Pet food and product retailer Kennelgate has unveiled its new concept store called Pets & Friends in Mansfield in Nottinghamshire. Similar stores are set to open across the UK in the near future.

Pets & Friend, which opened its doors a week ago, will have a grand opening on Saturday.

The newly fitted, freshly branded store offers a exciting customer experience for pet owners to spoil their furry family members.

The store, which boasts new zones and products, also hosts the perfect place to pamper pets. The new ‘Pooch & Pamper’ instore professional grooming service offers pet-friendly treatments to keep Fido looking and feeling his best.

Speaking about the launch, Hannah Legg, Marketing Director at Kennelgate, said: “We’re passionate about pets and love to share our expertise.  

“The launch of our new Pets & Friends concept signifies a huge step forward for the business.  Our aim is to help customers and their pets live a healthier and happier life, and we certainly deliver against this through our new store experience. 

“We look forward to introducing more Pets & Friends stores to the UK market.”

Kennelgate is the retail arm of Kennelpak, a wholesale supplier of own brand and third party branded pet food and associated pet products.  Kennelpak was sold by its family owners to Enact in July 2017.

Five generations of expertise in animal nutrition and 100% Irish ingredients are at the heart of Go Native – a new complete range of grain-free dog food, treats and dental sticks from Connolly’s Red Mills.

The Connolly family has been making animal feeds in Co Kilkenny, Ireland since 1908 and has used that know-how and commitment to quality to create this ultra-premium, grain-free range.

Go Native has been developed by nutritionists and vets at Connolly’s Red Mills’ purpose-built facility and crafted in their kitchens. Go Native is a complete diet for all dogs, whatever their size, breed or age.

 When only the best is good enough – sourcing the finest Irish ingredients

Connolly’s Red Mills are very particular about using trusted suppliers and only the best, carefully  sourced, natural ingredients are selected for Go Native. 

Fully traceable and sustainably sourced, Go Native food contains 70% meat from a single meat source  – either organic herring or salmon or free-run chicken and turkey  – combined with superfoods like v kale, spinach, broccoli and carrot.

Connolly’s Red Mills’ stringent quality control goes a step further– they even make the poultry feed that’s given to the duck and chicken they select for Go Native.

Recipes include Duck with Apple & Cranberry, Organic Herring with Carrot & Kale, Organic Salmon with Spinach & Ginger and Chicken with Potato & Broccoli.

Go Native grain free meaty treats contain 30% meat and come in four varieties: salmon, herring, duck and turkey. They are cold formed  to ensure all of the nutrients are locked in and suitable for dogs over six months.

Go Native dental super sticks have a unique rough texture and spiral shape to reduce tartar build-up and the formation of plaque and come in two varieties: Carrot & Sweet Potato or Pumpkin & Broccoli. The dental super sticks also contain ground peppermint for fresh breath.

The utmost care and attention to detail at every step

All ingredients are tested in Connolly’s Red Mills’ on-site laboratory and the entire range is grain-free, reducing the risk of allergy. Go Native also contains no wheat, maize, soya or corn, so is 100% gluten-free as well as free from genetically modified ingredients.

“A century of know-how, care and attention at every step has gone into creating this exceptional dog food range,” said sales and marketing director Gareth Connolly. “We’re proud that Go Native is produced using the highest quality, sustainably-sourced, Irish ingredients.”

Go Native Dog food is packed using Connolly’s Red Mills’ unique Nutrient Fresh Management System.

To celebrate the launch of Go Native, Red Mills hosted a special dinner party for some very special four-legged guests. They all thoroughly enjoyed themselves, plates completely cleared with not a morsel of Go Native left behind. The meal was then polished off with a tooth-cleansing Go Native Dental Superfood stick before the guests headed home with goodie/doggie bags.

Check it out here: https://www.redmills.ie/products/pets

To find out more or to register your interest in becoming  a stockist, visit www.gonativedogfood.com

The excitement is building as the pet industry gears up for one of its biggest events of the year…PATS Telford on Sunday and Monday, 23-24 September.

All the latest innovations, exciting new product launches, unrivalled networking opportunities and future trends come together to create the industry’s most thriving exhibition.

Visitors can expect to see more than 200 exhibitors at PATS Telford with the industry’s leading companies, plus a growing number of new businesses, ready to showcase their products and services.

Final preparations are being made as the eagerly awaited exhibition gets set to open its doors at Telford International Centre in a just over a month’s time.

This year’s show has attracted:

• A record numbers of new exhibitors – 63 in total
• The biggest ever showcase of new products
• Unrivalled show offers and competitions
• Top groomers for insightful demos and talks
• Leading figures delivering informative seminars

“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 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. All entries in the Showcase, sponsored by pbwnews, will be judged by a panel of retailers for the New Product Awards on the first morning of the show, and the winners will receive their accolades at the PetQuip Awards Dinner in the evening.

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.

All visitors to PATS Telford will receive a free catalogue, free tea and coffee, and free parking, and you can register online for free entry 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, 23rd September, 2018: 9.30am-5.00pm

Monday, 24th September, 2018: 9.30am-4.00pm

Judging for the prestigious PetQuip Awards 2018 took place yesterday (Wednesday) with the winners being announced at a special dinner during PATS Telford next month.

The awards attracted an impressive number of entries, which were whittled down to a shortlist. Judging the final winners were Tony and Sandra Sharpe from Pets Korner Stamford; Michelle De Lavis Trafford from the buying group Choice (38 independent garden centre members); and Stuart Kitchen, marketing analyst and PR expert.

Two retailer categories are judged by independent market analysts from the consumer sector.

All winners will be announced on the night of 23rd September, the first evening of PATS Telford, at the PetQuip Awards Dinner.  Tickets for which can be bought by calling PetQuip on 01959 565995.

Even making the PetQuip Awards shortlist is seen as a major achievement, as a proud Poppy, from Poppy's Picnic, shows in the picture.

Here are some comments from shortlisted companies:

We were delighted to be shortlisted for both products, there has been some great coverage on the awards and we were delighted to be included.  Thank you once again – we were so pleased to be shortlisted!
 
Amazing news!  Thank you very much for choosing my Doggy's Cuppa tea range as one of the finalist for the PetQuip Awards for 2018! I am very exited and this is a great recognition of my hard work as a Vet and my desire to help dogs with natural remedies such as herbs for their minor ailments.
 
Just sooooper chuffed at the news.....all the hard work is paying off!
Thank you for a lovely start to the weekend.
 
We are so incredibly honoured & excited so thank you for the encouragement & support.
 
We are so thrilled to be amongst such an outstanding shortlist.
 
Thank you for the news, very exciting times!
 
AWESOME NEWS!!!! Thank you so much. Fingers crossed for the big day, it would do so much for this young, up and coming company.

The Camel Pub in Bethnal Green is the most recommended pub for pets, Brighton has the most dog-friendly cafes and the Eden Project is the best place to walk a four-legged friend, according to a list of the 100 most pet-friendly places in the world*, recommended by more than ten thousand of members of TrustedHousesitters.com.

From over 54,000 locations that were recommended worldwide, 30 British places made the top 100 list, making the UK the most pet-friendly place in the world, followed by the USA with 26 locations and Australia with 20. Australia took the top spot for the world’s most pet-friendly beaches, while Portobello Beach in Edinburgh received the most recommendations in the UK.

When it comes to a fun day out with your dog, Britain led the way for having more pet-friendly outdoor attractions than any other country, with sites like Glastonbury Tor, the Cerne Abbas Giant and Newbattle Abbey in Scotland, which were the most highly recommended for dog walkers. The UK also came first for pet-friendly cafes, most of which – including Small Batch Coffee which welcomes dogs, cats and a friendly ferret – can be found in Brighton.

Alan and Sandra Green with their granddaughters Isabella and Alice, visiting the Eden Project while on holiday from Derbyshire, along with English springer spaniels  Alfie (left) and Billy (right). 

Peter Stewart, Executive Director of Outreach and Development at the Eden Project said: "What an honour to be named the world’s top destination for dog walking. We know that dogs are a big part of the family and we're pleased to welcome many thousands of four-legged friends of all shapes and sizes to the Eden Project to enjoy the miles of paths we have around our gardens. Many people bring their dogs on holiday with them and appreciate being able to take them on days out. Likewise, we have many local visitors who love to use Eden as a place to bring their dog. We offer a friendly and safe environment for all our visitors and dogs so everyone can enjoy our great outdoor gardens."

Debbie Connor, owner of The Camel pub was delighted to hear they had made the list, and explained her pub is welcoming of cats as well as dogs: “We’re a really pet friendly pub, we’re near parks with lots of outdoor seating. Dogs and cats are very welcome inside and we always offer them bowls of water. My cats are called Pie and Steve and Steve particularly loves dogs. There was a bulldog under the table the other day and Steve went to sit with him and drink out of his bowl, we have a really friendly animal and human community.”

Tim Lyons, Managing Director of TrustedHousesitters said: “For the past two years, we’ve logged thousands of recommendations given to us about the world’s most pet-friendly places and a handful of countries, including the UK, USA and Australia are really leading the way with their pet-friendly parks, restaurants and attractions. It is great to see The Eden Project at number one globally for walks, followed by Lake Merritt and Piedmont Park in the US.”

The house and pet sitting site created its top 100 list after animal lovers in 130 countries shared their favourite pet-friendly destinations. The list has been released to celebrate the launch of the new TrustedHousesitters app, which goes live today, making it even easier to connect with caring, verified house and pet sitters who are willing to take care of pets for free, helping more owners to travel more often with greater peace of mind.

Available on the App Store, the TrustedHousesitters app is free to download and enables owners and sitters to connect and stay in touch, making the most of local points of interest and places to walk pets – no matter where they are in the world.

To see the full list of the 100 most pet-friendly places in the world visit: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/top-pet-friendly-places/

In order of their global ranking, the most pet-friendly British places include:

1.   The Eden Project, Cornwall (world #1)

2.   Watercress Line, Hampshire (world #4)

3.   Lost Gardens of Heligan, Cornwall (world #6)

4.   Lake Vyrnwy, Wales (world #13)

5.   Avebury Monument, Wiltshire (world #14)

6.   Gail’s Bakery, Hove (world #17)

7.   Scone Palace, Perth, Scotland (world #20)

8.   The Bay Cafe, Weston-super-Mare (world #22)

9.   Springfield Mill, Midlothian, Scotland (world #23)

10.   Brimham Rocks, Yorkshire (world #24)

11.   Cerne Abbas Giant, Dorset (world #27)

12.   Foxton Locks, Market Harborough (world #32)

13.   Baker & Graze, Gloucestershire (world #34)

14.   Loch Ness, Scotland (world #35)

15.   Newbattle Abbey, Midlothian, Scotland (world #37)

16.   Flour Pot Bakery, Brighton (world #47)

17.   Portobello Beach, Edinburgh, Scotland (world #51)

18.   Brickwood Coffee & Bread, London (world #52)

19.   Glastonbury Tor (world #53)

20.   Trentham Gardens, Stoke-On-Trent (world #54)

21.   Bluebird Café, Ferring (world #55)

22.   Charlestown Shipwreck, Cornwall (world #58)

23.   Small Batch Coffee, Brighton (world #60)

24.   The Helix, Falkirk, Scotland (world #63)

25.   The Camel Public House London (world #65)

26.   Castle Drogo, Devon (#68)

27.   Sips & Bites, London (world #69)

28.   Lynwood & Co, Lechlade (world #72)

29.   Alexandra Nurseries, Penge (world #78)

30.   Cragg Sisters Tearoom, Suffolk (world #89)

Ten most pet-pleasing places in the world:

1.   The Eden Project, Cornwall, UK

2.   Lake Merritt, Oakland, USA

3.   Piedmont Park, Piedmont, USA

4.   Watercress Line, Hampshire, UK

5.   Cashmere Hill Lookout, Victoria Park, New Zealand

6.   Lost Gardens of Heligan, St. Austell, UK

7.   South Bank, Brisbane, Australia

8.   Verteuil-sur-Charente, France

9.   Mission Bay, Auckland, New Zealand

10. Ibirapuera Park, Sao Paolo Brazil

Glendoick Garden Centre has joined an increasing number of retail establishments in allowing dogs on to the premises.

Following help from Dog Friendly Perthshire, a “Dog Etiquette” notice has been produced to make sure all customers are able to enjoy their experience at Glendoick.

Jane Cox, Director said “We receive a lot of passing trade from customers travelling between Aberdeen and the South and have been increasingly asked for dogs to be allowed in. I think this hot weather has made this even more important when customers are choosing where to stop for a break in their journey.”

Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times and are allowed on the main central walkway as a means to access the two outdoor café terraces. Glendoick offers a shaded car parking area where dog owners can also find a water butt and dog bowl.

Laughing Dog, one of the few pet food manufacturers in the UK to oven bake its entire range of dry food, has announced the arrival of a brand new range of adult cat completes.

Launching this autumn, the new range of adult completes marks the first* 100% oven-baked cat food to be made in Britain at its family-run site in Lincolnshire.

Naturally baked using farm-grown ingredients and ethically sourced human grade meat, Laughing Cat will offer two grain free varieties: turkey and fish. Specially formulated for complete and balanced nutrition, the limited ingredient recipes will be free from added grains, cereals, gluten, soya, dairy and sugar, as well as having no added artificial colours, flavours or preservatives.

Ben Mankertz, Commercial Manager, at Fold Hill says: “Laughing Dog is well-known for high quality yet simple ingredients. Our customers have inundated us with requests for cat food over the years, so this launch is very much a natural development for the farm bakery brand, and certainly well overdue!

"As with our dog food, our baked completes will be 100% made on the family farm – a crucial factor for our customers when reductions in carbon footprint and transparency are key.”

Laughing Cat is part of Fold Hill Foods Ltd, based in Lincolnshire. The current range will be available in 375g recyclable bags.

For further information, please visit www.laughingcatfood.com, email trade@laughingcatfood.com or call (Freephone) 0800 098 8057. 

*Correct at time of going to press, 20^th July 2018.

Pets at Home has raised more than £50,000 for The Alzheimer’s Society. The company partnered with the UK’s leading dementia charity to improve the in-store experience for customers living with the illness.

Over the course of Dementia Action Week, staff across the country raised more than £50,000 for Alzheimer’s Society, through sales of pin badges, ‘round to a pound’ and activities including bake sales.

The money raised will be used towards supporting the work of Alzheimer’s Society to provide information and support, fund research, campaign to improve care and create lasting change for people affected by dementia in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Emma Bould, programme partnerships manager at Alzheimer’s Society, said: “Everyone at Alzheimer’s Society would like to say a huge thank you the colleagues and customers at Pets at Home for their invaluable donations.

”In the UK, one person develops dementia every three minutes and almost everyone knows someone whose life has been affected. Yet too many people face the condition alone, without adequate support.

"At Alzheimer’s Society we are determined to change this, as it is vital that people living with dementia feel included in their local community and able to live the lives they want.

"Something as simple as store colleagues, as well as other customers, being a bit more patient will make a huge difference to the day to day lives of people living with dementia.”

Ceva Animal Health, manufacturer of ADAPTIL and FELIWAY, has launched a new fireworks marketing and display pack to provide pet owners with information on how to help their pets during the fireworks season.

The pack includes an informative new leaflet written by leading dog behaviourist, Gwen Bailey, and supported by Blue Cross, Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (APBC), Wood Green, Puppy School, International Cat Care and Cats Protection. 

It features the signs of firework fears in both dogs and cats, how to keep pets calm and safe while fireworks are going off and the importance of ensuring that puppies become gradually accustomed to loud and sudden noises.  It also highlights the benefits of pheromone support with ADAPTIL Calm Home Diffuser and FELIWAY CLASSIC Diffuser.

Also available in the pack is a leaflet holder, wall display, bunting and social media tool kit containing online banners, suggested social media posts, pet owner email text, PR and presentations. Vouchers will be available for free ADAPTIL and FELIWAY for pet owners already purchasing product.

“Our vibrant new fireworks marketing and display pack will help raise awareness of the signs of firework fears and the preventative measures that owners can carry out at home to help them keep their pets calm and safe during the fireworks season,” comments Abigail King, behaviour product manager at Ceva Animal Health.

To request a copy of the fireworks marketing and display pack, please phone Ceva’s head office on 01494 781510.

A new pet food for cats and dogs is reaching out to proud pet parents wanting their 'babies' and buddies to have happy lives that include nutritionally sound nosh-ups, at a price that doesn't cost a paw and a leg.

The delightfully named Scrumbles has been 2.5 years in the making, the brainchild of female entrepreneur Aneisha Soobroyen and husband Jack, who both worked in the pet industry and saw a gap for a values-driven company putting cats and dogs first.

Both were concerned by their pets' smelly poos, and shocked to discover the low quality of ingredients used in the food of their feline furry, Boo, and playful pooch, Smudge. From these Scrumble beginnings, and a pawdacious belief that such food could not possibly fuel family adventures and years of happiness, a fun, caring and nutritionally amazing product was born.

Putting pets first meant two things - looking at the impacts on tender tummies that could ruin great playtimes and al fresco adventures and resolving to give 10% of profits to pet charities.

Working with a nutritionist, Scrumbles created a formula inclusive of a probiotic, which settles stomachs and bolsters gut health.  This rare-to-find benefit is not the only thing Scrumbles can purr and bark about. It is completely gluten-free and hypoallergenic and contain no nasties in the form of preservatives, colours, additives, salt, sugar, pea protein, eggs, dairy, potatoes and lentils.

Mixtures are also protein-rich, being packed with fresh and dried chicken, and contain Omega 3 (EPA and DHA) and Omega 6. This boosts the pet's brain and eye function - both crucial during 'play pawses' - and helps develop a glossy coat and healthy skin that gets many admiring looks!

Glucosamine and chondroitin support skeletal development and healthy joints, and fibre-rich brown rice and oats aid digestion. 

This super-healthy mix - which tastes darned fine too - has a few variations. It has been carefully tailored to the needs of: playful puppies sized small/medium (up to 12 months) and lovingly large pups (up to 24 months), not to mention grown-up dogs sized small/medium and also large and lush (over 25kg), plus curious kittens (aged up to 24 months) and cool cats.

The latter can not only feast on a chicken-flavoured treat, but also enjoy a cool cat combo of chicken and salmon.  Cat mixes contain dried cranberries, to keep a puss's urinary tract healthy.

Being free of pets' common allergen sources - wheat, beef, pork, eggs and dairy - should help prevent little whoopsies and unwanted sicky piles - whilst the highly nutritious formula is intended to provide the energy to fuel many exciting escapades.

Digesting the price of this superbly crafted food, manufactured in Britain and proud to be British, is pretty easy. The four canine food varieties retail at £11.49 for a 2kg resealable bag, whilst the three 750kg cat food options have a RRP of £6.99.  Affordability is Scrumbles' watchword.

Pet stores such as Dabners (Croydon), House of Pets (Hackney), The Independent Pet Co. (Weston-super-Mare, Firthfield Pet Store (Northwich), Portland Pets (South Norwood), The Pet Shop and Tanked Up (Bristol) and Bradeley Green (Whitchurch) are already stocking Scrumbles, which is actively seeking other retailers.

More information is available at www.scrumbles.co.uk where prospective stockists can complete an enquiry form. 

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A Bradford pet shop owner has issued an appeal following a spate of snakes being dumped in the district.

Umar Asghar, of All Pets and the Bradford Birdman, Harrogate Road, has spoken out in the Telegraph & Argus after three snakes were found roaming free in the space of a week.

He was reported as saying: "Bring them to us - we can give them proper care and can get them proper homes."

Mr Asghar said he understand's people's circumstances can change, but this should not mean that the welfare of any animal is forgotten about. 

The full report can be read by clicking here.

• Cat ownership reaches five year high, with a fifth of Brits having a feline family member
• Wales, the South West and the South East are the most moggy mad regions in the UK
• Scale of pampered pets revealed: almost half (46%) of UK cat owners buy their pets gifts, while a fifth treat their cat to a present monthly

Cat crazy Brits spend a whopping £7.9bn each year on their feline friends, according to new research from IAMS UK.

The survey, released to mark International Cat Day, reveals the true scale of the UK’s pampered pets, as half (46%) of cat owners admit to treating their pets to a gift on special occasions and a fifth (20%) to purchasing a present for their furry friend monthly.

In addition, a quarter of cat lovers in the West Midlands even confess to buying their beloved pet a gift on a weekly basis!
 
With cat ownership at its highest level in five years1, the UK’s love for the four-legged feline should perhaps come as no surprise. There are over 8 million pet cats across the nation2, with one in five (18%) Brits owning a pet cat.

However, when it comes to identifying the most moggy mad regions, it seems there is a North / South divide, as Wales, the South West and the South East take the top spot3. In fact, an astounding 5% of cat owners in the South East live with a family of 5 or more cats.

10 Most Popular Cat Breeds

1. British Shorthair
2. Bengal
3. Siamese
4. Maine Coon
5. Persian
6. Ragdoll
7. Russian Blue
8. Scottish Fold
9. Savannah Cat
10. Sphynx Cat

While the humble moggy remains the most popular choice of cat for over half of cat owners in the UK (55%), the research from IAMS also reveals the top 10 cat breeds in Britain. In top spot is the British Shorthair (50%), followed by the Bengal (9%) and Siamese (8%), while at the bottom of the table is the Scottish Fold (3%), Sphynx Cat (3%) and Savannah Cat (1%).
 
Dispelling any misconceptions that cats are aloof or distant, when asked what they loved most about their furry friend, the top reasons cited by owners include the fact that cats make great company (52%) and love to cuddle (33%), combined with their playful nature (30%), intelligence (22%) and independence (28%). What’s more, when describing their beloved pets, the top adjectives used are happy (57%), loving (33%) and mischievous (24%).
 
To showcase that just like humans, each cat has a unique personality, IAMS has revealed further insight into the individual traits of cats across the nation, with some surprising results:

• The happiest cats in the UK are from East Anglia (81%) and the friendliest from Scotland (44%)
• The most mischievous felines are from Yorkshire (33%) and the sleepiest from Wales (25%)
• The North West is home to the most pampered (35%) cats, while the North East is home to the most loving (63%)
• A fifth (20%) of Londoners describe their cat as a ‘foodie’ while fussy felines in the South East are more often considered ‘nibblers’ (20%)
• Cats from the South West are energetic (25%) and athletic (20%), while in Northern Ireland, two fifths (40%) of cat owners consider their pets to be adventurous (40%), followed closely by nosy (20%) and greedy (20%) 

No matter what our pet’s personality, with recent reports showing that 76% of pet owners see their pet as their own child4, it’s clear we Brits are moggy mad.
 
To help pet owners find out more about how to keep their beloved cat as happy and healthy as possible, IAMS Nutrition Expert and Veterinary Training Manager Kellie Ceccarelli has some advice:
 
“The secret to perfect pet parenting is understanding what your cat needs to be happy and healthy. As well as plenty of activity, play and of course, cuddle time, providing them with a 100% complete and balanced diet, rich in high quality animal protein is key. That’s why IAMS contains high quality chicken and turkey as the number one ingredient to support strong muscles and a healthy skin and coat, while offering a great taste that cats naturally love.”

For more information go to www.iams.co.uk or visit IAMS UK on Facebook.

The RSPCA, the oldest and largest animal welfare charity in the country, will be showcasing its wide range of products at PATS Telford on September 23-24.

The charity will have an exciting range of products for sale, including flea treatments, pet shampoos, pet food, toys, and gifts. 

All treatments sold, where applicable, have been approved by the welfare experts, RSPCA science teams and vets at the charity.

The RSPCA brand is a powerful endorsement with a 93% recognition rate.

RSPCA FLEAaway kills fleas, ticks and lice with an easy to use, award winning pipette. RSPCA pet shampoos are gentle on skin, free from enzymes, silicones, parabens, alcohol and DEA. All shampoos carry the Leaping Bunny certification and are produced in the UK.

The RSPCA pet food is a super premium, complete food for all ages and those who need a lighter diet. It is formulated by RSPCA experts and used in RSPCA animal centres. Keep an eye out for RSPCA grain free, higher welfare dog food. Dogs in RSPCA rehoming centres have responded brilliantly to this new recipe.

RSPCA Retail Manager Ellie Clarke said: “Everything that the RSPCA sell, you can buy with confidence that your pet’s welfare is in mind.

“Even better all the money the RSPCA makes goes back into the vital work the RSPCA does to improve animal welfare.

“With the RSPCA not only are you buying quality products that your customers will love, your customers will love you for supporting the RSPCA too.”

Looking for something a little more fun? The RSPCA has a range of accessories including beds, bowls, toys and gifts for your furry friends and your human friends too.

The RSPCA stand will be at D34.

Aled Owen from Penyfed, Corwen, earned his fifth National Champion title at the Welsh National Sheepdog Trials held at Pen Bedw, Nannerch.

Renowned in the sheepdog world Aled’s huge list of achievements up to this latest win can be seen at https://csjk9blog.com/awaywithdogsseries2/meet-the-a-way-with-dogs-handlers/

With his homebred dog, Llangwm Cap, Aled ran early on the second day of the 3 day event and took the lead with 195 points – closely followed by Kevin Evans, Brecon with a score of 194 points.

Over 130 of the country’s best sheepdogs competed over the 3 days to try and earn one of the top 15 places to make the National Team.

Aled also earned a team place with his other dog, Llangwm Glesni and will now compete in Northern Ireland next month at the International Supreme Championship - Aled has already won this Championship 4 times (the latest being in 2015 when he won with Llangwm Cap) so who knows, maybe he will add a 5^th win to his tally in this prestigious event too.

For more info on CSJ and their products visit www.csjk9.com or call 01745710470

A dog owner from must pay almost £500 after failing to keep the details on her pet’s microchip up to date.

Linda Loveridge of Church Close, Market Weighton, failed to attend Beverley Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 8 August to answer a charge of failing to have her dog correctly microchipped as required by law.

The court heard how Loveridge’s dog had been found as stray and when checked by dog wardens from East Riding of Yorkshire Council it was found to be microchipped but the details were incorrect.

But as the dog was known to the wardens, they returned it to Loveridge who was served a notice to update the details on the microchip on 2 January.

A further reminder was sent on 23 January and a check on 6 February showed no updates had been made. Another check made on 19 June revealed the details had still not been updated and a summons was issued.

The case was proved in her absence and she was fined £220, has to pay costs of £236.12 and a victim surcharge of £30.

Read more by clicking here

Glee’s newly enhanced show sector Pets at Glee will be showcasing more brands and, most importantly, more products than ever before. From pet and wildlife foods and treats, to toys, accessories and everything in between, this dedicated sector will provide a true one-stop-shop for garden centre pet product needs. 

The perfect place to source 2019 ranges, Pets at Glee will be home to some of the biggest brands shaping the pet category today. Look out for companies such as Scruffs, Petface, Royal Canin, Unipet, GA Pet Foods, RSPCA, The Barking Bakery, Pawtato Dog Chews, Tweedmill Textiles, The First Class Pet Company, Mud Daddy, Jacobi Jayne & Company and Lintbells. Little Big Paw, iKaboodle / Brand EasyPets, and Sureair. 

In addition to showcasing the widest selection of leading and exciting emerging brands Pets at Glee will also benefit from a rich content driven seminar programme.  Marking a significant investment for this new era of Pets at Glee, the seminar stage will offer insight into the latest trends shaping the pet care sector such as the humanisation and premiumisation of pet products.

Key sessions will include a look how garden centres can create a pet friendly environment, or add an instore vet practice, franchised pet service, or training school. There will also be a strong focus on the future trends affecting the pet care market – from the clean eating movement influencing pet food, to the growth of luxury products.

Monday and Tuesday will also see a special workshop take to the stage.  Led by Mark Baker, consultant at leading retail consultancy, Visual Thinking, the workshop will offer tangible business advice regarding how garden centres can launch a pet offering, and the steps needed to ensure a longevity and a continued footfall.

PetQuip – the international trade association for manufacturers and suppliers of pet care goods and services – will be continuing its support of Glee with the return of the PetQuip Business Village.

The popular PetQuip Buyer Connect event will also take place on each day of the show, helping to bring together retailers and suppliers in 10-minute speed networking sessions.

Matthew Mein, Glee Event Director, said: “With almost 50% of the UK now owning a pet and this number set to increase in the coming years, the additional revenue potential that pet products can offer – on top of the current £5billion already spent annually on pet food and accessories - is unrivalled by any other product category. 

"Pet care suppliers who exhibit at Glee are in a unique position. Not only can they communicate with pet retailers who visit the show, but they can access a world of cross-over selling opportunities with garden centre buyers from the UK and abroad.

"The fact that Glee captures an audience across all UK garden centres and garden centre buying groups, including 98% of all GCA members – not to mention top name multiple, high street and on-line retailers – means that pet care suppliers can have direct access to the key decision makers that could help take their business to the next level.

Find out more

Glee is the UK’s leading garden retail show, focussing on building year-round profits for buyers and suppliers within the core gardening and outdoor leisure product categories.  To keep up-to-date on the latest Glee news visit www.gleebirmingham.com.  To enquire about exhibiting at Glee 2018 call 020 3033 2160.

Under the principal leadership of Dennis Dubbelman, a highly-regarded 25 year pet industry veteran and proven business development leader growing companies and brands across North America and Europe, Lichetenstein-based Dubbelman Consulting is open for business - offering a dynamic range of customizable business development, promotional, trade show, and strategic solutions for pet product manufacturers looking to expand their global footprint.

For any pet product manufacturer seeking a direct link to expanding their business and sales in Europe and/or North America, Dubbelman Consulting delivers each of its clients the combination of experience, an established network of retailer partners in a variety of sales channels, and a direct link to buyers – all with a track record of proven results.

Dubbelman Consulting offers:

25 years of experience in the pet industry, working with major companies such as Hill’s, Group DePre, Saturn Pet Care, Ospelt, Flexi and more, in leader categories such as:

• Dog and Cat Food
• Dog and Cat Treats/Snacks/Chews
• Dog and Cat Accessories
• Bird Food and Accessories
• Small Animal Food and Accessories
• Aquatic / Fish Food and Accessories
• Herp / Reptile Food and Accessories

“I am grateful that I have the opportunity to utilize my extensive experience in the pet industry to launch Dubbelman Consulting and help business partners, brands and manufacturers achieve their goals and expand their footprint across Europe and North America,” states Founder and Principal Dennis Dubbelman. 

“I truly am proud to combine my network of key relationships and my industry experience and work in close collaboration with pet industry manufacturers, distributors, pet specialty retailers and key account retail managers to drive success.  No project is too big or too small.”

For more information or to schedule a complimentary consultation for your business/company or product innovation, visit: http://www.dubbelman.li, email Dennis Dubbelman directly at dpdubbelman@dubbelman.li

Pets at Home has benefited from a lift in sales after it brought down prices to compete with online rivals.

On a like-for-like basis, retail sales were up 6.1% while vet sales grew by 13.6%.

Pets at Home has been lowering prices to drive higher sales and has been expanding its vet services business, which chief executive Peter Pritchard has described as one of the “biggest opportunities” for the firm.

Stock had been heavily shorted this year, and its share price almost halved between October 2017 and August.

However, following the results update, the chain’s shares jumped by more than 12%.

“The product price gap between Pets at Home and online rivals has halved in the last 18 months, helping improve brand loyalty and deterring consumers from switching to discounters or supermarkets,” said Fiona Paton, retail analyst at Global Data.

“The ‘easy repeat delivery’ subscription service, allowing customers repeat delivery of perishable pet goods across approximately 350 products, is an added way to defend against online competition.”

Mr Pritchard said: “I am really pleased with our start to the year, particularly as trading across both retail and the vet business has been consistently strong.

“But I believe we need a sharpening of focus to become a business that will continue to win over the long term, where it is essential that we maximise our assets and data as an integrated pet care business and reinvigorating the customer experience in-store becomes key.”

• British cat owners are unknowingly feeding their pets poor quality food as well as handing out scraps like chicken nuggets and cheese, according to research.
• A study of 2,000 cat owners revealed many are oblivious about what foods could be harmful to their moggy’s health – with some even sharing takeaways and leftovers.
• One in 20 simply buy the cheapest cat food on offer, and a further 15 per cent swap from brand to brand dependant on what’s on offer.
• And leading veterinarian Rodney Zasman explains that serving up some of the cheaper cat foods available, could be no better than feeding your cat a daily dose of McDonald’s.

The research, commissioned by Lily’s Kitchen, to coincide with the launch of its new Suppurrs Stew cat food range, also found nearly four in 10 cat owners NEVER check the label when buying cat food, with 64 per cent baffled about what they should look for.
 
A fifth of owners don’t even know their cats are carnivores – which would explain why one in 10 would feed raw vegetables, and another one in 20 salad leaves, to their cat.
 
Rodney Zasman, leading London veterinarian, said: “It’s alarming that many of the nation’s cat owners are oblivious to what constitutes a healthy diet for their pets. Particularly when healthy eating plays such a big part in modern day living for the owners themselves.
 
“One of the biggest dangers to our cats’ health is actually poor quality, mass produced pet food.
 
“In some instances these foods contain as little as 4% meat and, as a result, cats aren’t getting the nutrition they need to keep them healthy.  But many cat owners are largely unaware of this fact and only find out when they take their poorly or overweight moggy to the vet.” 
 
Despite not being clued up on feline food needs, two thirds of British cat owners believe the food they buy covers all of their pet’s nutritional requirements.
 
Interestingly the study shows 67 per cent of owners would NOT be prepared to feed their cat carcasses of other animals, hides and skins, pigs’ bristles, heads of poultry and feathers – and yet experts warn that’s exactly what can be found in some cat foods in supermarkets today.

Vet Rodney Zasman adds: “Feline obesity is a huge issue in the UK, as well as a host of other health complaints, many of which are caused by eating the wrong type of food which is low in real meat and high in a range of other, less nutritious ingredients, cleverly disguised on the label as ‘meat and animal derivatives’.
 
“In many cases it isn’t the owner’s fault however. Cats are independent creatures and often very fussy eaters so it’s not always easy to tell when a cat is becoming unwell due to its diet.  As owners we just want to see our pets happy and feeding them something they like is usually top of owners’ priorities.”
 
This fact is reflected in the survey results. For a third of respondents, the choice of food to provide isn’t theirs – as their cat simply won’t eat a brand other than its favourite. However, by patiently transitioning cats onto new foods, owners can have a much better success rate when introducing a new recipe.

• Four in 10 Brits give foodstuffs to their cat when they aren’t sure it’s healthy for them – and almost a quarter will still feed their cat treats even if they know it won’t do them good.
• A further 40 per cent are happy to share their own meals with their cats, with some handing out scraps from their own plates.
• And one even reported their cat loves nothing more than to nibble on a piece of leftover fruitcake when given the chance, which could be harmful to the cat.
• A third of pet owners have given their cat cheese without realising large amounts can be dangerous, and one in 20 have offered it a piece of chocolate.
• And almost a fifth are happy to let their cat lick from a bowl of cream, which can be unhealthy for pets.
• More than a third of Brits worry their cat isn’t eating as healthily as they could be, and time spent preparing pet food is a fraction of that spent cooking for the human members of the family.
• Sadly, on occasion a cat’s diet can lead to professional intervention; as a fifth of cat owners have had to take their pet to the vet after eating something that disagreed with it.
• A further 28 per cent admit their cat has been diagnosed with either being overweight, or suffering another medical condition such as skin problems and diabetes due to its diet.

Henrietta Morrison, founder and CEO of Lily’s Kitchen, said: “We want to help educate cat owners about what constitutes a healthy diet – including proper meat and natural ingredients – which will keep the nation’s cats purring happily and healthily.
 
“What concerns us most is the amount of ‘nasties’ that are contained in some of the mass-produced cat food available in UK supermarkets, including cheap bulking ingredients such as cereals, which cats can find difficult to digest.
 
“Cat owners don’t stand a chance when the labelling is so misleading and doesn’t state clearly what the packet or tin contains. In some cases, meat and animal derivatives with only 4% of the specified ‘meat’ are included in the total ingredients, which could be anything from feathers and skin to heads of poultry.”
 
Lily’s Kitchen’s new Suppurrs Stew range of food for cats is made using only proper meat and offal, with 33% delicious shredded chicken fillets and absolutely no meat-meal, fish-meal, bone-meal or rendered meat.  Available in Pets at Home, Waitrose, Ocado and independent pet shops nationwide.

A Royal Horticultural Society trial to allow dogs into its prestigious gardens at Wisley, near Woking in Surrey, has caused a social media row among its members.

The RHS plans to hold a special ‘Walkies at Wisley’ trial evening on 23 August from 6-8pm. 

The organisation said on its RHS Wisley Facebook page: “We know that many of our visitors are dog lovers, so have decided to introduce a trial opening for your four legged-friends.

“If you and the pooch would like to come along to this exclusive evening, we have a couple of points to note. Firstly, dogs must be kept on leads at all times, and secondly, please clear up after your dog.

“The evening is free to RHS Members. Non-members can gain discounted entry at £7 per adult, £5 per child. Dogs go free!”

But the special event brought more than 250 comments on the Facebook page with many posters threatening to cancel their RHS membership if more events like this one were introduced to the organisation's gardens throughout the country.

To give a balance to the argument we’ve picked out three posters who hate the idea and three who love it.

AGAINST

Helen Mabbott: We are very disappointed to hear this and will also give up my membership if dogs are allowed to visit. Even if poo is picked up it still leaves a trace, dog wee cannot be cleaned up. Small children enjoy rolling in the grass and crawling in relative safety which will cease if dogs are allowed. I don’t want to trip over leads or have dogs coming up to me or shaking off water from puddles near me, or listen to barking. I expect it at other locations where dogs are welcome but I purposely go to Wisley for the safety and security including no dogs. There are a million places to take dogs, not Wisley.

Pauline Bronger: Very disappointing news. Will not renew my membership if it becomes a permanent fixture. There are ranges, woods and parks a plenty. Don't spoil the tranquillity, and natural habitat with the smell of dog urine! 
You can sit down anywhere at Wisley in the knowledge that you are not going to sit on anything you shouldn't, or sit and lean on a tree without it smelling like a dog toilet. Definitely a bad a idea. It will be kiddies scooters next!!

Clauds Amiga: Are you kidding???? This is a terrible idea I’m really disappointed. There are lots of places to walk dogs not somewhere like Wisley! I was just saying the other day it’s one of places I know I can visit with the kids and not worry about dog poo and the lazy owners that do not pick it up!!! Ridiculous...

FOR

Kayla Moth: To all those moaning about allowing dogs inside - I bet many of the dogs will be better behaved than some of your screaming children that I've witnessed in the gardens, trampling all over the flowers and the parents not caring. At least dogs will be on a lead!

Pauline Warner: Some of these comments from people threatening not to renew their membership are hilarious...how far up ones own behind do you need to be to think that that will make any difference......opening the gardens once or twice a month on a regular basis will probably bring in more subscriptions from dog owners than the ones that leave.

Denise Geoghegan: Unbelievable comments against dogs on here. Have you seen what humans have done to their environment filth and waste ??? Dogs will be on a lead. Why shouldn't dogs and their owners have a chance to enjoy this lovely place ?? If people want to cancel membership.. go ahead....there will be far more joining because people can take their dogs who are an integral part of a family and the British way of life.

You can read all the comments by clicking here