Yorkshire-based pet food brand Wagg has launched Snack Shots – a new range of pocket-sized treats. 

Handy for those on-the-go treating and training occasions, Snack Shots will be launching in a selection of flavours and are available in Asda stores across the UK.

Snack Shots come in a variety of pocket-sized packets including BBQ Bangers, Low Fat, Training, and Tasty Bones. 

The treats offer a new innovation for the pet food industry and are set to make a positive impact within the treat market. Since the start of the pandemic, dog treats have been the most consistent source of growth within the pet food sector and continues to grow +10% year on year, accounting for almost 40% of dog food sales. The days of coat pockets full of crumbs and smelling like meaty treats are set to become a thing of the past!

The new range features a selection of Wagg bestselling treats and flavours in bumper packs of 12. Coming in a variety of new flavours and shapes, the tasty oven-baked treats provide a great way for shoppers to trial the product and new flavours.

Made in the UK, the treats are enriched with vitamins and minerals, and contain no added sugar, to ensure a natural taste and a healthier snack for dogs.

With research showing that one in three UK households purchase dog treats**, IPN’s latest launch offers consumers a ready-made solution to taking treats out and about.

Speaking about the launch of Snack Shots in Asda, Lucy Stones, Marketing Manager – Complimentary Feeding & Treating at IPN, said: “We are super excited about the launch of our Snack Shots range. 

“We believe that every good dog deserves a little treat every now and then, and treats play a crucial role when it comes to training and rewarding the correct behaviour. This is why we have introduced these great pocket-sized packs. 

“Many of us are dog owners ourselves at IPN and we’ve all fallen foul to smelly pockets full of crumbled up dog treats in the past. We wanted to find a solution that worked for owners whilst still offering a tasty, nutritious, and naturally good treat for our pets, and that’s exactly what we have done with Snack Shots.”

Snack Shots are available in Asda stores at £4 RRP.

To find out more about Waggs Snack Shots visit: https://waggfoods.com/

A high-street pet shop has moved 50 yards ‘down the road’ to new premises which offer greater opportunities for the business to grow.

Lynn Connell, who has been running a pet shop for more than 20 years, set up Pet Pantry with her daughter Abbie in Winchester, Hampshire, five years ago.

But the business has since outgrown the premises and when a more suitable outlet became available on the same street the pair decided to change venues.

“The new store has a far better layout,” said Lynn. “It’s double the size of the current shop and is on one level compared to the two unworkable levels at the moment. We’re really excited about the move.”

Pet Pantry is a family-run business with Lynn and Abbie working in the shop. Lynn said her husband was a massive support and helped with doing jobs around the store.

“Our customers have been very supportive and understanding,” said Lynn. “They mean everything to us, and we’re sure they’ll love the new shop as much as the old one.”

Lynn and Abbie welcomed customers to the new store earlier this week.

Entries have opened today for the Pet Industry Federation Awards 2022 with the winners being revealed at Whittlebury Hall in Northamptonshire on November 17. 

Following a record number of nominations in 2021, the judges are expecting a higher than ever standard this year. 

Nigel Baker, CEO of the Pet Industry Federation, commented: “We are delighted to be hosting the PIF Awards again this year. 

“The Awards, sponsored by Cliverton Insurance and Tuft, provide a fantastic opportunity to recognise and reward the outstanding performances in the pet industry over the last twelve months.”

With a range of 20 categories, these keenly anticipated awards are a great showcase for the breadth of the pet industry and highlight this year’s inspirational success stories. 

To enter your business for an award visit www.petfederation.co.uk. Entries will remain open until July 29.

Sponsorship is available at Headline or Category level and provides promotional and networking opportunities. To find out more about sponsorship, telephone Daniel Everett, PIF’s Events Coordinator, on 01234 224507 or email daniel.everett@petfederation.co.uk. 

Burns Pet Nutrition has invited dog owners and their pets to the grand opening of the Burns Four Paws Trail at the National Botanic Garden of Wales on Saturday (May 7).

Those attending will join the official launch of the trail and take part in a walk which will kick off at 11.30am. 

Visitors can enter into a free prize draw to win goodies from the National Botanic Garden of Wales including two family day tickets. Usual ticket prices apply to enter the garden for the launch. 

The Burns Four Paws Trail forms part of a new sponsorship deal between Burns and the National Botanic Garden of Wales which will run until 30 April 2023 and also include the new Burns Four Paw Shelter. The shelter is located part way through the trail, under cover, allowing walkers to enjoy the scenery and take their time. 

Burns products will also be sold onsite at the Garden Shop. 

Founder of Burns Pet Nutrition, John Burns (above), said of the new sponsorship and shelter: “We are thrilled to be sponsoring the Burns Four Paws Trail and Shelter and working alongside National Botanic Garden of Wales.” 

The Botanic Garden’s head of development, Owen Thomas, said: “It’s great to be partnering with Burns Pet Nutrition for what will be a fabulous and fun day – and a great way to signal the start of our ongoing collaboration.”

Watermarque, a popular aquatics retail outlet in Yeovil, Somerset, is being rebranded as part of a new ownership arrangement.

Southern Aquatics has taken over the store from J&K Aquatics. The shop will continue to function as normal but will be rebranded as a branch of Southern Aquatics.

The store was previously operated by J&K Aquatics as a separate entity to its wholesale business, after the site came into the company’s ownership as part of a trading debt around 35 years ago.

J&K Aquatics managing director Paul James said: “While retail is where we started, J&K’s focus has always been on our wholesale operation.

“With a large portfolio of products and some large pillar brands to promote and sell, we need to devote our time and management resources to the wholesale side of the business and making that as good as possible. 

“In the last few years, it has become difficult for us to dedicate enough time or resources to the retail side of the business to make it successful, and Southern Aquatics were searching for another retail store, so they approached us.

“It’s a win-win situation for all involved: J&K, Southern and the long-standing staff at the Yeovil store. We look forward to the next step in our relationship with Southern Aquatics.”

A couple of Canicross enthusiasts are bringing excellence and safety to the sport, by launching the first ever training qualification in the country.

Emily Thomas, who runs the K9 Trail Time online store from Brockworth, Gloucestershire, and Dawn Crook-Richards who runs the longstanding CaniX UK race series were struck by the questions they were receiving about the sport from customers.

And with the number of pet dogs now larger than ever, and people looking for new ways to exercise with them, the pair realised that there was an urgent need for correct information, in order people and their pets to stay safe.

Canicross is running cross country (on trails and paths, rather than roads) with your dog and the sport is growing in popularity in the UK.

Emily began taking part in Canicross 13 years ago with her first dog, a husky collie cross called Tegan.

"Tegan was very pretty but very active and I really struggled with her at first. I couldn't let her off the lead because of her prey drive and she also suffered from severe separation anxiety, ripping up my house whenever I left!

"I needed a way to channel her energy, and a friend said 'why don't you run?' Almost instantly I noticed a massive change in her, and I have taken part in Canicross events ever since with my dogs." Said Emily.

Emily's online store sells everything that someone starting out in the sport would need, such as the correct harnesses, belts and bungee leads.

But with a massive upsurge in popularity over the last five years, Emily and Dawn realised that with more people than ever taking part, having correct information and guidance out there had never been more important.

So the pair got together to create Canicross Coach and contacted the Awarding Organisation iPET Network who specifies in creating qualifications in the Animal Care sector. iPET Network supported them in writing the UK's first ever qualification course in Canicross Coaching, so that more people can benefit from best practice and the experience of others.

Emily said: "With the course it means that there is now a standard for all teaching, which means that in the UK we get the best sport possible.

"The course is designed to give people the in-depth knowledge that they need before they start, and includes elements such as risk assessing for events, and canine first aid.

"All of these things I wish I had known when I began, and it's wonderful to be able to pass on the knowledge." Said Emily, who currently lives with four dogs, collie Judo, springer spaniel Donnie, husky greyhound crossbreed Yogi and spaniel Delta.

When creating the course, it was important to both Emily and Dawn, and iPET Network that the welfare of the dogs involved was at the heart of the qualification.

Emily added: "We have taken everything from a dog centered approach, welfare of the dogs comes first and foremost in everything that we teach, and keeping the dogs safe at all times."

Sarah Mackay and Fern Gresty founded the award-winning iPET Network, which creates high quality Ofqual regulated qualification for people working with animals.

They said: "iPET Network is delighted to have worked with Emily and Dawn to offer this excellent course.

"As well as our pet professionals, it is important to consider the welfare and safety of animals taking part in sports or exercise. So to have best practice available in this way is wonderful for the sport of Canicross."

To find out more about the course go to https://www.ipetnetwork.co.uk/ipet-network-canine-and-feline-qualifications/ipet-network-level-3-award-in-canicross-coaching/

Picture credit: Emily Thomas/Animal News Agency

BETA International has announced that Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) is its chosen charity for 2022.

RDA, whose horses benefit the lives of more than 25,000 disabled children and adults, will enjoy a high-profile presence at September’s exhibition, where visitors and exhibitors can find out more about the association’s crucial work.

With fun activities like riding and carriage driving, the association provides therapy, fitness, skills development and opportunities for achievement – all supported by 18,000 amazing volunteers and qualified coaches at nearly 500 RDA centres all over the UK.

Claire Williams, Executive Director and Secretary of the British Equestrian Trade Association, said: “We are delighted to welcome back RDA as BETA International’s chosen charity. 

“RDA makes such a difference to so many disabled children and adults through the wide range of equestrian activities and interactions.  

“We are delighted to be able to support them in highlighting the work they do to the trade and helping them to make contact with new supporters for the future.”

BETA International’s chosen charity receives a stand at the show and a slot in the seminar programme.

Fran Bos, Corporate Partnership & Events Manager, RDA UK, said: “We are delighted to have been chosen as the charity of the year for BETA International. 

“RDA has been an integral part of the equestrian landscape for over 50 years and we have a huge amount to offer the businesses that serve this fantastic community. 

“At BETA International, we will be raising awareness of the various ways that businesses can benefit from working with us, showcasing our life-changing activities and encouraging more companies to give their support.”

RDA is an inclusive and diverse organisation, welcoming clients with physical and learning disabilities and autism. Through its network of member groups, RDA is at work in every corner of the UK, bringing the therapy, achievement and fun of horses to as many people as possible.

RDA can only carry out its life-changing activities thanks to the generosity of donors, the dedication of volunteers and the good nature of fantastic horses.

BETA International is the world’s number one trade show for equestrian, country clothing and pet products. The 2022 show takes place from 11 to 13 September at the NAEC, Stoneleigh Park. 

To find out more about exhibiting at BETA International, contact Fiona Dagger at Impact Exhibitions & Events on 01892 862848 or email fiona.dagger@impact-exhibitions.com.

Hill’s Pet Nutrition has invested in technology company Vet-AI in a move that will open up digital veterinary care to millions of pet owners through the Joii Pet Care app.

Vet-AI, based in Nexus, University of Leeds, has now attracted a combined total investment of £12.6m from several strategic partners since launching in 2019.

Dr Hein Meyer, director of professional and veterinary affairs at Hill’s Pet Nutrition, said: “We see Joii Pet Care as a powerful tool veterinary surgeons can take advantage of to alleviate stress and free up time and resources.

“Joii supports veterinarians by clearing more time for procedures that require their skill and expertise. We think vets will appreciate Joii’s many helpful functionalities, such as tele-triage, online follow-ups and check-ups.”

Working with established brand Hill’s Pet Nutrition will also add nutrition expertise to the Joii Pet Care offering.

Veterinary surgeon Dr Robert Dawson, co-founder of Vet-AI, said: “These important strategic collaborations give us the ability to provide a truly holistic veterinary care offering, underpinned by expert knowledge and innovative technology.

“Together we can improve the lives of pets and vets across the globe through improved data insights.

“It’s no secret that veterinary practice colleagues are under increasing pressure. Our mission is to do all we can to alleviate that.”

IVC Evidensia has partnered with Vet Sustain to help promote sustainable practices and improve the implementation of them within the veterinary industry.

Vet Sustain is a UK-based social enterprise company working to enable and inspire veterinary professionals to become leading forces in sustainability and continually improve the health and wellbeing of animals, people and the environment.

Through their wide network and diverse working groups, Vet Sustain produce tools, training and communications for veterinary professionals centred around their six Veterinary Sustainability Goals (SDGs).

The six Veterinary Sustainability Goals (SDGs) highlight the roles of veterinary professionals in driving sustainability in line with the UN’s own SDGs. To collectively tackle these ambitious goals, Vet Sustain have pledged to work in collaboration with partners that share their values, to deliver shared objectives and make a meaningful impact.  

A recent survey by the British Veterinary Association found that 89% of vets said they would like to play a more active role in the UK sustainability agenda and working together as a profession will allow us all to be more active and make a collective difference.

Sustainability has already been established as a key focus for IVC Evidensia, following the publication of a Sustainability Report in 2021, known as the Positive Pawprint. The report focused on protecting the health and happiness of people and their pets, while reducing environmental impact and promoting the principles of sustainability.

It highlighted three pillars – People, Planet and Pets – that will help IVC Evidensia implement leading sustainability standards across all operations from individual clinics and hospitals to the central teams.

Gudrun Ravetz, Chair and Director of Vet Sustain, said: “We are very pleased to announce IVC Evidensia as a strategic partner of Vet Sustain. Veterinary professionals sit at the One Health triumvirate of people, planet and environment every day and working with IVC Evidensia will allow Vet Sustain to continue work on ambitious projects to support veterinary professionals to be active sustainability champions.”

Sarah Heath, Director of Sustainability and ESG at IVC Evidensia, said: “At IVC Evidensia, we believe it is our responsibility to set and share new standards of sustainability in animal health. Transforming how we do things is an exciting challenge, and we know that working with excellent partners like Vet Sustain will help us to not only embed sustainability within our global operations but also play our part as a force for good across the whole veterinary profession. We are delighted to be working with Vet Sustain and look forward to supporting their innovative and exciting projects to improve sustainability in veterinary care.”

You can find out more about the Sustainability Report, known as Positive Pawprint here.

Pet treat start-up company PARK LiFE is set to exhibit for the first time at the Glee, which takes place at the NEC Birmingham on June 28-30.

The Ireland-based business manufactures and distributes a range of wholesome, grain-free and 100% natural biscuits for dogs that are full of tasty human grade and gut-friendly ingredients. These come in three varieties – Fris-Bix, Love-Bix and Chill-Bix. 

The biscuits are made from a few simple ingredients – sunflower seeds, peas, potatoes, coconut oil and apple juice with added herbs, berries and super seeds depending on the variety. They are cut into fun bite-sized shapes to keep any pooch happy and satisfied.

PARK LiFE also offers a dental chew called Milk Bone, which is inspired by Yak chews and available in chicken, salmon and lamb flavours. Again using 100% natural, human-grade ingredients which are kind to the tummy, these bone-shaped ‘super chews’ are made with high-quality milk protein and help to relieve boredom, while cleaning teeth and supporting strong muscles and bones. What’s more, they’re high protein, calcium-rich, and lactose-free.

Richard Marles started PARK LiFE after his Golden Labrador Penny suffered a bloated stomach and discomfort after eating a major brand of dog biscuits.

He said: “Our Milk Bones are the safest long-lasting dental chew around. They are slightly softer than a Yak Chew, so the dog can eat the whole thing in one sitting and the pet parents don’t have to take away the final leftover piece like with a Yak chew.

“Our biscuits are grain-free, 100% natural, Vegan (although we haven’t ruled out meat versions), human quality with no added sugar or salt and no hidden junk.

“We’re also working on an exciting NPD pipeline, so watch this space! “

PARK LiFE took a large number of orders from independents and garden centres at PATS recently and is currently in discussion with a number of potential wholesale partners. 

Park Life is also set to exhibit at InterZoo, PATS Telford and many more events throughout 2022.

If you are interested in stocking the product then visit www.parklife.dog or email Richard at info@parklife.dog

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A pet shop, which has been losing money since the start of the pandemic, could be turned into an all-ages tuition centre if a change-of-use application is accepted.

Elm Park Pets in Hornchurch, Essex, struggled during the pandemic lockdowns and owner Yasin Shaaban Hamouda said efforts had been made to sell the business.

Planning documents state aesthetic changes would include new signage, and internal space will be reimagined to accommodate 34 students across its ground and lower-ground floor classrooms.

A Chester man who stole more than £100 of fish food from a local Pets at Home store has been handed a suspended prison sentence.

Thirty-seven-year-old Robert Murphy, of Wordsworth Crescent, Chester, pleaded guilty to stealing £108 of fish food from the pet store on March 16.

He also admitted stealing about £100 of furniture, in an unrelated theft offence, in early April.

Chester magistrates handed Murphy a 14-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months.

Murphy has been ordered to complete up to 35 days of a rehabilitation activity requirement and 90 hours unpaid work.

He must also pay £108 compensation to Pets at Home and £99 compensation to the victim of the furniture theft.

There is a shortage of vets across the UK, and a top qualification provider is inviting would-be students to start their career journeys early by taking vocational qualifications.

iPET Network have developed a range of Ofqual regulated qualifications, which can be taken by students at GCSE and A-Level ages to signify a commitment to the veterinary profession.

Qualifications include skills and specialisms such as canine first aid, nutrition and breeding, as well as microchipping and grooming.

This news comes as The British Veterinary Association, the national body for vets has published a new guide encouraging more students from vocational backgrounds to apply.

The guide says that veterinary medicine is considered highly competitive, and the association is worried that this is putting people off, and that careers advisers are dissuading anyone other than straight A students from applying.  

Sarah Mackay and Fern Gresty started iPET Network in 2018, and have created a wide range of animal welfare-led qualifications which are regulated by Ofqual.

Fern said: "There are many ways that a student can build their CV, and make themselves a brilliant prospect for a veterinary science university course.

"By starting early, and studying for one or more of our vocational qualifications, would-be vets are giving themselves a big head start.

"There is a national shortage of vets, and universities are looking for prospects who have demonstrated a willingness to excel in the industry. "

iPET Network is looking to develop new courses which would further enhance the CV of a future veterinary professional.

The qualification provider was recently awarded an expansion of scope by Ofqual, which enables it to create courses away from just the canine and feline sector.

Fern added: "It is a brilliant time to get into the pet caring industries, and we want to help facilitate people with a passion for animal welfare to do this at all levels."

For more information about the iPET Network go to www.ipetnetwork.co.uk

Leading UK fresh dog food brand, Butternut Box, has announced a new partnership with one of the nation’s favourite on-screen vets, Dr Bolu Eso.

With both Butternut Box and Dr Bolu sharing a love for pups across the nation and ensuring their health and happiness is their ongoing mission, it is set to be a ‘pooch perfect’ partnership for the year ahead.

Butternut Box chose to bring Dr Bolu on board for his expertise in the veterinary field, as well as his belief in the brand’s products and his love for what they stand for.

Graduating in 2019 with an Honours and a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine and Intercalated Master of Science, Bolu has a wealth of experience looking after pets of all breeds, shapes, and sizes, and is committed to caring for the health and wellbeing of all furry friends.

Known for his TV appearances on various British TV shows and viral hits on social media, Bolu is keen to continue educating and entertaining the nation with his new partnership with dog food brand, Butternut Box.

Founded in 2016, Butternut Box has become the leading fresh dog food company in the UK and Europe, thanks to its highly personalised dietary offering and digital first approach.

Most recently, Butternut Box hosted a social competition that put the nation’s dogs on eye-catching billboards across the country.

Delivering delicious, human-quality meals for dogs, full of freshly prepared ingredients, straight to customers’ doors, Butternut Box understands the importance of all dogs leading healthier lifestyles, and their brand ethos is aligned perfectly with Bolu’s passion and commitment to the nations’ pets.

Dr Bolu Eso commented: “I’m truly thrilled to be working alongside the brilliant minds at Butternut Box. Putting pets at the heart of everything they do, speaks volumes and being able to provide veterinary expertise to ensure both dogs and their owners are happy and healthy, couldn’t resonate more with me.”

Khadeeja Paul, brand manager at Butternut Box, said: “We’re more than excited to have Dr Bolu Eso on board as the newest member of our Butternut Box squad. He’s exactly the sort of health-conscious animal lover that really understands what we’re trying to achieve, and we’re grateful to have his expertise to help with our mission to deliver health and happiness to dogs and their humans across the world.

“Looking at the year ahead, we have some exciting activity in the pipeline, including surprise pop-ups and national competitions planned for the summer months. We’re delighted to have Dr Bolu’s involvement in this upcoming activity as well as his credible voice throwing support behind the quality of the brand and helping to represent what we do and why we do it.”

For more information on Butternut Box visit: https://butternutbox.com/

The incredible Moss Animals sculptures were certainly an eye-catching feature of the London Vet Show that took place in November 2021, ensuring that the IVC Evidensia stands did not go unnoticed. But what happened to the Horse, Dog and Cat after the event? 

Originally created by Agrumi Topiary based in Lymington as a bespoke addition to the IVC Evidensia stand at LVS, they would have traditionally been scrapped after the event had taken place by some event organisers. However, the team had the bright idea of donating them to a local charity and were determined to cut down on waste and give these animals a second lease of life.

That meant they found a wonderful new home at CHSW (Children’s Hospice South West), where they have been displayed ever since to complement the beautiful gardens and additional facilities. These living sculptures fit perfectly with the surroundings and make a wonderful spectacle for the children and families alike who visit the gardens, especially now that the weather is getting brighter and they can be enjoyed in the warmer sunshine.

Amanda Gallagher, who works as a Corporate Partnerships Fundraiser at CHSW had this to say: “The Moss Animals are such a great addition to our gardens at Charlton Farm, we are surrounded by beautiful grounds and these are a real talking point for the families that stay with us for respite care. Thank you so much for thinking of us!”

The fact that the Moss Animals were put to good use not only benefitted CHSW but also contributed to IVC Evidensia’s Positive Pawprint initiative, ensuring that they could keep sustainability in mind throughout the events calendar. Ultimately, it meant less waste at the end of LVS and a happy hospice who would use the sculptures for the long term.

Sarah Heath, IVC Evidensia, Director of Sustainability and ESG added: “As part of our Positive Pawprint strategy, we are improving standards of sustainability. The events team work really hard to ensure we are as sustainable as possible at these large events, from reusing elements of our stands to using eco-friendly or compostable materials in our giveaways, all for the purpose of reducing our carbon footprint. We are delighted these sculptures were able to find a new home instead of being discarded.” 

If you would like to find out more about IVC Evidensia’s Positive Pawprint strategy, you can read more at https://ivcevidensia.com/how-we-work/sustainability/.

Vet charity PDSA has issued a warning for pet owners ahead of the sweltering heat wave.

According to PDSA Vet Nurse, Nina Downing, while dogs may appreciate some pleasant weather just as we do, we need to make sure we prepare for it. In warmer weather, dogs can be at risk of dangerous heatstroke, which is a serious situation as severe cases can develop quickly and have fatal consequences.

Signs of heatstroke vary from excessive panting, trouble breathing, stopping suddenly, confusion, bright red gums, foaming at the mouth, collapse or even seizures. Fortunately, there are plenty of things we can do to keep our pets cool and out of harm’s way as temperatures climb.

Nina has shared her top five tips for keeping dogs cool and safe:

1. Avoid the hottest time of day

“One of the biggest heatstroke triggers is exercise in hot weather. In fact, research from 20201shows that 74 per cent of heat-related illness in dogs seen by vets is caused by exercise in hot weather. It’s also important to be aware that flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs and Shih Tzus are at even higher risk of this, as they can’t cool down as effectively when they pant due to their shorter noses and less open airway. Though your dog might typically enjoy long walks and frolicking around the garden, it’s best to stay indoors for the hottest part of the day. This is generally around mid-afternoon, so if you’re planning on being outside, aim for the early mornings or evenings. Remember, even at these times the weather can feel uncomfortably close or humid during a hot spell. Bear this in mind when you do venture out, avoid strenuous exercise like running or games of fetch. Instead stick to gentle walking and allow your pup plenty of time to sniff, keeping their brain active as well as their legs.

2. Provide plenty of shade and water

“If you’re planning on heading out of the house, make sure to pack a supply of water to keep your dog hydrated throughout the day. Even if it’s just for a short while and it doesn’t seem that warm to you, it’s really important to take a drink for your pooch in case they get thirsty. Whether you’re embarking on a stroll along a coastal trail, country lane or inner-city street, seek areas of shade and rest more often than you would if you were walking without your pet – imagine how often you’d take a break if you were hiking in a fur coat! Prevention is better than cure of course, so keeping your dog cool in the first place is essential when the weather gets warm. Allowing your furry friend to paddle in a shallow pool or stream is a great way to help them keep cool – just make sure the water is safe and clean before they venture in.

3. Be wary of heat traps

“Whatever the weather, you should never leave your dog in enclosed, unventilated spaces – like cars, vans, tents, caravans or sheds. Even humans find it unbearable sitting in a conservatory for too long on a hot day. When you’re at home with your pooch, keep windows and doors open on the shaded side of the house where it’s safe to do so as this will allow plenty of fresh air to filter into the room. If you’re leaving your furry friend at home for a short time, ensure they’re in a cool, shaded room – draw the curtains, put a fan on a high shelf out of reach or leave them a pet-safe cool mat to make sure they don’t get too warm while you’re gone.

4. Cut back on the coat

“For dogs with thicker fur, hot weather can be especially uncomfortable. As warm weather approaches, consider having your pooch’s coat groomed and thinned out or clipped shorter to help prevent them from over-heating. Some breeds of dogs have a coat which isn’t suitable for clipping, so you should seek advice from your groomer.

5. Watch their weight

“Though this is more of a long-term issue, watching your furry family member’s weight is essential as dogs carrying extra pounds are more at risk of heatstroke – not to mention other weight-related illnesses. Keeping your pooch’s weight in check will not only help to prevent a number of additional health problems, but also stop them getting as hot in warm weather - meaning they can enjoy the heatwave safely. For more guidance on keeping your pet a healthy weight, check out pdsa.org.uk/weighup-pr

Jo Amit, co-founder HOWND, and her rescue dog Magi were interviewed on GB News at lunchtime yesterday (Wednesday) by TV presenter Liam Halligan.

Together with veterinary expert Professor Andrew Knight, Jo was quizzed about the growing business of vegan pet food and its health benefits.

You can view the full interview on the GB News YouTube channel by clicking here

Inspired Pet Nutrition, the company behind the popular Harringtons and Wagg pet food brands, is investing more than £6 million at its plant at Kinmel in North Wales. This investment will triple the site’s wet dog food tray capacity to more than a huge 75 million units a year.

The investment will follow a two-stage process, with the first stage coming later this year in the form of a second processing and filling line, boosting efficiency to great heights. 2021 saw this installation begin, with the investment being commissioned to be operational by January 2023.

The new line will be three times faster than the existing line – which already runs 24/7. It will be focused on the wet tray production for the popular brand Harringtons, whilst also seeing IPN move to create its own label products also.

Sales of the premium product, Harringtons wet tray range which features a hugely popular mix of human grade freshly prepared meat and vegetables. This has proven extremely popular, with sales seeing an increase of nearly 100%[1].

This increased product demand played an important role in the expansion of operations to ensure demand could be met. With the new investment, overall wet dog food capacity will be increasing by 75% compared to last year, with further increases over the next 18 months as the investment project is complete.

Dominic Whelan, Site Operations Manager at IPN Kinmel, commented: “The wet tray market in both the branded and own label sectors looks set for even further growth, and this significant investment will ensure we can meet demand.  Two years ago, IPN Kinmel produced about 4,000 tonnes of finished goods, this has now risen to an astonishing 10,500 tonnes.”

James Lawson, CEO at IPN, stated: “This is an exciting development for the business as we will significantly increase production at Kinmel - the UK’s only FreshCook and carbon negative wet food facility – and it will help us on our journey to become the UK’s most sustainable pet food manufacturer.  The investment will also play a key role in making Harringtons a £100 million Masterbrand across multiple categories and species.”

The new filling equipment will also enable IPN to offer pet parents a choice of wet tray formats, including fully recyclable aluminium trays, which will be a huge hit as pet owners become a lot more eco conscious.

Turnover at IPN Kinmel has risen dramatically from £11.5 million during the financial year ending June 2019 to more than £20 million in the last financial year ending in June 2021.  The site currently has a workforce of nearly 100 – up from 85 in 2019, with the new investment, these figures show no sign of slowing.

More than one third of UK families have a loyal canine companion. However, while dogs may make lives richer, the use of conventional plastic bags to dispose of their waste is having a significant impact on the environment. 

An innovative new start-up is tackling the issue head-on with the launch of a water-reactive, non-toxic, and microplastics-free alternative that can be fully dissolved in hot water in as little as 10 minutes.

It’s estimated that up to 1.23 million tonnes of dog waste bags are disposed of each year around the world. In the UK, there are approx. 12.5 million dogs, assuming 70% usage of waste bags 2-3 times per day, that's a potential of between 17.5 - 26.25 million used dog waste bags every day.

Edinburgh-based Project Harmless is hoping that, by making the switch, dog owners can play a big role in keeping harmful plastics out of rivers and oceans, and help create a healthier, happier landscape.

While conventional plastics are affordable and convenient, many take more than 500 years to break down, and never fully decompose. Ultimately, around 10% of all plastic waste ends up in water, posing significant risk to marine life. If human behaviour does not change, National Geographic estimates that, by 2040, the world’s seas will contain a whopping 29 million metric tonnes of plastic.

The ‘Harmless Poop Bag’ from Project Harmless is an innovative solution to conventional dog waste bags. 100 million marine animals die each year from general plastic waste, however, the ‘Harmless Poop Bag’ rapidly disintegrates in seas and oceans, so won’t ensnare marine life. If digested, the non-toxic and micro-plastic free material will safely pass through the systems of marine animals and won’t endanger the animal or human food chain.

George Greer, Managing Director for Project Harmless, said: “On a tour of the Highlands, my partner and I stopped in Loch Long to walk our dog, Noah, but were immediately shocked to see a significant amount of debris and plastic bags washed on shore. It appears, like many locations worldwide, this shore was a deposit point for the local tidal waves. It struck us just how much harmful plastic is in our waters and got us thinking of how we could make a difference.”

While the concept of eco-friendly dog waste bags certainly isn’t new, George discovered that many of the biodegradable bags on the market weren’t living up to their promises. In fact, during research George uncovered data showing that all ‘biodegradable’ bags studied by a Plymouth University test in 2019 were still functional, even after spending three years in water and soil.

George’s partner, who had become familiar with pill capsule technology while studying in Pennsylvania, suggested using a similar approach to develop a truly eco-friendly bag using the same non-toxic and water-reactive material. Which is how Project Harmless was born. Today, the Harmless Poop Bag is emerging as one of the only sustainable solutions for dog owners, rapidly disintegrating due to heightened sensitivity to the open environment.

Project Harmless is on a mission to launch even more solutions to today’s biggest and most urgent environmental challenges. Its new carrier bag, known as the ‘Harmless Bag’, offers a responsible alternative to single use carrier bags.

Although some supermarkets have committed to switching out plastic bags for paper alternatives, Government reports confirm that ‘paper in landfills does not degrade or break down at a substantially faster rate than plastic does… because of the lack of water, light, oxygen, and other important elements’.

Project Harmless believes that cutting down trees is not the solution. The Harmless Bag can easily be fully dissolved at home avoiding any recycling costs or landfill usage, providing an environmentally friendly solution for retailers and consumers.

By using fewer harmful plastics in day-to-day lives and reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and oceans, Project Harmless hopes to change the world for the better.

To find out more about Project Harmless, visit https://projectharmless.com