family-owned retail and mail-order business specialising in high-end fly fishing, hunting and sporting goods as well as pet accessories and treats for dogs.

Dogrobes second contract is with family business and wholesaler, IMS Europe which was set up in 1992 to sell to the Healthcare Sector in countries outside the UK but is now also specialising in the distribution of products to the veterinary sector. This will see Dogrobes being used more in a clinical environment to dry dogs and also being sold in veterinary practices throughout the UK and overseas.

Dogrobes is based in Fochabers, Scotland and owned by Margaret Reynolds, a former marketing and events manager. When she became an empty nester and seeing the business potential in Dogrobes, Margaret decided to take over the company when the founder retired.

Since taking over the business, Margaret has gone on to win the Moray Business Women - Most Enterprising Business Award which also put her through to the Association of Scottish Business Women Annual Awards entering in the same category which she won two years ago. Dogrobes also won K9 magazine’s Best New Design to a Pet Essential for their Tartan Dogrobe 2017 then in 2018 won again for the Camouflage range.  Dogrobes are now sold in over 70 UK stockists and are exported to Europe, the USA and Canada, as well as Australia and New Zealand.

Margaret explains the uniqueness of Dogrobes,

“Dogrobes dry dogs quickly in around 30 minutes, depending on the breed of dog. They are made from an innovative fabric, which has longer loops on the inside. No one else has the rights to this fabric within the pet market. The longer loops create a greater area for absorbing the moisture from the dog’s coat and trap the dog’s body heat to dry the dog quickly. There is NO Velcro, which spooks some dogs and gets clogged up with dog hair and debris during everyday use and it’s a nightmare to launder too! The ties mean a perfect fit every time. Dogrobes are so easy to fit. Straight over the dog’s head, cross over the ties underneath and tie in a single loop to the side of the spine. Dogs love them because they are so lightweight – even dogs who don’t like wearing jackets.

“We are VERY proud that we’re MADE in Britain.  We have 2 larger manufacturers and 2 other smaller manufacturers who are all based in Scotland. We also use a team of talented and up and coming designers to design our Exclusive Collection.”

The company also offer a range of complementary dog accessories to go with the Dogrobes including snoods to dry the dog’s head, neck and ears.

Margaret concludes,

“Dogrobes are the perfect items for retailers to stock. As well as being practical they also make the perfect gift for any dog owner. With the summer holidays on the horizon they are a great pet accessory to take with you for those days on the beach, picnics and any long walk out in the countryside. They also help to keep your car clean from wet, muddy shake off.

“Dogs love their Dogrobes and we’re often told stories from customers about dogs sitting with their heads up waiting for the Dogrobe to go on!”

For further information on Dogrobes visit: www.dogrobes.co.uk

The Golden Paste Company has undergone a complete environmental policy review to address its packaging impact on the environment, with changes to packaging across the product range for equine, pets and humans.

A number of changes have been brought in by the company including a move away from plastic to cardboard packaging where possible at this time*. All packing tape is now completely environmentally friendly with the tape being made from paper; the sticking agent manufactured from potato starch; and the inks made from vegetable oil.

Plastic bubble wrap has been replaced with packing peanuts which are created from potato starch and are cleverly dissolved by running them under the tap with no chemicals released into the water system – just starch.

And, where possible, plastic packaging has been changed to cardboard tubes, including the award winning TurmerEase™ pet supplement packaging. The new policy can be found on the company’s website www.goldenpastecompany.co.uk

Janine Kell, managing director at The Golden Paste Company, comments: “We take our commitment to the environment very seriously and have worked hard over the last few months to redress our packaging, as we know we are not perfect.

"This has led to an overall of our environmental policy and will see us continue to bring in recycleable and reusable packaging wherever possible.

"We want to ensure the impact on the environment will be less no matter how the packaging is disposed of.”

The Wiltshire Business of the Year Awards are celebrating their 25th anniversary this year and once again, leading fresh raw food manufacturer, Poppy’s Picnic has been nominated for an award in two categories. Winners of last year’s Start-up Business of the Year Award, this time Poppy’s Picnic have been nominated in both the Corporate, Social and Environmental Responsibly category and Small Business of the Year categories, a sign of how far the company has grown in just one year.

The Wiltshire Business of the Year Awards are the most prestigious Business Awards in the County. They have been developed by Newsquest Wiltshire in order to reward and celebrate the many dynamic and innovative businesses in the region and receive high level sponsorship from companies. The Corporate, Social and Environmental Responsibility category rewards a company based in Wiltshire that can demonstrate that its business operations have a positive effect on environmental and social wellbeing.

Since the beginning, Poppy's Picnic has always supported their local community. The DEFRA-approved company use a local 4th generation butcher to produce all their tasty recipes and are now investing in a new manufacturing plant in the County which will provide employment for the local workforce. This commitment to the local community resulted this year in Poppy’s Picnic reaching the National Finals of the Rural Business of the Year Awards and in total to date; they have won 8 regional and national awards.

Commenting on the two nominations, Founder, Dylan Watkins, said,

“We are a proud Wiltshire business and celebrate being rural. We are passionate about supporting our local community and environment.  From our food that's handmade by fourth generation butchers using local produce, to our upcoming new production facility that will provide local employment opportunities, our rural heritage is at the heart of the business and will stay that way. We also use BPA free recyclable packaging for all our products and by sourcing our produce locally, we reduce our carbon footprint.”

With no hidden nasties, Poppy’s Picnic’s balanced meals contain all the goodness a dog needs for optimal health and wellbeing. The mouthwatering Mince, Meatballs and Treats can be purchased online and delivered frozen to an owner’s door or from independent pet shops around the UK. The company also ships to Hong Kong and was the first raw fresh food manufacturer to supply supermarkets in the Far East.

Dylan Watkins recently appeared with his miniature schnauzer, Poppy on Channel 4’s Couples Come Dine With Me where he showed how easy it is to make fresh food that both humans and dogs can enjoy together. He has since gone on to appear on This Morning with Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford where he cooked up fresh recipes live on air. He also appears regularly on BBC Radio Wiltshire and has appeared with The Barking Blondes, Jo Good and Anna Webb on BBC Radio London’s The Barking Hour.

The awards will be presented at a Gala Dinner on the 10th May at Centre Parcs, Longleat.

To find out more about Poppy’s Picnic visit their website: www.poppyspicnic.co.uk

Not all heroes wear capes. Some wear running vests, swimsuits, parachutes or fancy dress…and that’s exactly what employees of Vitalin Pet Food recently did for Jerry Green Dog Rescue.

Annabell, Amy, Sophie and Jodie from Vitalin took part in an exhilarating 5k inflatable obstacle course in Leeds. By navigating their way round a 5k course while tackling enormous inflatables up to 50m long and 8 metres high, the team were able to raise over £200 for Jerry Green.

The rescue centre was founded in 1961 by Jerry Green with the aim of providing all dogs with an environment where they can feel safe and loved. This has exceeded their expectations, enabling them to offer services across Lincolnshire, Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire. The charity is volunteer ran and relies heavily on public and corporate donations to help them to rescue and rehome dogs.

Jerry Green and Vitalin have been supporting each other since 2016, sharing their love of dogs.

Said Annabell Rowlands of Vitalin Pet Food:

“Jerry Green is a charity that is very close to our hearts here at Vitalin. As they are a charity that are local to us, it means a lot that we are able to support them and the fantastic work they do…even if that did mean running 5K and battling many giant inflatables along the way!”

For further information about the Vitalin Super Premium Dog Food Range please call +44 (0) 844 800 3347 or visit www.vitalinpetfood.co.uk. You can find out more about Jerry Green at www.jerrygreendogs.org.uk. 

Insta-famous Cockerpoo Marley, who has more than 45,000 followers, was the first four legged visitor to Darwin Escapes’ new holiday park in Pentney, Kings Lynn which is home to 80 letting lodges and 38 owners’ lodges.

Owner Katie and her Cockerpoo, called Marley, from Liverpool were one of the first visitors to stay at the park and experience everything Norfolk Woods has to offer in terms of facilities for both owners and their furry friends.

The pair stayed in one of the pet friendly lodges available at the East Anglican resort and explored the local area – finding some of the best dog walks in and around the stylish and modern park.

Cockerpoo Marley’s owner Katie said: “I loved how bright and fresh Norfolk Woods felt. It was incredibly spacious and so well equipped. It literally had everything you could possibly need for your stay and totally exceeded my expectations.

“I loved the area, there was a large retail park around 10 mins drive from the resort but other than that you're really out in the country, it’s so important to embrace it. I've never seen Cockerpoo Marley look so happy. There were so many smells for her to explore and so many squirrels to hunt down!”

Norfolk isn’t Darwin Escapes’ first pet friendly park - a number of their UK holiday and ownership parks offer pet friendly accommodation.

They also have a range of exclusive pet friendly facilities including a dog washing area at their Lake District holiday park, Keswick Reach Lodge Retreat which won Best in Britain at the Hoseasons Awards for the second year running in October 2018.

Darwin Escapes’ pet friendly facilities can include:

• A welcome pack on arrival. At check-in, pets are presented with their very own mini suitcase containing dog treats, a dog bowl, poop bags and even a tennis ball.
• Brilliant dog-walking routes. Like most of Darwin Escapes’ 22 resorts around the country, Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa is set in gorgeous countryside. There is a woodland walk around the perimeter of the park and it is minutes from the beach and also close to the Sandringham Estate – perfect dog walking territory.
• Dog walkways – Hawkchurch Resort and Spa has its own woodland dog walk on park.
• Dog washing facilities – available at Keswick Reach Lodge Retreat only.
• Pet friendly lodges. If you are planning on bringing your pet on holiday with you, ask us about our dog friendly lodges when you book. Each lodge is deep cleaned on departure.
• Dine out with your pet. Darwin Escapes has a number of restaurants with pet friendly areas so your furry friend can eat out with you.

Lindsey Esse, Managing Director of Darwin Escapes, said: “When you’re heading on holiday, one of the most stressful things can be leaving your beloved pet behind. At Darwin Escapes, this hasn’t got to be the case.

“At Darwin Escapes, we are delighted to offer luxury pet friendly holiday resorts that have been designed with both owners and pets in mind.”

Lodges at Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa feature stylish kitchen facilities and dining areas, spacious bedrooms and bathrooms, large flat screen televisions and private decking areas.

There are also private hot tubs, free Wi-Fi and the resort can cater for group accommodation (up to 10 people).

On the site there is a luxurious spa, a tropically heated indoor swimming pool, a state-of-the-art gym and a restaurant and café as well as a refurbished on-site local convenience store.

Prices to buy range from £80,000 to £190,000. Special offers are available for the first season including discounted site fees (single unit £4,996, twin unit £5,495).

For more information on how you can own a pet friendly lodge on the brand new Norfolk Woods Resort and Spa please call 01760 751370.

www.darwinescapes.co.uk

https://www.darwinescapes.co.uk/parks/norfolk-woods-resort-spa/

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A dog owner from Cornwall is still in shock after her beloved Cavalier King Charles Spaniel “almost died” after a visit to her local Pets at Home store.

Karen Roebuck, of Canonstown, near Hayle, said what should have been a routine grooming session turned into a harrowing ordeal as her three-year-old dog Molly’s tongue went purple and she struggled to breathe.

She took Molly to the Groom Room at Pets at Home, Penzance, on Tuesday, April 23, at 9am for a grooming session.

Karen told Cornwall Live that she picked her pet up at 11.30am: “As I was taking her home she was panting heavily and struggling to breathe. She was making terrible noises – even the bus driver asked if she was okay. She really was fighting for every breath."

A Pets at Home spokesperson said: “We do recognise the distress that Mrs Roebuck would have experienced which is why we offered to cover the cost of the vet bill as a goodwill gesture and we are glad to hear that Molly has now made a good recovery.”

Click here for the full Cornwall Live story

Launching in the UK, following creation and widespread adoption in Sweden, FirstVet (www.firstvet.com/uk) is an animal clinic for the digital generation: providing pet-owners with video consultations (via smartphone, tablet, or computer) with local, qualified veterinarians, on-demand.

Following its Scandinavian launch in 2016, FirstVet has been used by over 110,000 Swedish pet owners, providing advice for every domesticated animal: from cats and dogs to hamsters and horses. Building on this Scandinavian experience, FirstVet will provide British pet owners with fast and affordable access to consultations and introduce a new way of working for UK veterinarians.

Bringing Swedish Success To The UK

FirstVet has experienced accelerated growth in Sweden, with user numbers more than doubling since last summer; at the start of 2019, FirstVet was providing nearly 10,000 consultations per month. Swedes have lauded the service as ‘essential’, with over 25,000 customer reviews contributing to a 99.6% customer satisfaction rating. In both the Swedish Apple and Google Play app stores, FirstVet’s ratings are consistently high (averaging 4.9 and 5.0 respectively).

Now, FirstVet is launching in the UK. In a country where 45% of households own a pet, and 20 million of which are cats and dogs (according to 2018 Statista figures), FirstVet provides a new digital model to unlock and expand a domestic veterinary market estimated to be worth £2.1 billion by 2023 (Mintel 2018 study).

Matching the growth in, and acceptance of, video consultation for human health issues, FirstVet is a trailblazer in bringing the benefits of digital platforms to the veterinary sector. The use of electronic communication and information technologies to provide veterinary clinical care remotely means FirstVet’s 10-15 minute consultations offer an easily accessible first port of call, with a competent professional at the end of a videofeed able to assess the pets’ conditions. The consultants can then offer advice and prescriptions, as well as referral to the nearest appropriate clinic, or provide peace of mind by confirming that a health issue is not serious. Each month, the FirstVet consultants improve the lives of thousands of animals from cats, dogs, rabbits, reptiles, to birds, hamsters, and horses.

David Prien, co-founder and CEO of FirstVet comments: “Telemedicine has proven increasingly integral to human healthcare, and our animal friends should benefit too. Through FirstVet we establish a natural first point of contact before assessing whether comprehensive physical treatment at a vet is needed. Veterinary care is not subsidised by the government, so people need to know that they can depend upon a service that is both reliable and cost-effective.”

How FirstVet works - For Pet-Owners

With consultations available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, concerned pet owners need only wait minutes before one of the trained veterinarians joins via video chat ready to offer professional advice. The quick and easy process avoids unnecessary journeys to a traditional veterinary clinic, which are more costly and time-consuming.

Consultations cost between £20 within normal working hours and £30 for weekends and evenings, rates which are 60-70% cheaper than a physical veterinary consultation.

www.firstvet.com/uk

Hedgehog Awareness Week (May 5-11) is organised by the British Hedgehog Preservation Society (BHPS) and aims to increase awareness about how the public can help hedgehogs in their gardens.

Brambles Pet and Wildlife is running daily Facebook giveaways with Brambles Hedgehog Food and other related prizes – it’s the company's biggest ever campaign with a total retail value of over £700!

There will be a mixture of wildlife rescue and public giveaways where Brambles Pet and Wildlife have teamed up with the likes of BBC Wildlife Magazine, The Woodland Trust, Esbilac (milk replacement powder), Snugglesafe (heat pads), Hatchwells (food & water bowls), Seedball (wildflower seeds), and many others for prizes.

Brambles PAW have also teamed up with BBC Wildlife magazine and The Woodland Trust to offer free Brambles Hedgehog Food on their social media platforms as giveaways which will be great for brand awareness.

Sales Manager, David Tracey commented “This is our biggest giveaway campaign to date and will really help boost awareness for these endearing animals as well as helping the wildlife rescues who do such invaluable work.”

Brambles Wildlife foods are available from pet wholesalers, Rosewood Pet Products, Decco and we’re proud to be suppliers to the RSPB and Woodland Trust.

www.bramblespaw.co.uk

www.facebook.com/BramblesPAW

twitter.com/BramblesPawLtd

www.instagram.com/bramblespaw

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While cats have been living with us for a long time, what remains in their DNA is the way they find and consume their food, explains pet behaviourist Naomi Opalinska.

“There is often a mismatch between what we as humans believe cats want and what they actually need,” she explains. Probably why almost half of owners (46%) feed their feline the amount of food they believe they want versus the recommended portion¹.

“The secret to a happy cat is understanding their wild origins. Cats are hunters – it is innate to them. They are also very inquisitive.” In the wild, and in our gardens, cats are solitary hunters. “In a natural setting, a cat will eat ten or more small meals a day, usually hunting from dawn to dusk.”

Some cats will happily adapt to twice-a-day feeding, but for those that won’t there a few simple changes that cat owners can make. In fact, all cats will appreciate a little more variety to their routine.

Firstly, it is a good idea to feed little and often as many like to graze and lots of food left out for long periods of time becomes less appetising for them. Even better, hide food in small quantities around the house, for them to sniff out.

Also, you could think about incorporating some food puzzles into your feeding routine, to mimic the natural foraging and hunting behaviour of your cat.

“Make meal times fun and take away the food bowl! Try using egg boxes, or paper bags with the handles cut off,” says Naomi. “Dry food, such as IAMS for Vitality, is ideal.” 

“You could also try scattering feed in different locations – for example on the stairs, or on different levels of a cat tree – or throw individual pieces of kibble for your cat to chase and eat,” adds Naomi.

Why not try making food puzzles at home, for example by taking a cardboard inner tube from a roll of toilet paper, placing some food inside, then folding over the ends and cutting a small hole in the middle. When your cat rolls it around the floor, the food falls out for them to pounce on.

Kellie Ceccarelli, IAMS Veterinary External Relations Manager adds, “Whichever way you choose to feed your pet, the most important thing is to ensure they receive a complete and balanced diet. IAMS for Vitality has been tailored to fit all life stages and specific needs allowing you to enjoy your pet at their very best. With fresh chicken and a new wheat-free² recipe, IAMS for Vitality combines high-quality animal protein³ in crunchy kibbles with a vacuum coating to lock in irresistible flavours.”

IAMS for Vitality contains no fillers, artificial colours, flavours or GMOs so you can rest assured your feline friend is getting a complete and balanced diet. What’s more, kibbles are a great way of helping to keep your cat’s teeth clean and healthy for purr-fect smiles all round!

For more information about the range and feeding guidelines, visit www.iams.co.uk/forvitality. 

Top handlers from all over England and Wales vied with each other in the Bodfari Sheepdog Trials with just under 100 dogs running each day.

During the event CSJ presented a cheque of £750 raised at last year’s trials to The Walton Centre Hospital Charity. Anne Hodgson of the charity’s Fundraising Committee accepted the cheque from CSJ’s Phil Rundle.

Among the handlers were the current International Supreme and Reserve Champion, Kevin Evans, Brecon, who won both Open Classes with his young bitch, Knockmaa Bec.  Hot on his heels on Saturday was former International Supreme Champion, Thomas Longton, Quernmore, Lancashire who took both second and third prizes.

Ceri Rundle commented, “The glorious weather made the high standard of running even more enjoyable to watch…the sheep were fantastic but cheeky and would find out and exploit each dog’s weakness.”

The two judges were Paddy Fanning (incidentally Paddy carried out the interviews of the 15 handlers for CSJ’s forthcoming A Way with Dogs Series 2) and Mike Northwood (who does the commentary in the series). 

The results were:

Judge:  Paddy Fanning

Day 1 – Good Friday – Open Class

1. Kevin Evans and Knockmaa Bec -4pts
2. Hefin Jones and Spotan  -4.5pts
3. Llyr Evans and Zac  -4.5pts
4. Nigel Watkins and Tanhill Alec  -5pts
5. Paul Tomkins and Foxridge Roy -6pts
6. Kevin Evans and Hybeck Blake -6.5pts

Novice Class

1. Pauline Thomas and Peg -11pts
2. Mike Northwood and Glan y Gors Cian -11.5pts

Judge: Mike Northwood

Day 2 – Saturday – Open Class

1. Kevin Evans and Knockmaa Bec 93pts  
2. Thomas Longton and Lucy 92pts
3. Thomas Longton and Jim 89pts
4. Kevin Evans and Kemi Ross 88pts
5. Ceri Rundle and Breka 87pts
6. Ross Watson and Sally 86/   6.  Cyril Roberts and Roy 86pts

Novice Class

1. Beate Behr and Leni 83pts
2. Bryn Davies and Northtyne Lassi 81pts

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

• The RSPB is releasing a track of pure bird song to raise awareness of the shocking loss of over 40 million birds from the UK in just 50 years.
• ‘Let Nature Sing’ features the song of many threatened and endangered birds to get more people talking about the beautiful sounds the we could lose.
• New research reveals 82% of people say bird song makes them feel positive, and more than half (54%) would choose it as the #1 sound to wake up to.
• However, only 15% of people realise nature is in crisis, highlighting the UK is in danger of sleepwalking into a natural tragedy.

Over 40 million birds have vanished from UK skies in just 50 years, 56% of species in the UK are in decline, and one in ten of our wildlife are critically endangered. Nature is in crisis, and new research from the RSPB has demonstrated that the UK is dangerously unaware of the impending danger.

Only 15% of the UK realise nature is in crisis, and worryingly over a quarter (27%) believe nature is in fact doing well. The UK is in immediate danger of sleepwalking into a disaster, as our natural world and wildlife face a mounting and immediate crisis.

To wake up the nation to this threat, the RSPB is today releasing a track of pure bird song into the charts for the first time in UK music history.

‘Let Nature Sing’ is an arrangement of some of the UK’s most loved and most threatened bird songs. It has been created to raise awareness of what the UK might lose if nothing is done to stop the crisis facing nature, which is pushing many UK birds towards extinction. The message is simple: If we do not act now, and work together, the magical sound of bird song could be lost forever.

The RSPB’s research illustrates how devastating this loss would be to the people of the UK. When presented with the shocking facts about the decline of wild birds’, half (49%) of UK adults said they were upset by this, and a third (31%) went further to say they were angry. The majority put pressure on political powers for change, with more than eight in ten (84%) feeling the governments of the UK should be doing more to save nature.

Young people are also shockingly unaware of the crisis facing nature. One in three (33%) said that had no idea that the UK had lost over 40 million birds in the last 50 years, but upon hearing this, over a third (40%) said they want to do something to save nature, showing hope for the future.

Martin Harper, the RSPB’s director of conservation said: “The signs are all around us that something is not right, that nature is falling silent and you only need to stop and listen to find the beautiful bird song that should be the background music to our life is absent. But no one is talking about the crisis facing wildlife and nature in the UK. We all need to start talking about this, and the Let Nature Sing track is a good starting point as it perfectly highlights the music we risk losing.

“Wildlife and our natural world can recover, it can be saved for future generations, but we need more people to talk about the issue and how much something as simple and wonderful as bird song means to each of us. Because if we do not start talking about the threats facing nature the inspiration behind so much of our music, poetry and literature may go silent.”

Mercury Prize nominee, Sam Lee, who helped edit the single, said: “Birdsong has been one of the biggest influences of our song, poetry and literature. The loss of it should concern us all, because it is a signal that all is not well in the world. We should see birdsong as a barometer for the health of this planet, and hence of ourselves.

The track is being released on Friday 26 April, in time to get bird song into the charts for International Dawn Chorus Day on the 5 May.

Let Nature Sing is available as a digital download or as a CD. To find out more about the vital work the RSPB is doing to save nature, and to purchase the track, visit www.rspb.org.uk/letnaturesing.

Watch a video of the RSPB - Let Nature Sing by going to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ge-cYtK8QwI

Southern Counties Veterinary Specialists has become an official European College of Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia (ECVAA) Satellite Training Centre.

The ECVAA is the central authority that regulates and certifies the standards of specialisation in veterinary anaesthesia in Europe. Residency programmes in veterinary anaesthesia are rigorous, culminating in a series of examinations to ensure the candidate has achieved a level of knowledge and practical proficiency to qualify as a Specialist. 

The speciality of veterinary anaesthesia is important as procedures in companion animals are becoming ever more complex and can be associated with increased risks to the patient. Anaesthetists are just one part of the multidisciplinary team that will provide the very best care for your pet. These Specialists ensure the highest standards of anaesthesia, pain management and patient rehabilitation which all involve multiple, complex decision-making processes.

Our talented anaesthesia interns, Ana Gomez DVM, MRCVS and Ricardo Felisberto DVM, MRCVS have been approved as our first alternate track ECVAA residents at SCVS and they will now stay on with us for the next 4 years. Our specialist anaesthetists, Derek Flaherty BVMS, DVA, DipECVAA, MRCA, FHEA, FRCVS and Adam Auckburally BVSc, Cert VA DipECVAA, PGCAP, FHEA, MRCVS will jointly run the residency programme. Our Satellite Centre status means we can accept other ECVAA residents who may want to come to SCVS on an externship to augment their specialist training in anaesthesia and analgesia.

At SCVS we have invested in state-of-the-art anaesthetic equipment and multi-parametric patient monitoring and utilise the latest techniques, such as advanced vascular access, mechanical ventilation, peripheral nerve location for locoregional anaesthesia, epidural drug administration and neuromuscular blockade. The equipment used is identical to that used in human hospitals and these facilities allow our anaesthetists to provide the very best care for all patients treated at SCVS.

Derek Flaherty said: “It is great news that the European College of Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia have formally recognised that the facilities and case management at SCVS are of sufficiently high calibre that we can train a new generation of veterinary anaesthetists here; this is something that is most often reserved for university veterinary schools.”

Adam Auckburally said: “Given the ongoing rapid expansion of the facilities and clinical services here at SCVS, having trainee anaesthetists working alongside our current anaesthesia specialists, means we will be able to continue to provide optimal analgesia and peri-operative care for all the animals passing through our doors. We are extremely pleased to have been able to offer official residency positions to Ana and Ricardo.”

Email: admin@scvetspecialists.co.uk

Phone: 01425 485615

Website: www.scvetspecialists.co.uk 

The Advertising Standards Authority has upheld a complaint against Ceva Animal Health concerning Adaptil, and told the company not to claim or imply that the product could treat anxiety related and behavioural issues associated with owner separation unless it held adequate evidence to demonstrate that was the case.

The ASA had received a complaint challenging whether the claims in a TV advert for Adaptil regarding the alleviation of anxiety and improved behaviour were misleading and could be substantiated.

In response Ceva Animal Health Ltd provided a number of studies which it said showed that Adaptil had anxiety reducing properties. The studies assessed the use of Adaptil collars, sprays and diffusers. The comany said that Adaptil was proven to help adult dogs cope in challenging or worrying situations; it helped to promote learning and ensured puppies became well-behaved, confident and resilient dogs, thereby reducing the likelihood of anxiety related behaviour problems developing in later life.

Ceva Animal Health said the method of how consumers used Adaptil (collar, spray or diffuser) was not the most important influence as to how the product worked and that all delivery mechanisms included the same synthetic analogue of the dog appeasing pheremone (DAP), a pheromone which they said helped relax dogs and was also Adaptil’s main ingredient.

Ceva Animal Health said that the ad directed owners to Adaptil as a complementary option alongside behavioural advice to help dogs cope with being separated from their owner and that any additional help required should be sought from a behaviourist or vet. They said they worked with a number of specialists, behaviourists and vets who used Adaptil in cases of separation anxiety to help their patients be in a more positive emotional state during behavioural therapy.

However, the ASA ruled that because the advertiser had not submitted sufficient evidence to support its efficacy claims regarding behavioural and anxiety-related issues associated with owner separation, the authority concluded the ad’s claims were likely to mislead.

The ASA’s full ruling can be viewed by clicking here

A thief who stole seven iPads from a Pets at Home store has been handed a 12-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, and also ordered to pay £1,566 in compensation.

Workers at Pets At Home on Festival Retail Park, Stoke-on-Trent, discovered the equipment had been taken from the staff room after noticing a normally-locked door was ajar.

Magistrates at North Staffordshire Justice Centre heard 36-year-old  Lee Hollinshead and another man had been captured on CCTV going into the private area.

The court heard the iPads were valued at £2,742. Three were later recovered – two from a car used by Hollinshead and one from his house.

Hollinshead, of Liverpool Road, Stoke, told officers he had gone into the shop looking for something for his cat but one of the people he was with decided to go into the staff room ‘to see if there was anything worth taking’ and he agreed to go along with it. 

To read the full story click here

Henry Bell & Co, the family-owned and leading quality animal feed producer, has announced the release of its own brand: Henry Bell Wild Bird Care.

Henry Bell has over 20 years’ experience in the bird food industry and has been pivotal in the growth of many private label wild bird food brands.

The company has now combined its strong expertise and knowledge to launch its own high-quality range of products specially designed to provide health and wellbeing for wild birds.

The Henry Bell Wild Bird Care range is comprised of over 100 products catering for every type of garden bird. Created to meet their specific needs, includes mixed seeds, straights such as peanuts, sunflower seeds and mealworms, suet and fat balls – available in various sizes and formats.

Complementing the food range, the company is also introducing The Henry Bell Wild Bird Care Collection, a range of bespoke and adaptable accessories. It includes the ‘Essential’ and premium ‘Heritage’ collections which feature a broad range of feeders and feeding stations at market-leading prices.

Tom Lee, Henry Bell’s MD, comments: “We’ve built strong pedigree in the animal feed industry and with decades of expertise, it was a natural step for Henry Bell to launch its own brand.

"Henry Bell Wild Bird Care is focused on excellence and we worked hard at designing a range that places the wellbeing of birds centre stage. We know that both the superior quality and attractive packaging of our food and accessories will resonate with both professionals and consumers alike - and will get wild birds coming back for more."

Henry Bell also unveils new branding which focuses on its 175 plus years of experience and strong heritage as a British business. The range showcases an eye-catching and modern packaging design that’s reflective of the quality of its feeds and complementary accessories.

Henry Bell Wild Bird Care will be available across the UK in garden centres, pet shops and mainstream retailers from July 2019.

For sales queries please contact: Trudi Austin - trudi.austin@henry-bell.co.uk - 07982 634646

Natures Menu has refreshed its existing Fruit and Vegetable Raw Nuggets line with the addition of Natural Raw Nuggets Veggie Boost, as well as new look packaging.

Part of the Natures Menu Home Prepare range, the Veggie Boost Nuggets are made from a wholesome blend of 15 fruits and vegetables including butternut squash, red cabbage, apples and pears. Sitting alongside the existing Fruit and Vegetable line, the latest variant of nuggets forms part of a wide-ranging menu of raw ingredients for those looking to feed a mixed raw diet at home and aims to offer an alternative to owners looking to add a little variety to their dog’s meals.

Available in 1kg packs and combining real passion and expertise with real ingredients, the nuggets are a perfect accompaniment to the rest of the Natures Menu Home Prepare Range, which includes raw chunks, treats and free flow minces, all providing a convenient way to make a raw meal.

As well as a new variant offering, Natures Menu has also created new-look packaging for the range to help attract customers and boost sales for stockists and retailers. The refreshed packaging now comes with updated feeding advice and storage instructions as well as a window to enable customers to see the product, meaning retailers can guide their valued customers to choose the best product for their best friend. The new product will be promoted through social media, PR activity and email marketing. 

Natures Menu specialises in raw dog and cat food made with fully-traceable quality meats and fish, blended vegetables, fruits and healthy carbohydrates, and uses British suppliers and ethical product sources wherever possible. 

For more information about Natures Menu’s Home Prepare range visit https://www.naturesmenu.co.uk/natures-menu-original

Retailers wanting to find out more information about Natures Menu and their range can email trade@naturesmenu.co.uk, phone 0800 0183770 or visit

www.naturesmenu.co.uk/trade-landing. By registering for a trade account, retailers can gain access to hassle-free online ordering, great value freezer deals and point of sale, plus free training and the option to become a qualified Raw Advisor.