The ingredients include swordfish, lobster, Beluga caviar, sea vegetable samphire, saffron, black Périgord truffle and wild brown rice.

As with all Green Dog products, it is packed with the optimal balance of essential nutrients, quality meat and natural ingredients, and free from GM-modified ingredients, artificial colours, preservatives and additives.

The new product also contains the company's signature herbal premix formulation to help maintain intestinal and external hygiene while boosting the canine immune system.

The limited-edition dry food is made bespoke for individual customers and is available directly from Green Dog Food “on request only”.

Green Dog Gold is packaged in 2kg packs, priced £200 — five times the cost of the most expensive complete dry dog food currently on the market.

Given the exclusive nature of the product, orders will take up to 12 weeks to prepare and deliver.

Simon Booth says the idea for the ultra-luxury product came following requests from some of the brand's more high-profile customers.

He said: “Green Dog Food is a luxury holistically-formulated dogfood aimed at those who care enough to give their pets the best.

“We count some of the UK's most affluent dog owners among our customers, including MDs, CEOs, celebrities and other VIPs, and for them, money is no object when it comes to treating their prized pets.

“A number of customers have asked if we could create a special recipe incorporating some of the finest foods to be found, and happy to oblige, Green Dog Gold is the result.”

He added: “As with all our recipes, Green Dog Gold is 100% natural and contains premium content, sourced from trusted UK suppliers.

“We decided to go for a seafood-themed recipe as fish is an essential source of proteins for dogs and is good for the heart.

“Given the cost of the ingredients, and the fact that it is a limited-edition product, Green Dog Gold will be available by special request only. 

“Given its ultra-luxury, limited-edition status, we need a minimum 500 orders to roll out production."

Green Dog Gold at a glance:

• Holistic and natural dog food 
• Contains swordfish, lobster, Beluga caviar, sea vegetable samphire, saffron, black Périgord truffle and wild brown rice

• High meat content 
• No added synthetic vitamins and minerals 
• No artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives 
• Complete food for dogs of all breeds 
• Natural control of intestinal and external hygiene 
• With bioactive herbs for optimal health 

• Hypoallergenic / Holactive 

• Green Dog Food Gold is available now, priced £200 (2kg), For more information visit www.greendogfood.co.uk

Pets at Home has launched a new digital customer engagement platform provided by Eagle Eye, which will be available across all of its UK outlets and online. 

The company is using Eagle Eye’s core services to enable multichannel customer engagement and to enhance its current loyalty scheme so it can offer customers an integrated online and in store solution.

This includes digitising redemption offerings within Pets at Home successful VIP (Very Important Pets) programme, as well as implementing a deliver-to-store service which allows Pets at Home customers to opt to collect a product in store when shopping online. 

Pets at Home launched its VIP programme in November 2012, working with GI Insight to run successful segmentation marketing campaigns. 

By using Eagle Eye AIR, the retailer can enhance its current loyalty programme by enabling specific groups and tiers of targeting to be created, allowing for offers to be tested, tracked and changed accordingly. 

It lets Pets at Home identify which offers are most successful what redemption rates are. 

By replacing the original paper coupons and plastic gift cards, Pets at Home will also reduce operational costs and eliminate fraud, whilst collecting customer data allowing them to target their shoppers with personalised offers, so increasing loyalty and footfall. 

Eagle Eye is a UK leader in digital consumer engagement. Its multi-patented transaction software platform supports real-time multi-channel digital offers, payments and rewards. Eagle Eye is fully integrated into the existing Point of Sale systems provided by BT Expedite.

The Eagle Eye AIR platform also tracks online orders which are delivered to store for collection. When a customer’s order is received in store, staff can scan the parcel’s delivery token which automatically generates an SMS to the customer notifying them that their delivery is ready for pick up. 

Once in store the customer presents the SMS barcode at the point of sale and collects their delivery.

Gavin Hawthorn, head of VIP at Pets at Home, says: “The launch of our new digital platform from Eagle Eye will allow us to provide our customers with an improved shopping experience connecting our online and in-store offerings. This will mean that we can track shopper behaviour and ensure that our customers are getting the best possible service as well as offers that are truly relevant to them and their pets.” 

Eagle Eye clients include Aurora Fashion, Gondola Group, JD Fashion, Ladbrokes, Marks & Spencer, Mitchells & Butlers, Orange Wednesdays, Tragus, Tesco and Thomas Pink.

Pedigree Wholesale’s Pet & Aquatic Trade Show at Worcester Warriors Sixways Stadium was a huge success and attracted a record number of suppliers and new customers...

Held in a relaxed atmosphere both customers and suppliers alike gave positive feedback on the venue, show layout and facilities.

Packed with lots of business opportunities there were over 70 trade stands representing all the UK’s market leading brands. With all key products on display the show gave retailers the opportunity to visualise ranges in-store and ask questions.

To help boost summer sales there were some great show offers giving retailers the opportunity to generate some in-store activity as well as introduce new lines over the coming months. With a prize fund of over £12,500 the competition extravaganza proved to be a big hit – all winners will be announced shortly!

Sales Director Stuart Hendry states “We had a fantastic show and it was great to welcome both existing and new customers. We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who took the time to visit”.

If you have any queries or would like more information please get in touch with the Customer Services Team on 0115 982 3900 or e. info@petproducts.co.uk.

The WhitePython Ultra Slim Heat Lamps and Guards bring a simple yet professional and modern approach to reptile keeping. Each lamp offers the same level of heat as competing ceramic bulbs but are less than half the height.

This shortened heat lamp offers more space for your reptile to climb and bask under the heat whilst also offering a more aesthetically pleasing terrarium with greater viewing area.

The new Heat Guards & Reflectors have also been designed with the customer in mind. After a Facebook poll of WhitePython fans, they decided to create the new product in 3 colours; Leaf Green topped the poll, followed by Midnight Black and Earth Brown.

The Ultra Slim Heat Lamps provide a radiant heat source without emitting any light; making them suitable for both day and night use. The infra-red method of heating allows for a basking area directly under the heater, whilst also increasing the ambient temperature of the terrarium.

It is recommended you use the WhitePython Heat Guard & Reflector units with the heaters to protect your reptile against burns whilst also increasing the energy efficiency and safety of your ceramic heaters.

For more information about the new products, please visit www.whitepython.com.

You can also stay up to date with all WhitePython developments on their facebook page at: www.facebook.com/whitepython1.

Key Points Regarding the New Heat Guards & Reflectors:

• Exclusively fits the WhitePython Ultra Slim Heat Lamps.
• Compared to regular ceramic heat guards that often measure over 25cm tall, the new combination of WhitePython products will reduce the overall height of your ceramic heating unit to just 16cm, with a diameter of 14cm.
• Built-in custom reflector dome allows the heater to become more energy efficient, reducing the necessary output to achieve the required temperature whilst also reducing the heat that rises into the roof of the terrarium, thereby reducing the possible risk of fire hazards.
• Feature an outer guard to protect your reptile against possible burns, an inner reflective dome to push heat downwards and finally, a removable mesh grille on the base for easy access to the ceramic heater.
• Installation of this innovative heat guard is also made easy with the twist lock screw fittings. Unlike traditional heat guards where you need to struggle holding the unit in the terrarium whilst single handedly trying to screw through a small hole into the terrarium room, WhitePython has made this easy. Simply mark the screw holes into the terrarium roof, put the screws in, leaving just a small gap, then once your heat guard is ready to install, simply place over the screws, twist and then tighten.

The Hagen Exhibition has become a mainstay of the UK pet industry with its tantalising mix of key product launches, fantastic offers, luxurious accommodation and world class entertainment.

The 2014 Hagen Exhibition will feature extensive new ranges from Fluval, Exo Terra and Vivexotic, many on display for the first time in the UK. Hagen will also be displaying their exclusive range of ‘Nerf Dog’ dog toys which will be available to order during the exhibition. This range, licensed under the iconic ‘Nerf’ children’s toy brand from Hasbro, is a change in direction for the Canadian based company.

“Despite our considerable strengths in aquatic and reptile products, we’ve never been seen as a major player in the dog toy market,” said Hagen UK’s Managing Director Adrian Burgess. “Nerf Dog is set to change that and we can’t wait to start the ball rolling at our Exhibition this August!”

The event is renowned for its incredible Sunday night entertainment and this year is no exception, with the brilliant Kevin Bridges providing cutting edge comedy as only he can! Kevin will be followed by ‘The Sway Allstars Orchestra’, a 12 piece rock, pop and soul band and Richard Branson’s band of choice for his Virgin Atlantic corporate gigs.

“Kevin is one of the biggest names in stand up comedy right now and Sway are one of the country’s top performance bands...it promises to be one fantastic night,” continued Adrian. “We always sell out our rooms fast, especially as we refund Sunday night accommodation costs with free stock. My advice - if you want to attend the pet trade event of the year you’ll need to act fast!”

The Hagen Exhibition is held on the 31^st August – 1^st September at Chesford Grange Hotel near Kennilworth. To find out more and book in as either a day guest or for an overnight stay, contact Hagen on 01977 556622. 

Natural Instinct has joined forces with the Guild of Dog Trainers to increase awareness of behaviour problems and how they can be avoided.

Sue Armstrong, veterinary surgeon and homeopath, who works closely with Natural Instinct, knows all too well from the many behavioural cases that she sees in practice just how important diet can be.

These problems include hyper excitability, aggression, poor concentration levels and even the way in which animals are accepted in the home by their human guardians. In these situations dietary change to a natural raw diet has radically altered the outcome for some animals, in addition to a course of training.

“The more dog trainers out there who understand these principles the better it will be for dogs. Natural Instinct’s association with The Guild reinforces their commitment to help educate both the public and professionals alike for the good of all our dogs.”

The Guild of Dog Trainers is an independent professional body whose values include being committed to maintaining and improving the quality of dog training, behaviour and companion dog ownership in Britain. The Guild represents excellence illustrated in its motto ‘Balanced Intelligent Dog Training.’

Sue Williams, Chairwoman of the Guild of Dog Trainers, is internationally renowned for her knowledge and expertise in training and behavioural modification.

Her contribution has a positive impact on modern dog training techniques, the procedures of which are also used for Police dogs. In addition to her work with the Guild, Sue co-directs and participates in the highly acclaimed Cheshire Dog Display team and Shadowquest Dog Display team with her own dogs.

The success of Sue has resulted in her high profile exposure in the media, including numerous TV credits and her position as a regular, acclaimed feature writer for the canine press.

“As chairwoman of the prestigious Guild of Dog Trainers, I fully endorse and welcome the Guild’s association with Natural Instinct," said Sue.

"We share a holistic caring view of canine welfare and stringent ethical practices. I look forward to embracing future challenges and jointly promoting responsible dog ownership.”

Natural Instinct have been manufacturing raw food for dogs and cats to the highest quality standards since 2009. The company firmly believes that all dogs and cats deserve the benefits of feeding a natural, fresh, human grade raw food diet with no artificial additives or fillers. The alliance with the Guild demonstrates their passion for the complete well being and health of our dogs and cats.

“Our association with the Guild is seen by us as a true seal of approval from the industry and we are extremely proud," said Anthony Smallman, Wholesale Manager at Natural Instinct.

For more information visit www.naturalinstinct.com

Gloucestershire-based pet products distributor 3P Enterprise Ltd continues to expand by adding Hugs Pet Products and Ruff Dawg toys to its range of branded pet products.

The Hydro and Arctic Freeze collection by Hugs Pet Products are innovative dog toys which combine play with hydration.  Perfect for summer, the Hydro Toys have a foam core which can be soaked in water to provide pets with a slow release thirst quenching drink when the toy is chewed or squeezed.

Arctic Freeze toys are perfect for indoors or out and have a water filled foam core which when frozen gives a great cooling icy sensation on the gums.  They are great for dogs of all ages but particularly popular with teething puppies.

The Jaws collection are functional and durable two-in-one rubber toys which have soft rubber tines to massage gums and remove plaque together with edible replaceable rawhide dog treats on the outside.

Ruff Bones and Gummy Bones by Ruff Dawg are a safe and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional nylon chew bones.  Made from 30% recycled polyurethane material they are puncture resistant, non toxic , non staining and incredibly tough and durable.  Most importantly they do not form sharp edges when chewed.  This makes them kind on the dog’s mouth.

3P Enterprise is delighted to announce a great introductory offer on Hugs and Ruff Dawg toys aimed exclusively at independent high street pet stores.  The special promotion allows retailers to showcase the full range of Hugs and Ruff Bone toys and comes with a free, space saving Point of Sale Stand.  Stores will be able to offer customers these new and exciting toys arranged on an accessible and eye catching display unit complete with colourful printed backing boards and easy re-order coding.

Director and founder of 3P Enterprise, Grant Rogers said  “ We are very pleased to have been chosen as the UK Distributor for this great and innovative range of pet toys. We are committed to sourcing new and interesting pet products and bringing them to the UK Market and think that the Hugs and Ruff Dawg range of toys offer a real alternative for the high street customer.  We want to make life easy for the independent retailer and the free point of sale stand allows shops to display the full range of toys to maximum effect whilst taking up minimum shop space.” 

Hugs Pet Products and Ruff Dawg are available in the UK exclusively from 3P Enterprise Ltd. Call 01594 810990 or email sales@3Penterprise.co.uk for more information. The full range of products is available on our website at www.3penterprise.co.uk.

American Bob Phibbs, known as The Retail Doctor, will be among a top line-up of retail and business experts sharing their secrets at the Pet Industry Forum & Awards event, taking place at Whittlebury Hall Hotel, nr Towcester, Northamptonshire from Thursday 23 – Friday 24 October 2014...

Encompassing the Forum theme, Shifting up a gear, the range of topics during the main programme will include:

• Key strategic insights from global pet food markets – Daniel Fearnley, GFK
• How Google can help your business – Ralph Chiti, Google Media Strategy Consultant
• Merchandising for sales – easy to implement ideas to move product – Bob Phibbs, The Retail Doctor, US retail expert
• An overview of recent economic trends - Mark Berisford-Smith, HSBC Chief Economist
• Future consumer trends set to impact the pet industry – William Higham, Next Big Thing

New for 2014 will be a choice of breakout sessions, offering smaller workshops and learning opportunities on a variety of business-related topics, such as pension auto-enrolments, customer service and export finance. Feedback from last year also indicated that delegates would appreciate a more structured networking environment, so a ‘speed-networking’ session will form part of the 2014 programme so that delegates can meet other delegates.

Steve Fowler, MD of PamPurred Pets and Forum Chairman commented: ‘Whilst the main programme topics will offer inspiration on general business themes and trends from individuals within the pet trade and outside it, the breakout workshops will provide delegates with more specific  advice and guidance on business and technical issues that they will be able to implement in their businesses.  Offering delegates the chance to learning something new is a key aim for the Pet Industry Forum – it helps businesses to thrive and succeed in a competitive environment’.

The whole event will begin on Wednesday 22 October with a range of exciting ‘ice-breaker’ events including rally sessions at Silverstone, a golf tournament to raise funds for The Pet Charity, and opportunities to use the renowned spa at Whittlebury at a discounted rate. These will be followed by a buffet dinner at the hotel and a ‘pub quiz’ in the evening.

The sixth Pet Industry Awards will then be announced on the evening of Thursday 23 October, against the backdrop of a glittering ‘Monte-Carlo Casino’ theme. Boxing legend Frank Bruno MBE will be presenting the Awards to the recipients. 

Lead sponsors for the Forum have been announced as Crown Petfoods, Mars Petcare and Hills Pet Nutrition. Pedigree Wholesale, Burgess Petcare and PATS are supporting the 2014 Pet Industry Awards. 

For more information visit www.piffa.co.uk

Global attendees to this year’s Interzoo show were wowed by not one but six new products from The Company of Animals, all showcased on the supplier’s stylish new stand.

The leading Surrey-based supplier is celebrating a successful stint at the show.  They launched of a plethora of pioneering new products for the European market from super-efficient cleaning products and the best canine body wraps to a new line of cat treats.

The Company of Animals also unveiled its chic new display at the show, featuring its distinctive blue and white branding theme and colourful specialist sections for each of its product ranges.

New products taking centre stage at Nuremberg included;

• Mr Muscle Pets
• Anxiety Wrap
• Quiet Dog
• HALTI Optifit
• Walkezee Harnesses
• Coachies Cat Treats

As well the firm’s ever-popular canine CLIX training range and Baskerville Muzzles, Pet Head shampoos and Arm & Hammer dental care for both cats and dogs were also on display.

Reflecting on a great Interzoo experience, The Company of Animals’ marketing manager Victoria Lowe said: “Interzoo was a huge success for us in many ways.  We were show casing six new products to the trade as well as our best sellers, on a brand new stand created by Nimlock.

The stand was a hive of activity on all four days and customer feedback around the new products was extremely positive – we knew these were going to be products to watch out for and the success of the show confirmed that!”

For more details on the great new product ranges from The Company of Animals, visit their new website: www.CompanyofAnimals.co.uk

Pet accessories experts Ancol are delighted with the success of the recent Interzoo exhibition, which generated international interest in their wide range of products.

Ancol’s stand highlighted their UK manufactured products – including their Viva retractable lead, new range of Indulgence leather collars and leads, Small Bite range and shampoos and colognes.

“This year’s Interzoo could not have gone better for us – so much so that we have decided to double the size of our stand next time" said Sarah Lane, Sales Director at Ancol.

“We had lots of interest from pet companies across the world who love the British Ancol brand – including picking up a large order from a new customer in Malta and another from a customer based in the UAE supplying throughout the area. Talk to your local sales representative on how we can help grow your business.”

Meanwhile, China has become Ancol’s largest export customer thanks to the success of ‘Ancol China’, which Ancol launched in association with a Chinese trading company early this year, selling Ancol dog products to independent pet retailers across China..

For more information or to order a catalogue, call 01922 402428, email sales@ancol.co.uk or talk to your local sales representative.

While the majority of Europe many not see eye-to-eye on much these days, one thing the 27 nation states can agree on is the impression Butch & Bess made at this year’s Interzoo in Germany.  

The UK-based company, which has developed a range of essential oil based grooming products with six unique signature scents, secured orders from across the continent and received interest from global distributors.  

"Interzoo was such a big event for us, especially considering we only started trading in November last year. It was a fantastic opportunity to meet distributors, retailers and groomers who want to get their hands on the best smelling, natural grooming products for dogs," says Mark Hirschel, co-founder of Butch & Bess. 

“We leave Germany with some excellent new relationships in place, which will surely help our ambitions in European export markets.” 

Butch & Bess showcased their entire product range at Interzoo. The range currently consists of: The SuperGroomer Collection (professional grooming conditioning shampoos), Ready-to-use Conditioning Shampoos, Daily Grooming Sprays, Natural Pet Perfumes, Pet Bed and Car Deodorisers, and Detangler Sprays.

Jo Amit, co-founder of Butch & Bess, said: “It was a real pleasure to showcase our signature scents across our range, and see which scents appealed to the European market. We took some substantial orders for our Butch Leather, as well as our Bess Petit collections, the latter which contains an intricate blend of essential oils with head notes of patchouli, bois de rose and jasmine. These fragrances, as well as, Stinker Belle,The Perfect Calm, Maybe Bebé and Bed of Roses have all been likened to mens’ cologne and womens’ perfume in the past - and the people who took a sniff in Nuremberg seemed to agree!”

Butch & Bess’ unique signature scents are formulated from complex combinations of essential oil, including cedarwood, lemongrass, bergamot and lavender.

Jo added: “It’s important to highlight that all of our products are free from alcohol, parabens, soap, synthetic fragrances and chemical dyes and harsh chemicals. Instead, we use kind ingredients including hydrolysed wheat protein, oat kernel extract, aloe juice and argan oil, offering a luxurious yet affordable collection of dog grooming products. Our shampoos are also suitable for cats.”

“When people use our products, the end result is always the same: happy dogs that look, smell and feel absolutely wonderful!”

Please visit www.butchandbess.com for further information about Butch & Bess products and their appearance at Interzoo 2014.

London Pet Show, sponsored by MyPetonline, which took place at Earls Court One, was declared a huge success by organisers, with major new attractions taking up double the amount of space at nearly 20,000sqm and a line up of top celebrities creating an enticing draw for over 24,000 visitors over the two days.  

Nicole Cooper, Show Director of London Pet Show at Brand Events said: “We’ve taken the show to another level this year creating the highest quality visitor experience through a number of interactive features, arena performances with leading talent and we are delighted with the result.”

Top of the bill was the new SuperDogs Live, hosted by TV presenter, adventurer and dog lover Ben Fogle and sponsored by Direct Line Pet Insurance, seeking the UK’s most talented, heroic and entertaining dogs, with performances twice daily in the Zoflora Super Theatre.  

Kicking off with an abseiling Metropolitan Police Alsatian dog being lowered from the dizzy heights of Earls Court One to the sound track of Mission Impossible, the show included heart warming, heroic and spectacular doggy dancing and trick performances, judged by a celebrity panel including Channel 4 Supervet Noel Fitzpatrick and broadcasters Anna Webb and Joanne Good.

Fans of wildlife TV presenter Steve Backshall enjoyed an awesome display of some of the most dramatic predators on earth in an interactive stage show with the likes of a Reticulated Python, Giant Centipede and Alligator Snapping Turtle, live, up-close and on the big screen.  Fans were also delighted to meet Steve after his performances for a book signing.

Swedish Rabbit Show Jumping cup holders enjoyed leaping to unbelievable heights to rapturous applause and Bob the Cat and owner James Bowen enjoyed meeting their fans during a book signing as did eight-year old Owen Howkins and his dog Haatchi the three-legged Anatolian Shepherd who recently topped the Sunday Times bestseller list with their heart warming tale. 

Visitors to the show were able to meet a menagerie of over 450 pets at the fourth London Pet Show, with lots of experts and talks to learn how to care for them, including BBC Springwatch and Autumnwatch presenter Chris Packham advising on the itchy problem of ticks and fleas as summer approaches who attended with London Pet Show headline sponsor, MyPetonline.

Amanda Melvin, publisher of MyPetonline said: “We were proud to be headline sponsors of this year’s London Pet Show just a year after launching MyPetonline. We see the show as a unique event celebrating everything good about the world of pets and look forward to continuing our involvement and to being part of its development at its new home at ExCel London next year.”

Elizabeth Peplow, Editor of MyPetonline, said: “The London Pet Show is going from strength to strength and really stepped up a gear this year with the expanded floor space and even more fun features. The range of attractions and animals represented is breath-taking making it a fantastic event which we love being part of. 

"The London Pet Show audience is, like the MyPetonline team, passionate about pets and our whole team were kept busy over the two days, sharing information and hearing about visitors’ animals, making it a great experience” continued Elizabeth.

The show zones, all as popular as ever included Discover Dogs, sponsored by James Wellbeloved, Discover Cats, sponsored by Royal Canin, Discover Small Furries, sponsored by Burgess Excel and Discover Animals, Aquatics and Reptiles, sponsored by Exo Terra, Fluval and Laguna, each area featuring a raft of different breeds and species, displays and experts to advise visitors on how to care for each kind of pet.

With the closure of Earls Court One at the end of 2014, London Pet Show moves to ExCel London in 2015 taking place on 9^th and 10^th May.  ExCel London situated in the East of London runs over 300 events a year and welcomed over 3.6 million visitors through their doors in 2013.

Building on the success of London Pet Show, in the autumn of 2014 Brand Events launched the National Pet Show, also sponsored by MyPetonline, which takes place at the NEC, Birmingham on 20 and 21 September.  The National Pet Show will be a replica of the London event including SuperDogs Live, once again sponsored by Direct Line Pet Insurance and hosted by Ben Fogle.

Nicole Cooper concludes: “We are looking forward to bringing our successful format to Birmingham this Autumn and are working hard to put on a fantastic event for visitors to enjoy and exhibitors to do great sales.  Having organised many award winning events at ExCel London over the years we are also excited at London Pet Show’s move there next year and expect a large percentage of our loyal pet loving visitors to attend with the venue’s excellent transport links.”

Catherine, a visitor from Newbury, told the organisers about her visit to the London Pet Show: “Had a great day!  Third time we have come to this event which just gets better and better.  Hoping to go to the NEC in Sept….”

With the US trend of ‘handbag dogs’ reaching the UK and more people than ever owning small dogs, Ancol has extended its Small Bite range, offering customers affordable luxury for their beloved pooch.

The Small Bite range is aimed at small dogs and puppies with a collar size of up to 30cm and includes collars, leads, clothing, carry bags, toys and feeding bowls. The new range in their 2014/15 catalogue includes warm coats, waterproof macs and comfy pyramid beds.

Ancol has also introduced beautiful French designed carry bags, diamante embellished collars and delicate extending leads with exquisite luxury detailing. Plus they’ve extended their range of smaller toys which are designed for a smaller mouth but still very tough.

Sales Director Sarah Lane comments: “Over the last couple of years, our Small Bite range has grown 300% and we’ve invested £20,000 in designing and marketing the range. As there is such a high level of interest in these products, we would encourage our retailers to create a dedicated area in their store in which to highlight their small dog products.”

To request a catalogue call 01922 402428, email sales@ancol.co.uk or ask your local sales representative. 

Hikari has launched a probiotic enhanced nutrient mix for Turtles under their Saki-Hikari brand.

Saki-Hikari Turtle Sticks contain Hikari-Germ, a strain of Bacillus bacteria which aids digestion, helps optimise nutrient utilisation resulting, in less waste and excellent water quality, as well as supporting the Turtles intestinal flora.

Made from the finest quality ingredients Saki-Hikari Turtle Sticks include a unique blend of Odor-Stop ingredients and herbs which help reduce odours and increase feeding efficiency, resulting in less waste.

Saki-Hikari Turtle Sticks provide complete and balanced nutrition, and with added calcium supports the development of the outer shell while vitamin D3 improves calcium absorption. Furthermore the hard pellets help avoid the mess Turtles create when they eat.

Saki-Hikari Turtle Sticks are available in pack sizes of 45g and 200g with recommended retail prices of £3.99 and £14.49 respectively.

If you would like more information about Saki-Hikari Turtle Sticks contact the Customer Services Team on 0115 982 3900 or e. info@petproducts.co.uk.

The Kennel Club has announced that London’s premier dog event, Discover Dogs, will be moving to Excel (subject to contract) from 2015, following the closure of Earls Court Exhibition Centre for redevelopment.

The event will take place 17 and 18 October 2015 and in subsequent years it will move to the first weekend in December. This year it will continue at Earls Court, which has been its home since 1996, on 8 and 9 November.

Vanessa McAlpine, Kennel Club Events Executive, said: “We are delighted to have a new home for Discover Dogs and we will continue to run a first class event supported by the breed clubs, sponsors and trade exhibitors. We hope will attract new visitors on top of those loyal visitors who have attended in the past and who helped to make Discover Dogs 2013 our biggest event to date, with 35,000 visitors.”

Discover Dogs is a unique event that enables people to meet and greet nearly 200 breeds of dog, to shop for dog related products, and to watch fun four-legged displays and competitions. The fun family event, sponsored by Eukanuba, celebrates our unique relationship with dogs, in addition to helping people understand the importance of choosing the right breed for their lifestyle and making sure they buy a puppy responsibly.

Vanessa continued: “There is no other event quite like Discover Dogs and the elements that have been at the heart of the show for many years and that have won the hearts of dog lovers, will continue at Excel, namely adorable dogs, excellent shopping, fun displays and competitions and plenty of information and advice.”

Tickets for Discover Dogs 2014 are now on sale. Tickets cost £13.20 or £9.90 for concessions and under 12s go free. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.discoverdogs.org.uk

Fish4Dogs has strengthened its E-commerce capabilities through the appointment of a new director, Jason Megretton, who makes his move up from web manager for the brand.

The appointment follows a successful year for Fish4Dogs which has seen continued growth in its online presence – through its social media channels and the launch of a new trade website which has been created to help independent retailers purchase directly from the brand.

Building on his previous role, which saw Megretton focus on generating online interest, enhance the user experience and improve sales through onsite promotions and campaigns – his new position as director will see him strategically adapt the workings of the website to continue Fish4Dogs’ online growth while also beginning to take responsibility for international activity.

Graham Smith, CEO at Fish4Dogs comments, “We are absolutely delighted to appoint Jason as the new director of E-Commerce. He has developed a solid track record of driving brand engagement using a variety of social media platforms to engage with a highly targeted audience, while also increasing our online sales by 15 time

“We truly believe in our employees and are committed to their development within the company and I trust that his E-commerce leadership will enable Fish4Dogs to continue to grow our online reputation.” 

Independent retailers and small businesses that work together enjoy a significant sales boost, finds The Value of Collaboration report released today by American Express.

The report, carried out by retail experts Conlumino, finds that by collaborating via activities such as joint marketing campaigns, loyalty schemes, local events, and joint promotions, small merchants can boost their sales by an average of up to £30,000 each annually, representing an average potential sales uplift for independent businesses of almost £900 million nationally.

As well as evaluating the positive impact formal collaboration can have on sales, the report also explores the day-to-day cost savings small merchants can benefit from by lending each other a helping hand. Through things like minding each other’s shops, taking in deliveries, doing a bank run or providing loose change, independent businesses can save an average of £3,000 each per year in labour costs, equating to an average value of over £75 million nationally.

In total, nearly three quarters (73%) of respondents said they are supporting each other in some way. This includes other activities such as discussing business challenges with their peers, comparing performance or discussing the trading environment.

Mark Roper, Head of UK Merchant Services at American Express, said: “Whether it’s the local deli and off licence putting on a joint cheese and wine night, or an entire high street running a seasonal promotion, small merchants across the UK are clubbing together to improve their collective lot. It makes strong business sense, delivering tangible returns in terms of boosted sales and saved labour costs and it is a trend that is increasing. One in six respondents said they plan to collaborate more in the next year or so.”

Neil Saunders, Managing Director at Conlumino, said: “Collaboration between independent businesses can have huge financial benefits. This inevitably has a very positive impact on the economics of running an independent high street business. At a time when so much of retail is highly competitive it is fantastic to see how cooperation is creating sustainable success.”

Underpinning the evident supportive culture on high streets up and down the country is the fact that owners of small merchants make the effort to get to know other traders in the area. The report finds that 59% of small business owners know at least half of their fellow local traders and close to a quarter (23%) know almost all of them, and are reaping the rewards for mutual benefit by recommending each other to their customers too.

Toby Archer, owner of award winning cheesemongers, The Cheese Plate in Buntingford, Hertfordshire said of the report findings, “I definitely believe it’s important for owners of independent shops to support each other. In Buntingford, we regularly organise joint events and myself and other local traders are always happy to recommend each other. To me, it’s obvious that by working together we can effectively attract more customers, with a good selection of thriving shops and a sense of community that makes our high street a nicer place to be.”

Dog Rocks is urging pet retailers and owners to take part in a 'tear stain' trial in an effort to prove that its unique product can help to solve the problem.

The company has already carried out a survey of 2,000 dog owners, who found that Dog Rocks helped with tear stain.

"The benefits of Dog Rocks on grass are widely known, no more urine burn patches," said CEO Carina Evans. "We now have strong reason to believe that Dog Rocks also alleviates and cures pet tear stain."

If you would like to take part in the trial email info@dogrocks.co.uk or call 01628 822243. You will need to email a picture of your pet suffering from tear stain and include details of breed, diet and habitat.

You can visit www.dogrocks.co.uk to find out more.

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds has joined forces with Mr Fothergill's to offer its own retail range of seeds for the 2014-15 season to boost the charity's 'Give Nature a Home' campaign, which is inspiring families to create wildlife-friendly areas in their gardens. 

The Suffolk seedsman reports it achieved a remarkable 33% of its annual sales target for the range in the first three weeks of its sell-in, reflecting the trade's appreciation of marketing innovation.

The RSPB, the country's largest nature conservation charity, is inspiring everyone to give nature a home, and has launched a television advertising campaign to make a greater number aware of the extent of its important work and emphasising this message. 

The charity's Geoff Brown said "We regard our link to Mr Fothergill's as an exciting opportunity to work with a company which shares the RSPB's values and to raise awareness of our mission to help and protect endangered wildlife".

Eye-catchingly presented on a dedicated, free-standing display unit, made from FSC-approved card, it presents 16 single varieties, three Four-in-One collection packs and three Shaker Boxes of wildflower mixes. 

Ideal for high-traffic areas in store, this pre-merchandised unit requires only minimal construction, and can either be displayed with a main range of flower seeds or used for secondary siting where it makes an ideal linked sales opportunity when positioned near wildlife food and feeder displays, says Mr Fothergill's.

 Each packet or box carries a silhouette icon to tell consumers whether the contents attract birds, pollinating insects, butterflies or a combination of the three, all of which the RSPB now seeks to protect.  The charity receives a royalty from Mr Fothergill's for every pack sold to help its work with British wildlife. 

 For more information on Mr Fothergill's retail seed ranges for 2014-15, telephone 01638 554111, log on at www.mr-fothergills-trade.com or e-mail info@mr-fothergills.co.uk

The Companion Animal Sector Council's (CASC) Health & Welfare Strategy for Rabbits in England has been relaunched, and is now called  the Rabbit Welfare Stakeholder Implementation Group (RWSIG).

Its stakeholders include the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWAF), the Pet Industry Federation (PIF), Peter Scott (CASC), the RSPCA, the British Rabbit Council (BRC),  Dr Nicola Rooney (University of Bristol) and Richard Saunders (representing both RWAF and the British Zoological Veterinary Society Association).

Towards the end of last year, the RSPCA, in conjunction with a team of researchers from the Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group at Bristol University, produced some vital research into domestic rabbit welfare.  

This research is yet to be peer-reviewed for publication in international scientific journals so its findings have not been released, but it provided scientific evidence of a number of key welfare issues faced by pet rabbits on which we can base recommendations.

The research prompted a meeting of the Rabbit Welfare Stakeholder Implementation Group (RWSIG), in which the existing CASC document was reviewed in conjunction with the RSPCA study and findings of a report produced by the PDSA, and a way forward agreed.

An updated Rabbit Welfare Strategy draft is in progress and comprises of 10 evidence-based aims covering different priority areas to most improve rabbit welfare. Each of the aims comprises numerous actions with short, medium and long term targets wherever possible and the document will be the basis for joint working by all interested parties across the domestic rabbit spectrum. Any stakeholders and interested parties will be invited to take part in the work and implementation. A workable document is planned for circulation by the autumn of this year.

Anybody who would like to be a consultee for this work should get in touch with the RWSIG via the RWAF at hq@rabbitwelfare.co.uk.

The UK’s Number 1* normal nutrition specialist brand is proud to announce the launch of the new BETA Breed Specific Range.  As dog breed groups have similar characteristics and needs, BETA Breed Specific products offer high quality and Complete Dry Dog nutrition tailored for the 4 most popular breed families – Spaniels, Shepherds and Setters, Terriers and Retrievers.

The Advanced Nutrition category is currently the only segment of the market offering tailored nutrition for a variety of different breed types.  Pet owners believe their dogs are special and those shopping for Normal Nutrition brands in the Specialist channel are likely to be looking for tailored, quality nutrition too.  PURINA, with its 85 years of expertise in dog nutrition and behaviour has carefully developed the Breed Group Specific range offering tailored nutrition for specific breed groups.

It is important for consumers to understand how each recipe is tailored to the individual needs of the different breed types and the new pack format allows simple communication of the benefits for each breed.  There is also a strong visual link on front of pack to the breeds they are developed for and the imagery used.

Here is a summary of how each recipe has been specifically formulated for each breed type:

• Spaniels are lively by nature which means they need a food that will sustain their energy needs throughout the day.  BETA Spaniels is specially formulated with high levels of protein and fat to help them maintain their extremely active nature and vitality for life.  Also suitable for hunting dogs.
• Shepherds and Setters are natural born explorers but they can be more prone to sensitive digestion.  BETA Shepherds and Setters is specially formulated with ingredients that are easy on dog’s intestines and contains all the right nutrients to help keep muscle mass in peak condition.
• Terriers are always on the lookout for adventure and love a good run around in the hope of finding it.  BETA Terriers formula is a balanced mix of nutrients designed to replenish energy, help maintain muscle mass and help keep bones strong and healthy.
• Retrievers love playtime – and they also love mealtimes.  BETA Retrievers is a specially balanced formula with all the nutrients needed for a healthy, active life but with reduced fat levels compared with BETA Adult to help keep optimal body condition.

For more information please contact your PURINA Business Development Manager or visit www.purina-beta.co.uk

*Reg. Trademark of Société des Produits Nestlé S.A.

*IRI value share – Total pet specialist w/e 9^th Nov 2013 (excluding PAH)