In This Issue
HOWND products now available at Pets At Home
Pets at Home commits to paying young workers the national living wage as it posts a rise in first-half profits
Secrets of an award-winning sales rep
Natures Menu's ambitious export plan pays dividends
Major pet companies book their stands at PATS Sandown
Sourcing innovative products pays off for AmPet
PIF hails its ‘Meet the Buyers’ event as a great success
Santa Paws provides festive fun for Tamworth pets
Six 'miracle' pets up for national prize
Kinder Cat Litter launched to independent retailer market
Formula One giant set to buy American firm Petco
How to compile a professional CV, from a recruitment expert
Cornwall charity to build new home for abused marmosets
Specialist pet food firm goes quackers
The hippest celebration at London Vet Show
Accapi secure new appointment for outdoor market
China to build world’s biggest ‘cloning factory’ to mass-produce pet dogs
Allowing pets in bedroom at night is good for sleep
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HOWND products now available at Pets At Home


HOWND - the makers of ethical products for happy hounds - have announced that their leading product ranges are now available in Pets At Home...


HOWND - the makers of ethical products for happy hounds - have announced that their leading product ranges are now available in Pets At Home.


The company’s entire cruelty free range of conditioning shampoos and body mists are now the premium dog grooming brand stocked in Pets At Home stores nationwide.

Claire Gavin, Head of Innovation at Pets at Home, said: "I've been speaking with Mark and Jo for a while now and am delighted that, following all the development work that has resulted in the fabulous HOWND brand, we have been able to list the range in our stores.

"We're excited by the performance of the body mists in particular. At Pets at Home we love to work with forward thinking, innovative suppliers like Jo and Mark who have strong beliefs and values. Not only does the ethically produced HOWND range of cruelty free conditioning shampoos and body mists look and smell lovely, their Leaping Bunny certification gives an important and real point of difference that our customers and their dogs love."

This deal with the country’s largest retail chain will help create the necessary capital for HOWND to fund new product development, advancing their ambition of creating ethical products across a variety of pet applications.

“We’re exceptionally pleased to see our conditioning shampoos and body mists positioned in a prime location at Pets At Home. It’s a fantastic way for us to introduce the HOWND brand to thousands of UK dog lovers, and is an important growth milestone,” explains Jo Amit, co-founder of HOWND. 

“As one of only a select few dog grooming brands to be certified by Cruelty Free International, being in Pets At Home gives us a unique opportunity to lead the UK pet industry by example. In order to become certified by the Cruelty Free International Leaping Bunny programme, companies are required to open their supply chain to monitoring and meet external audit requirements."


HOWND’s range of 250ml conditioning shampoos consists of five products (RRP £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 (RRP £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 range of products, visit www.dogslovehownd.com or call a member of the team on +44 (0)20 3004 5255.
Pets at Home commits to paying young workers the national living wage as it posts a rise in first-half profits


Pets at Home has promised to pay all its staff the national living wage when the new minimum rates come into force next April. The pet supplies chain, which reported a better-than-expected 11.8% rise in pre-tax profits to £45.2m for the six months to 8 October, said the introduction of the NLW would cost it an extra £2m to £3m a year...



Pets at Home has promised to pay all its staff the national living wage when the new minimum rates come into force next April.

The pet supplies chain said the introduction of the NLW would cost it an extra £2m to £3m a year.

In a trading update for the 28 week period from March 27 to October 8, the retailer revealed pre-tax profit growth of 11.8% to £45.2m, on revenues of £404.5m, a total growth of 6%

Like-for-like sales grew 1.8%twith EBITDA growth of 5.1% to £60.7m and margin 15%.

During the period, it rolled out an additional six Pets at Home stores, taking the total number of stores to 405.

It added two Barkers stores, the group’s dogs-only store, which it launched last year, bringing the trial format to a total of three, while it also opened 15 vet practices and launched 10 grooming salons.

The retailer’s VIP Club reached 3.9m members, up from 3.2m at the end of FY15.

Its online orders for collection in-store increased to over 45% of total online revenues.

Nick Wood, chief executive, said: “Our core strategic drivers remain strong and I am pleased with the progress we have made in the first half of the year, highlighted by a 13.4 per cent rise in earnings per share.

“Pet services have again grown significantly, benefitting from sustained organic growth in both our vet and grooming businesses, together with encouraging results from the acquisition of our first specialist referral hospital. In Merchandise we continue to lead the market and grow our share in Advanced Nutrition foods.

“We have strengthened the business further through the implementation of our new divisional structure, whilst investment in our colleagues and seamless shopping experience continues to build our competitive and strategic strength.”

Looking forward to next year, the group aims to rollout 20-25 Pets at Home stores, five Barkers , 55-60 grooming salons and 50-55 vet practices.

The group announced an interim dividend of 2p per share, growth of 11.1%.
 
Secrets of an award-winning sales rep
Symply Canagan's director of sales Aimee Cinderby has earned the title of Sales Representative of the Year in the Pet Industry Awards. This week she reveals to Pet Trade Xtra how she became so good at her job...

Symply Canagan's director of sales Aimee Cinderby has earned the title of Sales Representative of the Year in the Pet Industry Awards. This week she reveals to Pet Trade Xtra how she became so good at her job...

How long have you been working in sales?
I have been a sales rep since I was 19. Eighteen years ago my first job was selling Karndean flooring.

How long have you worked in the pet industry?
I joined the pet industry in 2002.

What did you do before joining Simply Canagan?
I sold Nutro for the UK distributor, Premium Pet Foods.

What does this award mean to you?
Winning this award means everything to me. I am extremely passionate about my job, I work so hard every day, I have great relationships with my customers and I feel very proud to be chosen out of all of the sales reps in the pet trade.

What are the secrets of your success?
Always do what you say you're going to do, don't let people down. Be efficient. Answer phone calls and emails at any time of the day or night.

How do you stand out from the crowd?
I am passionate, enthusiastic, extremely self motivated, conscientious and hard working

What's it like to work for Symply Canagan?
I couldn't sell any other brand of pet food. I totally believe in our products and company ethics of supporting the independent pet trade.

Do you own pets yourself?
Yes, I have five dogs (one cocker spaniel and four Dobermanns), seven cats, one cockatiel and a budgie! I love my pets and this also helps my role because I can speak from experience.

How do you top this?
Being recognised for working hard is a fantastic achievement. If it happens again then that would be awesome but I love what I do – going to work each day is a pleasure.

What next for Aimee Cinderby?
I just want to continue to help grow the independent pet trade by doing my job to the best of my abilities. By pet shops selling our brands they are securing their future because we do not supply internet discounters, grocery or national superstore chains.



Aimee receives her Pet Industry Award from actor Brian Blessed and PIF CEO Nigel Baker.

Natures Menu's ambitious export plan pays dividends


Natures Menu has been working hard at redeveloping its export strategy over the past 12 months and its raw and natural pet foods are now sold in more than a dozen European countries. And the Norfolk-based company's exploits have been recognised after being named Exporter of the Year at the Pet Industry Awards...



Natures Menu has been working hard at redeveloping its export strategy over the past 12 months and its raw and natural pet foods are now sold in more than a dozen European countries.

And the Norfolk-based company's exploits have been recognised after being named Exporter of the Year at the Pet Industry Awards.

Under the direction of Business Development Director Peter Roy, the appointment of Ann Kathrin Lösenbeck as Export Manager at the end of 2014 enabled Natures Menu to better target new territories and support existing relationships.

The company's raw and natural pet foods are now stocked and sold in Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, The Netherlands, Latvia, Greece, Slovenia, Italy, Spain, Portugal and Croatia. Not forgetting that in September 2014 they opened for business as Natures Menu GmbH in Bremen, Germany, which operates as a direct model of their successful UK business.

“Our export strategy is based on population, GDP and average income per household. Since 2012 we have seen our export business grow from £116k to £1m. This is on target to increase to £3m in 2015/16. Existing export countries Netherlands (17m population), Norway (5.1m), Denmark (5.6m) have grown by 324% this year alone,” says Peter Roy.

“Over this year we will have invested £2m in manufacturing equipment, an £1m in marketing and £250k in business systems which went live in January. This infrastructure investment, along with improvements to company structuring and new staff, has enabled us to work more efficiently and will allow us to manufacture comfortably for the next six years on our current growth rate. It also ensures that we can support growth, meet demand and strengthen developments with our export partners separately to our home turf targets.”

Natures Menu’s Head of Marketing Emily Cannon is currently working on a £40k investment to provide export partners with bespoke digital assets, to support sales and brand awareness in new territories.

“Whilst we are not selling online we appreciate the need to develop an online presence which provides further details on our range of products and advice and guidance on raw feeding. We are currently working on eight new European brochure websites which will be live by Easter 2016."

Natures Menu actively support their export customers through direct contact with those in the business that are responsible for NPD, Marketing, Operations and Specialist Areas i.e. veterinary channels and education.

Emily added: “It is vital that we treat each territory individually so we can fully appreciate the markets and consumer behavior within them. For us to succeed as a brand in new and existing territories we must continue to invest in this approach, and provide the support and materials required."

Major pet companies book their stands at PATS Sandown


PATS Sandown is set to be a must-visit event for pet retailers and buyers as the industry’s leading companies show their commitment to the exhibition on March 22-23, 2016...



PATS Sandown is set to be a must-visit event for pet retailers and buyers as the industry’s leading companies show their commitment to the exhibition on March 22-23, 2016.

Bookings for the Sandown Park showpiece are impressive with more than 100 firms having already secured their stand space.

Previous exhibitors have made sure they have re-booked early with top brands like Barking & Meowing Heads, Beaphar, Bern Pet Foods, Burns Pet Nutrition, Ferplast, Flexi, Lennox, Lovejoys, Marriages, Pedigree Wholesale, Royal Canin/James Wellbeloved, Sharples and Grant, Trixie, and Wagg committed to the event.

There will also be host of new and international exhibitors choosing to exhibit their 2016 launches at PATS Sandown. Companies like Kevin Milner Countryside and Shires Equestrian, plus Petitamis, from Italy, and Schulze Heimtierbedarf, from Germany, have confirmed their attendance.

“It’s great to know that the pet industry continues to get right behind PATS Sandown,” said organiser Annie Foord. “Visitors to the show can be assured they will get to see and speak to the leading names in the industry. Early indications point towards lots of new products being launched at the show.”

Rob Harvey Specialist Feeds are returning to PATS after a seven-year absence and are hoping to impress a growing number of pet retailers with their wide range of bird food.

“Over the last four years we have been importing bird related products from all over the world, and because the bird category seems to be a growth area for the pet trade, exhibiting at PATS Sandown seems the sensible option for us. It’s the ideal place for us to showcase our massive range,” says Rob Harvey.

Kevin Milner Countryside is a firm specialising in outdoor photography, which already supplies a number of pet stores with a range of greetings card containing animal images.

“PATS Sandown was recommended to me by a pet store as the best place for the company to present its products to a wider audience,” admits Kevin Milner. “I’m hoping to sign up more pet shops, garden centres and wholesalers to stock our extensive range of greetings cards.”

Dirk Schulze, of Schulze Heimtierbedarf, has signed up to exhibit at PATS Sandown because he believes the UK is the biggest market outside the US for dog and cat products.

“I like the layout of PATS because the organisers make it easy for visitors to check out the latest products, and everything is under one roof,” says Dirk.

One of PATS Sandown’s most popular features is the New Product Showcase, which continues to grow in size each year. All entries in the Showcase will be judged by a panel of pet retailers for the New Product Awards on the first morning of the show. The results will be known and highlighted throughout the halls for the rest of the exhibition.

To help make the visitor experience even more enjoyable and rewarding, both the Surrey and Esher Halls have their own entrances and registration points, with visitors benefitting from free show entry, free parking, a free catalogue and many special offers. There will also be a full programme of free seminars.

To register for free entry to the show and to view the full list of exhibitors visit www.patshow.co.uk

Sourcing innovative products pays off for AmPet

UK retailer interest in the wide-range of AmPet Products has grown impressively over the past year and the trend is set to continue in 2016...



UK retailer interest in the wide-range of AmPet Products has grown impressively over the past year and the trend is set to continue in 2016.

The Nottinghamshire-based company, which introduces innovative products to the UK from leading American suppliers as well as other major countries around the globe, will be seeking out more bestsellers at Global Expo in March.

And AmPet’s sales and marketing director Alex Wilson (pictured above) will also be sourcing new products he can introduce to UK pet shops.

“Over the past few years we’ve secured exclusive UK distributor rights to some fantastic American products and we’re determined to continue this trend in 2016,” says Alex.

With Global taking place in March it will be a busy time for Alex and the AmPet team, who will also be exhibiting at PATS Sandown as well as attending Crufts.

Alex will be hoping to repeat the success of 2015, which has seen the successful introduction of the DOOG range, which includes dog-walking and running belts, collars and leads, treat pouches and bags.

The AKC Calming Coat has been another successful launch this year. The Calming Coat, endorsed by the American Kennel Club, is an easy and cost effective solution in the treatment of 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.

“We introduced the Calming Coat to the UK at PATS Telford and it created a lot of interest because it’s a very effective alternative to other anxiety shirts on the market,” says Alex.

The Nose-It K-9 Pet Ball, a slow feeder and treat dispenser from American distributors RB Animal Health, also created a lot of interest at PATS Telford.

“It’s certainly been a busy time for AmPet Products,” adds Alex. “But all the hard work is worth it when our new launches become bestsellers in the UK.

“Pet retailers can be certain that we’ll be working even harder to introduce  more fantastic products in 2016.”

If you’re interested in stocking products from AmPet contact Alex Wilson or Debbie Fitton on 0330 088 1673, email info@ampet.dog or view the range at www.ampet.dog.

PIF hails its ‘Meet the Buyers’ event as a great success


The Pet Industry Federation hosted one of the largest Meet the Buyers events for the UK pet industry at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Liverpool, ahead of its Forum & Awards event. A total of 37 manufacturers attended and each one had the opportunity to meet 13 different buyers from the UK and overseas...



The Pet Industry Federation hosted one of the largest Meet the Buyers events for the UK pet industry at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Liverpool, ahead of its Forum & Awards event.

A total of 37 manufacturers attended and each one had the opportunity to meet 13 different buyers from the UK and overseas, representing over £2bn of pet industry buying power.

Manufacturers brought their products and marketing material and were given five minutes with each buyer to ‘sell’ their product. Products ranged from bedding, raw food, dog bowls and bird food, to cages, collars, leads and small animal feed. UKTI also attended the event to offer advice to manufacturers looking to develop their export provision.

A successful networking dinner then took place in the evening at the Atlantic Tower hotel with views over the River Mersey where conversations and opportunities to create new business links could continue in a more relaxed environment.

Claire Gavin, Head of Innovation & Brands at Pets at Home, said: "We thoroughly enjoyed PIF’s Meet the Buyer event and picked up some really good new leads as a result.  Our industry has a lot of amazing people and many great characters in it and getting to spend time with many of them was fabulous."

Rebecca Davies, from J R Pet Products, said: "An invaluable opportunity to meet manufacturers and buyers from both the UK and Europe. The networking possibilities are endless - one not to be missed!"

Scott Charnock, from Igloo Pets Ltd, added: "This was the perfect relaxed forum for having the buyers’ undivided attention and extremely good quality conversations, without struggling to try and get appointments."

Nigel Baker, PIF CEO, summed up the mood, saying: "PIF’s ‘Meet the Buyers’ event showed just how dynamic and exciting the UK pet industry is. With so many different products on show and a range of buyers keen to pick up new and innovative products for their stores, the buzz in the room was palpable.

"The feedback received has been extremely positive with both manufacturers and buyers getting so much from this concentrated afternoon of business-making. We had a waiting list of manufacturers who had hoped to attend this year, so we are already looking ahead and planning for 2016."

For further details, visit www.petfederation.co.uk

Santa Paws provides festive fun for Tamworth pets


Pets in Tamworth are being urged to get into the festivities – with a trip to see Santa Paws in his grotto at Planters Garden Centre...



Pets in Tamworth are being urged to get into the festivities – with a trip to see Santa Paws in his grotto.

As well as the annual Santa's grotto for families of the human kind, Planters Garden Centre, in Trinity Road, Freasley, will be hosting a special two-day event called 'Santa Paws' – where pets can visit the man himself, as well as get a photo and a gift.

Debbie Toddington, Sky Trail and events co-ordinator for Planters, said: "The Santa Paws grotto was introduced last year and is back by popular demand.

"The event was only advertised on Facebook last year and we had over 50 people turn up with their pets on the day.

"This year we decided to put on two events on December 15 and December 16, 10am to 4pm. We've sold over 100 tickets already and I reckon we will be sold out soon."

Tickets must be booked online at www.plantersgc.com or by calling 01827 831981.
Six 'miracle' pets up for national prize
Public vote to decide winner of PDSA Pet Survivor Awards


A Staffie dog shot through the head with a crossbow and a Pointer run over by a 50mph lorry are among six miracle pets are up for the coveted title of PDSA Pet Survivor 2015...

A Staffie dog shot through the head with a crossbow and a Pointer run over by a 50mph lorry are among six miracle pets are up for the coveted title of PDSA Pet Survivor 2015.

The brave cats and dogs came forward after the vet charity issued a nationwide search for pets who had beaten incredible odds to survive death by a whisker.

The finalists (in no particular order!) are:
  • Honey the cat – was blasted in the face with a marble-sized metal ball-bearing
  • Ozzy the cat – lost his leg after being attacked by a dog
  • Penny the Pointer – lived to tell the tale after a 50mph collision with a lorry
  • Ruby the kitten – suffered severe chemical burns to her head and back
  • Suki the Miniature Schnauzer – was left with prolapsed intestines after a dog attack
  • Ziggy the Staffie – survived being shot through the head with a crossbow
Leading vet charity, PDSA, received hundreds of nominations following a nationwide call for entries. PDSA Vet Vicki Larkham-Jones, said: “We sifted through many extraordinary and emotional stories so it was a very difficult choice. We selected six pets whose tales encapsulate true survival spirit, their owners’ dedication and the expertise of the vet teams who helped save their lives.”

The winner will be decided by a public vote, which opens on the charity’s website today (26 Nov) – www.pdsa.org.uk/petsurvivor.

PDSA Pet Survivor 2015 – meet the six finalists



Honey the cat, from South Ockendon, Essex
Honey was rushed to Basildon PDSA Pet Hospital after being found covered in blood by her owner, Albert Cook. Vets made an appalling discovery – x-rays showed a huge ball-bearing was lodged in her skull. Poor Honey had been shot in the face. It was touch-and-go whether she would survive, but her survival instinct was strong. It took months of operations to rebuild her shattered eye socket and jaw, during which she had to be fed through a tube. Honey lost her eye but doesn’t let that hold her back, and is now back home with her loving owners.
 
Ozzy the cat, from St Helens, Merseyside
Ginger cat Ozzy fled in terror after being attacked by a dog near his home. His owner Hayley Sharples searched for 36 hours before finding Ozzy – he was barely alive but had somehow managed to crawl home. His owner took him to Huyton PDSA Pet Hospital in Liverpool, his front leg was badly fractured and he had a large gash on his front; he was very lucky to be alive. Vets attempted to save his leg but the bones wouldn’t knit and eventually it had to be amputated. Everyone was amazed at how quickly Ozzy bounced back from his ordeal and he gets around on three legs with no problems.
 
Penny the Pointer, from Leeming Bar, North Yorkshire
After escaping from her home one evening, Penny found herself on the A1 motorway where a lorry ploughed into her at around 50mph and left her for dead. A couple in the car behind witnessed the incident, and, on discovering Penny, provided her with vital warmth and safety. Skeldale Vets answered the emergency call and on seeing Penny’s shattered shoulder, knew she required urgent surgery. Unable to trace her owner, the vet decided to go ahead with the complex operation, finishing at 2am having decided he would cover the cost if no owner was found.  Meanwhile Elaine McGregor, Penny’s owner, had been searching for her all night and was finally reunited later that morning. Months of cage rest followed, but Penny’s leg was saved and she can run like the wind again!
 
Ruby the kitten, from Portsmouth
Found as a stray with severe burns, thought to have been caused by chemicals, this tiny kitten was taken to Portsmouth PDSA Pet Hospital. Her life hung in the balance: she was clearly in pain but her bright and courageous nature shone through. Natalie Lodge, who was a Veterinary Care Assistant at the hospital, fell in love and offered the kitten a home, naming her Ruby.  She needed weeks of treatment at PDSA, then continued to be nursed back to health in her new forever home. She has made a remarkable recovery and her fur is almost completely grown back, although some is now white.
 
Suki the Miniature Schnauzer, from Sunderland
After suffering a terrifying dog attack while out on a walk, Suki was rushed to Gateshead PDSA Pet Hospital’s out-of-hours service. Vets warned her distraught owner, Mrs Marjorie Nicholson, to prepare for the worst. A three-hour operation repaired the extensive damage, which included prolapsed intestines, a broken jaw, ruptured spleen and bruised lungs. Vets even found a tooth from the attacker embedded in her abdomen. Remarkably, Suki pulled through, although she still required months of treatments at Sunderland PDSA Pet Hospital to fully recover. But she was a perfect patient and is still as friendly and outgoing to other dogs as she was before her ordeal.


 
Ziggy the Staffie, from Watford, Hertfordshire
Ziggy was found wandering alone in woodland with a horrific injury – a crossbow was lodged through his head. He was rushed to nearby Vets4Pets in Peterborough where, incredibly, he was still bright and friendly! X-rays revealed the projectile had missed all vital nerves and blood vessels in his head – a one-in-a-million chance. After alerting the RSPCA, the vet conducted the delicate operation to remove the crossbow bolt and, just two weeks later, it was hard to tell anything had happened at all. It is suspected that Ziggy had been deliberately shot, but had turned his head at the last second then run away. Ziggy has since found a loving ‘forever home’ with Dominic O’Hare and Anna Burton-Wood, and couldn’t be happier.

Sean Wensley, a PDSA Senior Vet and current President of the British Veterinary Association (BVA) also helped to judge the competition. Commenting on the finalists, Sean said: “Reading these extraordinary cases makes me proud to represent such a hard-working and dedicated profession. Vets, vet nurses and support staff save the lives of much-loved pets like these every day. The tragic and painful circumstances endured by these pets, along with the devotion shown by their owners, makes them all worthy contenders.”

The competition was open to pets treated by a vet in the UK between 01 August 2014 and 1 August 2015. Only one vote per person is allowed, the winner will receive the coveted Pet Survivor trophy and a year’s free PDSA pet insurance. Voting closes at midnight on 13 December 2015.

See www.pdsa.org.uk/petsurvivor for details.
 
Kinder Cat Litter launched to independent retailer market
A new highly efficient cat litter has been launched, targeting independent retailers who cater to the more discerning cat owner...


A new highly efficient cat litter has been launched, targeting independent retailers who cater to the more discerning cat owner.

One of KernelKat cat litter’s key selling points is its distinct advantage of being flushable down any domestic toilet, as it is made from biodegradable, environmentally friendly corn kernels.

Thanks to a unique production process and the innovative use of one of nature’s most effective capillary systems, the litter is proven to last much longer than other eco or non-eco cat litters – saving money for cat owners and encouraging regular repeat business for stores.

Exclusively available to independent and boutique stores, KernelKat will not be sold in major supermarkets and chain retailers, ensuring its independent retail customers are provided with a niche premium product, competitive wholesale prices and a typical 40 per cent margin after VAT.

Gary Wheway, founder of KernelKat, said: “This litter will prove a huge hit with eco-aware animal lovers who only want the best for their cats. We’ve already had great feedback from our pilot testers in catteries, animal rescue centres, and members of the public who valued its outstanding odour control and unrivalled absorbency.

“When the litter is used, liquid is absorbed into ‘clumps’, which cat owners then remove - rather than replenishing the entire tray and wasting product. It also eradicates tracking, meaning cats do not tread messy litter across clean carpets and floors.”



Independently tested by Genon Laboratories in West Yorkshire, the litter is also proven to effectively eliminate the risk of formation of aflatoxin, the naturally occurring fungus that can occur on some eco cat litters and that is seriously dangerous if digested by felines.

KernelKat is displayed in bright, eye-catching, recyclable packaging, designed to stand out on shelves. Retailers are also supported with an instore media kit including shelf strips, barkers, wobblers, and an optional FSDU unit. KernelKat is also promoted through an extensive national social media and PR campaign, ramping up consumer demand and creating a community of eco-aware cat owners who do not settle for anything less than the best products for their pets.

KernelKat Natural is the first scent available in the UK and is distributed throughout Europe by Woodside AC Trading Ltd, with new fragrances due to be released in early 2016.

Products are now available to order in a range of recyclable bag sizes, including bright, eye-catching green 5l, 10l and 20l packs. Purchasing options vary to suit the retailer, with additional drop ship support for retailers with e-commerce sales channels available upon request.

For more information visit www.kernelkat.co.uk or email enquiries@kernelkat.co.uk
 
Formula One giant set to buy American firm Petco
CVC, the private equity giant that owns Formula One, has agreed a deal with Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB) to buy US pet supplies retailer Petco for $4.6bn (£3.04bn).

CVC, the private equity giant that owns Formula One, has agreed a deal with Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB) to buy US pet supplies retailer Petco for $4.6bn (£3.04bn).

CVC will jointly aquire the company, which is the second largest petcare supplier in the US, from a group of investors led by TPG and Leonard Green & Partners.

An earlier merger bid from US market leader PetSmart stalled last month thanks to competition and antitrust concerns.

James Myers, Petco’s chief executive, said: "As the North American pet industry continues to grow, Petco is well positioned with a strong brand, differentiated engagement model, and omnichannel strategy.

"Both CVC and CPPIB have outstanding track records and deep retail experience and resources that will help support our growth initiatives."

The deal is expected to close early next year.

“Petco is clearly a leader in the industry, with strong further growth potential and a talented leadership team,” said Chris Stadler, CVC managing partner. “The pet category is a growing and dynamic space within which we believe Petco is ideally positioned to enhance its leadership position.”

 
How to compile a professional CV, from a recruitment expert
Pet Trade Solutions founder Lynda Ward says that job candidates need to ensure their CVs are short, sweet and succinct...

Pet Trade Solutions founder Lynda Ward says that job candidates need to ensure their CVs are short, sweet and succinct.

Lynda, who utilises her 30 years’ experience in the trade for dedicated recruitment and marketing solutions, says: “Whilst it’s understandable that people want to include as much information as possible, pages and pages of material are quite simply a turn-off to staff-seekers.

"In today’s fast-paced world a shop window needs to grab the attention of passers-by...and that’s exactly what a CV should do - grab attention and display its ‘wares’ attractively in an easy to assimilate way.” 

Lynda’s top tips:

  • Keep the CV to two pages
  • Tailor it specifically to the role applied for
  • List achievements as bullet-points
  • Elaborate most on the responsibilities of relevant roles

She concludes with this top tip: “Take a leaf from EU and USA candidates and include a good head and shoulders photo – they do so as a matter of course.”

Lynda is always happy to personally advise on any aspects of recruitment and marketing strategy and can be contacted on 07946 743784 or at lyndaward@pettradesolutions.com

 
Cornwall charity to build new home for abused marmosets
A charity is appealing for funds to build a rescue facility for abused and neglected marmoset monkeys kept as pets in the UK...
A charity is appealing for funds to build a rescue facility for abused and neglected marmoset monkeys kept as pets in the UK.

The centre, at The Monkey Sanctuary in Looe, South East Cornwall, will offer the monkeys specialist care and attention to help them recover from the trauma they have suffered.

It is estimated that there are 5,000 primates kept as pets in the UK, with the charity Wild Futures receiving an increasing number of calls concerning pet marmosets.

Wild Futures has long been campaigning to end the primate pet trade in the country and say the tiny, tropical monkeys are the most common victims of inappropriate care.

The charity claims monkey breeders have been known to snatch infants from their mothers to sell them as pets for up to £1,200.

A lack of knowledge about their specialised needs often leads to serious physical and psychological suffering, it says.

“We urgently need to raise the funds to be able to build a new facility to offer marmosets a home at our Sanctuary,” said Kim Nicholson, primate keeper.

“We receive many calls to take them, so we know that they are out there and they desperately need rescuing.

“Due to a lack of re-homing space here in the UK, we fear that these individuals are often sold on, to continue a life of suffering in the pet trade.

“We are asking for people to pledge their support and make a donation, which really will change the lives of these tiny monkeys.”

The charity recently brought two marmosets, named Millie and Speedy, to safety.

Speedy’s owner was working overseas and left the monkey in a small, empty birdcage in a warehouse on an industrial estate.

He had a scrap of cloth on the floor of his cage to sleep on and was fed a diet of banana custard, which led to a life-threatening episode of hyperglycaemia.

Millie’s owners moved out of rented accommodation, leaving Millie and other pets behind.

She was living on her own in a small cage in a windowless, draughty hallway and denied access to UV light – essential for healthy bones.

Millie was overweight due to a poor diet and a lack of exercise.

Marmoset monkeys are an intelligent, social species that naturally live in extended family groups in the rainforests of Brazil.

The £60,000 facility will involve a brand new complex of spacious indoor and outdoor enclosures to accommodate rescued marmosets in social groups.

There will be a stimulating three-dimensional environment, with natural vegetation, branches, ropes, platforms and hiding places.

Previously lonely, isolated monkeys will be able to spend their days socialising with others of their own kind.

For more information visit www.wildfutures.org/marmoset-appeal
 
Specialist pet food firm goes quackers
Specialist dog food company CSJ has agreed to sponsor Meirion Owen and his unique Quack Pack....



Specialist dog food company CSJ has agreed to sponsor Meirion Owen and his unique Quack Pack.

Meirion is an accomplished and well-respected sheepdog handler, judge and event organizer and his Quack Pack provides hilariously entertaining duck herding demonstrations for the general public and corporate clients. 

The Quack Pack team of Border Collies and comical Indian Runner ducks provide entertaining, educational and interactive displays at local, regional and national shows, as well as private events.

Meirion's duck herding demonstrations are designed to showcase the amazing talents of Border Collies and the communication between handler and dog.

He provides his own humorous commentary as he uses a combination of commands to guide his dogs and cooperative (and sometimes uncooperative) Indian Runner ducks around a course that includes tunnels, slides and pens.

Watch Meirion’s demonstrations and you will be amazed at the wisdom of the Quack Pack Border Collies and experience first-hand what "Come Bye," "Away," "Walk" and "Stand" mean to a Border Collie.



Indian Runner Ducks are used for the Quack Pack. These are an extraordinary looking duck with quite short legs and a tall, upright body - much like a penguin. They can be up to 14” tall and can weigh around 3 to 5 lbs. As their name suggests, they run rather than waddle.

The Quack Pack Indian Runner Ducks have instant appeal as they are very social, comical, daring, have endless amounts of energy, and are eager to please in every performance.

CSJ’s Ceri Rundle says: “We know Meirion well and are delighted to be able to support such a fun, popular and innovative activity which showcases Meirion’s skills as a handler and the Border Collie breed’s superlative capabilities.”

For more information contact meirion.owen@virgin.net, call 01267 290282 or visit www.csjk9.com

 
The hippest celebration at London Vet Show
The British Veterinary Association and Kennel Club joined together for a celebration at the London Vet Show today to mark 50 years since the launch of the scheme to screen for hip dysplasia in dogs...


The British Veterinary Association and Kennel Club joined together for a celebration at the London Vet Show today to mark 50 years since the launch of the scheme to screen for hip dysplasia in dogs.
 
The Hip Dysplasia Scheme was the first of four Canine Health Schemes, now operated by BVA and the KC, to help responsible breeders identify those dogs that have few or no signs of disease so that the best possible choices can be made as part of a responsible breeding programme. These include health schemes for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, inherited eye diseases and chiari-malformation/syringomyelia.
 
BVA President Sean Wensley said: “Hundreds of thousands of dogs have benefited from the scheme, which helps breeders identify those dogs with the healthiest hips so that the best possible choices can be made as part of a responsible breeding programme.
 
“Next year will be another big step forward for the schemes with the introduction of digital applications making it easier than ever for vets to submit x-rays and to ensure only healthy dogs are used for mating. In order to continue the good work, we are asking vets and owners to ensure all relevant diagnostic x-rays are submitted to the Canine Health Schemes, not just those showing healthier hips, so that we have an accurate picture of what is happening across all of the different breeds.”
 
Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary, said: “In the fifty years since its development, many responsible breeders have utilised the scheme to screen for hip dysplasia in dogs, which has had a tremendously positive effect on dog health overall.  The scheme allows breeders to make responsible breeding choices, which will go a long way to protecting and maintaining dog health in years to come, and the Kennel Club and BVA are both proud of what the scheme has so far achieved.”
 
Celebrations were held at the Kennel Club stand and included celebratory words from BVA President Sean Wensley, treats and a “hip-hip-hooray” for the Canine Health Schemes from everyone present.
 
Accapi secure new appointment for outdoor market
Accapi Group - European distributor of Ruffwear, Planet Dog and Kurgo - has appointed Gillian Hammersley as UK Sales Manager...

Accapi Group - European distributor of Ruffwear, Planet Dog and Kurgo - has welcomed Gillian Hammersley to the team, strengthening its UK sales force following the successful extension of a £20m deal with adventure dog brand Ruffwear.

Gillian, who is joining Accapi as UK Sales Manager, will be a strategic driver in exploiting new market opportunities and expanding their already rapid growth.

Gillian’s background at Lifemarque Ltd, Bradshaw Taylor and Blacks Leisure Group has provided her with over ten years of account management and sales experience. Plus, having recently set up her own dog walking business, she spoke of the opportunity at Accapi as a ‘perfect fit’ for her passion and skill set.

Her appointment comes following the successful renewal of Accapi Group’s contract with USA brand Ruffwear, a global leader in outdoor dog gear. Following record growth of 130% in 2014/15, Accapi have renegotiated a five-year agreement as Ruffwear’s exclusive European distributor only 18 months into their current contract, with the value of the deal for Accapi increasing to £20m.

China to build world’s biggest ‘cloning factory’ to mass-produce pet dogs
China is planning to avoid a predicted food shortage by building the world’s biggest cloning factory to produce up to a million cloned cow embryos every year. As well as creating cows for food, the plant will also clone racehorses, sniffer dogs and canine pets...
China is planning to avoid a predicted food shortage by building the world’s biggest cloning factory to produce up to a million cloned cow embryos every year.

In a project costing 200 million yuan (nearly £21 million), Chinese biotechnology firm BoyaLife is building a factory in Tianjin, China to mass-produce the animals. As well as creating cows for food, the plant will also clone racehorses, sniffer dogs and canine pets.

The factory is due to open in the first half of 2016. Aware that they are making history, the site in Tianjin will also include a museum, an exhibition hall and a gene storage area.

 “Chinese farmers are struggling to produce enough beef cattle to meet market demand,” said Xu Xiaochun, board chairman of the Boyalife Group.

Commercial cloning is a relatively new practice in China, dating back to only 2014. The BoyaLife project will take this to the next level.
 
Allowing pets in bedroom at night is good for sleep
Allowing pets in the bedroom during night doesn’t always disrupt sleep but can be beneficial too, shows a study...
Allowing pets in the bedroom during night doesn’t always disrupt sleep but can be beneficial too, shows a study.

To study the influence of pets on sleep, researchers from Arizona interviewed 150 people registered at the Centre for Sleep Medicine at the Mayo Clinic in Arizona.

Almost half of the participants had pets, more than half allowed their pet to sleep in their bedroom and 31 pet owners had more than one animal in their homes.

Fifteen participants reported pet-related sleep disturbances in the bedroom caused by wandering, snoring, whimpering of pets.

Thirty-one participants felt that the presence of animals helped them sleep better as they provided comfort and companionship or served as bed warmers.

The study was published in Mayo Clinic proceedings
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