Bags of James Wellbeloved pet food with very short use-by-dates have appeared on an auctioneer’s website, prompting fears that discounted items could be flooding on to the market place.
Pet Trade Xtra was alerted to the online auction of various lots, including a selection of pet food, by a reader worried that the sale of old stock could spiral out of control.
“I would like to make you and your readers aware that there will be hundreds of sacks James Wellbeloved cat food on the market with very short use-by-dates. These items are coming through a Nottinghamshire auction site,” he said.
The pet food was advertised on the website of John Pye Auctions at the company’s Nottingham branch.
John Pye Auctions said: “This is a Public Auction, not a consumer or retail sale. Lots include second-hand and used goods, sold as seen with no guarantees which is why public viewing is available and recommended.
The auctioneer went on to state there was “a wide variety of lots to include home electronics, gaming earphones, bluetooth speakers and bathroom fixtures and fittings plus laptop computers and selection of pet food.”
Public viewing took place on Saturday with the auction concluding on Monday.
Pet Trade Xtra tried to contact James Wellbeloved to see if the pet food company was aware of the auction of bags of its cat food but as yet we haven’t received a response.
Details of the auction can be found here http://www.johnpye.co.uk/project/public-auctions-nottm-7/
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 Arden Grange’s vastly popular Sensitive recipe has recently undergone some improvements, and now includes fresh ocean white fish and sweet potato, making it even tastier for dogs with sensitivities.
The grain-free recipe now includes 22% fresh ocean white fish, a highly digestible and palatable addition to the diet, increasing its omega-3 level. This essential fatty acid may be beneficial to the immune system, as well as skin and coat condition.
Furthermore, the improved recipe also includes sweet potato, an excellent source of vitamin A and fibre. The combination of sweet potato and white potato in the diet provides a slow and steady energy release.
Arden Grange Sensitive Adult is an ideal choice for adult dogs suffering with an allergy or delicate skin, though it is also suitable for dogs whose owners prefer to feed a grain-free diet.
Why choose Arden Grange Sensitive Adult?
- It’s suitable for all breeds of dog.
- It has a grain-free recipe – ideal for dogs requiring a low-allergen, cereal free diet.
- There’s plenty of fresh white fish in the recipe, offering great palatability and high nutritional value.
- It contains a combination of both sweet and white potato.
- Glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM are included.
- It benefits from prebiotics FOS and MOS for immunity support.
The improved recipe is available in 2kg, 6kg and 12kg bags and is now joined by the new Sensitive Puppy/Junior and Sensitive Light/Senior products.
Just like all Arden Grange products, the Sensitive range is naturally hypoallergenic, not containing: wheat gluten; beef; soya or dairy products, thereby offering further peace of mind to customers that have a dog or cat with the most common food sensitivities.
For more information, call 01273 833390 or visit www.ardengrange.com.
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Put your best paw forward in 2019 with Different Dog
Pet Trade Xtra Promotion
As we start the new year, many pet owners are focussed on feeding themselves and their dogs more healthily. Pet obesity remains alarmingly high. However, responsible retailers can help to tackle this issue with carefully selected food ranges...
As we start the new year, many pet owners are focussed on feeding themselves and their dogs more healthily. Pet obesity remains alarmingly high. However, responsible retailers can help to tackle this issue with carefully selected food ranges.
A pet’s wellbeing is incredibly important, which is why Different Dog was created. When our puppy joined the family, we didn’t want to feed her highly processed food – it sat at odds with our food values. This inspired us to provide nutritionally balanced meals, made with fresh, natural ingredients that help dogs live healthy and happy lives. As more independent retailers’ stock Different Dog, there’s clearly a growing appetite for food that’s produced in a much more wholesome way.
Not dry, not wet, not raw - Different Dog is unique to the market. Gently cooked by hand to make it easy to digest, then frozen to lock in the goodness – all our recipes contain at least 60% fresh, locally-sourced British meat.
As well as nutrient rich vegetables, fruit and herbs, each dish is supplemented with superfoods such as turmeric, chia seeds and kelp. This means dogs receive the right ratio of critical minerals, vitamins and omega oils.
With fresh monthly additions to the menu – the latest offerings include Best Paw Forward, Bone Broth and Keep Me Trim Turkey. All are lower calorie, nutritionally balanced recipes developed by our inhouse vet and pet nutritionist.
With so many consumers looking for food that delivers better nutritional value - Different Dog is the perfect solution. We help you to give consumers a convenient, dependable choice and keep dogs in tip top condition.
Contact our friendly team to discuss January’s freezer offers or to arrange a store visit: 01743 384 562 or feedme@differentdog.com
Help us to change the world, one dog at a time.
Different Dog owners Charlie and Alex Thurstan with their dog Crumble, the inspiration behind this innovative company.
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Scruffs to showcase luxury range at Parisian show
Manchester-based pet bed specialist Scruffs is set to return to Paris’ ExpoZoo later this month, following an insightful and successful debut at the show last year. The company says it is keen to capitalise on recent European growth...
Manchester-based pet bed specialist Scruffs is set to return to Paris’ ExpoZoo later this month, following an insightful and successful debut at the show last year. The company says it is keen to capitalise on recent European growth.
At the 2019 event, Scruffs will be displaying their latest innovations in pet products and POS displays for the French market.
The new-look Scruffs Small Dog & Cat Collections will be among the product highlights at the show this month, reflecting an increasing trend towards ownership of both of these categories around the world.
Scruffs deluxe Habitat beds are produced using a luxurious felt fabric, this is constructed using a lattice technique to form the outer bed. The beds are finished with a faux leatherette Scruffs logo.
A super-soft faux fur inner cushion lines the bed, providing a snug environment for your pet to dose. For practicality, the inner cushion is machine washable.
These beds are predominantly designed for cats and miniature breeds, they are available in a variety of colours.
Dubby Klyne, Sales Director at Scruffs, said: “We are excited to launch our new product collections to the European market at Expozoo 2019. We are hopeful that our newest collection of Small Dog & Cat bedding will be as well received by our European partners as our domestic ones.”
For more information, contact a member of the Scruffs marketing team using pr@petslovescruffs.com or via phone on +44 (0) 161 702 5060.
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Fish4Dogs has helped a rescue charity that was fleeced of its finances by a bogus ‘volunteer’ who was subsequently jailed for six years.
K9 Crusaders, based near Truro, Cornwall, had between £88,000 and £200,000* stolen from its funds by a career criminal. The charity’s founder Sue Smith appeared on Channel 5’s ‘Do The Right Thing’ to tell her story and warn other charities of the dangers.
She was moved to tears during the live show, which was aired on 6 January, when it was revealed how kind-hearted businesses had chipped in to help her charity recover. They donated two sheds, packed with dog food including a selection of dry food, treats and canned wet food.
During the consumer show, which is fronted by Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford, Sue told how she was befriended by Katrina Jones on an online dogs’ forum who claimed to be a qualified accountant and offered to help her run the charity’s finances.
Sue was particularly vulnerable at the time. Her husband, Peter, with whom she had founded K9 Crusader in 2002, had been diagnosed with terminal cancer and dementia. Following his death, she “found the strength” to continue working, discovered the financial irregularities and reported them to the police.
In 2015, Jones was found guilty of 29 counts of theft totalling more than £500,000 from a number of organisations but K9 Crusaders were unable to recover a single penny.
The charity with its mission to “rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome needy dogs” has cared for more than 3,000 animals over the years.
Programme makers Goowoo Media contacted Fish4Dogs for help.
Said Executive Producer Richard Woolfe: “The Do The Right Thing team, cannot thank Fish4Dogs enough. It really is very kind indeed and will be much appreciated by K9 Crusaders.”
Sue, who appeared on the programme with her German Shepherd rescue dog Tara, had the surprise donation revealed to her by guest Faye Tozer.
Faye, formerly of pop group, Steps, told her: “What an inspirational woman you are. To go what you have gone through and still be standing.”
The Charity Commission advises all charities to be vigilant to potential fraud and to seek advice and help from the gov.uk website.
For information on Fish4Dogs visit: www. www.fish4dogs.com To donate, or fundraise for K9 Crusaders, see www.caninecrusaders.org
*Police traced £88,000 stolen by Katrina Jones but Sue Smith believes the amount to be in the region of £212,000
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Sustainable dog food set to revolutionise pet market
A trailblazing new dog food - believed to be the most sustainable ever - is set to revolutionise the pet food market when it launches this month. Made of nutritious insect protein combined with oats, potato and natural botanicals, Yora is a healthy new dog food that contains no growth hormones or antibiotics.
A trailblazing new dog food - believed to be the most sustainable ever - is set to revolutionise the pet food market when it launches this month.
Made of nutritious insect protein combined with oats, potato and natural botanicals, Yora is a healthy new dog food that contains no growth hormones or antibiotics.
Globally, pets consume around 20% of the world’s meat and fish, which is set to grow further with the trend for feeding human grade meat to dogs and cats.
 For years, environmental experts have proposed insects as the food source that can end world hunger without harming the planet. Insects are unbelievably nutritious - packed with essential proteins, fats, minerals and amino acids - and are even easier to digest than chicken, so they’re perfect for pets with sensitive tummies.
Livestock farming contributes 18% of human produced greenhouse gas emissions worldwide and pet food consumption is responsible for up to 64 million tonnes of carbon dioxide each year.
Insects use a fraction of the resources to farm and Yora’s grubs are reared in a brand new, high tech £18 million facility in Holland. The grubs are extremely efficient and even consume recycled vegetable matter that would otherwise go uneaten.
When compared to beef farming, Yora’s grubs need just 2% of the land and 4% of the water to produce each kg of protein, which means they cause 96% less greenhouse emissions. The insects grow naturally at a rapid pace, reaching full size in just 14 days, so there’s no need for growth hormones or antibiotics.
The insect protein in Yora also offers a higher quality protein than the by-products found in most pet foods. Yora features nutritious ingredients like kale, seaweed and chicory which all have added benefits for dogs including Vitamin C, improved digestion and anti-inflammatory properties.
Yora is supported by a team of veterinary experts including TV vet Dr. Rory Cowlam who said: “Yora provides a healthy, high protein alternative to conventional kibble. It’s hypoallergenic, and free from antibiotics and growth hormones. Pets love the taste - plus it’s great for the planet.
“As a keen conservationist and dog lover, I am incredibly excited by the enormous potential for this dog food to reduce our pets’ collective carbon pawprint.”
Tom Neish (above), founder of Yora, comments: “Animals and humans have been eating insects for over five million years and we believe Yora is the future of pet food. We have trialled 29 recipes to find the perfect combination of great tasting ingredients and are very proud of the end result.
“Yora enables dog owners to take the lead in giving their dog a nutritious, tasty food whilst having a positive impact on the environment.”
Available from major pet stores in the UK in January, Yora will cost £14.99 per 1.5kg bag (£1.80 per day) or £49.99 per 6kg bag (£1.49 per day). To find out more, visit the website, search #TakeOurLead
Yora will be exhibiting at PATS Sandown on February 10-11.
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Best of British on show at PATS Sandown
PetLondon is bringing the Best of Britain to PATS Sandown next month as it looks to kickstart a renewed sense of pride as well as finding its position post-Brexit...
PetLondon is bringing the Best of Britain to PATS Sandown next month as it looks to kickstart a renewed sense of pride as well as finding its position post-Brexit.
PetLondon provides a huge selection of British themed clothing, toys and accessories that celebrate classic iconography across the UK, offering buyers an unrivalled selection for their clients at various price points and the cutting edge of fashion and consumer demands.
Fit for any king or queen, PetLondon’s throne bed is an uber luxurious dog bed and basket, upholstered in crushed velveteen that shines and shimmers in the light. The surround is upholstered in faux ermine for added class; with the bed raised slightly off the ground with non-slip legs. The throne is adorned with gold lace trim and a royal crown headboard. A reversible ermine and red royal crown cushion is included for added delight.
Proving extremely popular already is the regal and elegant Royal Dog costume. Comprising of the cape and matching hat, the two-piece set will satisfy the highest of standards. The cape is made from a soft crushed velveteen in royal red and trimmed with faux ermine plush. The matching hat is included in the set complete with sparkly jewels. A metallic gold brocade detailing is found around the cape which easily fastens with a Velcro strip and the crown attached with elastic straps and a toggle under the chin.
The Union Jack is flying informing those royal subjects that your little royal highness is in residence. The Royal British Crown Plush will be the crowning jewel of any toy collection. Made from a super soft fleecy exterior and sewn crinkly glittering jewel detailing. No one will forget how special your pup is as the word ‘Royalty’ is found embroidered on the reverse. The Union Jack pattern covers the bottom on both sides of the toy with a squeaker for added fun.
PetLondon has a multitude of British themed toys with the selection growing year upon year, that have proved extremely popular with retailers. The highly patriotic range include:
- A royal Guardsman Baton complete with furry hat and squeaker
- A Royal British Crown plush toy with Union Jack detailing
- The classic London Bus, Big Ben, Black Cab and Red Telephone Box Plush Toys
- Two Tug toys – British Red Pillar Post Box with tough stitching and three colour braided classic rope ball
- Union Jack Tennis Balls, a classic dog toy reimagined
On the apparel side of the agenda, PetLondon offers a British Bus Knit Jumper that is full of spirit with a detailed pattern featuring marching guard dogs, London buses and confetti bones. Made from a deep navy yarn and rounded red neckline with red ribbed cuffs and hems. Which has proved an instant favourite.
The UK Paw Hoody is a soft and lightweight jumper with an easy and comfortable fit. This super soft and cosy attire is emblazoned with a sweet Union Jack paw print on the back. The soft grey flannel body is ideal for active dogs or as loungewear around the house.
To round off the selection of clothing, PetLondon is offering a Royal Guardsmen tee-shirtthat has proven popular in the UK and international markets. The very reasonable cotton top is lightweight and sleeveless in design, adorned a guard dog waving a flag. The matching Guard Dog Toy also is available.
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Good pet food labelling code endorsed by EU
A new edition of the FEDIAF Labelling Code has been approved by the EU Standing Committee for Animal Nutrition. It now includes updates since the first edition of the Code was endorsed back in 2011, which is based on the EU Regulation for the Marketing and Use of Feed...
"The document is a huge support to PFMA members,” says chief executive Michael Bellingham.
A new edition of the FEDIAF Labelling Code has been approved by the EU Standing Committee for Animal Nutrition. It now includes updates since the first edition of the Code was endorsed back in 2011, which is based on the EU Regulation for the Marketing and Use of Feed.
The FEDIAF Code is officially recognised as a practical tool for industry and authorities offering guidance on how to label pet food products – for the benefit of pet owners. It ensures a level playing field within industry and is used by the authorities.
The FEDIAF Code clarifies common questions such as:
- How to label ingredients or additives?
- Which consumer-friendly terms can be used?
- What does the term “meat and animal derivatives” mean?
- How are concentrated, dried ingredients mentioned on the label?
- Is it legal to highlight functional health benefits of pet food products?
- How do labelling rules apply to online trade and promotions?
According to Michael Bellingham (pictured above), PFMA Chief Executive: “EU Regulation lays down key labelling requirements for pet food. However, these need interpretation, examples and clarifications, to explain how these work in practice.
"The Code ensures that the 28 EU Member States follow the same labelling rules and, as a result, we have better and harmonised labelling throughout the EU. The document is also a huge support to PFMA members.”
A large section of the Code is dedicated to explaining how manufacturers can make product claims. It sets out how these must be scientifically substantiated: accurate, truthful and understandable for the purchaser.
Some labelling regulations are extremely technical and therefore FEDIAF has included a “Guide for Customers” or “Layman’s Guide”.
The FEDIAF Labelling Code can be downloaded from the FEDIAF website www.fediaf.org
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King British says ‘give your fish the Royal Treatment’
So confident are King British in the quality of their fish flake, for a limited time only they are giving consumers the opportunity to ‘Try me for £1’. The offer is part of the brand's new consumer campaign, ‘Give your fish the Royal Treatment’...
Most pet owners are aware of the different nutritional needs of cats and dogs, and can spend hours researching the best diet for their furry friend. King British want to encourage fishkeepers to do the same, with their new consumer campaign, ‘Give your fish the Royal Treatment’, and are encouraging aquatic retailers to join the mission.
Dr Sue Huggett, UK Business Manager at King British, said: “Our aim at King British is to ensure that all fish are looked after according to their environmental, behavioural and nutritional needs. With our ‘Give your fish the Royal Treatment’ consumer campaign, we are beginning with nutrition, and want to encourage new and existing fishkeepers to think more about the food they feed their fish.
“Fish are an important member of the family, and should always be given tailored nutrition so they can live long, healthy, happy lives.”
Central to the campaign is King British Fish Flake (with IHB), which won the PPM Retailer Recommended Award for Best Aquatic Product in 2018. Made from the highest quality ingredients, King British Fish Flake contains Immuno Health Booster (IHB), which is unique to King British and can only be found in their foods.
“IHB is a major breakthrough in nutritional science, and is unique to King British – you won’t find it in any other ornamental fish food,” explains Dr Huggett. “IHB is an immunomodulator, which means it helps to regulate the immune system. In an aquarium or pond, fish are in an unnatural environment and are constantly exposed to low levels of infection. Adding IHB to their diet helps boost their immune defence mechanisms, helping them to fight off infections and parasites more effectively, and decreasing the risk of low-level infections developing into full-scale problems.
“In King British trials, 97% of fishkeepers reported improvements in vitality, colour, general health or an inclination to breed after being fed with King British Fish Flake (with IHB), so not only does it provide fish with all the nutrition they need, but it also helps support their overall health,” concludes Dr Huggett.
So confident are King British in the quality of their fish flake, for a limited time only they are giving consumers the opportunity to ‘Try me for £1’. As part of their complete marketing support package for retailers, King British have designed an eye-catching, purpose-built floor-standing unit to hold the promo pots, which is FREE for retailers when they order the required number of cases of ‘Try me for £1’ pots of King British Fish Flake (with IHB).
 It has been designed to take up the minimum amount of floor space while achieving maximum impact, and so would make a great focal point for a fish food display, or can be positioned near fish tanks as a product suggestion for those buying new fish or by the till to encourage impulse buys.
Once the limited stock of special offer flake is gone, King British have ensured retailers and can achieve repeat flake sales by providing a pair of eye-catching wobblers that can be positioned on-shelf near to retailers’ stock of King British Fish Flake (with IHB).
Also available are strongly branded micro-fibre towels, which are more absorbent than ever and ideal for mopping up spills that may occur during tank maintenance, and a set of eight tank stickers which can be used to aid customers in their fish selection and retailers with their sales. Each sticker tells the customer a little about the fish, the kind of environment it likes and which King British fish food is suitable.
For more information on the King British Fish Flake (with IHB) Range contact your local Sales Executive or the company's Customer Service Team by phone on 0333 0066236 or by email at hello@kingbritish.co.uk.
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A woman has claimed she found a dead mouse in a bag of pet food bought from a Poundland store in Aberdeen.
Caitlin Cameron says she found the mouse in a newly-opened bag of rabbit muesli.
And it prompted her to write the following on her Facebook page: “I am ragin!!! So I got my rabbit food from Poundland… not thinking anything of it.
“I open the packet to feed Simba and start putting some in her bowl and here comes a dead mouse.
“Don’t buy any food for your pets! I’ll be phoning the company it’s a joke I’m ragin! Plz share.”
A Poundland spokeswoman told the Evening Express newspaper: “We’re sorry to hear of this. The store has spoken to Caitlin and refunded her £2. We’re clearly as keen as her to know from our supplier how this happened.”
Pictures taken from Caitlin Cameron's Facebook page.
The full story can be read on the Evening Express website by clicking here
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WildWash excels in its cruelty-free status
WildWash is proud of its cruelty-free status, and if proof were needed all of the company’s own brand cosmetic products are now certified as not being tested on animals under the Cruelty Free International Leaping Bunny programme...
WildWash is proud of its cruelty-free status, and if proof were needed all of the company’s own brand cosmetic products are now certified as not being tested on animals under the Cruelty Free International Leaping Bunny programme.
Leaping Bunny is the international gold standard for products that are free from animal testing.
“We adhere to a fixed cut-off date policy and proactively monitor our suppliers to ensure that our products continue to adhere to the Leaping Bunny criteria,” said Jane Cooper, from WildWash’s parent company Pet Revolution.
“Our supplier monitoring system is also open to independent audit. We are so pleased to start off the New Year with this fantastic seal of approval.”
For more information about the Leaping Bunny and Cruelty Free International, visit: http://www.crueltyfreeinternational.org/
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CSJ still celebrating 20 years on!
Twenty years of involvement with the many dog sports has given CSJ a unique insight into the needs of working and competing dogs and their handlers…and the excitement continues...
Twenty years of involvement with the many dog sports has given CSJ a unique insight into the needs of working and competing dogs and their handlers…and the excitement continues.
Founder Ceri Rundle says: “I never dreamed when starting the company after my father and I had searched fruitlessly for high quality affordable feeds for our own working sheepdogs that we would be feeding top dogs in all fields as we do today.
"Over the last 20 years we have endeavored to give back to the diverse world of dog sports by supporting as many events as possible including gundog and sheepdog trials, sled dog rallies, dog shows, agility, flyball, canicross and heelwork to music and freestyle competitions.
"We’ve lived through the highs and lows of our sponsored handlers’ experiences and our community includes World Champions, European Champions and record holders and our social media platforms have huge followings.
"Our subscription free CSJ YouTube channel shows numerous films of top handlers competing and we’re looking forward to releasing series 2 of our own ‘A Way with Dogs’ sheepdog trial early this year.”
Ceri adds: “I have dogs living up to 18 years that have only ever been fed on my products … from the small beginning of the quest for products for my own dogs to over the last 20 years working closely with top UK nutritionists, herbalists and vets has been an amazing experience and we’re looking forward to continuing to celebrate the successes of all the users of our natural feeds, herbs and treats.”
For more on CSJ products visit www.csjk9.com or call 01745710470
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New British company Charlie & Co Naturals will be unveiling a premium dog shampoo at PATS Sandown in February.
The 100% natural shampoo is made with a unique organic oats and seaweed extract by a leading organic pharmacist Margo Marrone.
This unique formulation is highly effective for soothing and maintaining a dog's coat and skin naturally.
Charlie & Co Naturals was founded by Margo and Shirin Valipour, a key naturals specialist and dog lover. The shampoo was formulated for Shirin’s dog Charlie four years ago as Charlie had skin allergies due to an immunity condition. It helped heal Charlie’s skin and make her coat shiny.
The dog shampoo will be available from April with a RRP £14 (400ml).
You’ll be able to find Charlie & Co Naturals on stand R3 at PATS Sandown.
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Revealed: Top 50 pet industry news stories of 2018
It has been an amazing and eventful year for the UK pet industry with lots of companies making headline news (good and bad) as well as scores of exciting and innovative new products being launched. What better way to look back on 2018 than through the Top 50 best-read stories?
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The best of the previous Pet Trade Xtra
The top-read stories from last week's Pet Trade Xtra can be seen below, if you missed them...
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Scotland-based Avondale Pet Foods has recalled its Just Natural Chicken & Trip raw dog food because it has been found to contain salmonella. The product had been sold in Scotland and England.
No other Avondale Pet Foods Ltd products are known to be affected.
Point-of-sale notices have been displayed in all retail stores selling this product. These notices explain to customers why the product is being recalled and tell them what to do if they have bought the product.
In the customer notice, the pet food company said: “We apologise unreservedly for any undue concern this may have caused.
We have formally updated the affected stockists and anyone with any unused packs of this product batch number please return them to the place of purchase where possible for a full refund.
“If anyone has any questions please either contact your stockist or contact us, we have set up an email address specifically for this product_recall@just-natural.co.uk or alternatively call 07967 491384.”
The Food Standards Agency issued details of the Product Recall Information Notice on its website to let consumers and local authorities know about problems associated with the pet food.
The FSA stated: “Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause illness in humans and animals. The product could therefore carry a potential risk, because of the presence of salmonella, either through direct handling of the pet food, or indirectly, for example from pet feeding bowls, utensils or contact with the faeces of animals. In humans, symptoms caused by salmonella usually include fever, diarrhoea and abdominal cramps. Infected animals may not necessarily display signs of illness, but symptoms can include diarrhoea.”
Full details of the Product Recall can be found on the FSA website at https://www.food.gov.uk/news-alerts/alert/fsa-prin-71-2018
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Ten million owners don't know what's in their pets' food
Research by True Instinct has revealed that 10 million dog and cat owners are not aware of what’s in their pet’s food. Despite this, a quarter are pledging to make a healthy New Year’s resolution for their furry-friend in 2019 with the top one being going for more walks...
Research from True Instinct, the raw and natural pet food expert, reveals that 10 million* dog and cat owners are not aware of what’s in their pet’s food. Despite this, a quarter are pledging to make a healthy New Year’s resolution for their four-legged friend.
The poll of UK dog and cat owners** reveals that the nation’s knowledge of pet food ingredients is extremely low, with over 62% (equating to 10 million out of 17 million total dog and cat owners in the UK) admitting to not knowing what they’re really feeding their pet. More than half say they aren’t aware that mainstream dry pet foods contain sugar, meat derivatives, processed ingredients and artificial additives. Less than 15% of those surveyed are aware that shocking ingredients such as bone ash, feathers and synthetics can be found in some of these foods.
The knowledge gap continues with around a third of pet owners not realising dogs can’t eat foods such as chocolate or onions which are both toxic. Conversely, owners aren’t aware of the many ingredients that can improve pet health either; 14% say dogs can’t eat butternut squash, which is a nutritious vegetable, and 20% say blueberries are a no-go but are actually full of antioxidants. Both are found in natural and raw pet foods such as True Instinct, due to the countless health benefits they provide.
But it’s not all doom and gloom. Whilst only 40% of UK dog and cat owners are making a healthy New Year’s resolution for themselves in 2019, a quarter are putting their pets first and have pledged that they’ll make one for their four-legged friend – ensuring they kick start the year to get their pet healthier and happier.
This could be down to the fact that over a third say their dog or cat suffers from a health issue such as bad breath, diabetes or a skin condition, and 10% are overweight. Such conditions can be alleviated simply by switching to a more natural, healthy diet.
Whilst knowledge of ingredients is low, the research does show that 26% of pet parents say that when selecting their pet food brand their dog or cat must visibly enjoy it, and a quarter state it must make a difference to their health and wellbeing.
Top 10 list of New Year’s resolutions for our pets this January:
- Go for more walks (45%)
- Cut down on unhealthy treats (40%)
- Give them a better, more natural diet (31%)
- Spend more time with them (30%)
- Brush their teeth more often (29%)
- Pay more attention to their training/behaviour (25%)
- Take them for regular health checks (21%)
- Stop bad habits e.g. sleeping on the bed, eating from the table (19%)
- Give them more regular baths (18%)
- Ensure they socialise with other dogs/cats (16%)
Melanie Sainsbury, Veterinary Education Manager for True Instinct comments: “January is often a time where our thoughts turn to getting healthier, be it taking part in ‘Dry January’ or just generally being more conscious about what we eat – and this shouldn’t be any different for our pets. Whilst there is clearly a gap in knowledge of what’s really in certain pet foods, we understand that pet owners are often time-poor and often prioritise convenience.
“However, it’s promising to see from the research that pet parents want to make a positive change – and it doesn’t have to be difficult either.
“Pets could take part in their very own ‘Dry January’ – but one where they enjoy a balanced nutritious diet in the form of a more natural, healthy dry food such as True Instinct. Our Raw Boost product includes no nasties and all the ingredients they need to thrive, whilst still in a convenient format.”
For more information or to place an order, visit www.trueinstinct.co.uk or call 0800 0183770.
*Calculated using PFMA data on current dog and cat population 2018 – 17 million
**Survey by OnePoll on 17th December 2018 of 2,000 UK dog and cat owners
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Pets at Home ramps up training recruitment scheme
Pets at Home is ramping up recruitment for its training academy in 2019. Recruitment agency Encore Personnel, which has an onsite team hiring and supporting agency workers at the pet retailer, revealed it will enhance the training programme further by training up to 10 new recruits each month.
Pets at Home is ramping up recruitment for its training academy in 2019.
Recruitment agency Encore Personnel, which has an onsite team hiring and supporting agency workers at the pet retailer, revealed it will enhance the training programme further by training up to 10 new recruits each month.
The Academy, which has been up and running for four months, prepares those who have had years of difficulty finding a job by equipping them with the skills to perform well in interviews and the necessary training to work for potential experience at Pets at Home.
The full story can be viewed on the Recruiter website by clicking here
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Dr Vince MacNally, a veterinary surgeon in Southport with over 30 years’ experience, has made available a unique range of clinically proven, natural supplements and Pet Remedies, which over the last 25 years, have transformed the lives of countless dogs and cats.
Vince the Vet Superfood Supplements supply concentrated bursts of nutrients to important parts of the body, to support specific areas of health, including digestion, energy and vitality, immunity and joint mobility. Added to a dog or cat’s diet each day, significant health benefits are typically seen in a matter of weeks. The supplements are made using only the finest natural, raw ingredients and contain no fillers or chemical additives of any kind. A little therefore, goes a long way, which makes them affordable as well as highly effective at enriching any diet, and supplying many of the nutrients necessary for optimum health.
Vince the Vet Pet Remedies are clinically proven blends of plant and mineral extracts which support the body’s natural adaptive and recuperative powers. Available in 50ml dropper bottles, there are formulations to naturally relieve fears and anxieties, and reduce the stress of thunder, fireworks, travel, vet visits and other challenging events. There are also remedies to support the normal, healthy functioning of key organs in the body, such as the joints, heart, liver, kidneys and bowels. There are those which can be used throughout the year to maintain healthy, hygienic bowels and cleanse the organs of detoxification, while others such as Recuperation and Skin Irritation are useful to have to hand, to aid a return to full health following recovery from an injury or illness.
Vince explains the inspiration behind his brand and products:
“Yushi, a West Highland White Terrier who’s owners had been told to have put to sleep because of chronic, incurable skin disease, and Tina a Miniature Wire-Haired Dachshund with a serious nasal fungal infection, who was also facing euthanasia, were the inspiration behind Vince the Vet.
"The story of their remarkable turnarounds and restoration to full health began several years before, in the mid nineteen nineties, when despite having a thriving veterinary practice successfully treating thousands of pets each year, I felt increasingly frustrated by the number of dogs and cats we were seeing, who needed constant medication with antibiotics, steroids and other drugs, to keep their conditions under control.
"A chance encounter with a doctor at a Veterinary Congress, brought back memories from my time as an orthopaedic surgeon, along with the sense of awe always felt seeing broken bones magically knit together again to form functional limbs and joints. What if the same, extraordinary ability of the body to self-heal could be mobilised and supported in pets with persistent health problems to reduce the need for drugs? This thought sparked the study of many of the world’s oldest systems of healthcare, including holistic nutrition, herbal medicine, Ayurveda and homeopathy, in the UK, USA, Thailand, India and China.
"It became clear from this research, that particular plants and minerals had the ability to deliver concentrated bursts of potent, health-supporting nutrients to the parts of the body where they were most needed. And, that this in turn could profoundly aid self-repair and deliver other significant health benefits. As high as hopes were however, initial results were disappointing - largely because reliable information on their use in animals was scarce, or non-existent.
"Undeterred however and spurred on by a belief that Nature could provide answers, a course was set to create blends of natural ingredients that would be effective at transforming quality of life, in the majority of dog and cats receiving them.
As a clinician, the changes seen following any kind of treatment are what matters most, and so clinical feedback was paramount in shaping the development of the supplements and remedies created, until building on success after success, they yielded consistently, positive results.
"In the decades that followed, the supplements and remedies were constantly refined and improved even further, resulting in Yusji and Tina – the inspiration behind Vince the Vet – being joined by countless other pets.
"And now, having achieved what we set out to do all those years ago – which was to maximise the body’s ability to self-repair and maintain optimum health, using clinically proven natural products that worked, Vince the Vet was launched, to make them as widely available as possible, to pet carers everywhere.”
Vince has many years experience as a clinician. Having qualified as a vet from Liverpool University in 1983, he went on to work for the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) in Manchester for 3 years (1983 – 1986) where he developed a specialised interest in orthopaedic surgery.
In November 1986 he set up his own practice in Stockport. Over the next 14 years this became a multi-disciplinary centre of excellence offering the highest standards of veterinary medicine and care. Vince went on to study complementary therapies and in 1998 obtained the VetMFHom qualification after studying with the HPTG (Homeopathic Physicians Teaching Group) in Oxford for 3 years.
After selling his veterinary practice and then a holistic centre for pets and people in Hampshire, Vince focused on bringing this unique range of clinically proven, holistic supplements and remedies to market, while at the same time continuing to treat pets throughout the UK with severe and chronic diseases. Vince the Vet has also developed a range of single protein raw dehydrated treats and raw food to also support health. Worm Count and Lungworm Kits to screen for parasitic worms have recently been introduced to make diagnostic tests more accessible and affordable to pet owners, who want to proactively manage and monitor their dogs and cats health.
Vince the Vet has ambitious plans for the future. Dr Vince elaborates:“It is our goal to become the market leader in Veterinary Holistic Pet Care and the first choice for dog and cat owners and professional pet carers everywhere. We offer the ONLY fully integrated range of clinically proven, natural supplements and Pet Remedies produced and supplied by an expert holistic vet in the UK, with 30+ years clinical expertise and access for customers to holistic veterinary advice. At the heart of Vince the Vet is the ever-present desire to help pets live the healthiest and happiest lives possible, given their own unique individual make-up and circumstances.
Our ethos is to provide professional veterinary quality, holistic pet products which have proven themselves capable of transforming dogs and cats lives, time and time again – as the numerous testimonials on our website demonstrate.
We aim to supply as many retailers and healthcare professionals throughout the UK and Europe as possible with our products, whether they be pet shops and stores, health food outlets, online businesses or pet care professionals such as veterinary surgeons, massage therapists, osteopaths and hydrotherapists.”
To find out more about Vince the Vet visit www.vincethevet.co.uk
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