HOWND - a new natural pet care brand for happy dogs - has launched two ranges of cruelty free grooming products for puppies, adults and seniors.

Created by pet loving duo Mark Hirschel and Jo Amit, the Borehamwood-based company has released five conditioning shampoos and matching body mists. Each product is beautifully scented with essential oils and intended for use on dogs of all breeds, covering puppyhood to our older canine companions.

Excitement for the new products has been building amongst groomers, as HOWND is only one of six global pet brands to receive the Leaping Bunny stamp of approval from Cruelty Free International. This is the only international guarantee against animal testing.

In order to become certified by the Cruelty Free International Leaping Bunny programme, companies are required to open their supply chain to monitoring and meet external audit requirements.

Jo Amit, co-founder of HOWND, explains: “Since the start of 2015 we’ve been counting down the days to the launch of our new products. That moment has arrived, and we’re incredibly excited to let the UK pet trade get their hands on our conditioning shampoos and body mists.

“What’s more, these pet products are one of only a handful across the world to be certified with Cruelty Free International’s Leaping Bunny. We know from our market research that pet lovers are increasingly conscious of how products are tested and manufactured. That’s why this accreditation is a huge milestone for us.”

HOWND’s new range of 250ml conditioning shampoos consists of five products, all of which retail at £9: Playful Pup Conditioning Shampoo, Keep Calm Conditioning Shampoo, Got An Itch? Conditioning Shampoo, Yup You Stink! Conditioning Shampoo, and Golden Oldies Conditioning Shampoo.

In addition, the company’s range of 250ml body mists consists of five products, each retailing at £9: Playful Pup Body Mist, Keep Calm Body Mist, Got An Itch? Body Mist, Yup You Stink! Body Mist, and Golden Oldies Body Mist.

HOWND are offering a 10% discount on all retail orders before Tuesday 31 March. Customers can order by emailing trade@dogslovehownd.com - quoting the voucher code PETTRADE. 

For further information about HOWND’s new range of products and to place initial orders, please visit www.dogslovehownd.com or call a member of the team on +44 (0)20 3004 5255. 

The Zogoflex Toppl toy won Best New Dog Product at PATS Sandown  and big things are being predicted of this innovative product, which is being distributed in the UK by Collarways.

The PATS New Product Awards judges said: "This treat dispensing toy is guaranteed to last – in fact it will be replaced if a dog destroys it. As well as having great brand identity, the toy is colourful, making it stand out in store. It is also very well priced."

The Toppl has been designed to address the needs of a diverse range of dogs, from big dogs to small ones, and from lazy dogs to clever dogs.

The ingenious design traps treats with its inner ridges and topples over to keep dogs entertained and challenged. Non-stop wobbling and rolling makes the fun continue.  

Owners can interlock the two sizes (sold separately) to make playtime a more complex proposition. 

For high energy dogs the mental challenge of “freeing” a dental stick from its confines is a puzzle indeed.

All Zogoflex toys are made with an amazingly tough material that is buoyant, pliable, and non-toxic. 

The material is a recyclable plastic composite which includes recycled plastic bottles, so whilst they look and feel like rubber toys, they’re not and that’s what makes them so durable.  

They float, can go in the dishwasher and come with a one-time refund or replacement guarantee against dog damage!

The Zogoflex Toppl caused lots of interest at PATS Sandown and the New Product Award generated even more inquiries.

“We’ve been bombarded with inquiries and we're confident this product will be a bestseller this year,” said Katie Goldsmith, from Collarways. "Visitors saw the Toppl on the New Product Showcase and then came straight to our stand. Winning the award has given the team a real boost."

For more information visit www.collarways.com

Recent research among 2,100 pet owners and 150 veterinary professionals conducted by the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association (PFMA) indicates a high level of confidence in the pet food industry. 

70% of owners and 85% of vets agree that commercially prepared pet food provides optimum nutrition and almost 60% of owners and 95% vets would go as far as to say pets are living longer as a result of advanced nutrition.

The consumer research also confirmed that owners are confident that that there are strict rules and regulations governing the industry (70%). 

Nicole Paley, Communications Manager at PFMA comments: Despite this confidence, there is a gap between expert knowledge and pet owner perceptions.  Our research at the London Vet Show confirmed some stubborn myths and misconceptions about the industry and some areas we are keen to address.  Top queries in to pet food company care lines include questions on pet food labels, particularly understanding the terminology used including categories such as ‘meat and animal derivatives’.

Nicole Paley adds: “We are keen to do more to raise owner confidence even further.  Pet care professionals are at the forefront answering such questions and throughout 2015, we will be working to ensure they have all the tools and resources they need to do this. In addition to sharing facts and information, PFMA will be participating in discussions on pet nutrition and pet food matters, hosting seminars at key events around the country.

The latest tools and educational resources from the PFMA include:

• Short film animation on how cat and dog food is made (click here to view)
• Monthly myth busting fact sheets
• Pet Size-O-Meters
• Educational posters and leaflets for display in shops and practices

With additional tools launched later in the year, make sure you keep in touch by registering with the PFMA at www.pfma.org.uk 

Ewa Jaworska, of GA Pet Food Partners, has been awarded Best Representative of the Year by the Pet Product Retail Association. Here she reveals why she stands out from the crowd...

How long have you worked for GA Pet Food Partners?
I have worked with GA since 2007, we have grown so much since I first started. I am the longest standing account manager at GA and now there is a team of five girls looking after each area of the country. 

What's the secret of your success?
The main vision for our account managers is to constantly please our customers and that is what I aim to do. I work from 8am til 6pm and for 10 hours I am always speaking to all 200 of my customers – but not at the same time! 

Why do you think you won this award?
I am very honoured to be awarded this out of all the reps in the country especially as I am phone based. Apparently the voters thought l am always exceptionally helpful – but that is something we all aim to achieve at GA. 

If I was a potential new customer, how would you sell the services and products of GA Pet Food to me?
Our own label product sells itself, so it is very easy. However, it is very much down to customer service and the quality of our product which sets us apart from other own label providers. 

What's you ambition for the future?
To continue working for GA, they are an exceptional company to work for and I wouldn’t want to abandon my customers...I would miss them too much! 

PetQuip has announced that it will stage its third annual Awards on Sunday, September 27, during PATS Telford, and is now urging companies to submit their entries to this prestigious event.

Organiser Pat Flynn, PetQuip’s association manager; said: "Many of the British firms shortlisted in 2013 and 2014 have reported on the value of the awards as an aid to boosting their businesses.  

"The awards have helped in cementing company credibility in the market place and led to numerous promotional opportunities. 

"The popularity of the awards resulted in the organisers of PATS welcoming the event as part of their plans at the new Telford venue and they intend inviting many of their retailer visitors to the event.”

The entry categories for the 2015 awards are:

1.  Supplier of the Year

2.  Wholesaler /Distributor of the Year

3    Pet Product Innovation of the Year

4.   Exporter of the Year

5.   Marketing Campaign of the Year

6.   UK Pet Retailer of the Year

7.   International Pet Retailer of the Year

8.   Lifetime Achievement

Entry for the awards is now open and is completely free of charge; companies or persons can enter as many categories as they wish. 

Entry forms are available online at www.petquip.com, or telephone 01959 565995, and nominations need to be emailed to pat@petquip.com by June 30.  Nominations can come directly from the entrant or be submitted by a third party. 

The entries will be judged by an independent panel of judges and the winners will be announced at the PetQuip Awards Party on September 27.  The party, which starts at 7.30pm, is intended to be a ‘fun evening’ with plenty of opportunity for networking with customers and peers in the pet trade.  Included in the festivities will be a pre-dinner drinks reception, dinner with wine, the awards ceremony and dancing to a contemporary DJ will round-off the evening in lively style. 

Discounted prices are available for early booking with tickets costing £58 plus VAT (or only £48 plus VAT for PetQuip member companies). Dress code for the evening is smart casual.

Help or advice on entering the awards’ categories can be obtained from Pat Flynn at PetQuip on 07778 313623 or email pat@petquip.com

Staff at multi award-winning pet store Not Just Pets have revealed that it's a dream place to work, where the best interests of pet owners and their animals always comes first.

Dale Taylor said: "I get to work with some fantastic people who only ever have the best interests of both their customers and the animals in mind. Who would not enjoy that?"

And Hannah Coombes added: “In my time with the company I have had fantastic support – this allows us to develop our skills in a positive environment. Personally, I have gained confidence in working in retail. 

"I have a passion for animals and it makes me proud to be able to say that I work in a company that puts animal welfare first. We are always looking for ways to further enrich the lives of animals both in store and at home with our customers." 

Not Just Pets has just picked up its latest award, the prestigious Pet Product Retail Association Retailer of the Year.

The PPRA presented their annual awards at PATS Sandown. The organisation asked suppliers to choose the retailer of the year using the criteria of business etiquette, professionalism, reputation and store ambience. 

Not Just Pets, which has three stores in the Bath area, offers its customers a range of products and services for all kinds of pet owners, including pet boarding, tag engraving and free local delivery.

 “Each member of staff provides excellent, friendly customer service and is always willing to spend time with customers as well as provide after-sales care,” the PPRA said.

One supplier added: “This business goes the extra mile to ensure its customers are well informed, and their needs are catered for in all aspects of pet matters.”

Janine and Mike Tozer, owners of Not Just Pets, said: "We are thrilled to win this award and especially as we had no idea we had been nominated by our suppliers. 

"We are very proud of all the team members of Not Just Pets as this really highlights their commitment and hard work and their dedication to good customer service, backed up by sound knowledge with a friendly approach. Fantastic!"

Not Just Pets won the PetQuip Retailer of the Year Award in 2013 and is a Theo Paphitis Small Business Sunday Winner.

A new pet crematorium is being opened in Cheltenham in April as more owners request their animals are privately cremated. It will be modelled on Cambridge Pet Crematorium (CPC) set up by Ray Hale (pictured above) and his father-in-law Clive Jackman in the 1970s...

More owners are requesting their pets are privately cremated with dignity in a dedicated pet crematorium, according to Jason Cracknell, who has recently joined CPC as general manager.

To offer a more local service for pet owners and vets in the west of the country, CPC is opening the new Cheltenham Pet Crematorium in April.

Jason Cracknell says: “When I was a child growing up in the country, our pets were buried in the garden. With smaller gardens and greater mobility this is no longer an option for many.  Working closely with vets we have seen a considerable increase in owners wanting more knowledge and involvement in how their beloved pet is cared for at the end of its life.”

Jason (left) explains that views are changing on pet bereavement: “We have dedicated bereavement advisers and run training courses for vets and veterinary nurses to help them to prepare clients for bad news and support them. How a vet manages that relationship at a difficult time can make all the difference. 

“CPC has been running the Cambridge Pet Crematorium for over 35 years and has built up a strong reputation in providing compassionate pet cremation services with veterinary practices nationwide; this has led to us opening the new facility in Tewkesbury to service the west of the country.”

CPC is family owned. It was established in the 1970s by Ray Hale (p[ictured above) and his father-in-law Clive Jackman who realised that vets had no alternative to landfill for the disposal of pets.  Both animal lovers, they saw a need for a more dignified solution.

They designed the first cremation facility in the UK especially for animals and it now receives pets of all types from reptiles to ponies. 

At the new centre, pet owners will be able to view their pet and say their last goodbyes in private surroundings. CPC can organise a funeral service for the client, including flowers, or the vet can take care of the final arrangements and have the ashes returned for keepsake, scattering or interment.

CPC has also seen a rise in pet owners wanting to visit the crematorium before the time comes to see the facilities and to make arrangements.

Jason adds: “We operate an open-door policy at our crematoria and positively encourage vets and their clients to come and see us. People are asking more questions and want to ensure that they provide the best for their loving and loyal companions.”

The new Cheltenham Pet Crematorium, on the edge of Tewkesbury, will reduce the travelling time for pet owners who live on the west of the country.

CPC believe in involving the local community, and Year 9 horticulture students from the nearby Tewkesbury School are helping to design a memorial and wildlife garden as a place for peace and reflection. Owners often bring their other pets to say farewell too and it is possible to walk dogs in the water meadow beyond.

The Cheltenham Pet Crematorium is to be officially opened at the end of April by farmer and television presenter Adam Henson.

PATS Sandown attracted a total of 1,859 visitors over two highly successful days of business activity, with the number of pet retailers attending the show increasing by 2% compared to 2014.

There was also a larger presence from garden centres at the Sandown Park showpiece in Surrey (6% higher than the previous year), as the pet category takes on a growing importance throughout this sector.

The show saw more visitors from London (20% up on 2014) and the South West (7% higher).

“The feedback we’ve received has been fantastic with lots of exhibitors remarking that the quality of visitors to their stands was of a high standard,” said Gordon Thomas, from organisers Impact Exhibitions.

“They’ve been telling us there were more decision-makers at the show, and this has been confirmed by our data which shows a larger number of company owners and directors attended this year.”

The mood from visitors was very positive and was summed up by Adam Green, of Destination Pet in Northamptonshire."Without doubt PATS is the best trade event. You could really feel the buzz as you walked in. It’s a brilliant place for meeting and networking with manufacturers and area managers, seeing new lines and getting great deals. Overall we had an amazing two days. Bring on Telford!"

And Holly Simmons, of Paws ‘N’ Claws, Manchester, added: “As well as discovering many new products I picked up lots of advice, which will help to better my business. The stand deals were great, making my visit well worthwhile.”

The growing importance of the pet category in garden centres was emphasised by Ciaran McCready, a director of Knights Garden Centre in Woldingham, Surrey.

“PATS works so well because visitors like me get the chance to see all the latest pet products under one roof,” said Ciaran. “As well as discovering lots of new items to stock in our pet department I was also able to meet new suppliers. I will definitely be returning next year.”

It was also the first visit to PATS by Lynne Morris, pet shop manager at Scotsdales Garden Centre, Horningsea, Cambridgeshire. “I was very impressed with the show. There was a good range of stands and the whole exhibition was well designed. All the suppliers I spoke to were brilliant and I found quite a lot of new ranges for our pet department.”

Exhibitors were also delighted with the outcome, and George Bramble, co-founder of Beco Pets, summed up the mood when he said: "This year's show has been a runaway success.”

Rachael Dickinson, senior brand manager of Bucktons bird food, commented: “PATS Sandown is a key event, which is marked firmly in our calendar each year. It’s a great opportunity to see all of the pet trade under one roof. This year didn’t disappoint and was a real success.”

And Andy Morgan, marketing and business development manager for H.G Gladwell & Sons Ltd, remarked: “The show went really well for us. We set up our message to highlight Copdock Mill and the complete service it can provide as a manufacturer, and general wholesaler of pet products. The message worked with some great new leads. A big thank you to all the staff and team who make the show happen.”

The final word goes to Katie Goldsmith, of Collarways, whose team left the show with a New Product Award for theirZogoflex Toppl toy.“We’ve been bombarded with inquiries. It has been a brilliant show and we can’t wait until we do it again at PATS Telford.”

Retailers discovered ahead-of-the-game ideas on new lines, new approaches and new profit potential during two days of top seminars at PATS Sandown.

One of the most popular was a talk by Pooch & Mutt's Guy Blaskey. If you missed it, don't worry because this week Guy shares his secrets on video...

To watch Guy's talk on Condition Appropriate Nutrient Feeding click here

Guy has been a busy man as he was interviewed on The Huffington Post Live. The on-air discussion programme's segment on 'Mediation and Mindfulness in the Workplace' saw contributions from Guy, author David Gelles and Intel's Lindsay Van Driel. 

To see this interview click here

Beco Pets had a big presence at PATS Sandown and it paid off hansomely for Britain's biggest producer of eco-friendly pet products.

The award-winning company, which exports its wares to 43 countries around the world, said they detected “a terrific atmosphere of opportunity” among delegates attending the show this year.

One early highlight for Beco Pets came when their popular Beco Catnip Toys won a “Highly Commended” certificate in the show’s New Product Awards.

Their other great success was their set-up in the main Surrey Hall’s Beco Buyers’ Lounge, which included an inflatable Beco house, a lavish garden with grass and trees, and an expansive adjacent area for visitors to relax at tables and enjoy complimentary beverages.

“Our Beco Buyers’ Lounge proved a major attraction for visitors to the show and this was our best year yet. We’d definitely be up for doing it all again,” said an enthusiastic Toby Massey, Beco Pets’ co-founder, who led the design of the imaginative and colourful Beco enclosure. 

“We were giving away free Beco Poop Bags throughout the show and in just two days at Sandown we succeeded in signing up 150 new Beco Poop Bag stockists, which was a tremendous result for us.

”And to win a ‘Highly Commended’ award in the Cat Product category was a great honour for us as it was the first award we have ever won at PATS.” 

Fellow co-founder George Bramble added: “We thought this year’s show was really well attended, so we take our hats off to the organisers for doing such a great job and putting in so much hard work behind the scenes both before and during the two days.

“We denoted a terrific atmosphere of opportunity among those attending. We felt delegates were networking well, and seemed keen to find new opportunities in the pet industry. All the retailers at the show were clearly showing a great deal of enthusiasm.”

Findings from the latest PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report say four out of five veterinary professionals* have seen an increase in pet obesity cases in the last two years.

Obesity is the number one concern among vets when it comes to man’s best friend but worryingly, nearly half of people surveyed are not aware it’s a major issue**. This is a huge concern given that 80% of vets and vet nurses believe there will be more overweight pets than healthy weight pets in five years time and PDSA is stressing the need for urgent action.

Depressingly, over six million dogs*** in the UK exercise outside of the home or garden for only an hour a day or less, contributing to the number of obese pets. Obesity can contribute to pets developing deadly conditions that can cut their lifespan such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes, as well as debilitating conditions including arthritis.

To help combat the pet obesity crisis PDSA today launches its annual Pet Fit Club competition and is inviting owners of the UK’s biggest pets to apply for a chance to take part in the fat fighting contest.

Nicola Martin, PDSA Head of Pet Health and Welfare, said: “Over the past decade, Pet Fit Club has transformed the lives of some of the UK’s most obese pets, having helped nearly 100 animals shed over 60 stone so we are welcoming entries again and offering our expertise.”

Early entrants to the competition, which has been helping the nation’s pets to battle the bulge for the past ten years, include a colossal Cocker Spaniel called Millie, who is nearly twice the size she should be; and bulging black cat Boycus, who tips the scales at a whopping 10kg – double the size of your average moggie.

Sadly obesity isn’t confined to just people, cats and dogs as even rabbits and rodents like Spider the rat, who is almost double the size of an average rat, and struggles to squeeze into his sleeping quarters, are piling on the pounds.

Pet Fit Club participants will take part in a tailored diet and exercise programme, overseen by expert vets and nurses over a six month period.

Owners can enter their pets at www.petfitclub.org.uk; the deadline for entries is Sunday, 26 April, 2015.

Nicola Martin added: “PDSA’s research has shown that pet obesity is a growing problem and that too many people are continuing to feed their pets inappropriate foods including takeaways, cake, cheese and chips and sadly many pets aren’t getting enough exercise.

“Pet obesity is entirely preventable and we’re trying to help owners understand that while their pets may beg for food, and giving a treat is seen as a way of showing affection, ultimately it could be killing them with kindness.”

PDSA’s PAW Report, produced in conjunction with YouGov, provides the biggest annual insight into pet health and welfare and has highlighted some of the not-so-sweet home truths about our pets’ unhealthy habits when it comes to diet and exercise.

Pet obesity – The Facts

89% of owners are aware that pets can suffer from obesity-related issues such as diabetes, heart disease and arthritis

88% of owners acknowledge that overweight  pets will have a shortened life span

Over 5.5 million pets get treats as part of their daily diet

Over 2 million owners give treats because their pets beg for them

In the dog house: Dog owners are significantly more likely than cat and rabbit owners to feed their pets unhealthy treats. And by quite a margin too – 83% of dog owners feed their pets at least one of these unhealthy things, compared to 38% of cat owners.

Dr Philippa Yam, leading animal obesity expert at the School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, said: “It’s clear that pet obesity continues to be a major issue due to a lack of understanding about pets’ welfare needs. PDSA’s Pet Fit Club competition has successfully raised awareness of this serious, but entirely preventable condition and continues to help many pets year on year.”

Further information about PDSA Pet Fit Club

PDSA Pet Fit Club was launched in 2005 and has already helped 63 dogs, 26 cats and 6 rabbits lose a total 60stone 6lb. This weight loss is the equivalent of 384 bags of sugar, more than 6,700 sausages, 761 tins of dog food or over 500 blocks of lard.

Case studies

Millie

Morbidly obese Cocker Spaniel Millie tips the scales at 33.5kg, making her around twice the size she should be.

Millie’s eyes have always been rather big for her belly and this cheeky girl will steal any food she can get her paws on – even the cat’s food!

She is also an expert beggar, pulling out the puppy dog eyes at every opportunity, and even doing her own ‘happy dance’ when she gets her favourite treats.

After a rather short haircut revealed the extent of Millie’s bulging belly, her owner Jacqueline Maguire (75), from Romford, came to PDSA for help and her podgy pet is now on a strict diet.

Jacqueline said health problems meant it was difficult for her to walk Millie as much as she would like but admitted she was also too soft when it came to treats: “I do give in to her begging far too often. I have four rescue cats and when I feed them she’s hovering around and grabs any food she can. I have to shut her in another room and feed them on the table. Even then, if I turn my back for a moment she’ll be straight in, she’ll steal and eat all the cats’ food given the slightest chance.”

Boycus

Rescue cat Boycus is one of several felines in the Denning household; all the others are a healthy weight, but this black cat has ballooned in the last couple of years and now weighs a whopping 10kg – more than double the size of an average cat.

He has a tendency to eat everything in sight and his owner Sam, from Sutton Coldfield, has tried everything to restrict his access to food to help him lose weight.

Boycus’ vet recently suggested upping the exercise levels, but with a fat, lazy cat, that’s easier said than done! Sam is desperate to help Boycus battle the bulge so has turned to PDSA for help.

Sam said: “We’ve had Boycus since he was a kitten and he’s seven-years-old now. The weight gain has happened in the past two years, despite our efforts.

“We’ve tried everything – we’ve built feeding stations, with cat carriers that are too small for him to try and stop him stealing our other cats’ food. But he always finds a way to break in.”

Spider

Spider, the giant rat from Swansea, is so fat he can no longer cling to the top of his cage as he will break it!

He used to be the smallest rodent in the seven-strong collection of Jan Burton and daughter Eryl. But he has let his appetite get the better of him and now weighs 900g – almost double the size of an average rat.

Spider has been described by his owners as ‘more of a Bloodhound’ for his ability to sniff out food his siblings have stored. And he has developed the taste for corn-on-the-cob.

Eryl said: “We called him Spider because when we first put him in his cage he ran straight to the top and hung in the corner, like a spider would. Now he has just ballooned and gets stuck in his igloo. We think of him as a gentle giant as he’s very placid and is only dominant when it comes to food.”

Daisy – 2014 PDSA Pet Fit Club champ

A formerly bulging Bulldog – who was so lazy she had to be bribed with ham to exercise – was crowned ‘pet slimmer of the year’ after shedding over a quarter of her bodyweight.

Daisy’s passion for extra portions had caused her waistline to expand, along with her preference of hitching a ride over pounding the pavement.  She started the competition weighing in at a hefty 28.3kg but with PDSA’s help and owner Gillian Turrell’s determination, she lost around 8kg in weight – meaning that she shed an impressive 27% of her bodyweight.

Gillian said: “The difference in Daisy is amazing. Losing the weight has really improved her mobility. Before she struggled to climb the stairs – now she sprints up them! And she has a waist again! I’m so grateful to the vet staff at Middlesbrough PDSA Pet Hospital for their help and guidance, and for how they’ve helped to transform Daisy’s life. I’d encourage any pet owner worried about their pet’s weight to enter Pet Fit Club.”

Watch the Pet Fit Club launch video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6z4BpMgwUww

*PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report 2014. Total sample size was 1,069 pet owners and 572 veterinary professionals.  Fieldwork was undertaken between 18 September – 10 October 2014.  The survey was carried out online and weighted to be representative of the cat, dog and rabbit owners in the UK.

**Base: 1,000 adults 16+, Britain. Source: Charity Awareness Monitor, Jul 14 & Jan 15, nfpSynergy

*** Figures calculated using estimated UK population; 8.1 million dogs.

Nutriment has reported dramatic increases in product sales and production capacity as the raw pet food firm company goes from strength to strength.

Sales are up by 107 % over the past 12 months and production capacity has increased by 113% at the Camberley-based business.

And co-founder Suzanne Brock and her team have received great consumer feedback and sales orders for the recently revamped ‘Just’ portfolio of products.

"Just is our building block range for those breeders and dog owners who want to adopt a more hands-on approach at meal times," said Suzanne.  

"These products provide the perfect foundation blocks for anyone looking to create a more personalized recipe that either accommodates their dog’s distinct taste preferences or takes into consideration a pet’s specific digestive/allergy impediments.

"For us the striking black and white photography employed on our latest packs was the perfect final touch for spelling out this range’s simple, back-to-basics mindset."

Available in Duck, Chicken, Turkey, Offal and Vegetables Plus, the Just range is diligently designed to assist any working dog’s recovery times, maintain their lean, super-charged physiques and reward deserving taste buds for never giving less than their best.

Nurtiment has just experienced a highly successful PATS Sandown. Sales director Peter Nicholas said: “We were somewhat over-awed by the response we received, especially from loyalist retailers who took the trouble to visit our stand and tell us that they were enjoying increased footfall and new visitors since stocking Nutriment.

"Perhaps more exciting still was the sheer number of new enquiries from independent stores who've become inundated with enquiries from customers hoping to track down top tier RAW recipes, made by more conscientious, non-corporate operations like ours.”

For more details visit www.nutriment.co or call 01276 63554. 

The Pet Industry Federation (PIF) has today received confirmation that it has successfully been accredited for the UKTI’s Trade Access Programme (TAP), and will now work with UKTI to develop and deliver a programme of customer support at international trade shows.

TAP provides funding in the form of grants for eligible UK businesses to attend overseas trade shows, which will be able to help them gain market knowledge, experience in attending and getting the most from overseas trade shows, and advice and support from trade experts.

The accreditation means that PIF will be able to lead groups at overseas trade shows, and UK pet businesses who wish to get into exports will be able apply for funding from UKTI through PIF to attend these shows.

Nigel Baker, PIF Chief Executive, said: ‘We are delighted to have received TAP accreditation from UKTI.

"As the UK trade association for pet businesses, this is a great opportunity for PIF to help companies new to export to develop their products and grow their businesses by accessing new overseas markets. 

"Having spent most of my working life in pet food manufacturing, I know only too well the challenges and difficulties that can be faced pet businesses as they move into export.

"By working with PIF and our export partners, as well as attending relevant trade shows, pet businesses can help to avoid some of the pitfalls of entering an overseas market and become a successful exporter."

More details about the overseas events that PIF will be attending will be announced in due course on the export pages at www.petfederation.co.uk. For further information, contact Alexandra Baker on 01234 273933; alexandra.baker@petfederation.co.uk

Oscar & Hooch has announced its first ‘Dog Walk of the Month’ winner, an initiative which celebrates the magic of daily dog walks.

The company launched the monthly giveaway on Facebook in February. The family business wanted dog lovers to share their favourite images from memorable dog walks, with the best entry winning a luxury Oscar & Hooch dog collar and lead set.

February’s winner was Isabelle Leybourne from Surrey with her mixed breed Alfie. Originally from Cyprus, Alfie was pictured enjoying the UK snow for the very first time in his life.

Elaine Steckler, sales director at Oscar & Hooch, said: “The entries we received were absolutely stunning! From winter snow walks to lazy beach strolls, it was fantastic to see the different adventures everyone has enjoyed with their dogs. Of course there could only be one winner, and for us it had to be the lovely entry posted by Isabelle Leybourne from Surrey.

“Isabelle and Alfie have chosen a luxurious Ocean Breeze collar and lead set and we think it’s the perfect choice for their future outdoor adventures. The colour will look great against Alfie’s coat, so he can really show off his style on his next outing!”

March’s giveaway is already underway, with dozens of stunning images being shared by dog lovers on Oscar & Hooch’s Facebook page.

Elaine added: “The response we received for February’s ‘Dog Walk of the Month’ giveaway has been amazing and we can’t thank everyone enough who took part. We’re now searching for March’s ‘Dog Walk of the Month’, so be sure to visit our Facebook page and share your favourite dog walk selfie for a chance to win a brand new collar and lead set, just like Alfie!”

For further information about Oscar & Hooch products, please call +44 (0)1934 713667, or email enquiries@oscarandhooch.com

Today’s Group has launched an own-label sub-brand Today’s Select For Pets – a new range dedicated entirely to pet food, offering a highly-competitive 30% POR for retailers.

The launch kicks off with two dog food variants, chicken and beef, price-marked £1.15 for 1200g and four smaller cat and dog food variants – chicken, beef and fish – price-marked 55p for 400g.

Today’s Group trading controller for own-label Hilary Nithsdale said:  “Consumers are still buying heavily into own-brand, particularly as people start to realise that own-label lines have improved in quality and are helping them to make great savings.

“Petcare in particular is a growing category and we are giving our retailers a credible, attractive alternative to branded lines, helping them to compete head to head with the multiple retailers.”

To support the launch, Today’s retailers will have access to posters, shelf talkers and fact cards. “To help further, the 400g-can outer trays are branded with the Today’s logo and can be merchandised straight onto retailers’ shelves, helping to create great standout,” said Nithsdale.

The new Select for Pets range will be available for wholesale members to purchase from 30th March and for retailers from 20th April.

The Today’s Group is now the largest independent buying group of its kind in the UK with buying power exceeding £5.7bn and including the largest network of independent cash & carry wholesalers and delivered wholesalers in the UK.

The Canny Company has teamed up with the assistance dog charity Canine Partners, to offer a Canny Magloc to each of the dogs they will partner in the UK this year.

The charity matches up specially-trained dogs with physically disabled people, the dogs having learned skills and tasks tailored to the needs of their new partners.

The Canny Magloc allows a dog owner to attach their dog’s lead quickly and easily, using one hand, which is especially valuable for dog owners that have limited mobility.

Sean McElherron, Canny Company Managing Director, said “For the last 25 years, Canine Partners have been training dogs to do some amazing things, transforming the lives of disabled people. We wanted to do our little bit to help the great work they do, giving people with physical disabilities a much greater independence and a better quality of life.”  

Canine Partners trains dogs to perform tasks such as opening and closing doors, undressing, pressing buttons, retrieving items, unloading washing machines, taking card and cash from ATMs and other everyday tasks that disabled people find difficult, painful or impossible to do for themselves.

Trust and Corporate Manager at Canine Partners, Cat Harvey, pointed out the benefits of the Canny Magloc.

“Attaching a lead can be surprisingly tricky if the mobility in your hands is limited and this clever device is a real help for our partners.

"On one occasion in particular, one of our partners told us that the Canny Magloc made the difference between her being able to own a dog or not. She was able to slide her thumb and forefinger down the Magloc to unclip her dog and simply point it again to re-attach.”

Over 300 canine partners now assist people all over the UK and the organisation  is in the process of developing a new training centre in the Midlands to help both existing partnerships and train more dogs for new partners.

For more information email info@cannyco.com or visit www.cannyco.com

Loving Pets UK, the manufacturer and supplier of high quality pet feeding bowls and accessories, is expanding its award-winning Bella Bowl range to include eight brand new colours – from pale pink to tasteful taupe, each featuring a funky dog bone motif.

The new designs will be available in the UK from the end of April.

More than half a million Bella Bowls are sold in the United States every month and the Bella Bowl range has won awards for its functional yet stylish design, consisting of an attractive poly-resin exterior and bacteria-resistant stainless steel interior. All bowls also feature a patented removable rubber base which is made of plant-based soya.   

Across Europe, Loving Pets UK currently sells around 20,000 units per month and with the company’s expansion into the UK market, sales look set to grow further.

Loving Pets UK director Jonathan Moyce said: “The Bella Bowl is the best- selling bowl in the pet industry and for good reason – it’s well designed, robust and aesthetically pleasing.  We’re delighted to be bringing these new designs to the market and with the increasing demand for pet products that match home décor, we are confident that these items will sell very well here in the UK.”

Other products available from Loving Pets UK include the ultra-tough Robusto feeding bowl, and the Gobblestopper, a slow feeding aid that fits in any pet bowl and is proven to prevent bloat, reported to be the second major killer of dogs after cancer. 

Loving Pets UK was officially launched in 2014 by Moyce, previously a food safety consultant with the British Standards Institute. 

The company is a partner to the highly successful Loving Pets brand in the US, which was established in 2005 by Moyce’s uncle Eric Abbey. 

In the past 10 years, Loving Pets has established a reputation for selling high quality, affordable accessories and healthy treats for dogs and cats, using only natural ingredients.  

Further information is available on the Loving Pets website http://lovingpetsproducts.com/. Alternatively, contact the UK sales office at sales@lovingpetsproducts.co.uk

Nine out of ten dog owners fear for their pet’s safety

51% of dogs stolen are never found or recovered

Staffordshire Bull Terriers identified as most at risk

More than nine out of 10 dog owners fear their beloved pet may be stolen, and a similar number believe that the only effective deterrent in preventing dog thefts is mandatory imprisonment for convicted offenders.

In a survey of 5,000 dog owners by online pet medication and food retailer VioVet, 98% of respondents were worried that their dog could be stolen and 96% perceive that the number of dogs stolen in the last 12 months has risen.

The figures, launched to coincide with the VioVet Pet Theft Awareness Week, show that 125 dogs have been stolen from VioVet customers in the last 12 months but only five of those thefts resulted in the criminal being caught and convicted. More than half (51%) of dogs that are stolen are never found or returned.

The most popular breeds to be targeted are Staffordshire Bull Terriers (10%), Spaniels (10%) German Shepherds (8%) and Labrador Retrievers (6%).

More than half (54%) of all dogs stolen are taken from the home or a kennel, a worrying trend, with almost a quarter (21%) stolen when out walking or when the animal is tied up outside a shop. A small proportion of dogs (6%) are taken from cars.

Of those whose dogs have been stolen, almost half (48%) believe that their pet was taken to be sold for profit or for breeding, and an alarming 18% for use in dog fighting or baiting.

In terms of the measures owners take to protect their dogs, most (78%) never leave their dogs unattended whilst out or in the garden. A small percentage (8%) have CCTV installed and only 2% say that they do not currently take any measures to keep their animals safe.

John Cousins, Director of VioVet, says that the law needs to be much tougher to deter pet thieves and sending offenders to prison would send a hard hitting message: “The perception is that dog thefts are increasing and that the punishment for those few that are caught and convicted is much too lenient,” he says.

“In the UK dogs are seen in official circles as inanimate objects of no greater importance than a wheelbarrow or an iPad, and this has to change,” he continues.

Arnot Wilson of The Dog Union, an organisation that campaigns for the health and welfare of dogs agrees: “Dogs are considered by more than 99% of those surveyed as part of the family, and as such pet theft needs to be taken more seriously,” he says.

VioVet’s survey and campaign coincides with a Freedom of Information (FOI) request to nine major police forces across the country that suggests that 91% of ALL pets (including dogs, cats, fish and birds) that are stolen are never returned.

The Viovet Pet Theft Awareness Week took place between March 14-21. It involved a week of campaigning to highlight the issue of pet theft across the UK and provide practical help, support and advice to owners of dogs, cats, fish, birds, reptiles and small mammals in how to protect their pets from criminal harm. It also set out to highlight specific issues, such as microchip scanning, and lobbying government on best practice in the scanning of missing or stolen pets.

Forthglade, the Devonshire producer of natural pet foods, has launched five new grain free meals to the popular Natural Lifestage for dogs range. 

Available to stock as 125g and 395g, the grain free selection is packed with duck, turkey or lamb.  It includes all the benefits of the original Natural Lifestage range but grain has been replaced with fibre-fuelled tasty vegetables. 

As with Forthglade’s original Natural Lifestage, the grain free meals also contain 100% natural ingredients and minimum meat content of 70%.  Enriched with vitamins and minerals, and slow-cooked to lock in goodness, the complete wet meal provides the perfect diet to support a dog’s health throughout its lifetime.    

The range is hypo-allergenic and free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives. The nutritionally balanced meals include glucosamine and chondroitin, promoting suppleness and healthy joints, seaweed for key trace elements and salmon oil providing omega oils and anti-oxidants for clear skin and a glossy coat. 

Gerard Lovell, Forthglade Managing Director, comments: “We believe that pets should be fed a wholesome natural diet and one that suits their varying needs as they grow. 

"We have increased our grain free range as many of our customers have seen various health benefits in their pets from following a grain free diet, so it seemed a natural progression to extend this range to offer more choice in flavours, nutritious ingredients and meal size.”

The Grain Free Natural Lifestage range for dogs is available in three delicious flavours for adult dogs, one flavour for seniors and one for puppies. With Forthglade’s range pet owners can rest assured that their dog is benefitting from a nutritionally balanced meal, tailored specifically for each stage of development throughout its life.

Packaged in convenient trays the range includes: 

• Puppy Natural Duck with Sweet Potato & Vegetables (available in 125g and 395g)
• Adult Natural Lamb with Butternut Squash & Vegetables (available in 395g)
• Adult Natural Duck with Potato & Vegetables (available in 395g)
• Adult Natural Turkey with Sweet Potato & Vegetables (available in 125g and 395g)
• Senior Natural Turkey with Butternut Squash & Vegetables (available in 125g and 395g)
• Adult 12 x 395g Multipack (4 x Natural Turkey, 4 x Natural Duck and 4 x Natural Lamb RRP £13.50)

For more information about the Forthglade range, including the grain free wet meals for cats visit www.forthglade.com

Residents in a Northamptonshire village have succeeded in their protest against plans to turn an independent pet shop into a takeaway.

A petition against the proposal, which was signed by 419 local people and businesses, highlighted problems with parking.

The plan for Northampton Pets in Northampton Road, Brixworth, was turned down by Daventry District Council, after it was heard and recommended for refusal by Brixworth Parish Council.

Resident and parish council member Neal Brown said: “We went door-to-door with this petition. The council originally expected to approve the plan, but this shows the democratic power of people winning.

“Northampton Pets is located within a conservation area and on a main road where there is nowhere for customers to park, especially with another similar venue opening next door by the same applicants.

“Even though the shop was only taken over in September, the owner has become a well-liked member of the community and the business had really started to get going.”

The decision by the Daventry council to refust the plan stated: “The use (as a takeaway) would detract from the amenities of the residents in the locality because of increased noise, disturbance, and fumes, increased comings and goings of traffic and would increase potential for anti-social behaviour and crime.”

At some point in their career interviewers will probably have been interviewees, so most people feel confident that they can competently conduct interviews and, critically, appoint the best candidate...however the hard fact is that it is not so easy.

Recruitment specialist Lynda Ward, founder and owner of Pet Trade Solutions, says many good candidates slip through the net because inexperienced interviewers don’t have the skills, aptitude or experience needed.

She says: “Let’s assume that you have sourced a good short-list of viable potential employees. The interview is the next hurdle and poor preparation is probably the commonest crime an interviewer can commit."

Examples of this include:

• Not having an understanding of the vacant role
• Not researching the key skills and competencies required
• Not preparing a list of suitable questions
• Not having a job description ready to be discussed
• Not knowing the remuneration package or future prospects

Even when all the above boxes are ticked, interviewers can still come unstuck and actually repel good applicants by for example:

• Talking too much about themselves, the role or the company
• Not giving candidates enough time to fully answer questions
• Not offering candidates the opportunity to ask questions
• Being condescending, too personal or too impersonal

Lynda concludes: “The experience should be positive and painless for all parties and, conducted improperly will result in either the cost and hassle of the wrong person being employed or simply cost, hassle and waste of interview time - whilst conducted professionally will result in the right person placed in the right job for the long-term.”

Lynda is always happy to personally offer free advice on any aspects of recruitment and can be contacted on 07946-743784 or at lyndaward@pettradesolutions.com

Top selling American and Australian brands – Dexus and DOOG – have created massive interest for UK distributors AmPet Products, with visitors to the company’s stand at PATS Sandown impressed with the innovative ranges.

Australian company DOOG is the latest firm to allow AmPet to distribute its range of outdoor pet products in Britain, and retailers were able to see the products for themselves at PATS.

“We had a tremendous show,” says Alex Wilson, AmPet’s Sales & Marketing Director. “Our stand was constantly busy, and pet shop and garden centre buyers showed particular interest in both the Dexas and DOOG brands.

“The DOOG range is geared towards outdoor activities, and we believe the products are ideally suited to the UK pet market, and retailers seemed to agree with us.”

The range includes dog leads made from sporty and stretchy neoprene and finished with beautiful, bright and playful patterns, including chevron, candy stripes and geometric patterns.

The neoprene material is quick drying and hard wearing for active water dogs and makes the leads very comfortable and soft for owners to hold on a long walk.

AmPet was also excited by the reaction to the award-winning Dexas range from Dallas, Texas. Dexas, best known for its products in the cookware market, has designed and produced a range of silicone pop-out pet bowls and travel cups in vibrant colours. This range was one of the talking points of PATS Harrogate in September, and with four new stunning colour schemes, the reaction was equally as impressive at PATS Samdown.

Every year the AmPet team visit North America’s largest pet trade fair, Superzoo in Las Vegas, and sniff out some of the best dog products being sold Stateside.

Spiffy Dog, another multi award-winning brand available in the UK through AmPet, also created lots of interest at PATS. Its collars are made from a unique material called Aerospacer, more commonly used in the manufacture of trainer shoes with the qualities of being quick-drying, lightweight and breathable. They are offered in a range of stunning designs created by in-house designer Kyle Nelson.

More dog owners are turning to harnesses for walking their pets, and AmPet distributes the Xtra Dog fleece and foam padded dog harnesses. They are made in the USA and UK in multiple sizes and stunning colour combinations, and have become the first choice for many trainers on both sides of the Atlantic.

Looking forward to Summer, AmPet has some of the best products to keep dogs cool in hot weather. These include cooling coats from Techniche that, once wetted down, keep dogs cool for nearly 10 hours.

AmPet also supply popular toys from the Katie's Bumpers range. These toys, made from fire-hose recycled from the Denver fire service, are some of the coolest on the market. Offered in different colours and shapes, they fly through the air and float on water. Katie's Bumpers are sponsoring K9 Aqua Sports in 2015.

If you missed PATS Sandown check out the ranges at www.ampetproducts.com. Alex Wilson can be contacted on 0330 088 1673 or by email alexw@ampetproducts.com

Ten buyers from the UK and overseas have already confirmed to attend the Pet Industry Federation’s ‘Meet the Buyer’ event on Monday, November 16, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Liverpool, ahead of its annual Pet Industry Forum & Awards.

The buyers include the major UK pet retail chains and wholesalers, as well as those from Holland, Finland, Slovenia, Italy and Spain. Further buyers are expected to confirm over the coming weeks.

Manufacturers will have the opportunity to showcase their products directly to these buyers during the course of the afternoon. Places will be strictly limited and only open to members of the PIF’s Pet Suppliers & Manufacturers Association. 

The event will be followed by a networking dinner at a local restaurant in Liverpool.

Nigel Baker, PIF CEO said: ‘PIF member manufacturers have a unique opportunity to meet so many buyers under one roof at the same time, and who between them represent thousands of pet stores from the UK and abroad. This ‘Meet the Buyer’ event will help PIF members open new doors and enable their products to reach further afield. Hopefully it will result in new orders for many of them!’

The 2015 Pet Industry Forum event begins the following day, Tuesday November 17, with talks on pet food labelling, licensing, obesity in pets and digital marketing set to take place. The Pet Industry Awards dinner will then take place that evening. The Awards are fast becoming one of the ‘must-attend’ pet industry events of the year with over 250 delegates expected. The evening will see the announcement of the Award winners by a celebrity guest speaker, entertainment, raffle and live music until the early hours.

Tickets to ‘Meet the Buyer’ will cost £250 for manufacturers and £50 for an additional attendee from the same company. Further details about ‘Meet the Buyer’ or the Pet Industry Forum & Awards are available from Alexandra Baker on 01234 224507; alexandra.baker@petfederation.co.uk. You can also visit www.petfederation.co.uk

The Horncastle Pub in Calcot, Reading, is set to become a pet shop. The pub closed after more than 160 years of trade, having been open since 1851.

The building in Bath Road, was put up for sale on property website rightmove for £500,000.

Horncastle Pets is planning to open in the former pub and is advertising a 60% off opening sale.

Retailers rushed to the new Bucktons Superior Plus pigeon range which was showcased at PATS Sandown.

Superior Plus, the latest scientific advance in pigeon food was enthusiastically received by trade retailers at PATS, the largest pet trade event in the UK, with many booking orders on both days. Retailers were also impressed with the wild bird and cage and aviary range available on the stand.

Rachael Dickinson, Senior Brand Manager for Bucktons, said: “Retailers were keen to find out more about the products in the range and were so impressed with what they found that they were keen to place orders right then and there!

“PATS Sandown is a key event, which is marked firmly in our calendar each year, it’s a great opportunity to see all the pet trade under one roof. This year didn’t disappoint and was a real success, both for Bucktons overall and our new Superior Plus range."

For further information or to book orders, contact Richard Greenwood, Pet Sales Manager on 07976 490 341, or email rgreenwood@westlandhorticulture.com

Keep up to date with Bucktons via its website www.bucktons.co.uk and Facebook page www.facebook.com/Bucktons.Pet.Care

Following the success of last year’s most memorable day at the office, Bring Your Dog To Work has started its search for a corporate headline sponsor for 2015.

ITV This Morning presenters Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford were amongst thousands of enthusiastic participants, as Britain went barking for its very first Bring Your Dog To Work Day in 2014.

Last June, companies across the nation welcomed their dog-loving employees into the workplace, along with their loyal four-legged companions, to raise money for three animal charities. The idea took hold in businesses of all kinds, including film studios, hair salons, dentists and even boutique wine stores! 

The initiative was also backed by one of the UK’s leading pet insurance companies, Animal Friends, who made a £5,000 donation as headline sponsor. 

This year, Bring Your Dog To Work Day is hoping to raise even more money for charitable causes. 

“We’re very hopeful that we can build on the success of 2014 and raise money for even more animal welfare charities,” explains Jo Amit, co-founder of dog grooming product company HOWND, the company behind the initiative.

“A variety of businesses adopted the idea last time around and planning is well underway for this year’s event, which is scheduled for Friday 26 June 2015. Our headline sponsor will play a pivotal role in covering the basic costs for fundraising and PR, which will then allow us to raise a significant amount of money for good causes.

“They’ll also be included on all Bring Your Dog To Work Day communications, and be the subject of a case study on our official site. Interested businesses should get in touch to find out more about this amazing opportunity.”

For further information, please visit Bring Your Dog To Work Day’s official website, or email hello@bringyourdogtoworkday.co.uk