In This Issue
Lifetime accolade for pet product pioneer
Revealed: the secrets of success of the UK's Pet Retailer of the Year
Pet industry excellence recognised at PetQuip Awards
A company whose eco credentials are loved by the world
Pedigree Wholesale pick up yet another major honour
Pet Rebellion set the standard for export sales
Forthglade receives £6m investment in its natural pet food brand
Pooch & Mutt picks up worldwide packaging design award
Record-breaking number of 2,036 visitors attend PATS
Bucktons ready to soar following ‘big reveal’
Successful UK launch of KrillBar by TV Vet School star
Picture round-up from the pet extravanganza
PitPat launches must-have fitness product for dogs
Successful launch of Stay Over Rover
Cat Igloo is a trend setting pet bed
Freeze-dried treats are a hit for Fish4Dogs
Exciting launch from Woof & Brew
Leucillin pet care display stands out from the crowd
Orlando Fun Cage means serious business
K9 spray cuts down drying time
AmPet create huge interest with K-9 Pet Ball
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Lifetime accolade for pet product pioneer


Dr Roger Mugford, from the Company of Animals has received his second Lifetime Achievement Award within six months, this time picking up the accolade at the PetQuip Awards on Sunday. In March the honour was bestowed on him by the World Pet Association…



Dr Roger Mugford, from the Company of Animals has received his second Lifetime Achievement Award within six months, this time picking up the accolade at the PetQuip Awards on Sunday. In March the honour was bestowed on him by the World Pet Association.

Roger said at a special PetQuip Awards party at Telford International Centre: ““I was gobsmacked. I was sitting with my friends enjoying a wonderful evening and then the Lifetime Achievement was announced. Everyone on the team had managed to keep it a secret. I was astonished and delighted. It’s a great honour to be recognised in this way.”

As Britain’s leading animal psychologist and a pioneer in behavioural therapy, Dr. Mugford’s career has led him to train the Queen’s corgis and speak on behalf of animal welfare in courts across the world. 

Dr. Mugford is a prolific author, educator and animal welfare advocate. In 1979 he founded The Animal Behaviour Centre in Surrey, a referral service for veterinary surgeons and their clients with problem pets. More than 80,000 pets have benefitted from the Centre’s services to date.

That same year, he founded The Company of Animals brand where he invented and developed a range of products that have revolutionized the way people train their pets. The HALTI head collar and Pet Corrector® auditory training tool are among his exemplary products frequently copied by competitors but unmatched in quality or effectiveness.

Dr. Mugford is also a Dogs for the Disabled patron, Cancer & Bio-detection Dogs Trustee and 2005’s Blue Cross Welfare Award recipient.  Proud to maintain a link with his Devonshire farming heritage, he resides at Ruxbury Farm where he personally cares for a herd of 70 purebred South Devon cattle, 100 sheep, horses, llamas and of course dogs!

 
Revealed: the secrets of success of the UK's Pet Retailer of the Year
It has been a remarkable two years for Wags & Whiskers Pet Boutique since the store opened in Stockton-on-Tees just two years ago. Starting from a tiny unit in a council-run facility before moving to its own premises six months later and then opening a second store, the business has now been crowned UK Pet Retailer of the Year at the PetQuip Awards. Managing director Carl Shepherdson reveals how his team has delivered so much in such a short space of time...


It has been a remarkable two years for Wags & Whiskers Pet Boutique since the store opened in Stockton-on-Tees just two years ago. Starting from a tiny unit in a council-run facility before moving to its own premises six months later and then opening a second store, the business has now been crowned UK Pet Retailer of the Year at the PetQuip Awards.

Managing director Carl Shepherdson reveals how his team has delivered so much in such a short space of time...

What does the award mean to you?
We have worked so hard since opening just under two years ago. It’s really nice to have some recognition for all the hard work.
 
What sets the store apart from others?
We only stock the very best food, treats and accessories for dogs and cats. All of our food and treats are made with human grade ingredients, free of colourings, preservatives and additives. Lots of the accessories we stock are made by other small UK based businesses. We have regular events in the stores such as pug parties, Chihuahua parties, in-store nutrition days,  pet photo shoots and more. Every dog that visits our store is given a treat and has their photograph taken for our social media. Customers love visiting our stores, not just for the fantastic range of products but for the whole experience.
 
How many people work in the store?
Six between two stores, and we are open seven days a week.
 
Are they all animal lovers?
Absolutely, the main reason I started the business was for my own dog Maggie (Yorkshire terrier aged 4). You can visit your large chain superstores and local pet shops, but it’s all very much the same stuff and lots of it wasn’t nutritious or healthy for her. All our staff have dogs and cats of their own.
 
How did it all start?
We opened our doors in October 2013 from the Stockton Borough Council Enterprise Arcade – a facility to test trade in a low risk environment. After six months successful trading we made the decision to move into our own premises in Stockton Town Centre. In August we opened our second store in Saltburn by the Sea.
 
How do you keep your customers loyal?
Our customers are very, very loyal. Since opening we have done very little paid advertising. Most of our custom comes from recommendations. Our stores are warm and inviting, they don’t have the traditional pet shop smell, they are bright, not cluttered, there is no typical slat wall set-up. Nutrition is a big thing for us, we like to educate customers into what you feed your dog plays a big part in the dogs health and wellbeing. Our customers have really appreciated this, as they’ve seen a massive difference in their pets.
 
What kind of events do you run?
We hold events on a regular basis. We have Christmas photo shoots starting this Saturday with a local pet photographer in-store. A full list of events can be found at:
https://www.facebook.com/wagsandwhiskerspetboutique/events
 
What are the secrets of your success
Not sure if I should be giving our secrets away. Seriously, we make customers enjoy the whole shopping experience, go the extra mile for them and hold regular events.

To find out more visit www.wagsandwhiskerspetboutique.co.uk



Pictured, top: The Wags & Whiskers team of Faye, Karla, Carl and Peter (on the left of the picture) receive their PATS Award.

Above: The second store at Saltburn by the Sea.

Below: Gallery of pictures from the Stockton store.
 
Pet industry excellence recognised at PetQuip Awards
The best in pet retail, manufacture and distribution was rewarded at the PetQuip Awards presented at a special event during PATS Telford on Sunday evening...
The best in pet retail, manufacture and distribution was rewarded at the PetQuip Awards presented at a special event during PATS Telford on Sunday evening.

The Awards have grown in stature since launching three years ago and the presentation evening in the Ludlow Suite of Telford International Centre was packed with pet companies and individuals who have excelled during the past 12 months.




The PetQuip Awards 2015 – Winners


Supplier of the Year

  • Gold – Denes
  • Silver – Scruffs
  • Highley Commended (HC) – Mutneys

Wholesaler/Distributor of the Year

  • Gold – Pedigree Wholesale
  • Silver – Peregrine Livefoods

Exporter of the Year

  • Gold – Pet Rebellion
  • Silver – Beco Pets
  • HC - Group 55 and Tasty Bone

Marketing Campaign of the Year

  • Gold – Beco Pets
  • Silver – Sureflap
  • HC – Hownd and Pet Food UK

Pet Product Innovation of the Year

  • Gold – Sureflap (Microchip Pet Feeder)
  • Silver – Pet Munchies (range of natural pet treats)
  • HC – Collarways (Stay Over Rover) and Nutriment (natural food for smaller dogs)

International Retailer/Wholesaler-Distributor of the Year

  • Gold – Whesco, Denmark
  • Silver – Eye 4 Pets, The Netherlands

UK Retailers of the Year

  • Joint Gold – Wags & Whiskers Pet Boutique, Stockton on Tees and The Pet Place, Bents Garden Centre, Warrington
  • Silver – Pets Korner, Stamford

Lifetime Achievement

  • Dr Roger Mugford
A company whose eco credentials are loved by the world


Organisers of the 2015 PetQuip Awards paid tribute to Britain's top eco pet product manufacturer Beco Pets, describing them as "a company whose eco credentials are loved by the world".



Organisers of the 2015 PetQuip Awards yesterday paid tribute to Britain's top eco pet product manufacturer Beco Pets, describing them as "a company whose eco credentials are loved by the world".

Beco scooped two separate PetQuip honours, a Gold Award for Marketing Project of the Year, and the second, a Silver Award in the Exporter of the Year category.

The London-based company, which was formed just six years ago and which already exports to an impressive 43 countries, won Gold for its 'Project Poop Bag' campaign, helping dog owners to clean up after their pets.

The Director General of PetQuip, Amanda Sizer Barrett MBE, said: "The number and quality of entries in all categories was of a really high standard" this year.

She told the 200-strong audience at the awards dinner: "Gold is awarded to a company who came up with the idea of a welcome campaign to encourage dog owners to be more responsible in clearing up after their pets.

"The campaign really is a winner. I'm sure everyone saw the company at the doors of the exhibition today [at the entrance to Telford's International Centre], in eye-catching T-shirts, promoting Project Poop Bag.

"Dare I say it, they are bound to clean up with this marketing campaign. The winner is, of course, Beco Pets."

Reporting on this year's judges' deliberations, Manager of the PetQuip International Trade Association of Pet Equipment Suppliers Pat Flynn, who hosted the awards, also singled out Beco Pets in the Exporter of the Year category.

She said: "Silver is awarded to a company whose eco credentials are loved by the world, Beco Pets."



Beco Pets' team took to the stage to collect their awards and Co-Founder Toby Massey said: "We are really proud of our Beco Poop Bags marketing campaign.

"It was a big step into the dark giving away a million poop bags, but it's massively satisfying to see it now working so well."

Beco Co-Founder George Bramble added: "I'm really proud of the team. Beco Pets has been growing fast and this award was a real team effort."

Beco are gave away one million FREE poop bags at PATS shows this year, and highlighted their 'Project Poop Bag' campaign by flying a giant green inflatable poop bag above their stand in Telford International Centre.

Measuring 20ft by 8ft, the bag certainly caught the eye of passing trade ... and visitors were relieved to hear it was just filled with helium gas - and not real poop.

Pedigree Wholesale pick up yet another major honour


Pedigree Wholesale have been crowned Wholesaler/Distributor of the Year at the PetQuip Awards for a second successive year and are determined to make it three in a row in 2016...



Pedigree Wholesale have been crowned Wholesaler/Distributor of the Year at the PetQuip Awards for a second successive year and are determined to make it three in a row in 2016.

Managing director Steve Brown said: “To win this prestigious award two years in a row is a brilliant achievement in our eyes.

"It’s recognition for all the hard work put in by a fantastic team. But rest assured, we’ll be working doubly hard to make it three year in succession.”

Pictured: Steve Brown (centre) with his team and PATS Telford organiser Gordon Thomas, who presented the award.

Below: The impressive Pedigree stand at PATS Telford.

Pet Rebellion set the standard for export sales


Pet Rebellion has worked hard at establishing a foothold in the export market...and it has paid off with a growing order book and now the title of Exporter of the Year...



Pet Rebellion has worked hard at establishing a foothold in the export market...and it has paid off with a growing order book and now the title of Exporter of the Year...

The Wiltshire-based company, which specialises in affordable pet rugs that are machine washable, picked up the prestigious award at the PetQuip Awards on Sunday.

Ray Foard, of Pet Rebellion, said: “Blimey, we didn’t expect that. Just to be shortlisted was an achievement – to win it is unbelievable. Thirty percent of our business is now international and PetQuip has helped us to grow this side of the business. We’re really pleased to win this award – it means a lot.”

And colleague Tommy Weedon, pictured above on the Pet Rebellion stand at PATS Telford, said: "We are constantly striving to deliver the highest standard of products and customer service.

"We have put in the leg work when it comes to attending overseas trade shows, and have found that international buyers like the British angle of our products. Because of that hard work, we are now receiving an overseas inquiry every week.

"At Pet Rebellion we have a strong team and it's nice to get this recognition."

Forthglade receives £6m investment in its natural pet food brand


Forthglade has this week confirmed a £6m investment from Piper, the leading specialist investor in consumer brands...



Forthglade has this week confirmed a £6m investment from Piper, the leading specialist investor in consumer brands.

Forthglade has been making high quality natural dog and cat food for over 40 years. Based in Devon, the business develops its own recipes using a combination of nutritionally balanced ingredients with added vitamins and minerals that contain no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives.

Forthglade produces its range from its own manufacturing facility and is one of the most affordable premium brands on the market. It was an early pioneer in providing grain-free products alongside its core range of natural foods and at least 95 per cent of Forthglade ingredients are sourced in the UK, many as locally as possible.

While consumers have become increasingly aware that their pets deserve to be fed as well as themselves, Forthglade’s philosophy has always been: ‘If you’re not prepared to eat it yourself, don’t feed it to your pets.’

Gerard Lovell, Joint Managing Director of Forthglade, said: "Although we were approached by other potential investors, Piper demonstrated the value it will bring to our brand and has already had a significant impact on the business. It was this, combined with the team’s undeniable passion for creating brand legends, that set Piper apart from other investors."

“The Forthglade business has come a long way over the last five years.  As a company we’ve invested heavily to support the growth of the business. These investments along with the dedication from our team, and the support from the trade, have enabled Forthglade to flourish.  We’re thrilled that the Piper team share our vision for the future,” explains Lovell.

Libby Gibson, a Partner at Piper, said: ‘We approached Forthglade having seen how passionately customers and, most importantly their pets, responded to its products. We believe there is a significant market opportunity to develop Forthglade into a household name and become the leading natural pet food brand for happy and healthy pets."

As part of the deal, food industry veteran Peter Farquhar, previously chairman of Dorset Cereals and Clipper Tea, has joined Forthglade as chairman.

Pooch & Mutt picks up worldwide packaging design award


Pooch & Mutt has been awarded Silver at the Pentawards, one of the world’s most prestigious packaging design awards. Entrants to the Pentawards came from 52 countries and five continents, with over 1,600 participants...



Pooch & Mutt has been awarded Silver at the Pentawards, one of the world’s most prestigious packaging design awards. Entrants to the Pentawards came from 52 countries and five continents, with over 1,600 participants.

Twelve judges from 10 countries, some of the most respected people in packaging design in the world, awarded Pooch & Mutt Silver for the design of the packaging for their iconic dog treats.

Having previously been held as far afield as Tokyo, Barcelona and Monaco, this year the Pentawards ceremony took place at RIBA (The Royal Institute of British Architects) in London. The award was collected by Pooch & Mutt’s founder, Guy Blaskey, who also did the packaging design. Pooch & Mutt was the only finalist in any of the award categories whose design was not created by a leading specialist packaging design agency.

Guy Blaskey commented: “The awards ceremony was quite an intimidating place to be. There were many awards handed out on the night, but relatively few recipients. The same big agencies, with world-wide reputations and offices, were winning most of the awards.

"The people in the audience were some very big names in the packaging design world… people who have designed some of the most iconic packs that we all use each and every day. Just to have Pooch & Mutt’s products included in the short list was an incredible achievement.

"The fact that we got silver is mind blowing!! As well as being the only non-design agency person in the room, I was probably the only person in the room that cared as much about what goes in the pack, as how the pack looks. Great design can get people to buy a product once, what’s in the pack needs to be as good, so that they buy it again. The quality of the product is what has really driven Pooch & Mutt’s tremendous growth over the last few years.”

All of the winners from the night including Pooch & Mutt’s treats will be published in ‘The Packaging Design Book 4’, the best of international packaging. This will be published by Taschen, the world-leader in amazing-looking books, and will be release in the autumn of 2016. Until then you can see all of the winners on the Pentawards website.

To find out more about the Pooch & Mutt treats visit www.poochandmutt.com

Record-breaking number of 2,036 visitors attend PATS


PATS Telford has broken all records with the number of visitors attending the two-day show breaking the 2,000 mark for the first time in the event’s seven-year history...



PATS Telford has broken all records with the number of visitors attending the two-day show breaking the 2,000 mark for the first time in the event’s seven-year history.

A total of 2,036 visitors came through the doors at the impressive Telford International Centre, which was 6% higher than PATS Harrogate last year.

The pet trade has given the event a massive thumbs-up with exhibitors and visitors agreeing it has been one of the best ever staged.

Retailers from both the UK and overseas filled the venue to create a surge of activity over two days of business.

The show took on a real international presence with buyers travelling from all around the globe. Mainland Europe was well represented and there were also visitors from Australia, South Africa, Saudi Arabia and Japan.

The mood amongst visitors was summed up by Sandra Sharpe, of Pets Korner in Stamford, Lincolnshire, who said: “We love the venue and the layout of the show. PATS is very important to us because it’s the place to find new products that help us to stay ahead of the competition.”

Steve Charman, co-owner of Pets Corner, flew straight in from China to make sure he could get to see the show. He commented: “I always find a visit to PATS uplifting and the move to Telford seems to have taken the show on to the next level. The layout is fantastic, making it easy for visitors to get around. There is a fantastic buzz about the exhibition hall, and it makes me feel happy to be a part of an industry that produces so many good and innovative products.”

And Gina Wilden, of HG Gladwell & Sons Ltd, commented: “I have been here for two days and there has been so much to see. The venue makes getting round easy. There has been a great atmosphere in the halls.”

The number of overseas visitors has elevated the show on an international scale, and one of the busiest areas at the show was the International Buyers’ Lounge hosted by PetQuip.

Amanda Sizer Barrett MBE, director general of PetQuip, said: “There’s been a tremendous amount of interest from our overseas buyers. We know from their feedback that they are finding products that are very different from elsewhere. PATS is a very exciting place for them to be.”

Exhibitors were quick to give their approval of the Telford venue.

Robert Nicklas of VIP Engravers said after day one: “We’ve just experienced our best-ever day at a trade show. It has been fantastic. There were lots of new faces and the quality of the visitors to our stand was of a high standard.”

Tim Darmanin, the Australian owner of K9 Dogwash, said: “Compared to shows we have in Australia this one is pretty good! The venue, the layout and the access have been great and we particularly love that everyone is so friendly and easy-going. The organization is at least as good as any of the major international shows I have been to, including Interzoo in Germany and Superzoo in Vegas – I am very impressed!”

Adam Dodkins of Tricktreat was at PATS for the very first time and admitted he didn’t know what to expect. “I’ve been very impressed and it has definitely been worth my while. It all runs very smoothly and the visitors know why they are here – to do business. I’ll be back at the next one in Sandown!”

One of the biggest attractions at the show was the New Product Showcase and Awards. And those companies who entered their new products were eager to report that people had visited their stand after spotting an item in the Showcase.

Wagner’s Premium Pet Products won the Best Cat Product Award for their Cat Igloo and Thomas Dreessen said: “We are really honoured to get this prize. I didn’t ever dream that we would win. Obviously we really like this product or we would not sell it – but to get an award for best cat product is really such an honour.”

“We are really enjoyed it here. Everyone was very friendly and the venuewas good. It is our first time here in England and we have had a really good reception. We are hoping to do a lot of business here!”

Organiser Annie Foord said: “We love running this show for the pet industry so it is fantastic to hear that exhibitors and visitors have experienced a brilliant show. It’s great to hear so many positive comments about our new venue.”

Bucktons ready to soar following ‘big reveal’


Bucktons is ready to soar following its ‘big reveal’ at this year’s PATS Telford, where it unveiled a brand new look, a unique superfood for birds and exciting new products...



Bucktons is ready to soar following its ‘big reveal’ at this year’s PATS Telford, where it unveiled a brand new look, a unique superfood for birds and exciting new products.

The brand certainly made an entrance with its bright and colourful packaging, and new aviary and wild bird care products. The move will see it appeal more closely to Britain’s pet loving population.

The launch of its unique Spiralife superfood looks set to leverage its champion heritage into new markets and see growth fly onwards and upwards. Spiralife is a natural enrichment unique to Bucktons, which enhances plumage, as well as supporting healthy immune and digestive functions, benefiting the birds’ overall health. It’s also enriched with calcium and a variety of vitamins and minerals to help keep birds happy and healthy.

The new aviary range features the new Spiralife superfood and also includes dried carrot granules for added Vitamin C. This pre-pack range benefits from re-sealable packs for added customer ease.  Range includes:

  • Bucktons Budgerigar Food
  • Bucktons Canary Food
  • Bucktons Finch Food
  • Bucktons Cockatiel and Lovebird Food
  • Bucktons Parrot Food

In addition, all the wild bird food products have been changed to a new-look packaging the following additions have been made to the range:

  • Bucktons High Energy Wild Bird Food – This high energy, no mess bird food is suitable for a wide variety of birds and can be fed all year round. It contains small seeds to make it suitable for young birds and is no mess, as all of the husks have been removed.
  • Bucktons Suet Variety Pack – A fully branded Bucktons box with easy to carry handles. This product is an ideal gift item with a variety of high energy suet products to try. Included in the box is 1kg Bucktons Mealworm Nuggets, 1kg Suet Pellets, 6 Suet Cakes (various flavours) and 24 Energy Balls conveniently packaged in 6’s. Delivers great value for consumers at £16.99, with a huge saving of £10.66 overall.
  • Bucktons Suet Pellets 12.55kg – Energy rich, high protein suet pellets are now offered in the new Bucktons packaging design, providing a VAT-Free product for great value.
  • Bucktons 150 Energy Balls – Manufactured in East Yorkshire, you can be sure of the best, consistent quality of energy balls for wild birds.  Rich in black sunflower seeds, this product is also net free for bird safety.

Rachael Dickinson, Senior Marketing Manager for Bucktons, said: “We’re delighted to have revealed our new look and our new range at this year’s PATS Telford!

“We’re ready to reach new customers, while keeping Bucktons’ traditional roots, thanks to our extensive shopper research. We also have the latest nutritional innovation, supported by educational packaging and extended product ranges, all offered exclusively to the pet trade.”

For further information, contact Richard Greenwood, Pet Sales Manager on 07976 490341 or email rgreenwood@westlandhorticulture.com

 
Successful UK launch of KrillBar by TV Vet School star

Trude Mostue, star of the BBC hit programmes Vet School and Vets in Practice, had a successful launch of her KrillBar at PATS...



Trude Mostue, star of the BBC hit programmes Vet School and Vets in Practice, had a successful launch of her KrillBar at PATS...

"I decided to launch it in the UK first of all - but I am aiming to launch in the USA and Asia too," said Trude.

"I am actually selling the KrillBar through Pets At Home and Barkers already (It's on a trial in Pets At Home), although PATS was the official launch of the KrillBra in the UK. In my opinion it is the best place to launch a pet product in the UK - and it has certainly given the product a lot of good and professional exposure.

"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."

The KrillBar is a treat and a supplement. It can be given with the dog's food or on its own, and can be used as a treatment and as a preventative supplement.

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, making dogs more resilient to infections and disease. This effect is particular obvious to dogs with chronic skin disease due to demodex (poor immune system).

Picture round-up from the pet extravanganza


There was so much to see and do over two actioned-packed days of the PATS Telford exhibition with exhibitors and visitors agreeing it was a massive success. If you weren't lucky enough to make it, here's a picture round-up from Telford...

Click here to see our picture gallery from PATS Telford


There was so much to see and do over the two days of the PATS Telford exhibition with exhibitors and visitors agreeing it was a massive success. If you weren't lucky enough to make it, here's a picture round-up from Telford...

 
PitPat launches must-have fitness product for dogs
Pet company PitPat set tails wagging at PATS Telford with the launch of its new product PitPat, the activity monitor for dogs. It was so impressive it was crowned Best Dog Accessory Product...



Pet company PitPat set tails wagging at PATS Telford with the launch of its new product PitPat, the activity monitor for dogs. It was so impressive it was crowned Best Dog Accessory Product.

Designed and manufactured in the UK, PitPat is a wearable device that easily attaches to any dog's collar and allows owners to see what activity their dog has been up to via their phone. Aiming to help tackle the growing pet obesity epidemic in the UK, the product also provides an excellent opportunity for pet retailers to tap into the high demand for wearable technology.

Small, lightweight and waterproof, PitPat continuously measures how active a dog is throughout the day and syncs with a free iOS or Android app. The app, then provides a breakdown of how much walking, running, playing and resting they've been doing and compares this to an exercise goal tailored to a dog's breed, age and weight.

Over time, owners can track progress to help keep their dog healthy and happy. The product allows owners to review how active their dog has been and offers added peace of mind for when they’re not around. Whether that’s checking up on how much exercise their dog got while they were in kennels, or how many minutes they walked with the dog walker that day.

PitPat CEO Andy Nowell comments: “Wearable technology is a huge trend that’s beginning to transfer into the pet market and we’re extremely excited to launch PitPat at PATS Telford. For retailers this is a great opportunity to tap into the growing consumer demand for pet-tech products.”

“With over half of dogs overweight in the UK, we want to give owners a fun and engaging way to keep their dog active. We also designed the product to deliver a host of unique selling points such as its one year battery life, as well as a highly competitive retail price of £39.99.”

For details about orders contact the PitPat team or Pedigree Wholesale, and to learn more about the product visit www.pitpatpet.com

 
Successful launch of Stay Over Rover
Launching a new product to the market can be a nervous proposition but Collarways are basking in the success of this year’s PATS at Telford for their new product launch of the Stay Over Rover...
Launching a new product to the market can be a nervous proposition but Collarways are basking in the success of this year’s PATS at Telford for their new product launch of the Stay Over Rover. 

The new product won Highly Commended awards in both the PATS New Product Showcase for “Dog Accessory Product 2015” and the Pet Quip Awards “Pet Product Innovation of the Year” category.

“We feel that receiving Highly Commended twice is a real coup for Stay Over Rover,” states Katie Goldsmith, Collarways Director.

"Two separate judging panels could see the gap in the market for the product and with the high level of competition we are delighted to have received both accolades.”

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 variety 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.

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. Manufactured in the UK.

www.collarways.com 0845 4568395

 
Cat Igloo is a trend setting pet bed
The Cat Igloo from Wagner's Premium Pet Products impressed the judges of the New Product Showcase at PATS Telford and was crowned Best Cat Product...


The Cat Igloo from Wagner's Premium Pet Products impressed the judges of the New Product Showcase at PATS Telford and was crowned Best Cat Product...
 
Freeze-dried treats are a hit for Fish4Dogs
Fish4Dogs picked up the Best Food and Treats honour in the New Product Showcase at PATS Telford...


Fish4Dogs picked up the Best Food and Treats honour in the New Product Showcase at PATS Telford.

The judges said: "These healthy dogs treats have health benefits and come in eye-catching packaging. They also have a great price point."
 
Exciting launch from Woof & Brew
Drinkies is the latest launch from Woof & Brew and it has proved very popular so far...


Drinkies is the latest launch from Woof & Brew and it has proved very popular so far.

The company entered it into the New Product Showcase at PATS Telford and it clinched a Highly Commended proze in the Best Dog Food & Treats category.

Woof & Brew Co-founder Steve Bennett said: “We are really very, very excited about this! We’ve entered products awards and not been recognized before, so this was a terrific surprise. And even better it’s for our very latest product.

"The fact that it’s been recognised at this early stage bodes very well for its future. We’re made up about this we really are and will definitely be using it in our publicity.

“PATS was really good for us – ots of interest and a few people have seen our products on the New Products stand which has driven them over to see us.

“It was an easy venue to park and set-up at so all-in-all it’s been a great experience.”

 
Leucillin pet care display stands out from the crowd
Leucillin's pet care products have already proved highly successful and they are set for even greater things in pet shops and vets with the introduction of an impressive display stand...
Leucillin's pet care products have already proved highly successful and they are set for even greater things in pet shops and vets with the introduction of an impressive display stand.

The display stand was entered into the Best Pet Care Product in the New Product Showcase at PATS, and impressed the judges to win the category.

The judges said: This good all-round product comes in four sizes in a lovely display stand. The product has a simple yet effective approach."
 
Orlando Fun Cage means serious business
Sky Pet Products has brought some colour to the world of cage birds with its Orlando Fun Cage...
Sky Pet Products has brought some colour to the world of cage birds with its Orlando Fun Cage.

It was voted Best Bird Product at PATS with the judges commenting: "At £29,95 this small bird cage, with colourful packaging, has a great price point."
 
K9 spray cuts down drying time
Mutney's new kwik-dry K9 spray in an excellent aid for every busy groomer and can significantly reduce drying time...
Mutney's new kwik-dry K9 spray in an excellent aid for every busy groomer and can significantly reduce drying time.

The caring formula volumises the coat, with anti-static properties. It is scented with a touch of Mutney's popular 'Baby' fragrance.

Simply just spray liberally on the dog's coat after bathing to reduce static and speed up drying time.

The judges of the New Product Showcase  were impressed, awarding it Best Grooming Product. They said: "This dog spray stands out from the crowd because of its promises to cut down the drying time of a wet dog."
 
AmPet create huge interest with K-9 Pet Ball
The Nose-It K-9 Pet Ball, a slow feeder and treat dispenser, attracted retailers and buyers to Ampet Products stand at PATS Telford...
The Nose-It K-9 Pet Ball, a slow feeder and treat dispenser, attracted retailers and buyers to Ampet Products stand at PATS Telford.

AmPet has reached an agreement with American distributors RB Animal Health to handle the UK distribution of this innovative product.

A pet's favourite dry food or treats are simply inserted into the ball. The animal will learn how to engage and be rewarded when it dispenses the contents, keeping it focused and entertained for hours on end.



Above: James Ruder (right), from RB Animal Health, joined AmPet's Alex Wilson at PATS.


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