In This Issue
Pet people among highest paid retail executives
Pets Corner accounts confirm store closures
Revitalised Vital drives down costs and improves efficiency
Pooch & Mutt’s Guy Blaskey appears on BBC Breakfast TV
Revolutionary new small animal bedding available in UK
Final call for entries to the Pet Industry Federation Awards
PATS Telford presents top grooming programme
Chuckit! unveils new Mountain Rope Tug toy
Cat has leg amputated by PDSA after mystery injury
Get your own copy of Pet Trade Xtra
Pet shop up for sale after seven years of trading
No-go for Pets at Home store in Wales
Ampet Products appointed UK distributor for the American IMARC engraving machine
Interpet set to deliver more value to fish care market with new consumer-facing website
Registering the Mighty Cotswold as the UK’s first dog centric sausage
BETA International teams up with GES for 2018
Vanmore Great Danes smash 17 year old breed record!
New card ensures pets aren’t left alone if you fall ill
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Pet people among highest paid retail executives
The chief executive and chief financial officer at Pets at Home are named in a list of the UK’s 100 highest-paid retail bosses...



The list, produced by Retail Week, reveals that Pets at Home boss Ian Kellet (above) received a basic salary of £474,712 and benefits of  £187,375 that gave him a total package of £662,087 in the year 2016/17.



The chief executive and chief financial officer at Pets at Home are named in a list of the UK’s 100 highest-paid retail bosses.

 

The list, produced by Retail Week, reveals that Pets at Home boss Ian Kellet (above) received a basic salary of £474,712 and benefits of  £187,375 that gave him a total package of £662,087 in the year 2016/17.

 

The total package placed him 54th in the list of high earners in the retail sector.

 

At 100 in the list is another Pets at Home executive, chief financial officer Mike Iddon with a total package of £206,457 (£155,615 basic, £50,842 benefits).

 

Majestic Wine boss Rowan Gormley (£5,386,000), WHSmith chief Stephen Clarke (£5,244,000) and a new arrival at Burberry, chief operating and financial officer Julie Brown (£4,734,000), were the highest-rewarded retail executives last year, according to Retail Week.

Pets Corner accounts confirm store closures


Pets Corner has closed almost 20 underperforming PamPurredPets stores since its multimillion-pound takeover of the rival business last year...



Pets Corner has closed almost 20 underperforming PamPurredPets stores since its multimillion-pound takeover of the rival business last year.

Pet Family Ltd, the parent company which operates the Pets Corner retail chain, purchased PamPurredPets for £6m in March 2016. At the time, the Dorset-headquartered business operated a network of 50 stores.

However, newly filed financial accounts for Pet Family have now confirmed that nine underperforming sites were shut down in the six-month period between March and September 2016. A further nine stores, along with the central warehouse operation in Verwood, have since been shut down.

Pet Family has reported turnover of £46.8m for the year to 30 September 2016, compared with £35.1m a year earlier. This included a £7m contribution from PamPurredPets and sales of £39.5m from Pets Corner.

However, profit before tax fell from almost £3m to £1.4m due to a rise in expenses associated with the acquisition and store closures.

In the annual report at Companies House, Pet Family said it was satisfied with its results and that profitability in the company "remains healthy" despite the current economic climate and growing competition in the market.
 
Revitalised Vital drives down costs and improves efficiency
Following its acquisition by the Subura Group, Vital Pet Products is forging ahead with new operating systems, innovative products and a completely fresh approach. And director Sunny Sharma (pictured) says improvements in infrastructure are already helping to drive down costs and improve efficiency.
Following its acquisition by the Subura Group, Vital Pet Products is forging ahead with new operating systems, innovative products and a completely fresh approach.

Director Sunny Sharma (right) says the company’s ultimate aim is to be much more than a wholesaler, adding: “We’re looking to be a 21st Century partner for supplier brands and clients, whether they have a chain of independent shops, a single store, a kennel, or a cattery.”

The first few months in business have seen some key appointments, exclusive deals on exciting new product lines and a promotional calendar designed to drive sales growth for retailers. Improvements in infrastructure are already helping to drive down costs and improve efficiency.

Not only have many brands confirmed their support for Vital, they have renewed their commitment to supply great quality and value to the independent pet trade. Vital is also delivering new opportunities for retailers to profit and has secured the exclusive rights extension for one of USA’s bestselling toy ranges – Petstages and Outward Hound.

A regular promotional calendar has been put in place that will focus on competitively priced, best-buy products with strong sell through. “The more we drive profitability for retailers, the faster we can develop our business model and make progress together,” says Sunny.

The new high-calibre management team has got to grips with both fundamentals and long term business planning in just a few short months. As part of the streamlining process, the regional Salisbury site has been consolidated with Exeter, Vital’s National Delivery Centre, where there have been improvements to allow direct supply across a wider network of retailers. This means faster and more efficient processing of orders, especially for those previously served by regional centres. New Operations Manager in Exeter, Des Corfield, will lead and champion operational excellence at Exeter.

Also new to the business is Senior HR Manager, Marie Betts (left) – previously of Harvard Technology and Amazon – whose big brand experience demonstrates how serious Vital is about developing a first class business and recruiting a great team.

The company is now looking to recruit three top flight sales people to join the team and the focus is on bringing in the very best people. “There will be many exciting opportunities for people within this business,” explains Sunny, “We want smart, energetic people who are really prepared to grasp those opportunities and who want to feel excited about where their career will take them.”

A set of audited accounts has been produced putting the company on a sound financial footing and already the improvements have had a positive impact on the bottom line. The message to retailers is clear: Vital has changed for the better and when it comes to delivering improved value and service, the company means business.

To find out more about Vital visit www.vitalpetproducts.co.uk or telephone 01837 883000. For information about joining the Vital team contact Marie Betts, email marie.betts@vitalpetproducts.co.uk.
Pooch & Mutt’s Guy Blaskey appears on BBC Breakfast TV


Watched by around six million people every day, the UK’s most popular breakfast news programme recently interviewed Pooch & Mutt founder Guy Blaskey...



Watched by around six million people every day, the UK’s most popular breakfast news programme recently interviewed Pooch & Mutt founder Guy Blaskey.

With regular presenters of the show including Charlie Stayt, the interview saw Blaskey discuss languages and foreign exports within business.

Rapid growth since its 2008 launch now sees Pooch & Mutt available worldwide with exports including France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Singapore, New Zeland, Dubai and India.

Following a trial in Casino stores back in April, last week French grocery store Franprix launched a selection of Pooch & Mutt products.

With stores located in and around Paris, Franprix offers a variety of products from Pooch & Mutt’s popular wheat-free tube treats, including Health & Digestion, Calm & Relaxed and Fresh Breath. In the UK, Pooch & Mutt’s ‘Health Food For Dogs’ range is available nationwide across a variety of independents, via wholesale suppliers Vital and Pedigree, and through the trade section of the company’s own online store.

The wheat-free, ‘junk-free’ tube treats are now available across 50 of the Franprix stores throughout Paris.

With an increasing demand for healthy, natural products within the pet sector, customers worldwide are becoming more conscious of choosing ethical products with health benefits for their pets. Founder Guy Blaskey said: “Our products are high quality and deliver what they say they will. This has led to a strong reputation and it’s a key reason people love our brand.”

As the largest independent pet food company on social sites Facebook and Instagram, the company has won countless awards including Manufacturing Entrepreneur of the Year, The Grocer’s Product Of The Year, Gold at the European Design Awards, and The Times Ready Business Britain.
 
Revolutionary new small animal bedding available in UK
Great news for the UK’s pet industry from brand leader Kaytee – its revolutionary new Clean & Cozy small animal bedding is now available in the UK...


Great news for the UK’s pet industry from brand leader Kaytee – its revolutionary new Clean & Cozy small animal bedding is now available in the UK.

Clean & Cozy is made from excess materials generated by the food and hygiene industries. It differs from any other paper pet bedding in that it has a proprietary manufacturing process and uses real paper rather than the pulp that is used by other pet brands.

It is the cellulose fibre in this process that ensures that Clean & Cozy absorbs twice as much liquid as wood shavings, is 99.9% dust free, and softer than other paper options.

 
Sold in compact, easy to stack packaging, Clean and Cozy expands to three times its volume e.g. 8.2 litres (500cu) expands to 24.6 litres (1500cu) when opened.

It is available in four pack sizes from 12.3 litres to 85 litres and in a choice of plain white, natural, coloured, and scented finishes thereby offering bedding that will appeal to all sectors of the market.

Additionally the range offers two innovative ‘forage and fun’ packs; Apple Orchard and Vegetable Garden, these include treats that encourage natural foraging behaviour.

The new Clean & Cozy range is available to order now.

The Clean & Cosy range is distributed and sold in the UK by Interpet www.interpetcentral.com

Final call for entries to the Pet Industry Federation Awards
Do you have a business to be proud of? If the answer is yes, then why not enter the 2017 Pet Industry Federation Awards and get the recognition you and your team deserve?



Burns Pet Nutrition receiving their joint Manufacturer of the Year award from Chris Barrie at the 2016 Pet Industry Awards dinner.



Do you have a business to be proud of? If the answer is yes, then why not enter the 2017 Pet Industry Federation Awards and get the recognition you and your team deserve?

Entry for the Pet Industry Federation Awards is quick, simple and absolutely free. To be in with a chance of winning you need to outline, in no more than 500 words, why you think your business should receive the award. Judging criteria and entry is available online at www.petbusinessworld.co.uk

The winners will be announced at the 2017 Pet Industry Federation Awards dinner, which will take place at Whittlebury Hall, near Towcester in Northamptonshire on Tuesday 28 November, and tickets are on sale now.

The spectacular birthday-themed evening will provide the backdrop for the celebration of our thriving industry, as PIF celebrates its 70th birthday in 2017. The event provides a fantastic opportunity for the whole industry to come together, socialise and network in convivial atmosphere over a three-course meal with entertainment and a live music.

The deadline for the receipt of entries into the PIF awards is Monday 21 August.

The 12 award categories are:

  1. Retail Chain of the Year – sponsored by Natures Menu
  2. Independent Retailer of the Year - sponsored by Crown Pet Foods
  3. Manufacturer of the Year – sponsored by PATS
  4. Wholesaler of the Year – sponsored by PATS
  5. Exporter of the Year
  6. Grooming Business of the Year
  7. Kennel or Cattery of the Year -sponsored by Jelf
  8. Pet Service of the Year
  9. Sales Representative of the Year
  10. Charity of the Year – sponsored by Mars Petcare
  11. Sustainability Awards of the Year
  12. Innovation Award of the Year

A Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Agria Pet Insurance, will also be presented to someone who has made an outstanding contribution to the industry over the years.

The Awards are announced following the daytime Pet Industry Forum - a conference aimed at all pet businesses which will cover important issues affecting the pet industry, such as effective packaging; the US market; product innovation and the importance of creating retail theatre.

Tickets for the Forum & Awards are now available online at www.petfederation.co.uk.

Pictured: Burns Pet Nutrition receiving their joint Manufacturer of the Year award from Chris Barrie at the 2016 Pet Industry Awards dinner.


 
PATS Telford presents top grooming programme

PATS Telford will be presenting state-of-the art grooming demonstrations and talks on both days of the show at The Telford International Centre on Sunday and Monday, September 24-25. “Myself and the other members of British Dog Groomers' Association are really looking forward to delivering two days of interactive demos/seminars at PATS Telford this year,”  said Kelly Davis (above right), Director for BDGA.


PATS Telford will be presenting state-of-the art grooming demonstrations and talks on both days of the show at The Telford International Centre on Sunday and Monday, September 24-25.

 

The grooming programme, in association with British Dog Groomers' Association and KD Grooming Studio, will include some of the country’s leading groomers.

 

The demonstrations will highlight the knowledge and expertise required to successfully complete all traditional grooming techniques, and will show off a few creative twists and turns as well.

 

With an increasing number of pet retailers introducing grooming salons into their stores, the PATS programme of talks and demos will provide invaluable insights into this side of the business.

 

“Myself and the other members of BDGA are really looking forward to delivering two days of interactive demos/seminars at PATS Telford this year,”  said Kelly Davis (above), Director for BDGA. 

 

“This exhibition is one of the most enjoyable events out there. A welcoming environment with new products, free samples and an opportunity to network and learn is always a great day out in my book.”

 

PATS organiser Annie Foord said: “We’re really excited to be running such a full programme of grooming talks and demonstrations in association with British Dog Groomers' Association and KD Grooming Studio. If you’re thinking of adding grooming to your pet business, make sure you visit PATS Telford.”

 

A growing number of companies specialising in pet grooming products are also choosing PATS exhibitions to showcase their latest ranges. Companies like For All Dogkind, who have won the Grooming Product Award at PATS in the past.

 

Laura Redstone, of For All Dogkind knows the value of picking up such a prestigious accolade, saying: "After winning the award we were overwhelmed by the trade enquiries we received from both the UK and overseas. The accolade gave DogKind a superb launch platform into the pet and grooming industry.”

 

The exhibition hall at The Telford International Centre will be packed with stands showcasing new products. And there will be lots to see and talk about with over 200 companies exhibiting. To register for free entry to the show and to view the full list of exhibitors visit www.patshow.co.uk

 

GROOMING PROGRAMME AT PATS TELFORD

 

Sunday, September 24

  • Kelly Davis - Qualifications
  • Kelly Davis - Welsh Springer Spaniel
  • Mathew Spry - standard poodle in graduated puppy trim
  • Mel Overand & Steph Dingley - Coat maintenance, products & finishing
  • Mel Overand and Steph Dingley - Bichon
  • Kelly Davis - Salon creative
  • Mathew Spry - Mini Poodle Face, feet & tail.

 

Monday, September 25

  • Carol Thorpe - Brushing techniques/coat maintenance
  • Lucy Arathoon - Bichon Frise- Pet trim
  • Carol Thorpe - New products/equipment review
  • Lisa Caines/Lucy Arathoon - opportunity for attendees to play the role of an examiner on a Level 3 interactive Demo on Spaniel, Westie, schnauzer
  • Kelly Davis – Qualifications
Chuckit! unveils new Mountain Rope Tug toy

Responding to growing consumer demand for pet products that promote bonding and well-being, Chuckit! is reinforcing its commitment to happy and healthy pets with the launch of a new stimulating and durable collection of Rope Tug toys – the Mountain Rope Tug, which is to be unveiled at PATS Telford...


Responding to growing consumer demand for pet products that promote bonding and well-being, Chuckit! is reinforcing its commitment to happy and healthy pets with the launch of a new stimulating and durable collection of Rope Tug toys – the Mountain Rope Tug, which is to be unveiled at PATS Telford.

Following the success of Chuckit!’s Rugged range for tougher breeds, the launch of the durable Nylon Mountain Rope Tug gives retailers even more ways to cater to the needs of this specific market, whilst also now being able to target smaller breeds with tough toy solutions too.

Boasting looped ends for easy grip, this addition is suitable for multi-dog play or tug games between dog and owner, making it the ideal choice for both socialised dogs, and those new to tugging who need a simple toy to help them learn the ropes. A versatile toy too, the Mountain Rope Tug boasts Chuckit!’s first softer rope exterior, meaning it can also be used indoors if rain happens to halt those mountain hikes.

Will Baggaley, Brand Manager for Chuckit!, comments: “Expanding our options for tougher breeds was important to us as we know durable toys for rougher play are not always  readily available for consumers, especially in smaller sizes.

"Made from a robust and hard-wearing material the Mountain Rope Tug is a great addition to the Chuckit! range and puts both bonding and fun at the forefront of dog ownership.”

The Small (RRP £7.99) and Large (RRP £10.99) Mountain Rope Tug will be available for retailers to browse on stand E10 at Pats Telford 2017.

For more information on Chuckit, visit: http://www.petproducts.co.uk/chuckit/.

Cat has leg amputated by PDSA after mystery injury


Two-year-old Middlesbrough moggy, Tibbles, had to have his leg amputated by PDSA after vanishing for over a week and returning with a mystery injury...



Two-year-old Middlesbrough moggy, Tibbles, had to have his leg amputated by PDSA after vanishing for over a week and returning with a mystery injury.

Owner, Hollie Thompson (32), was frantic when he disappeared, and was overjoyed when he returned. But her joy turned to concern when she realised he was seriously injured: “Tibbles had been missing for over a week so when he walked in one morning I was so relieved,” said Hollie. “But then we noticed he was barely able to use his left front left leg.  The kids were incredibly upset to see him in so much pain.”

“I rang a local vet but they estimated it could cost several thousand pounds depending on what treatment was needed. We just didn’t have that kind of money and, although our dog is insured, I hadn’t thought to insure the cat too – I didn’t think vet fees for cats would cost so much,” said Holly.

Hollie had heard of PDSA but didn’t think she’d be eligible as her husband works full time. But she rang the vet charity as she couldn’t bear to consider what the alternative might be. She was delighted to find out that, because they receive family tax credits, they were eligible for PDSA’s new concessionary service, which offers reduced cost vet care to people on a wide range of benefits.

Tibbles was taken straight into Middlesbrough PDSA Pet Hospital where tests revealed the extent of the damage. PDSA Head Nurse, Steph Williams, said: “We can’t be sure exactly what caused the injury, but Tibbles had suffered severe nerve damage to his leg. Sadly, this couldn’t be repaired and the only option was amputation.”

Just one day after the operation, Tibbles was well enough to come home. Hollie continued: “I’d not met a three-legged cat before so was anxious about how this would affect him – he’s always been a very active cat who enjoys his independence. I had to keep him indoors until his stitches healed, but I needn’t have worried about him adapting – he was back to normal in almost no time and flying up the stairs as usual.

“Tibbles still loves going outdoors and my son, Kodi, who has Downs Syndrome and didn’t used to go near him, now loves him! I’m so grateful to PDSA for their help – it cost us around £350 for the treatment, but without them I don’t know what we’d have done.”

PDSA is the UK’s leading veterinary charity, and provides affordable vet care to pets in need. Owners who receive Housing Benefit or Council Tax benefit are eligible to receive free vet care for their pet, while owners who receive other benefits can access treatment at a reduced cost.

For more information visit www.pdsa.org.uk or call 0800 731 2502.
 
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Pet shop up for sale after seven years of trading
The owner of a popular pet shop, in Wellington, Somerset, has announced the shop is up for sale after seven years of trading...


The owner of a popular pet shop, in Wellington, Somerset, has announced the shop is up for sale after seven years of trading.

Carol Beaney, owner of Paws N Claws on High Street, said she is selling the store due to personal reasons but said she has 'thoroughly enjoyed' trading in Wellington.

"I am sad to say that I am selling the store due to personal reasons after seven wonderful years of trading" she said.

"The store is not experiencing any financial difficulties, we just want to move on and try something new.

"We have loved every minute of our time here and we want to sell the shop to someone like minded who will make the best out of the store.

"Trade here has been good for most of the time and we have had some lovely customers over the years."

Carol said she will be sad to say goodbye the shop but said she hopes a new tenant will snap up the store soon.

"I want to make sure customers are aware that the store is not closing, it won't close until we have found another buyer for the store.

"I had a great seven years here with some wonderful customers and I will miss it dearly."
 
No-go for Pets at Home store in Wales
Plans to demolish a former county council-owned community centre in Pembroke Dock in South West Wales, and replace it with a Pets at Home retail store, will not now go ahead...
Plans to demolish a former county council-owned community centre in Pembroke Dock in South West Wales, and replace it with a Pets at Home retail store, will not now go ahead.

A spokeswoman for Pets at Home confirmed the London Road development would not go ahead, adding: “We have always kept our development plans under regular review. This means that in a more challenging and dynamic retail environment some of the developments we identify do not progress as initially envisaged.

“We still expect to open 10 new Pets at Home stores in the current financial year.”


An outline application, made by Dylan Jones of Esterkin Developments Pembroke Ltd, through Cardiff-based agent RPS, for a change of use for the vacant Development Centre on London Road was given the go-ahead at the December meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning and rights of way committee.

The site, a former school before becoming a development centre, was expected to be built some time in 2017.

The former community centre was originally put on the market in 2014 with an asking price of £200,000, but was later sold to Esterkin Developments for £150,750.

The proposed Pets at Home store plan promised to create 11 full time and 15 part-time jobs.

As well as demolishing the existing building, it is planned to create an 827m sq store, together with 53 car parking spaces and 10 cycle spaces, as well as creating an access on to London Road.
 
Ampet Products appointed UK distributor for the American IMARC engraving machine
AmPet Products will be launching the IMARC engraving machine at PATS Telford next month...

AmPet Products will be launching the IMARC engraving machine at PATS Telford next month.

Over the past 30 years, this engraving machine has become a market leader in the USA and Europe and is seen regularly at Global Pet Expo, Interzoo and Zoomark International. Now it is time for it to enter the UK.

European distributor Torben Bøgwad said: “We receive many enquiries from the UK, but it is hard to service these people properly from Denmark so we are very excited to be working with AmPet.

"With their focus on American products we feel that this is a great fit for us. I am looking forward to meeting UK petshop owners at PATS next month with the AmPet team.”

The IMARC machine is very popular as it does not require any maintenance or servicing and they very rarely break down even when used for thousands of tags every month.

The machine is easy to use and staff do not need any training to make tags that are stylish and quick to print. It also has a small footprint so sits easily onto a table top or till area.

With a suggested retail price of £12.00 including VAT for a finished tag, if a retailer sells three tags per day over a six day week, they will recoup their investment in just six months. Finance will also be offered to assist in purchasing the machine.

With the growth in equestrian retailers expanding into the pet sector the IMARC machine can also make tags for horses including brass name tags for bridles.

If you would like to find out more about the IMARC Engraving Machine or any other products distributed by AmPet, visit stand D32 at PATS, website www.ampet.dog or telephone 0330 088 3547.

 
Interpet set to deliver more value to fish care market with new consumer-facing website
Interpet is increasing its commitment to the aquarium care market with a brand-new consumer-facing website. Written in an accessible and friendly style, helpful content will educate new fishkeepers and drive category trade-up for more experienced fishkeepers...


Interpet is increasing its commitment to the aquarium care market with a brand-new consumer-facing website. Written in an accessible and friendly style, helpful content will educate new fishkeepers and drive category trade-up for more experienced fishkeepers.

Drawing on 65 years of fishkeeping experience, Interpet have invested in a new website to be the new go-to source of information for easy and fun fishkeeping and aquarium care. Full of high quality information, the website aims to convert confused consumers and experienced fishkeepers into new customers.

The mobile-responsive set-up is fully SEO optimised, so consumers can find what they want easily, regardless of their device.

An easy link to the correct Interpet product for their needs and a simple to use store locator will drive sales to trusted retail partners.

Retailers wishing to feature on the store locator should email their store details to customercare@interpet.co.uk.

The new website www.interpet.co.uk is brimming with useful information including:
  • Fish health and aquarium problem diagnostic tool
  • Treatment dosage calculator
  • Support centre full of helpful videos, animations and articles
  • Product selector
New fishkeepers will find the well-presented information demystifies aquarium care –subjects such as the nitrogen cycle, fish selection, and how to identify and treat problems are clearly presented. Experienced fishkeepers will appreciate the no-nonsense clarity that helps them select new products to enhance their existing set-up.

Fishkeepers can rely on freshly updated information with regular blog posts to stay abreast of the latest developments, trends and product news.

Adrian Exell of Interpet says “Fishkeeping should be fun, not a mystery. That’s why we’ve avoided jargon and excessive science-speak and made sure we’ve filled our website with genuinely useful information in plain, simple English. We hope this new website will help people understand how to keep healthy fish in an appropriate environment."

Trade customers can visit Interpetcental.com to access support functions and other trade-specific tools.



 
Registering the Mighty Cotswold as the UK’s first dog centric sausage
Cotswold RAW is the proud rural provider of the ‘dog sausage,’ a nutritionally robust and sublime tasting sausage that comes in a wealth of stirring flavours from Beef, Turkey & Chicken to Venison & Rabbit.


The unreliable British weather may well have put a temporary dampener on the UK’s fanatical BBQ fraternity but our island’s unquenchable bulldog spirit means we’re never more than a few sunbeams away from purring lawnmowers, the scent of fresh grass and the unmistakable whiff of frazzled meats.

Nothing says BBQ more than the hearty banger for which Britain is so proud, and yet, whilst we humans chomp the chipolata one has to feel a little sorry for the salivating hounds left on the sidelines.

Cotswold RAW is a proud rural provider of the ‘dog sausage,’ a nutritionally robust and sublime tasting sausage that comes in a wealth of stirring flavours from Beef, Turkey & Chicken to Venison & Rabbit.

Better still these Grocer award nominated sausages can be eaten straight of the pack because Cotswold RAW are pioneers in BARF thinking which appreciates that ‘cooked pet food’ means the unnecessary asset stripping of essential nutrients and taste notes.

According to co-founder Mark Lewis, ‘We’re currently discussing whether to register the trusty Cotswold as a standalone sausage, because in a country that is rightly proud of the hefty Cumberland & the spicy Yorkshire (nutmeg & cayenne), the coarse meat Suffolk and the herby Lincolnshire (sage and thyme), why not champion the world’s first dog centric sausage – the MIGHTY Cotswold?"

 
BETA International teams up with GES for 2018
BETA International is now working in partnership with global exhibition provider GES to deliver core exhibitor services at the 2018 show...

BETA International is now working in partnership with global exhibition provider GES to deliver core exhibitor services at the 2018 show.

With high-quality resources and more than 90 years' experience, GES is a strategic event partner to major brands around the world. It will provide shell-scheme stands, electrics, flooring, graphics and logistics to companies with a presence at the show, as well as design-and-build options for space-only exhibitors.

“We are extremely pleased that GES has joined us as we prepare for BETA International 2018,” said trade fair organiser Claire Thomas.

“The company has extensive knowledge of the exhibition sector and plays an integral role at more than 3,000 trade and consumer events every year. GES's wide range of solutions, tailored to individual budgets, is extremely appealing to us, so we decided to welcome them on board as part of our remit to deliver a streamlined service and first-class resources to exhibitors.”

Jason Stead, managing director, GES UK, added: “It is a huge honour to partner with the talented team at BETA International.

'This is a highly prestigious exhibition welcoming more than 4,500 industry buyers each year and it is a world leader in a multi-billion-pound equestrian market.

"We relish the opportunity to build on this strategic partnership and help to deliver the best event yet in 2018.”

BETA International is the leading trade fair for equestrian, country clothing, outdoor and pet products.

Next year’s show takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, from 21 to 23 January.

For further information about exhibiting, contact James Palmer, telephone +44 (0)1937 582111, email jamesp@beta-int.com or visit www.beta-int.com.

 
Vanmore Great Danes smash 17 year old breed record!
CSJ were delighted to hear that Ch Vanmore Stop and Stare at Castleon had swept the board and gained his 37th CC over the weekend of August 5-6… smashing the previous breed record which had been held for 17 years...

CSJ were delighted to hear that Ch Vanmore Stop and Stare at Castleon had swept the board and gained his 37th CC over the weekend of August 5-6… smashing the previous breed record which had been held for 17 years.

Parker’s tally reached the magic 37 at the Great Dane Breeders & Owners Association and The Great Dane Club Back 2 Back Festival where he not only won the CC but also went BIS at both shows.

Parker was bred and handled by Laurence Morgan Evans and is co-owned with Lionel and Evelyn Webb and along the way has won 10 CC doubles with Vanmore kennel mates 21 BOB’s and 7 BIS’s.

Laurence told CSJ that Parker has been fed on their Champ food since a puppy (his litter sister also has 25 CCs).  He went on, “I always tell my puppy owners that they don’t have to pay a fortune for food.  I feed CSJ Champ to all my 20 Danes – it works for me!”

The Vanmore kennel was established in 1980 and has made up Champions in 5 of the recognised colours plus won Best in Show at the Dane Of The Year Ch Show 6 times with 6 different dogs.  Laurence has judged all over the world and also runs Primrose boarding Kennels and cattery in Sussex.

There’s more information about the spectacular Vanmore journey at www.vanmoregreatdanes.com and at www.csjk9.com

Pictured: Laurence Morgan-Evans and Ch Vanmore Stop and Stare at Casleon.

 
New card ensures pets aren’t left alone if you fall ill
The Co-op has created a card for people to carry in their wallets which alerts the authorities to the existence of a pet which may be left home alone if its owner passes away unexpectedly, or is taken into hospital...


The Co-op has created a card for people to carry in their wallets which alerts the authorities to the existence of a pet which may be left home alone if its owner passes away unexpectedly, or is taken into hospital.

Co-op Funeralcare’s ‘Pet Cards’ - which are akin to organ donor cards or those alerting ambulance crews to a person’s blood type - will be distributed for free in local communities.

Bridgette Perks, a funeral arranger for Co-op Funeralcare from Doncaster, who came up with the idea after discovering that a lot of her clients were worried about what would happen to their pets if ever they didn’t come home, said: “When speaking to members of the local community, I came to realise that I wasn’t the only one who’d ever considered who would look after my pet if anything ever happened to me.

“As such, I thought the ‘Pet Card’ was the perfect solution to put minds at rest and I’m thrilled that they’re being distributed nationwide.”

The card asks whoever finds the card to contact emergency contacts listed on the back and ask for them to make sure their pet is looked after. It says: "My pet is home alone. If I become ill, injured, or in the event of my death, please contact the people named on the reverse side of this card to care for my pet. Thank you."