HOWND offers 10% retailer discount at PATS Telford
HOWND – manufacturers of ethical products for happy hounds - will be attending PATS Telford on Sunday and Monday after successfully launching at the beginning of 2015. During the show, the Hertfordshire-based company will be offering a 10% discount on all orders...
HOWND – manufacturers of ethical products for happy hounds - will be attending PATS Telford on Sunday and Monday after successfully launching at the beginning of 2015.
Since that time, HOWND’s products have received a series of ringing endorsements from some of the UK’s leading retailers and professional groomers. But it’s not only the brand’s products that have the industry howling - it’s the company’s whole ethos around the wellbeing of animals. HOWND is one of very few global pet product brands to be certified by Cruelty Free International’s Leaping Bunny initiative. Founders Mark Hirschel and Jo Amit also organise the UK’s annual Bring Your Dog to Work Day, which has given the company national recognition as a brand that promotes the wellbeing of dogs. The event has subsequently been nominated for ‘Marketing Campaign of the Year’ at this year’s PetQuip Awards. During the show, the Hertfordshire-based company will be offering a 10% discount on all orders and will be showcasing its range of Cruelty-free’ certified dog grooming products, which include: HOWND Conditioning Shampoos (250ml), HOWND Body Mists (250ml), HOWND Professional Conditioning Shampoos (5L) - and their newest product - HOWND Yup You Stink! Emergency Dog Wipes. Made with no alcohol or parabens - HOWND Yup You Stink! Emergency Dog Wipes will take centre stage at PATS Telford - and compete for ‘Pet Product Innovation of the Year’ at the PetQuip Awards. Each pack contains five jumbo size (30cm x 20cm) PH-balanced wipes. The result is a durable wipe, that effectively cleans off fox poo, cow dung, mud, urine, slobber and anything else that’s grimey or smelly. HOWND Yup You Stink! Emergency Dog Wipes are available to the trade in 10 pack cases with trade prices starting at £16. The RRP per pack of wipes is £2.95. HOWND’s 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. For further information about HOWND’s new range of products, visit www.dogslovehownd.com or call a member of the team on +44 (0)20 3004 5255.
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Excitement builds as PATS Telford gets set to launch on Sunday
Record numbers of exhibitors…the biggest ever showcase of new products…scores of show offers and competitions. It all adds up to PATS Telford – the most exciting event in the pet industry for years. Final preparations are being made as the eagerly awaited exhibition gets set to open its doors at Telford International Centre at 9am on Sunday, September 27...
Record numbers of exhibitors…the biggest ever showcase of new products…scores of show offers and competitions. It all adds up to PATS Telford – the most exciting event in the pet industry for years.Final preparations are being made as the eagerly awaited exhibition gets set to open its doors at Telford International Centre at 9am on Sunday, September 27. The excitement has been building for months with more than 200 exhibitors planning their new launches around PATS Telford. Now the wait is almost over for both exhibitors and visitors…and the two-day show can soon begin. “There is a tremendous buzz surrounding the show,” says organiser Annie Foord. “So much is happening at PATS Telford over both days of the exhibition, it really is a must-visit event for retailers and buyers. You won’t be disappointed. “All the latest new product launches will be unveiled as well as great talks from some of the industry’s most respected names and demonstrations from the country’s top groomers. “I can promise it will be great day out so make sure you still travel to Telford and attend the biggest pet trade show for years.” With so many exciting plans it could easily be a record-breaking year for attendance numbers as well. On arrival at Telford International Centre, a large majority of visitors will head for the New Product Showcase, which will have a huge presence at the exhibition with more than 300 items being presented. All entries in the Showcase will be judged by a panel of retailer judges for the New Product Awards on the first morning of the show, and the results will be known and highlighted throughout the exhibition hall for the rest of the event. As well as seeing an unrivalled array of new pet products and speaking to top suppliers and manufacturers, visitors will also be able to witness demonstrations from the country’s leading dog groomers and listen to talks from prominent industry figures. Other PATS features aimed at making it a great day out include free entry, free catalogue, free tea and coffee, and free parking. Visitors still have time to register online at the PATS website www.patshow.co.uk. A full and up-to-date list of exhibitors is available on the website together with information on how to reach both venues and regularly updated show news. Opening times - Sunday, 27th September, 2015: 9.00am-5.00pm
- Monday, 28th September, 2015: 9.00am-4.00pm
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The prestigious PetQuip Awards will be revealed at a special 'sold out' party on the evening of the first day of PATS Telford on Sunday.
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 awards will be presented at a special party in the Ludlow Suite at Telford International Centre on Sunday evening, and the fact that all tickets have been sold shows how the event has grown in popularity." 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 Pat Flynn can be contacted on 07778 313623 or by email pat@petquip.com.
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The world’s dog owners are becoming radically more responsible about cleaning up after their pets – led by the example of the UK, according to a new survey published this week.
Britain’s top environmentally friendly pet product manufacturer, the award-winning south London firm Beco Pets, reports that worldwide sales of their degradable poop bags have soared by 800% in the last 12 months. In the UK alone, the rise in sales in the last year was an even more spectacular 1,400 per cent.
Britain, followed closely by Spain and America, are the countries where dog owners are becoming increasingly responsible about clearing up their pets’ mess as attitudes change.
This spring, in a separate international survey carried out by the company, French dog owners were revealed as being the worst offenders when it comes to cleaning up after their pooches, with pet owners preferring to leave the dirty work to others.
Beco Pets, formed In 2009 by two young British entrepreneurs George Bramble and Toby Massey, is set to take centre-stage this weekend as a key exhibitor at PATS Telford.
Co-Founder and sales director George Bramble said: "It is now widely regarded as something of a social taboo and to be deeply antisocial to leave dog mess around public places. And with this in mind we have launched ‘Project Poop Bag’." (Campaign motto: ‘We love Poop’).
"We now sell our poop bags across Britain and increasingly successfully to 23 countries around the world, which suggests a change in attitudes is underway with most dog owners being more responsible when cleaning up after their pet."
Beco Pets pride themselves on their poop bags that have become one of their most successful exports. The bear-sized poop bags are bigger and stronger than other bags on the market and, better still, they are also more eco-friendly, as they fully degrade within one year when thrown away. All Beco Pets’ products are packaged in recycled cardboard and paper, and their poop bags are even eco to the core – they have a recycled cardboard inner core to roll the bags round, unlike competitor products that use plastic.
The company’s bags have become the bag of choice for discerning UK pet owners and are now stocked in more than 600 independent retailers as well as nationwide by the UK’s largest pet supplies retailer, the High Street chain Pets at Home.
Beco Pets has just been shortlisted as a "UK National Champion" in the prestigious European Business Awards to be held in June 2016. Co-Founder and design director Toby Massey added: "All our products are made from recycled, biodegradable materials and we encourage all dog owners to act responsibly when clearing up after their dogs.
"To encourage British dog owners, starting at Crufts this spring, we’ve been giving away at UK trade shows nearly 1 million free poop bags, and we'll be handing them out free again at Telford this weekend."
Among overseas delegates attending this weekend’s PATS trade show will be Beco Pets’ international guests, including distributors and retailers from countries such as Finland, The Netherlands, Belgium, Norway, the Czech Republic and Italy. All will be encouraged to spread the word on poop bags.
The Spanish city of Tarragona is considering using DNA analysis technology to name and shame dog owners who fail to clear up dog mess. And the London borough of Barking and Dagenham was the first UK council to introduce dog poop DNA analysis this spring.
T H E S T A T I S T I C S
The Beco Pets Pets survey reveals:
- figures for 2014/2015 worldwide show 12.2 million poop bags sold in 23 countries including the UK
- this is compares to 1.2 million across 17 countries in the same period for 2013/2014
- that represents a sales leap of 800% worldwide
- in the UK alone, poop bag sales grew from 440,000 in 2013/2014 to 6.6 million in 2014/2015
- that meant a UK sales boom of 1,400%
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TV Vet School star launches the KrillBar at PATS
Trude Mostue, star of the BBC hit programmes Vet School and Vets in Practice, will be at PATS Telford non Sunday and Monday with her new company Dr Krill Ltd. Here she speaks exclusively to Pet Trade Xtra about her latest venture...
Trude Mostue, star of the BBC hit programmes Vet School and Vets in Practice, will be at PATS Telford non Sunday and Monday with her new company Dr Krill Ltd. Here she speaks exclusively to Pet Trade Xtra about her latest venture.
 How long have you been working on your new product?
I have been working on the KrillBar for the last two years but I have treated most of my dog patients with skin complaints and joint complaints with Krill Omega 3 for 10 years. The effects have been incredible. There are so many allergic dogs with skin problems - they have all done remarkable well on Krill. This is what triggered my idea of producing the KrillBar - which is very different from any other product on the market, being a highly efficient Omega 3 supplement and treat - in the form of a 'chocolate' bar.. Is it a dog treat or can it be given as pet food? The KrillBar is a treat and a supplement. It can be given with the dog's food or on its own. It can be used as a treatment and as a preventative supplement. Most of my customers use it as a treat - but some of them also like to give it on the top of the food to give the dog food a nice smell. Dogs love the smell of krill. What are its health benefits? The KrillBar is made of Krill Omega 3 and an antioxidant - it is a highly efficient source of Omega 3 in comparison to Omega 3 from fish or seal oil. The Krill Omega 3 is absorbed faster and contains antioxidants too. This means its more efficient in smaller volumes and doses (no mess with oils). The health benefits are many - all dogs of all ages and breeds can benefit from Krill Omega 3. It helps improve brain development (excellent for growing puppies). It has anti inflammatory effect on joints and inflammatory processes elsewhere in the body. I have used high doses to treat cronic itchy dogs.The effect on skin is amazing, making the skin and coat shiny and healthy. Omega 3 stimulates the immune system too, lymaking dogs more resilient to infections and disease. This effect is particular obvious to dogs with chronic skin disease due to demodex (poor immune system).  What does it contain?
The KrilllBar contains high levels of Krill Omega 3 and anthaxin (antioxidant). I use the same krill source in the KrillBar as Boots use in their Omega Red, only the best for our dogs. Is it on sale in other European countries or it is being launched now? I decided to launch it in the UK first of all - but I am aiming to launch in the USA and Asia too. I am actually selling the KrillBar through Pets At Home and Barkers already (It's on a trial in Pets At Home). But I haven´t officially launched the KrillBar yet - as I have waited for PATS Telford. Why did you pick PATS Telford for its UK launch? In my opinion it is the best place to launch a pet product in the UK - it gives you good and professional exposure . Will you be supplying British retailers direct or go through a distributor/wholesaler? I will be doing both but also through vets' surgeries. Is the first of many products which you hope to launch under the Dr Krill banner? Yes, I am so impressed about the effect of Krill on dogs health so I am planning more products to be launched next year.
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 A little bird may have told you, something big is about to happen to Bucktons...get set for the ‘big reveal’ of the year at PATS Telford. Bucktons is set to ruffle the feathers of the competition and engage with Britain’s pet loving population with new ranges, new packaging and a dynamic new brand positioning. Head for Stand G8 to make sure you don’t miss out on free product giveaways, expert profit-boosting bird care lectures and ‘show only’ retailer offers. Rachael Dickinson, Senior Marketing Manager for Bucktons, said: “We’re looking forward to revealing some of the biggest changes to the Bucktons brand for over 10 years. “We’re be extending the brand to reach new customers, while keeping its traditional roots, thanks to our extensive shopper research. We also have the latest scientific innovation, the latest branding and the latest product offerings to make sure your business thrives in 2016. “We’re really excited about the results and we’re sure your customers will love them too. You really have to come and see for yourself!” Bucktons will be at stand G8. For further information, contact Richard Greenwood, Pet Sales Manager on 07976 490341 or email rgreenwood@westlandhorticulture.com
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Irish and Welsh rugby stars may have their minds of the World Cup at the moment but they still find time to keep their dogs cool…with a little help from FrozzysNoel Conlon of Frozzys explains: “I'm friends with a lot of the Irish squad...and the majority are dog bonkers. “Chris Henry, the Ulster captain and Irish squad player, gave out Frozzys samples in a gift exchange programme in the dressing room. The players couldn't believe their eyes but they all came back with ringing endorsements...both from their wives and their dogs! “Sam Warburton, the Welsh Captain, is another big fan and he endorses Frozzys with his dog Ledley.”
Frozzys will be exhibiting at PATS Telford on stand H63. Pictured above: Sam Warburton, the Welsh captain, and Ledley. Below: Froozys touchdown with Juno and Tommy Bowe, the British Lion and Ireland winger.
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Animology creators introduce new 'entry level' brand
With a global reputation for developing innovative pet products that offer strong branding, exceptional shelf appeal and superior performance at an affordable price point, the creators of Animology, Group55, introduce their new ‘entry level’ brand, DogStar...
With a global reputation for developing innovative pet products that offer strong branding, exceptional shelf appeal and superior performance at an affordable price point, the creators of Animology, Group55, introduce their new ‘entry level’ brand, DogStar.
Launching an initial range of five quick rinse, low foam, PH Balanced shampoos, the only thing entry level about DogStar is the price.
Retailing at just £2.99 for a 300ml bottle and with five fragrances including Bubblegum, Zingy Lime, Pink Grapefruit, Raspberry & Vanilla, and Honey & Shea Butter, these products will be unveiled to visitors at PATS in Telford, making a trip to the Group55 stand (A6) a must! Find out more at www.dogstarpet.com, call 01772 786864 or email enquiries@group55.co.uk
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Burns Pet Nutrition has announced announce its new Charity of the Year scheme which will provide financial and professional work to an inspirational organisation close to the company’s heart.The official launch was attended by local dignitary the Mayor of Kidwelly, Cllr Jeanette Gilasbey and included a trophy presentation by Burns founder John Burns to Support Dogs, the chosen charity for 2015/2016. This inspirational national charity provides, trains and supports specialist assistance dogs to help improve independence and quality of life for people with various medical conditions. Rita Howson, Chief Executive of Support Dogs, said “To be chosen as Burns Pet Nutrition’s charity of the year is a huge honour. The welfare and care of our dogs in training is absolutely vital to our charity and this includes ensuring they have access to the best quality food and nutrition. “Our charity is reliant on voluntary donations, so the support to us offered by Burns Pet Nutrition will ensure we can continue to increase the independence and quality of life for those affected by autism, epilepsy and disability.” Burns Pet Nutrition will be providing their award-winning pet food for all support dogs in training, as well as helping the existing support dogs, alongside financial assistance, joint fundraising and promotional activity. John Burns, Founder and Managing Director of Kidwelly-based Burns Pet Nutrition, said: “We provide support to a large number of organisations and charities. Our Charity of the Year initiative focuses that support in order to make a significant impact on the work of a selected charity whose aims are dear to us. Support Dogs do a remarkable job in aiding disadvantaged people and our assistance will extend their training programme.” Applications for the 2016/2017 partnership are now being accepted from UK-based charities registered with the Charity Commission. The charity must focus on the welfare of pets, support or train assistance or companion pets or educate the public about pets. For more information and to apply, visit www.burnspet.co.uk/charityoftheyear
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Two innovative new products from the USA – the AKC Calming Coat and the Twigo Pet ID Tag – are set to send visitors flocking to the AmPet Products stand (A43) at PATS Telford later this month.
AmPet, who recently secured the UK distribution rights of both products, is showcasing them at Britain’s leading pet trade show being held at Telford International Centre on September 27-28. The AKC Calming Coat, endorsed by the American Kennel Club along with New York vet Jeff Lavine and UK Tellington TTouch practitioner Alex Wilson, is an easy and cost effective solution for helping dogs and puppies suffering from anxiety. The Calming Coat uses a hugging technique to relax the dog and works by applying constant, gentle pressure to the animal's torso. Similar to swaddling a newborn baby, gently wrapping a dog in a Calming Coat has a peaceful effect that is beneficial for both the owner and pet. Demand for the Calming Coat will be high in the coming months, especially with the firework season fast approaching. AmPet will also showcase the Twigo Pet ID Tag, a unique tag that is simple, affordable, and instantly personalisable. All that is needed is a ballpoint pen to simply write, boil in water, and then slip onto our pet’s collar. Twigo is a great option for pet families planning to travel for the holidays since owners can easily create a new tag with updated lodging and contact information in a blink of an eye. More information about the Twigo Tags, including a video, can be found at www.ampetproducts.com/our-range/twigo-pet-id-tag/ “We’re really excited by the prospect of exhibiting at PATS Telford,” said Alex Wilson, AmPet’s Sales and Marketing Director. “To secure the UK distribution rights for both the AKC Calming Coat and the Twigo Tags was a coup for AmPet. They are innovative products ideally suited to the British market. Pet owners here will love them.” Also on the AmPet stand will be DOOG outdoor pet products, including dog-walking and running belts, collars and leads, and treat pouches from Australia. If you’re interested in stocking products from AmPet contact Alex Wilson or Matt Wildman on 0330 088 1673, email alexw@ampet.dog or view the range at www.ampet.dog
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The Company of Animals is launching Foobler, the world's first electronic timed treat feeder for dogs. It can be used as a stimulating treat puzzle or interactive feeder to improve a dog’s activity and health.
The Foobler can be set to dispense one of its six treat compartments at 15, 30, 60 or 90 minute intervals. A bell chime alerts the dog when a treat pod is ready and it’s time to play. The six compartments can be filled with treats or dry food and provide enough capacity for meal feeding so it is also great as a slow feeder to provide a dog its daily meals. Leading animal psychologist and The Company of Animals CEO, Dr Roger Mugford said: “I am delighted to add Foobler to the company’s range of problem solving products.
"Foobler is an innovative and fun product which provides a great way to help your pet stay mentally fit and physically healthy by spreading treats/meals throughout the day.” With quality design Foobler is robust enough even for active dogs while being simple and easy to use. Foobler comes in two sizes small and large, retailing at £22.99 and £24.99 respectively. See Foobler at PATS Telford Stand C36. Available from wholesale suppliers October 2015. For more information go to http://companyofanimals.co.uk/brands/foobler
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Claiming to be the UK's fastest-growing pet retailer, The Pet Hut has celebrated a milestone with the opening of its 100th store...
The discount chain, which is owned by Poundstretcher, has also partnered with veterinary charity PDSA in order to give customers access to its animal expertise.
The move will see PDSA's free PetCheck programme introduced at a number of its stores, with veterinary nurses giving free wellbeing checks to dogs from vans and offering care advice for other pets.
The Pet Hut also plans to provide information points in all its stores to offer help and advice to shoppers on how to look after their animals.
To mark the alliance, the retailer is pledging to raise over £50,000 for the charity over the coming year, with a fundraising drive in all outlets.
The Pet Hut's 100th store opened in Chesterfield on Friday in a programme that has seen the business expand by 25 stores in the last nine months.
The Pet Hut and Poundstretcher managing director Ian York said: "This is an exciting partnership for both us at The Pet Hut and for PDSA as, as we grow our business, the more opportunities there will be to raise money for their excellent cause.
"Our stores are opening across the UK every single month, with our 100th store a real flagship moment for us.
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The Pet Industry Federation will be running a competition on its stand at PATS Telford (A32) for two retailers to win tickets and accommodation to the Pet Industry Forum & Awards, which this year takes place from 16-17 November at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Liverpool, thanks to the generosity of Bern Pet Foods.
Staff will also be on hand to talk to visitors about PIF’s comprehensive range of benefits, many of which are particularly relevant to pet retailers, including online courses on pet store management and range of different taxa, as well as general business benefits. PIF has announced the Awards finalists: Pet Retail Chain of the Year - sponsored by Natures Menu Independent Retailer of the Year – sponsored by Intelligent Retail - Betty & Butch, Manchester
- Ingleby Pet Supplies, Teeside
- Nurture them Naturally, Hampshire
- Paw Abella, Liverpool
- Unique Pets, Winslow, Bucks
Manufacturer of the Year - sponsored by PATS - Burns Pet Nutrition
- Forthglade
- Nutriment
- Marriages
- Pet Remedy
- Sea Treats
- WildWash
Wholesaler of the Year – sponsored by PATS - Essex Breeding Centre
- Liberta
- Pedigree Wholesale
- Peregrine Livefoods
- Mutneys Professional Pet Care Ltd
Exporter of the Year - Natures Menu
- Pet Brands
- Pet Food UK
- Scruffs
- WildWash
Grooming Business of the Year – sponsored by FURminator - Evesham Dog Grooming Academy, Evesham, Worcestershire
- KD Grooming Studio, Wincanton, Somerset
- Oakwood Dog Grooming, Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire
- Ulti-Mutt, Calne, Wiltshire
- Vita Canis, Uttoxeter, Staffordshire
- Woof & Ready, Glossop, Derbyshire
Kennel or Cattery of the Year - Country Kennel & Cattery, Hertfordshire
- Elmtree Canine Country Club, Middlesex
- Lakeside Cattery & Small Animal Hotel, Cheshire
- Lea Wood Cattery, Lincolnshire
- Lower Mills Boarding Kennel & Cattery, Shropshire
- Royvon, Esher
Pet Service Business of the Year - Bona-Fido Professional Dog Walking & Pet Care Services, Warwickshire
- Buster Dog Services, Brentwood, Essex
- Claire’s Comfy Canines, Bucks
- Heathers Pet Services, Bath
- Jakki Gunn – Barking Mad, North Glasgow
- Suffolk Canine Creche
Sales Representative of the Year - Aimee Cinderby – Symply Canagan
- David Showell – Hagen
- Howard Russell – Johnsons
- Julian Milburn – Spectrum Brands Ltd
- Nigel Hibberd - Armitages
- Roy Farrell – Interpet
The Awards winners will be announced on Tuesday 17 November at a 60s themed Awards dinner to be held at the Crowne Plaza City Centre Hotel, Liverpool and will be presented by screen and stage legend, Brian Blessed. Additionally, guests will also discover the recipient of the 2015 Lifetime Achievement Award. Tickets tothe event, which include pre-dinner networking, wine, three-course dinner, live band and the awards spectacle are available from £96.00 per ticket – or book a table of 10 for a discount. Call the PIF team on 01234 273933 or visit www.petfederation.co.uk. Limited discounted accommodation is also available at the Crowne Plaza.
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The Pet Industry Federation (PIF) has announced the launch of the first robust sales tracking insights for the UK’s pet food industry (non-grocery), as a result of its exciting collaboration with market research specialists, GfK. With the assistance of PIF, GfK has brought together multi-regional, independent and online pet retailers to give clear insights into the market.
Since January 2015, retailers have been contributing their monthly sales data which enables GfK to provide accurate and continuous sales tracking across cat and dog food, including wet and dry food and treats and detail down to among other features organic, grain-free and natural. Commenting on GfK’s sales tracking insights, Nigel Baker, PIF CEO said: ‘"The data that GfK have accumulated is the first time the UK’s non grocery food sector has been analysed in such detail and in such a robust way.
"While GfK will be controlling the release of the detailed category information, we have arranged for top line information on the size and structure of the market by each of the core categories to be made available exclusively to PIF supplier and retail members during the course of next week."  Nigel (left) continued: “We are delighted, however, that GfK will be detailing nine months’ worth of UK pet food data at the PIF Forum, on Tuesday 17 November in Liverpool together with comparisons of the UK and some overseas markets, including some initial look at brand performance in the sector.
"The need for accurate and meaningful data cannot be underestimated, so this is a session that the industry simply can’t afford to miss.The information delegates will learn at the Forum will enable them to make better informed and insight driven decisions, to drive their business forward, whether they are retailers or manufacturers.”
Daniel Fearnley, GfK’s Head of Home and Lifestyle, comments: “We thank every member of the PIF who has joined our panel of data contributors to date and urge others however small or large to engage with us so that we continue to strengthen the panel, strengthen the data and add value to this industry." If you would like any further information about PIF’s work with Gfk, or about how to become a PIF member so that you can access the data, visit the PIF stand (A32) at PATS Telford to find out more. Alternatively, call 01234 273933 or visit the PIF website, www.petfederation.co.uk
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Burns Pet Nutrition has opened a new shop called Burns@Pets Corner in Narberth, Pembrokeshire.The premises were previously the Animal Kitchen pet shop and book store. The new shop is managed by Richard Mattey, who runs the Carmarthen branch of Burns in the town’s market, and has created two jobs for sales assistants, both of who will benefit from the Living Wage, offered by Burns Pet Nutrition. Pembrokeshire County Council Chairman Wynne Evans of Narberth declared the store open and the occasion welcomed a number of four-legged friends, including seven Italian Spinones with owner Babs Davies of Llandissilio. John Burns said: “I’m really excited about our new pet shop in Narberth - my old stomping ground as a vet in this area in the 70s. “Narberth is such a lovely and vibrant town and it will be a privilege to be part of that.”
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Pooch & Mutt now has over 50,000 followers on Facebook. The naturally powered pet health company also has a strong following on Instagram and Twitter as well.
Pooch & Mutt are also the first UK dog food company to combine functional ingredients with premium ingredients in their full product range. With over 50,000 followers on Facebook, Pooch & Mutt post regular updates regarding independent stockists, charity events and dog friendly businesses they support. The company ethos is to help all dogs lead happy, healthy lives in the UK and beyond. Guy Blaskey, founder of the company, is a well-known and respected figure in the pet industry as he has a strong background in nutrition, health and marketing. With a keen interest in social media, Blaskey has given many talks about the importance of social media activity for independent retailers. If you are a current stockist of Pooch & Mutt products, please email Samantha@poochandmutt.com to added to the online Stockist Finder and featured on social media platforms.
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Ancol has been approached by Tracca UK, manufacturers of a new GPS dog tracking device, to supply them with collars to accompany the product.The leather and nylon collars have been designed so that the Tracca device easily and securely attaches to them, allowing owners to locate their dog at all times. Toby Mills, Managing Director of Tracca UK, commented: “Following feedback, we wanted to offer customers a dog collar which was designed for the Tracca to easily and securely fit onto. We decided to approach Ancol for this project because they are so well established and have an excellent reputation for manufacturing high quality collars and leads in the UK. “Thanks to Ancol, we can now offer the Tracca with either a leather or nylon collar. Get in touch with us to find out more about how you can stock this exciting new product.” Sarah Lane, Sales Director at Ancol, added: “We were delighted to have been chosen to work with Tracca UK to manufacture dog collars and look forward to continuing to work with them in the future.” Launched earlier this year, the Tracca device is the first of its kind in the UK and has already helped reunite several owners with their dogs. By simply attaching the device to a dog’s collar, owners can track the location of their dog through the Tracca app on their mobile phone. The Tracca device and collars are now available to sell in your store. For more information visit www.traccauk.com or email sales@traccauk.com
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A hamster has been saved by vet charity PDSA following a freak accident in which a piece of wire wrapped around her foot, cutting off the blood supply.
Tiny Beth had to undergo surgery at PDSA’s Sunderland Pet Hospital to amputate her foot and part of her leg after her owners discovered an inch-long piece of wire caught around it.
Victoria Wilkinson, 38, from Washington, said she had noticed Beth had become withdrawn and off her food but wasn’t showing any other problem signs.
She said: “Beth wasn’t coming out for her food so we picked her up and, to our horror, we found this piece of wire which seemed to have gone around her foot and up her leg.
“I tried to have a closer look and Beth started to squeal so we took her straight to PDSA.”
PDSA Senior Vet, Lianne O’ Brien, from Sunderland Pet Hospital, said after inspecting the injury the decision was taken to amputate Beth’s foot and part of her leg.
She said: “It’s not something we take lightly as it’s high risk to put a small animal like a hamster under anaesthetic, but we realised we had no choice but to amputate.
“We warned Beth’s owners that it would be a risky operation but thankfully everything went well and Beth has gone on to make a full recovery.”
Victoria said herself and her daughter Codie, 13, were extremely grateful to PDSA for the treatment Beth received:
“We were so worried about Beth. It was Codie’s birthday on the same day and she actually postponed her party until the evening as she wanted to make sure her hamster was ok first.
“Codie and Beth have a really close bond and are always together. Codie donated all her pocket money and even asked for an advance to make a contribution to PDSA for the cost of the operation.
“Beth is doing great now and she can do all the things she used to before the accident and still loves going in her wheel, even with just three legs.”
Victoria said they are still stumped as to how the metal ended up in Beth’s cage:
“We’ve got other hamsters and some rabbits, so we often buy hay bales for bedding. The wire must have been inside there, that’s the only explanation we have for it.”
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A cherished crossbreed from Cardiff is the latest entrant to PDSA’s Pet Survivor competition after contracting deadly tetanus, following a seemingly trivial injury.
Five-year-old Leia was first brought in to PDSA’s Pet Hospital in Trident Park after she split her nail during a walk but in the days that followed, her health rapidly deteriorated.
Owner Natalia Dias (37) from Cathays, explains: “A couple of days after Leia split her nail, her face started to swell up. At first we thought it was an allergic reaction as Leia has suffered with skin conditions in the past but within 24 hours, her condition had taken a turn for the worse – she had a seizure and couldn’t stand or walk. I rushed her straight back to PDSA where vets admitted her for tests.”
Leia was examined and vets found that her head was swollen, her limbs were rigid and her eyes were wide: sinister symptoms of the potentially fatal yet very rare disease, tetanus.
Karen Jones, Vet Nurse Team Leader at PDSA’s Pet Hospital in Cardiff, said: “The tetanus chlostridium bacteria lives in the environment and can get into the systems of both pets and humans through open wounds. Leia’s nail injury provided the perfect chance for the bacteria to enter her bloodstream. By the time the symptoms had manifested themselves, Leia was dangerously ill.
“Emergency treatment started - and Leia was put on IV fluids and antibiotics. But by the following morning, her condition had worsened significantly. It was a race against time to get our hands on a Tetanus anti toxin, which, owing to the rarity of the condition, we didn’t stock in our dispensary but we were lucky – a local private vet had one in stock.”
Vets gave Leia a very bleak prognosis as the anti toxin can cause serious side effects. But without the treatment, Leia’s life would have been tragically cut short.
Natalia continues: “I was still in shock. One minute, she had a sore paw and the next, she was desperately ill and I was facing the possibility of having to put her to sleep. It was terrifying and so upsetting but I wanted to give Leia every chance to survive, although it was so scary to think that the medicine the vets would give to try and save her could make her worse, or even kill her.”
Once the anti toxin was administered, Leia was monitored around the clock by PDSA vets and kept on the IV fluids and antibiotics to help her fight the bacteria. Leia was also given medicine to help relax her muscles.
As well as the drugs to control Leia’s symptoms and ease her pain, the condition also requires intensive nursing in a very specific manner. Vet Nurse Karen explains: “Tetenus patients need to be in a dark, stimulus-free environment to keep their body and brain relaxed so we created a special kennel with the conditions that would best aid her recovery.”
After 8 days, Leia was finally allowed to return home where she continued her recovery, under the watchful eye of Natalia. She concludes: “Leia is my baby – she is such a beautiful soul and we went through hell during that week. I visited her every day in hospital and helped turn her and hand feed her when she needed intensive nursing. I will be eternally grateful to PDSA for all they did for Leia and in my mind, she is a true Pet Survivor!
Pet owners wishing to nominate their pet can enter online at www.pdsa.org.uk/petsurvivor. The PDSA Pet Survivor Awards are open to any owner whose pet has been treated in the UK by a vet between 1 August 2014 and 1 August 2015. Entries need to be received by midnight on Sunday 4 October 2015.
A panel of judges will then shortlist a small group of miracle pets to take part in a public vote, with the winner announced at the end of the year. The winner will be declared PDSA Pet Survivor 2015 and will win a year’s PDSA pet insurance.
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Sussex-based charity Canine Partners is to receive all proceeds from the sale of single-use plastic carrier bags sold at Pets Corner when the new 5p charge law comes into effect on 5th October.
As part of the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs’ strategy to tackle waste and recycling, large retailers employing 250 or more full-time employees will need to charge their customers a minimum of 5p for most single-use plastic carrier bags from October 2015. Dean Richmond, Managing Director at Pets Corner, said: “We are fully behind minimising unnecessary wastage and are already committed to recycling 99% of our waste.
"We believe businesses have a responsibility to the community, which is why we support the wonderful people and genius dogs at Canine Partners.
"In addition to donating all the proceeds to the charity, we will no longer be providing small plastic bags to customers so that we can encourage them to minimise unnecessary usage.” Canine Partners was founded in 1990 and provides Assistance Dogs that are trained to help wheelchair users with a range of practical tasks. Cat Harvey, Trust and Corporate Manager at Canine Partners, added: “We are extremely grateful to Pets Corner for their incredibly generous support.
"Donating 5p per carrier bag to Canine Partners is a fantastic way of raising funds and awareness for the Charity. We look forward to continuing our successful charity partnership.” For more information about Pets Corner and Canine Partners, please visit www.petscorner.co.uk/charity#canine-partners
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 Collarways is launching the Stay Over Rover bag to the trade at PATS Telford.
This innovative new product is the ideal way of organising the multitude of accessories that dog owners now have in one handy receptacle.
The 360 degree swivel hook at the top means that the bag can be hung open in a multitude of places – the car, in hotels and bathrooms, on the outside of a crate and most importantly out of the reach of the dog.
Multiple zipped compartments ensure that items such as treats, medication and liquids can be secured away from each other and there’s even a special opening for easy poo bag dispensing.
Even when the bag is full it will still close for easy carrying and storage and it also comes with a shoulder strap for effortless transportation. The holdall has been specifically designed for dog owners by a dog owner. “As a part of my job I have to travel often and either take my dog with me or leave him with friends. I found that I was constantly rooting around in the bag I used before to check I had a spare lead, enough poo bags, the treats he likes etc. Everything was totally unorganised,” says Collarways director Katie Goldsmith.
“Using the Stay Over Rover makes it all so much easier as I can clearly see what needs topping up and if anything is missing. It also takes away some of the guilt feeling that maybe I forgot his favourite toy or treats, when I leave him with other people.” Ideal for so many situations other than just travelling with your dog the Stay Over Rover is a great way of keeping everything in one place at home and in the car too. Another quality product from Collarways, which is also manufactured in the UK. For more information visit www.collarways.com or call 0845 4568395.
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Freeze Dried Norwegian White Fish and Mackerel Morsels Conditioning Treats will be officially unveiled at PATS Telford. Fish4Dogs were the first to bring to market treats made from fish with their multiple award winning Original Sea Jerky – dried fish skins. “Fish is ideal for dog treats, low calorie and very healthy but combined with a taste dogs adore," says CEO Graham Smith. "This range extension will ensure the Fish4Dogs brand remains innovative and exciting. Discerning dog owners are looking to provide their pets with an increasing variety of treats but also treats that have defined health benefits and are not simply an indulgence." The Fish4Dogs Freeze Dried Treats are made from Norwegian Pollock – this species being chosen as giving the most palatable treat and are available in 25g stand up pouches with a new design to reflect the Norwegian provenance. Freeze dried to preserve taste and goodness. Nothing more nothing less. Fish4Dogs Mackerel Morsels are small fish shaped functional treats made from Salmon and Mackerel. With added Krill – a superior form of Omega 3 with high levels of bio availability. Available in 2 varieties- coat skin and joint with added green lipped mussels, spirulina and algae and Digestive aid with added Yucca and prebiotics. "At Fish4Dogs we make a range of tasty, natural and healthy fish-based premium dog foods and dog treats," adds Graham. "Fish4Dogs is made from fish - gluten free, hypo-allergenic and packed with naturally occurring Omega 3. We believe that fish is a healthy and nutritious food, good for the health of your dog, which is why at Fish4Dogs we only make products from fish." A palatable, fish-rich diet can help with coat condition, skin condition, joint mobility, digestion, energy and brain and eye development. For further information visit www.fish4dogs.com or contact Rebecca Hatch by email rebecca@fish4dogs.com
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