New research claims that wet pet food in cans and pouches is nearly seven times as bad for the environment as commercial dry food.

The survey by researchers at Sao Paulo University in Brazil found that wet pet food production created 690% more greenhouse gas emissions than dry food production.

“Our study demonstrates that the production of pet food in Brazil has an important environmental impact, and this is certainly similar in other countries,” said a spokesperson.

“Calorie for calorie, the production of wet food for dogs and cats creates 690% more greenhouse gas emissions than making dry kibble does, because of the higher animal protein content. For a 10-kilogram dog eating wet food, this could mean an annual carbon ‘pawprint’ roughly equal to the human footprint with regards to food consumption.”

The researchers studied the production of more than 900 types of dog and cat food. They looked at the 212 ingredients used in total across all the products and used existing databases to work out the environmental effects of their production. This included greenhouse gas emissions, sulphur produced and the land and water used to farm and breed the animals that go into the food.

They then worked out the environmental impact per 1,000 kilocalories of food.

The results found that producing the food for an average 10kg dog on dry kibble would create about 830kg of carbon dioxide (CO2) per year. If the same dog were on a wet-food diet, the CO2 emissions to create that food would be about 6,500kg.

The study suggested that pet food manufacturers should consider using alternative protein sources such as mealworms.

Pet Trade Xtra contacted UK Pet Food, which said it would consider the research findings before issuing a comment.

Award-winning Redpaw Pet Supplies is moving into new premises next week and its new location is only two minutes from the current store.

Owner Sammie Hunt said: “The new store will be opening to the public from next Thursday (December 1) at 10am. 

“The biggest benefit is it is facing onto the main road and is three-times larger than our current shop. The current shop is being turned into a storage unit and office area.”

Redpaw Pet Supllies, voted UK Retailer of the Year in 2018 at the PIF Awards, is moving from Unit 19, 62 Valley Road, Plympton, Devon, to Unit 41g Valley Rd, just two minutes away.

So what’s new at the new store?

“I have a purpose built nutritional consultation room to provide customers with nutritional advice to help improve their pets health and diet,” said Sammie.

“We have weighing scales to help customers monitor pets’ weight and will be providing a weight monitoring club. 

“We are extending our ranges of products covering dogs, cats, birds and small animals. Plus so much more.”

Pictured: Sammie outside the new store.

Pets at Home has seen its half-year profits before tax slip by 9.3% to £59.2m with increased freight and energy costs being given as reasons for the drop.

But the UK’s largest pet retailer said that consumer demand remains strong, with a record number of UK pet owners continuing to prioritise spending on their pets, underpinned by the structural trends of humanisation and premiumisation.

In fact, the group has reported growth in revenues of 7.3% to £727.2m in its half-year finanacial report. Sales throughout the group have accelerated through the period – driven by record numbers of new customers.

Retail revenues are up by 6.8%, helped by an average of over 750,000 new Puppy and Kitten Club members or an average of 29,000 per week. This figure is three times pre-pandemic levels

Vet revenues increased by 12.4, boosted by an average of 8,800 new clients per week. The client base now stands at 1.7m.

Group underlying profit before tax was down 9.3% to £59.2m in line with plan, impacted by increased freight and energy costs and the YoY increase in investment in digital assets.

There will be an interim dividend per share of 4.5p, an increase of 4.7% YoY.

Lyssa McGowan, Chief Executive Officer, said: “In my first six months as CEO, I have spent my time forming a deep understanding of the business and sector, learning from the ground up how the business operates. I am more convinced that Pets at Home is well positioned to capitalise on an attractive growth opportunity in our structurally growing pet care market, supported by our unique blend of products and services, deeply embedded culture and expert, passionate colleagues, and partners.

“Our first half performance shows progress and resilience across the business. In a challenging macroenvironment, the pet care industry remains in growth across all channels, and we have continued to acquire new customers at an impressive rate, setting new records for customer numbers in recent months.”

Other highlights from the financial report:

• Continuing to invest in unique ecosystem - despite external headwinds – to capture a growing share of the growing market
• Big digital investment to improve customer experience and leverage our huge data capabilities and 30+ years of experience and customer insights
• Plan to transform 40 stores per year to new pet care centre format
• New distribution centre – the biggest investment in the company’s history – can support 10+ years of growth
• Omnichannel capabilities enable customers to get what they want, when they want, how they want, including advice

The Advertising Standards Authority has dismissed a complaint against a welfare group, which claimed ‘Greyhound Racing KILLS’.

The advertising watchdog also ruled the group’s claim that ‘every licensed track has a freezer to store the dead dogs’ could be substantiated.

The Greyhound Board of Great Britain and Owlerton Greyhound Stadium challenged whether the claims made by Caged Nationwide were misleading and could be substantiated.

A digital outdoor poster for Caged Nationwide, a greyhound welfare pressure group, was seen in June 2022, showing an image of a muzzled greyhound. Large text alongside it stated, ‘Greyhound Racing KILLS’. Smaller text stated, ‘Every licensed track has a freezer to store the dead dogs’.

In response to the complaint to the ASA, Caged Nationwide cited the yearly figures published by the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB) for the number of greyhounds who retired from racing or who were injured or died while racing. They said the figures stated that 120 greyhounds were recorded as killed at British Greyhound tracks in 2021 and 200 in 2020. They said that, in addition, there would be greyhounds who were killed by euthanasia on economical grounds and in cases where they were not rehomable. However, Caged Nationwide doubted whether it was possible to obtain accurate figures on that. They said that once a greyhound was no longer registered to race, they were no longer traceable and their movement and existence was not monitored by GBGB or any other welfare body.

Caged Nationwide cited GBGB rule 110B which required that a vet attending a greyhound track had access either to a room or a mobile facility which had a freezer suitable for the storage of a greyhound carcass.

The ASA considered readers would interpret the claim to mean that greyhound racing itself was responsible for the death of greyhounds, rather than other external factors, and that deaths caused in this way were a common occurrence.

The data published by GBGB split the total number of registered racing greyhound deaths across several different reasons. The reasons included treatment costs; no home found; designated unsuitable for rehoming; put to sleep on vet’s advice away from track; put to sleep on humane grounds at track; sudden death and terminal illness/natural causes/other. Of the 359 that had died in 2021, 120 were in the category of being put to sleep on humane grounds at the track. That was the number and category that Caged Nationwide had cited to support their claim. In the same category, the figures for 2020, 2019 and 2018 were 200, 207 and 242 respectively.

The ASA considered that an animal which needed to be put to sleep on humane grounds at the track was likely to have suffered on-track injuries. 

The authority also considered that 120 track-related deaths in the last year, which equated to more than two deaths per week, meant that was a common occurrence. 

“We acknowledged that the use of the term ‘killed’ to refer to the way in which those greyhounds had died might be seen as distasteful and sensationalist by some and, in that sense, an emotive element to the situation,” the ASA said in its ruling.

“Nevertheless, we considered Caged Nationwide had shown there was a factual basis for the claim. We considered the way they had chosen to make the claim was unlikely to be considered more widely as misrepresentative of the situation.

“We therefore concluded that the claim ‘Greyhound racing KILLS’ had been substantiated and was not likely to mislead.”

With regard to the second point of the complaint, the ASA stated: “We considered readers would interpret the claim in its factual sense to mean that any licensed greyhound race track would have a freezer to store the corpses of greyhounds that had died there. 

“We understood the wider context that the sudden death of any greyhound needed to be investigated and that evidence needed to be preserved to increase knowledge and improve veterinary care. 

“We acknowledged therefore that the way that was highlighted in the ad might again be seen as distasteful and sensationalist by some and, in that sense, added an emotive element to the situation. 

“Nevertheless, we again considered Caged NW had shown there was a factual basis for the claim. We considered the way they had chosen to make the claim was unlikely to be considered more widely as misrepresentative of the situation.

“We therefore concluded that the claim ‘Every licensed track has a freezer to store the dead dogs’ had been substantiated and was not likely to mislead.”

PARK LiFE Pet Limited has added even more flavours to its healthy dog treat range, as it prepares for a busy 2023 season. The Irish manufacturer of healthy dog biscuits has had a fantastic 2022 which has seen interest in the brand soar, and the company is not holding back, with new products and new flavours available now.

Fris-Bix just got even tastier!

Fris-Bix, are the World’s First “Frisbee” shaped dog biscuits, ideal for throwing, catching, and playful snacking. They have been designed with aerodynamic grooves to ensure they fly well, up to 40 ft in fact! The uniqueness of Fris-Bix has led to industry awards, with PARK LiFE winning best new pet product at the 2022 Glee show earlier this year.

The unique grain-free recipe is ideal for all aged dogs and especially hand for pups with sensitive tummies thanks to the natural recipe. The product is now available in a range of delicious flavours, including Original Super Seeds, and the NEW! Chicken & Veg, and Peanut Butter. These new flavours have passed the PARK LiFE doggy taste test and are available to stock today! Fris-Bix is available in 300g recyclable packs, retailing at £5.99 each.

Yappy Christmas with Jolly-Bix

PARK LiFE Jolly-Bix is a Christmas tree shaped biscuit in a Turkey and Cranberry flavour. With Jolly-Bix, dog lovers can treat their pups this festive season, with this fantastic stocking filler treat. 

Dog owners can say “Yappy Christmas” with a novel gift tag area on the back of the packaging to personalise the box of treats prior to wrapping. Like the rest of the PARK LiFE range, it has great nutritional value, with a ‘Happy Belly Promise.’ This is because Jolly-Bix is grain-free, 100% Natural, and high in protein. Retailing at £5.99, these delicious treats also come supplied in 300g recyclable packs.

Get them while their hot

As a family run business, Park Life ensure all ingredients are 100% natural and delicious. The quality of the ingredients mean they are ‘Gut Friendly’ and are in fact human quality. In their words, just naturally guilt free dog treats. Orders are now being taken for 2023, so be quick to guarantee delivery when you need them.

To discuss the range, new flavours and your requirements please get in touch today @ info@parklife.dog. Visit https://parklife.dog/ to view the PARK LiFE range.

Tuft Global – the innovative grooming app for dog owners to find, book and review groomers – has announced it will open its Seed A investment round worth up to £2.2 million early 2023.

Despite the cost-of-living crisis impacting consumer spending, the pet tech brand has seen Month on Month booking grow by 9% since the start of the year, highlighting grooming as a necessary expenditure for dog owners.

With the huge increase in pet ownership over the last two years, alongside one in three households owning a dog, the demand for pet care has boomed, enabling Tuft to expand its software into Spain after just one year on the market and grow its team.

Joining as a Customer Services Manager, Jose Salas has 7+ years of experience in customer service within several different industries. Jose’s responsibilities include creating and upholding Tuft’s service procedures, translating manuscripts from English to Spanish, and providing solutions to customer inquiries for both Spain and the UK.

Overseeing the sales within Spain, Diego Pecchini has joined the team as a Sales Representative with over 5+ years of experience. Diego will be generating leads, providing software demonstrations, and onboarding new groomers in both Spain and the UK.

This success coincides with the innovative software raising a whopping £304k of external investment and its founder and CEO, Chloe Smith, being shortlisted as a 2022 Service Industries Entrepreneur of the Year finalist at the Great British Entrepreneur Awards.

Commenting on the growth, Chloe said: “Expanding into the European market has always been a goal of mine when I started Tuft in 2021 and I am so thrilled to be launching the software into Spain after just one year and opening a new round of funding in January.

“Despite the cost-of-living crisis, pet health remains at the forefront of people’s mind, evident in our significant increase in downloads and bookings in-app this year. This shows that now is the perfect time to invest in the pet care sector and we’re all so excited to accelerate Tuft’s next stage of growth.” 

Find out more about Tuft here: https://tuftapp.com/

Herbal pet care brand Dorwest Herbs has been rewarded for its online customer journey focus over the past 12 months, winning ‘Online Business of the Year’ at the prestigious 2022 PIF Awards.

The Pet Industry Federation (PIF) was formed in the late 1940s and hosts annual awards to celebrate success stories from pet retailers, wholesalers and manufacturers. In 2023 both PIF and Dorwest Herbs celebrate their 75th anniversary.

Last week the 2022 PIF Awards ceremony was held at Whittlebury Hall in Northamptonshire, announcing 20 categories of winners. Dorwest Herbs was awarded 'Online Business of the Year' by independent SEO agency Viaduct Generation, who praised Dorwest for its customer journey focus, including SEO and UX activities. For the full list of 2022 winners, please see PIF Awards winners.

With ecommerce seeing a significantly changing market since 2020, Dorwest focused on shifting online behaviours to ensure truly relevant products and useful content. From keyword focus and content strategy, to optimising the digital journey by analysing hotspots and drop offs, Dorwest ensures that on site content and digital marketing continues to evolve to reflect customer needs. Improvements have ensured growth over the last 2 years with turnover as a whole increasing by +30% and ecommerce revenue +20% from 2021 vs. 2020.

Managing Director Jo Boughton-White says: “We’re so incredibly proud to have won this award. Our team are always so customer-focused and our authenticity shines through our digital experience and marketing. We’re delighted to be recognised among pet industry names and to continue to make a difference to pet’s lives.”

The PIF Awards are the most coveted awards in the pet industry, with winners this year receiving sustainable, wooden trophies. Nigel Baker, CEO of the Pet Industry Federation, comments: “The PIF Awards just get bigger and better each year; the standard and volume of entries this year was phenomenal… we can see how much winning a PIF Award means to businesses in the pet industry.”

As winner of Best Multichannel Campaign at the 2022 Ecommerce Awards earlier this year, the Dorwest brand continues to grow with recognised public acknowledgement for their impact within the industry. 

For more information, visit www.dorwest.com, call one of the friendly, expert team on 01308 897272 or email info@dorwest.com

Pup Talk, an innovative dog training business from West London, is celebrating after winning the Pet Services Business of the Year category at the PIF Awards.

Founder Niki French decided to launch her business in 2019 after a 30-year corporate career. A bicycle accident led her to start a completely different life working with dog lovers. 

Niki has written the bestselling dog training book STOP Walking Your Dog – A guide to training your nervous, reactive or over-excited pup. 

She is also the host of Pup Talk The Podcast and founder of Don’t Walk Your Dog Day on April 2^nd, which highlights all the activities you can do with your dog when going for a traditional walk isn’t possible. 

Niki said: “Winning this award means so much. As a one-year-old business going through lock-down, life was challenging. It meant quickly restructuring to still be able to help the growing number of struggling pup parents. It’s led to an up-to-date dog training business that reaches thousands of people across the world.” 

Next year Niki plans to run the free online festival Pup Talk for the third year running, as well as expanding the membership Pup Talk The Pack to bring affordable dog training and emotional support to many more people. 

Find out more about her work at www.puptalk.co.uk

Pet treat start-up business Furr Boost has completed the double for pet product innovation by winning the Best Dog Product at the PIF Awards. It followed success in the PetQuip Awards where the company picked up Best Pet Product (Food and Treats).

The products were created by Louise Toal, a former technical manager to the food industry with over 20 years’ experience.

Louise used her technical background to create the Furr Boost range of smoothies after her pet beagle Phoebe became unwell with bladder problems.

Louise said: “There is no one else making a product like ours. Yes, there are drinks on the market that are botanical, broth-based and electrolyte based etc, but none that are like a natural smoothie. Each of our recipes contains a meat, fruit and vegetable, along with added oils and vitamins, so it’s more than a hydration drink, it supports the dog’s wellbeing in areas such as digestion, skin and coat, anxiety, metabolism and immunity.”

The products are currently stocked by VioVet and Jollyes, and Louise is also currently in talks with a major wholesaler to find a wider distribution for the products.

“Our ultimate aim is to be a global business and a household brand that people can trust,” she added. “Using Furr Boost as part of a dog’s daily nutrition and diet can help to keep the vets bills down for unnecessary health issues associated with food and lack of hydration, which was exactly where I started with my first dog. 

“We haven’t come down from cloud nine since winning both awards and we are delighted to be recognised by the pet trade.”

For further information visit: www.furrboost.com

For trade enquiries contact Louise Toal on 01746 785 410, by email customerservices@furrboost.com or visit the wholesale page: www.furrboost.com/wholesale

One of the most prevalent issues faced by dog owners, separation anxiety, is being tackled by a first-of-its-kind collaboration between two pet tech brands, which blends behavioural science with technology.

Woofz, a dog training app by a leading apps and games developer Gismart, has for the first time collaborated with pet monitoring camera and software company, Petcube, to design a specialised training course specifically aimed at helping dog owners resolve separation anxiety and depression caused by separation anxiety.

The course blends Petcube technology with proven, dog behaviouralist-designed training methods, to tackle this common canine problem.

Separation anxiety is the biggest issue being reported by 73% of dog owners* at the moment, and it has increased both since the pandemic and by 15% just in the past year.

This is believed to be in part due to owners returning to their places of work or even as a result of adopting hybrid working, in which their presence at home is in less of a consistent pattern.

Signs of separation anxiety can include chewing, digging, inappropriate urination and defecation, escape and other destructive behaviours. It can even cause dogs to become depressed.

The course is available via the dog-training mobile app Woofz, which is available on both iOS and Android devices.

The brand new ‘Home Alone’ course, available via the Woofz app on both iOS and Android devices, includes a set of techniques and guidelines for both owners and dogs, which is specifically designed to reduce the stress separation anxiety cause.

Included in the course are guides to identify whether behaviour is separation anxiety or not, as well as suggestions for ways to entertain pets while away from home and techniques to get your dog used to your absence gradually.

The course also includes specialised recommendations related to using Petcube pet camera to interact with and keep an eye on dogs while their owners are out of the home, and a dedicated module for puppies 6 months or older.

“We’re thrilled to be launching this course which blends the latest in connected pet technology with behavioural science, to provide a truly contemporary and digital approach to managing a really prevalent dog behavioural issue. Our data has shown that separation anxiety has been a huge problem for dog owners ever since the pandemic began to ease, as dogs have struggled to adapt to their owners’ lifestyles as the world has opened up,” commented Natalia Shahmetova, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) at Woofz by Gismart. 

“This is a very exciting partnership, as Woofz and Petcube share similar values, rooting for ethical, transparent and modern ways of dog training.  We’ll soon be able to announce new steps of our collaboration, so watch this space,” Shahmetova continues.

Andrey Klen, Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) at Petcube comments: “We’re thrilled to partner with Woofz on the Home Alone course, as separation anxiety actually made us create our first product and start the company. This is the issue we’ve been addressing for over a decade now, and we’re happy to help fellow pet parents ease it – particularly at a time when it is more of a pressing issue and we’re seeing instances of separation anxiety increase.”

A subscription to Woofz is available for £8.49 following a 3 day free trial, or for £26.99 for a 12 week subscription.

Woofz is a tried and tested dog app that helps you unlock the secrets to what makes your pet tick and create a more harmonious pet-person relationship with dog training lessons, pet tracker functionality, a puppy log, and a handy pet clicker tool all in one app.

Woofz was officially launched at the very beginning of the pandemic and over the course of 2 years has managed to achieve more than 2 million downloads with almost 200,000 monthly active users, showing consistent growth.

Within the last 12 months, the number of downloads has tripled, while the MAU (monthly active users) saw a 4 times increase. Woofz collaborates with dog-handling experts from the UK, the US, Portugal and other European countries.

The Woofz app is the first venture into pet tech for Gismart, and is the first launch from its Pet Tech range.

Woofz has won the Lovie Awards for two years in a row: Silver Lovie Award in the Best User Experience category in 2022; Bronze Lovie Award in the Best Visual Design category in 2021.

For more information, visit www.woofz.com or search ‘Woofz’ in the app store.

Petcube is a worldwide leader in connected pet cameras and software. Its products allow people to take care of their pets remotely, by seeing, talking, playing, and treating them.  For more information, visit http://petcube.com/

A prestigious awards event, dubbed ‘the Grammys of Entrepreneurship’, that celebrates the UK’s most exceptional business leaders, has given one of its top honours to a leading pet industry entrepreneur.

The Great British Entrepreneur Awards, which this year attracted a record 5,500 entries, named pet trade business owner Tracey Voss as the 2022 Sustainability Entrepreneur of the Year for her environmentally friendly coconut cat litter Huskaloo. 

A glittering gala dinner, the awards’ largest-ever event, was staged at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel on Park Lane yesterday, attracting 1,400 entrepreneurs and colleagues.

From the 5,500 entries, just 98 entrepreneurs from across the four British nations went home with prizes this year. 

Tracey, who this year celebrates 25 years in the pet trade, is the Founder of pet product manufacturer Tailor-Grace, the name behind pioneering products such as ‘Huskaloo’, the world’s first eco-friendly compact cat litter made from coconut husks, and ‘Oggi’s World’, the bake-your-own-biscuits for your dog brand.

The awards’ Grand Final was co-hosted by Welsh opera tenor Wynne Evans, the star of TV’s famous Go Compare ads, and the entrepreneur and MC Oli Barrett MBE. Previous comperes include Steven Bartlett, one of the investor pundits on BBC TV’s Dragons’ Den business series.

As well as honouring Tracey, the award also cited new cat litter Huskaloo, which has swept the boards, winning at all the main pet industry awards this autumn.

• At September’s PetQuip Awards at PATS Telford in Shropshire, Tracey and Huskaloo won the Theresa Swann Exporter of the Year 2022 Award and a Silver Award in the ‘Celebrating Green and Organic’.
• Earlier this month, the 2022 Pet Industry Federation Awards named Huskaloo Coconut Cat Litter as the winner of its ‘Product Innovation Award - Cat’ prize.
• And now the Great British Entrepreneur Awards 2022 named Tracey Sustainability Entrepreneur of the Year for Huskaloo, singling them out among 900 other shortlisted entrepreneurs.

Clutching her latest award, Tracey said: “I am absolutely blown away to have won Sustainability Entrepreneur of the Year with Huskaloo. The Great British Entrepreneur Awards represent the very best of British and I am just so chuffed. It is the icing on the cake this year without a shadow of a doubt, but this award is not for me, it is for everybody in our team. 

“We have won a cluster of awards this year and it seems that everybody now recognises the unique selling points of Huskaloo and, most importantly also, they clearly appreciate what we're trying to do with the product for the environment, which is fundamental. 

“We have won these awards because Huskaloo is a true disruptor. It is what the industry has been waiting for – a product that is lighter, smaller, kinder to the animals, one that controls odour and is fundamentally better for the environment. 

“Plus, obviously, it is cheaper, and that is so important at this time when British people are watching the pennies and the pounds. But our success has not just been in the UK, it is also in Europe, and we also now have interest from Canada. Everybody seems to love Huskaloo!”

Francesca James, Founder of the Great British Entrepreneur Awards, said they were recognised today as ‘the Grammys of Entrepreneurship’. “The extraordinary circumstances of the last few years have tested the resilience of our business communities, and the challenges were enough to give many entrepreneurs an excuse to give up. 

“Instead, our award winners did the opposite and, through ingenuity, innovation, and the ability to adapt, they thrived.”

The rise of running coupled with a spike in global dog ownership, has led outdoor dog brand Ruffwear to develop a new range of products and accessories, designed to help the gentle jogger to the ultra-runner hit the roads, paths and trails with their four-legged fitness pal.

According to the Sport and Fitness Industry Association, running is the biggest fitness trend in the past two years. Their Covid-19 Impact Report showed that around 28% of people became first time runners during the pandemic and this new-found demand for pounding the pavements has led dog owners to want to take their pooches along for the run too.

Natalie Sullivan, marketing director at Accapi for Ruffwear in Europe explains: “The global popularity in running has surged with a 65% increase in running and jogging activities since 2020. Similarly, dog ownership across Europe has grown by over 5% since 2019 with over 92 million dogs and between 20-34% of households now having their own pup.

"All of this makes for a new category opportunity for pet, outdoor and run specialist retailers as people have realised that combining their fitness plans and daily dog walks is more accessible and achievable than ever.”

New designs from Ruffwear include a world’s first for dogs, an ultra-light, breathable and form-fitting trail running vest to allow your dog to carry its own water packs and gear. There is also a packable water bowl small enough to fit in the palm of your hand and a new lightweight and flexible trail running belt and bungee lead to allow for hands free runs and minimal fuss when runners pound or paw the paths and pavements. 

A recent survey by the International Trail Running Association revealed that it’s not just urban and road running seeing a rise in popularity. Trail running is finding more and more fans as newcomers to running are looking to go further than just laps around the park. Trail running has grown by approximately 12% per year with around 77% of trail runners being men but the biggest growth in participation is with female trail runners.

Many keen runners have realised the benefits of running in nature with their pooches in tow. Ruffwear Ambassador, and amateur trail runner Fay Preen regularly hits the trails of the Lake District with her working cocker spaniels Lulu and Foxy as they join her on her daily runs. Fay has recently been working with Ruffwear to test and give her feedback on the new trail running products ahead of their launch next year.

She explains: “Just like us humans, dogs need outdoor kit that’s useful and that we can all rely on. The dog running vest has lots of great features and just like my own human version is an essential piece of kit that needs to be super light, practical and comfortable. 

"The new Ruffwear vests are great as it means my dogs can carry their own water while I carry my water supply. The foldable Trail Runner bowl packs down so small that it can go in one of the dog’s vests or I can carry it in my running belt along with some pick up bags, keys and phone and none of us are weighed down with our essentials. The new running waist belt is my favourite. I love how slim and streamline this is.

"As a double dog mum, using a coupler lead attached to my running belt also means I can be completely hands free and the dogs don’t get tangled or under my feet as we go up and down the hills. I also love the colours which match my own kit. It’s been a real treat to try out these products before they hit the market next year.”

The new running collection from US adventure brand Ruffwear will be hitting retail stores and online in Spring 2023 when they launch on 19 April and will be supplied to pet, outdoor and specialist run retailers across Europe by its exclusive distribution partner Accapi Ltd.

For more information on becoming a stockist now or where to buy contact info@accapigroup.com

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The British Independent Retailers Association has revealed more retailers will be boycotting the Black Friday sales this year as the cost-of-living crisis hits.

The association, which works with over 6,000 independent businesses of all sizes across the UK, once again surveyed its members, which are made up from single retail outlets to small chains, large department stores and agricultural dealerships, to see if they would be taking part in the pre-Christmas sale on Friday (25 November).

However for the second year in a row, the majority have said they would not be slashing their prices ahead of the festive season.

Of those asked, 86% revealed they would not be holding the sale (1% higher than 2021) while almost 70% said they had not participated in it in previous years.

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of BIRA said: "With another Black Friday on the horizon, once again many independent retailers will be choosing to ignore this event. From an indie retail perspective, Black Friday is seen as a big business, internet event. This makes it very hard for the smaller retailers to compete as they just do not have the buying power of the large retailers.

He added: “In general independent retailers do not see Black Friday as an opportunity. This has been a recurring trend over the years as the large chains and internet retailers dominate the consumer marketing."

Mr Goodacre also urged independent stores to consider taking part in Colour Friday, which is the brainchild of Holly Tucker MBE, the founder of notonthehighstreet.

Holly said: "Last year, we launched Colour Friday to kickstart a retail revolution for Christmas shoppers. So rather than taking part in the mass consumption of Black Friday, we encouraged the nation to celebrate the colour and creativity that small businesses bring instead — and buy carefully made Christmas gifts from UK independents."

Mr Goodacre added: "We are supporting creative ideas such as Colour Friday and Green Friday (which has a focus on sustainability) as these are vents that focus on the smaller, local retailers. We are also advocates of Small Business Saturday which also brings the small business into the pubic mind. We urge the shoppers continue to support their local retailers who will still offer value in the form of quality products at good prices.”

For more details about Colour Friday, visit: www.holly.co/colour-friday-2022/

Marketing and PR consultant Angela Baker is celebrating a bumper spell when it comes to helping her clients win awards.

This year all clients made it to the finals of the PetQuip Awards across multiple categories and five went on to the finals of the PIF Awards. 

Furr Boost won the double for Pet Innovation at both PetQuip and the PIF Awards, Rawgeous Pet Food won Silver for Sustainability at PetQuip and Doggy Doggy Yum Yum won Highly Commended for Green and Organic. 

Angela also helped steer Doggy Doggy Yum Yum from launch to winning Best New Product at the Pedigree Wholesale Awards in 2021. In the same year, Walker and Drake won Highly Commended for Product Innovation at PetQuip and Natural Cornish Pet won Retailer of the Year at the same awards. Barking Bags won Start-Up of the Year in 2021 and Different Dog also won Online Business of the Year 2020 both at the PIF Awards.

“I try to give clients an overall sales, business development and marketing strategy,” said Angela. “I have been lucky enough to work in all aspects of marketing throughout my career and often many start-ups and even established businesses need someone to guide them in the right direction. 

“Sending out a press release or digital/social marketing post does not work in isolation. You need a co-ordinated campaign and be able to think outside the box to succeed in a competitive market. I also try to work within a sensible budget as well which is important in this economic climate.”

Louise Toal, founder of Furr Boost, said, “We cannot thank Angela enough for her help and expertise. She has steered our PR in the right direction, helped us save money and introduced us to people in the industry who are helping to make our brand a success.”

Angela, who is a member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing and has a postgraduate qualification in marketing, had a 16-year in-house career holding senior marketing and business development positions with companies such as Sun Life, Royal Doulton, Remploy, the Government backed Training and Enterprise Council and leading global law and accountancy practices before turning freelance in 2005. She worked for the leading accountancy practice in the UK dealing with the veterinary and agricultural industries so had excellent knowledge of the pet and equine markets before turning her expertise to the pet market.

Pictured: Angela picking up the 2021 PetQuip Retailer of the Year Award for her client Natural Cornish Pet.

Dog owners are being offered the chance to get a Christmas present for their pet in the scape of a ‘grubby giftbox’.

The giftbox from Devon-based Mr Bug is letterbox-sized and mixes mealworm powder with everything from beetroot, sweet potato, parsnips and vegan cheese to honey and peanut butter. 

Mr Bug is a big believer in the circular economy and the fact that insects are a truly sustainable protein source needing only a fraction of the water, land and time of traditional farmyard fayre.

Epicurean-orientated mealworms with their distinctive nutty twang are in case you didn’t know the Rolls Royce meets Ryan Reynolds meets man City of fine grub.  Mealworms are rammed with nutritional worth offering more calcium than milk, more B12 than salmon, more iron than spinach by offering all 9 amino acids.  

So whether you’re scratching your head thinking about what to buy the family hound that simply has everything or looking at last minute hamper additions/colleague boxes for hard-working pet parents it might be worth taking a peek at Mr Bug. 

Mr Bug comes as a: Veggie One, A Fruity One, A Nutty One & The Cheesy One

Mrbug.co.uk

A leading practice group used its time at London Vet Show 2022 to highlight its ambitious initiative to tackle domestic abuse by offering more support for vets and vet nurses to report non-accidental injuries (NAIs).

IVC Evidensia colleagues handed out thousands of stickers with QR codes on them that send vets or nurses concerned about NAI cases in animals to direct and confidential support from IVC Evidensia’s Welfare team.

The team at stand R75 gave out over 2000 stickers across the two-day event, meaning they ensured that over 40% of those who attended London Vet Show would have access to this much-needed support.

The scheme being offered universally to the profession could also significantly impact the lives of people in unsafe domestic situations around the country. 

The NAI support was first announced as an initiative that IVC Evidensia staff could use in November 2020, spearheaded by David Martin, Group Veterinary Welfare Advisor. It originally consisted of a series of posters and webinars educating staff and raising awareness of complicated cases during the pandemic, when statistics for domestic violence were on the rise.

David Martin commented: “We then decided to roll it out to all UK practices in 2021, relaunched as a universal resource after a report from the Dogs Trust found that the majority of domestic abuse cases in the home also involved an animal being abused.

“Through this support network, our welfare team have enabled countless patients (and at times, vulnerable people) to be extracted from abusive environments and have secured convictions.

“By giving out the QR code stickers at London Vet Show, we hope that more vets and nurses are able to make use of this fantastic support network and we, in turn, are able to assist many more vulnerable patients and people in getting the help that they need.”

How does the NAI support initiative work?

The NAI support network set up by IVC Evidensia’s Welfare team is integral to helping UK practices report complex cases and to ensure there is adequate support for vets and nurses who may face a difficult decision to make in-practice.

It is suggested that the stickers should be stuck to a dangerous drugs cupboard or other visible surface in practice, with the QR code taking users to an online form.

By filling in the form online, a vet or nurse would then be contacted by a member of the welfare team, who would provide vital support for cases that can be stressful, as well as logistically and legally complicated. 

The best part is that the support is available for all UK practices, whether they are a part of IVC Evidensia or not. 

This support is available all year round with a response time of just a couple of hours. If the form is completed out of hours, then it will be responded to on the next working day. 

Find out more about NAI support on the IVC Evidensia website here.

Vetster, the world’s fastest growing veterinary telehealth and pet care marketplace, has announced the launch of the Vetster for Veterinarians mobile app for Android and iOS. 

The app complements the company’s top-rated web-app giving veterinary professionals another tool to connect with pet parents as part of their virtual practice.  The app is now available for veterinarians practicing on Vetster through the App Store and Google Play Store.

“Vetster is building the solutions veterinarians need to practice virtually - on their terms,”  says Mark Bordo, CEO and CoFounder, Vetster.com. “Our new mobile app is one more way we can provide veterinary professionals with a flexible platform to connect with pet parents in between appointments, traveling between clients, or from the comfort of home. With just a few taps on their mobile phone, veterinarians connect with pet parents with great video quality, and easy-to-use scheduling and follow-up features.”

A massive surge in pet adoption combined with a veterinary workforce shortage expected to continue until at least 2040 has left many veterinarians seeking alternative ways to meet demand, while improving their work life balance.  Vetster is stepping forward to fulfill a much needed gap in the market. The Vetster platform allows veterinarians the freedom to determine where, when, and how they practice. Vetster veterinarians use the platform to provide teletriage, address non-urgent cases, provide follow-up appointments, as well as proactive and preventative health care plans for pet owners. Many use Vetster to supplement their income and alleviate student debt.  

“Vetster is helping to address both the barrier to access and the overwhelming demand for veterinary care,” said Dr. Jo Myers, practicing DVM on Vetster. “For veterinarians looking to practice virtually, the Vetster platform provides a seamless user experience, with a user-friendly interface, high-quality video and the ability to capture medical records in-app.”

Designed for Veterinarians

• High Quality Video Calls - Connect with pet parents over secure, high quality video calls from an iOS or Android device. 
• mproved Appointment Management - Set your own hours and pause availability to accommodate unexpected schedule changes.
• Direct Messaging - Direct messaging functionality allows vets to correspond with pet parents after appointments to provide any additional support. 
• Electronic Medical Records - Patient medical records are captured and stored in-app for convenient referencing by both veterinarians and pet parents.
• VetsterRx – In the UK, veterinarians can use the built-in prescription pad to provide an Rx or OTC recommendation that clients can fill at their local pharmacy.

Veterinarians can join Vetster by visiting Vetster.com. Once registered and approved to practice on the Vetster platform, they can download and use the Vetster for Veterinarians mobile app. 

WildWash has won the title of Pet Product Retailer of the Year in the Corporate Livewire Global Awards 2022/2023.

The judging panel was impressed by the diverse range of grooming products and accessories the retailer offers, particularly aimed towards dogs, cats, and horses.

From pin brushes, soft towels, and nail clippers, to silky shampoos, and eye cleansers, WildWash has everything a pet owner or professional groomer could need.

Sold individually and in a range of intelligently-packaged gift sets, each product had been created for a genuine purpose and goal in mind by owner’s Andrew and Jane. Its apothecary is recognised one of the best 10 natural perfumers in the world, ensuring each cosmetic not only feels good but smells divine too.

Used by groomers, vets, and pet owners across the globe, its range is highlighted by its natural qualities – which protect pets and the environment. WildWash was the very first natural shampoo company to list all of its ingredients on the bottle, and it promises zero parabens, phthalates, sulphates, petrochemicals, palm oils, and PEGs in every product it develops. 

Boasting 100% pure essential oils, WildWash’s collection is created at its carbon-free apothecary in England with a guarantee that none of its products have been tested on animals. This is outlined by the Cruelty Free International logo that the company carries alongside its ethical accreditation. Not only are the grooming products natural, but the packaging used is made from recycled materials – ensuring everything can be recycled again in-line with the company’s commitment to sustainability. 

Rawgeous Pet Food has launched its new Turkey recipes in time for Christmas.

The company believes it is vitally important to exercise your dog in the colder months and to feed a good diet to improve its immune system and to protect the joints, coat and skin.

Lorraine Sweeney, co founder of Rawgeous Pet Food alongside business partner Eoin Sweeny, said: “We believe that one of the best ways to feed your dog is on a raw diet because not only are you feeding it what it would have eaten in the wild avoiding any intolerances and allergies that processed and commercial foods can sometime bring, but you are also controlling the protein content and portion size.”

Rawgeous raw dog food recipes include only the highest quality human grade cuts of tasty Irish prime meat together with the freshest veggies, seaweed, an organic Kefir probiotic which works to maintain a healthy gut and  6 different omega oils.

Rawgeous Pet Food was the first  in Ireland  to be 100% traceable from the farm of origin to the dogs bowl and is still the only pet food  in Ireland that tests EVERY single batch BEFORE it leaves its licensed premises to ensure we far exceed the standard required. 

Rawgeous Turkey; is single protein meal formulated to fit perfectly within a dog’s diet or fed exclusively. Turkey is naturally hypoallergenic and can be used for an elimination diet. It is also easily digestible and with only 6% fat, it is a super low fat so would suit dogs with digestive issues that need a little help getting over a bad tummy.

This is a balanced and complete meal exceeding FEDIAF guidelines and there is no need for any additional supplements. Composition: Minced Turkey with bone, Minced Turkey Offal, Carrott, Seasonal Greens (Broccoli or Kale), hemp seed powder,  wheat germ oil, seaweed, thyme, sage, parsley.

Rawgeous Duck & Turkey provides a lean yet hypoallergenic feed for dogs. This complete meal is great for dogs with allergies. Composition: Whole duck with bone, Turkey thigh and leg meat, turkey liver, duck heart, carrot, Seasonal Greens (Broccoli or Kale)  , hemp seed powder,  salmon oil, wheat germ oil, seaweed, thyme, sage, parsley

For further information visit: www.rawgeouspetfood.com

The much anticipated PIF Awards were a huge success last night, with over 20 categories of winners revealed at the gala black tie ceremony held at Whittlebury Hall in Northamptonshire.

Generously supported by headline sponsors Cliverton, Collar, Naturo Pet Foods and Tuft, plus Strategic Partner DHL Supply Chain, Drinks Sponsor Pedigree Wholesale and 20 category sponsors, the 2022 PIF Awards are the most coveted awards in the pet industry, celebrating the inspirational success stories of the past 12 months. 

Winners received sustainable, wooden trophies and ranged from the nationwide Just For Pets retail chain to independent businesses such as Millin Brook Luxury Dog Boarding and the inspirationally innovative Scoff Paper.

Nigel Baker, CEO of the Pet Industry Federation, commented: “The PIF Awards just get bigger and better each year; the standard and volume of entries was phenomenal this year and we sold out of tickets to the Awards dinner over a month before the event so we can see how much winning a PIF Award means to businesses in the pet industry. It is truly inspirational to see the diversity and sheer hard work within our industry and at PIF we are honoured to be able to reward this with the PIF Awards. Look out for next year’s event for which we’re planning something extra special!”

The 2023 PIF Awards will celebrate PIF’s 75^th anniversary and will take place on Thursday 16^th November 2023, with entries opening after Easter. All updates will be posted on the PIF website www.petfederation.co.uk

Below is a list of all the finalists:

Product Innovation Award – Dog (sponsored by Spottydog Communications)

Finalists: Furr Boost, Pawdaw of London, Kompact9, Karnlea, No Fuss Fill, ParkLiFE    

Product Innovation Award – Cat (sponsored by Pedigree Wholesale)

Finalists: Wrapsio, Huskaloo, Weenect, Closer Pet, Moodify Pet, Bio PetActive

Product Innovation Award – Small Mammal/Bird (sponsored by Pedigree Wholesale)

Finalists: Secure Bunny, Marriages

Manufacturer of the Year (sponsored by Jollyes)

Finalists: Burns Pet Nutrition, Herbal Dog, Harvest Pet Products, Life of Riley Bakery, GHS Direct, Gold Line Feeds

Wholesaler of the Year (sponsored by Teddys Treats)

Finalists: Pedigree Wholesale, Bestpets, Su-Bridge, Trust Pet Products, Vital, We.pet

Supplier of the Year (sponsored by PIF Telecom)

Finalists: Dorwest Herbs, Mutneys, Adios Plastic, The Dog Doctors, Christies Direct, Barking Bags

New Business of the Year (sponsored by The Pet Accountant)

Finalists: Furr Boost, Pet Database.com, Scoff Paper, Park LiFE, Paw Daw of London, Moodify Pet

Grooming Business of the Year (sponsored by Tuft)

Finalists: The Dog House Leicester Ltd, Vanity Fur Barry, Spruce Cricklade Dog Grooming, Palmers Dog Grooming, Ayrshire Grooming Salon, Happy Hounds Grooming Academy

Kennel of the Year (sponsored by Naturo Pet Food)

Finalists: Rose Cottage Doggy Hotel, Milin Brook Luxury Dog Boarding, Royvon Dog Training & Hotels, Glyntawel Luxury Dog Boarding & Pets Hotel, Greendale Farm Kennels, Foxbridge Animal Hotel

Cattery of the Year (sponsored by PBW News)

Finalists: Alloa Cattery, Hawthorn Boarding Kennels & Cattery, Furr Cottage Kennels & Cattery

Home Boarding Business of the Year (sponsored by Rose Cottage)

Finalists: Jessie’s Dog B&B Ltd, Barkmoral, Walking Woofs, Country Dog Hotel, Poochee Care, Extremus Dog Training

Dog Daycare Business of the Year (sponsored by Collar App)

Finalists: Tom and Toto Pet Care, Doggy Daycare Cornwall, The K9 Club, Rose Cottage Daycare, Ipswich Dog Daycare Creche, Canine Countryside Escape

Dog Walking Business of the Year (sponsored by Barking Bags)

Finalists: Percy In The Park, DD’s Dogcare, Ambleside Dog Walker, PadPaws, Good Dog Walking Ltd, Shropshire Canine

Pet Service Business of the Year (sponsored by Cliverton)

Finalists: Canine Dip and Dive, Pup Talk, Pippin Pets Dog Training, Fit4Dogs UK Rehabilitation Centre, Pets & Friends Dog Training Centre Litchfield, Animal Talent Ltd

Online Business of the Year (sponsored by Viaduct Generation)

Finalists: Pup Talk, Dorwest Herbs, Christies Direct, Butternut Box, Weenect, Herbal Dog

Export Business Award (sponsored by DHL Supply Chain)                

Finalists: Little BigPaw, Christies Global, Huskaloo, 3P Enterprise Ltd, Burns Pet Nutrition

Sustainability Award (sponsored by PetFace)                  

Finalists: Doglyness, Green Poop Bag, Wildwash, Huskaloo, Bag and Boops, Life of Riley Bakery 

Pet Retail Chain of the Year (sponsored by Christies Global)

Finalists: Jollyes, Just For Pets, Pets & Friends, Pets At Home, Pets Corner, Petzone (Kuwait)

Independent Retailer of the Year (sponsored by Natures Menu)

Finalists: Natural Cornish Pet, Primal Raw Ltd, Hoofs & Paws, Browns Natural Pet Store, Trusty Pet Supplies Superstore, The Dog’s Deli

Special Achievement – Pet Professional Award (sponsored by Aspin)

Finalists: Daniel Allen, Colin Christie, John Burns, Sam Marriage, Kerry Chapman, Max Randall

Special Achievement – Student Award (sponsored by The National Pet College)

Finalists: Ali Chogbanbaz, Billie Jo Harwicke, Georgia Harle, Claire Loizos, Siobhan Smith, Marianne Dickens

The winners of the PIF Awards 2022 were revealed last night with Little Big Paw (Export Business of the Year), Su-Bridge Pet Supplies (Wholesaler of the Year) and Burns Pet Nutrition (Manufacturer of the Year – pictured above) among those successful companies celebrating.

Other winners included Scoff Paper (New Business of the Year), Dorwest Herbs (Online Business of the Year) and Christies Direct (Supplier of the Year).

Independent Retailer of the Year went to Brown’s Natural Pet Store, Goring-by-Sea, and Pet Retail Chain of the Year to Just for Pets.

Product Innovation Award winners included Huskaloo Coconut Cat Litter from Tailor-Grace and Furr Boost (pictured above).

Here’s a full list of the winners:

Cattery of the Year
Alloa Cattery

Dog Daycare Business of the Year
Tom and Toto Pet Care

Dog Walking Business of the Year
Ambleside Dog Walker

Export Business of the Year
Little BigPaw

Grooming Business of the Year
Vanity Fur Dog Grooming, Barry

Home Boarding Business of the Year
Barkmoral

Independent Retailer of the Year
Brown’s Natural Pet Store, Goring-by-Sea

Kennel of the Year
Millin Brook Luxury Dog Boarding

Manufacturer of the Year
Burns Pet Nutrition

New Business of the Year
Scoff Paper

Online Business of the Year
Dorwest Herbs

Pet Retail Chain of the Year
Just for Pets

Pet Services Business of the Year
Pup Talk

Product Innovation Award – Cat
Huskaloo Coconut Cat Litter

Product Innovation Award – Dog
Furr Boost

Product Innovation Award – Small Mammal/Bird

SIGNS – Secure Bunny

Special Achievement – Pet Professional Award
Kerry Chapman

Special Achievement - Student Award
Siobhan Smith

Supplier of the Year
Christies Direct

Sustainability Award
Doglyness

Wholesaler of the Year
Su-Bridge Pet Supplies

Lifetime Achievement Award
Phil Gibbs (Essex Breeding Centre)

Two friends, who have worked together in the pet trade for 10 years, have opened their own pet store in Warwickshire.

Charlotte Stowe and Georgia Orr welcomed customers at the grand opening of Bridge Street Pets in the village of Wellesbourne on the weekend of November 5-6, and already the new store is proving to be a big hit.

Charlotte took time out from a busy trading period to speak to Pet Trade Xtra about the new venture. 

How long have you worked in the pet trade?

Both myself and Georgia have worked together in the pet trade for 10 years. I have worked in pet stores for 13 years and Georgia for 11. Prior to our shop opening, we were the manager and assistant manager at Charlecote Pet Store. Having worked together for the last 10 years, we are really close friends. We met through work and have been friends ever since. 

How long have you been planning the new store?

The idea of our own store has been in the pipeline for a couple of years. After leaving our previous roles in March 2022, the planning and organisation of the store has been in full effect.

Was it easy to find premises?

The location was very important to us as we wanted to stay close to Charlecote. We wanted to be in a prime position with access and parking. The premises has been in my family for nearly 100 years. The property was previously a car and motorbike garage run by the family since June 1925. My parents retired earlier this year. We have carried out many alternations, including adding a disabled access ramp, new shop front, painting, new flooring and knocking through walls and chimneys to create a spacious retail store. 

Was it hard to finance this new venture?

Financially, it took the majority of our personal savings to start the venture, but we are pleased with the results. 

When did you open to the public?

We opened on November 5. Our opening weekend involved a charity ‘pup cake’ bake sale on the Saturday. The proceeds of the cake sales were donated to Rushton Dog Rescue. On the Sunday we were joined by local photographer Martin Fox, who offered free sitting for pet photographs. He offered 20% discount to our customers who wished to purchase prints or downloads. Our African Grey parrot Harry was also a popular attraction over the weekend.

What has been the response been like from local pet owners?

The response has been absolutely brilliant. The community has been very welcoming and supportive, commenting on how much a pet store is needed locally. Customers are very pleased with our service, prices and convenience, saying that they are so pleased to not to have to travel further into towns and use larger chain stores. Local people are keen to support small businesses. 

What will give your store a competitive edge?

We want to put all attention and focus on providing the best advice and customer service. We are more than happy to help and advise to the best of our abilities, and will always give an honest answer. We are focusing on natural dog treats and products, however, we do understand that different customers do have different needs, so we want to be accommodating to everyone. We offer a large range of caged bird products (seed, treats, toys and bedding etc), as we know this is something that is not readily available in chain pet stores. Similarly, we offer a generous range of wild bird seeds, feeders and treats. We are aware that the local community are very keen to feed and look after wildlife. 

Are you taking a stance on the products you sell?

We support local suppliers, and want to continue to expand our products this way. Hay and straw is locally grown and hand bagged. Similarly, our bird tables and nest boxes are hand made locally. We want to promote sustainability – our wild bird seed packaging is bio-degradable and there more things we are looking into, to become eco-friendly. We promote British dog food companies, who source their dried food ingredients from the UK.

Who works in the store?

Currently, there are just the two of us. However, when such a time comes for when we are in a position to employ more staff, we have a couple of experienced staff in mind. 

What are your hopes for the future?

We would like to expand and offer more services like delivery, online shopping, and dog grooming. These are all things which customers have enquired about and expressed interest in.

Take a look inside Bridge Street Pets with our gallery of pictures below...

Nationwide pet retailer Jollyes is handing its colleagues a payment of £600 to help support them through the cost of living crisis – with payments timed to help around Christmas.

The cost of living support, together with enhanced staff discounts, is being made as a thank-you to colleagues for their hard work during a year which has seen the business deliver a strong performance across its 82 UK stores and online platform.

Jollyes will pay the £600, pro-rated for part-time staff, in four monthly instalments between November and February, to provide support before and after Christmas.

Additional support will come through increases to the staff discount scheme between 1 November and 28 February, including extra discounts – up from 20 per cent to 30 per cent – on all items including pet food, toys and treats, and up to 60 per cent on own brand dog food.

The payments and enhanced discount scheme details were announced last week to over 900 Jollyes colleagues.

Jollyes chief executive, Joe Wykes, said: “I’m very aware of the current economic climate, with inflation impacting every part of our lives, from weekly shopping bills, heating our homes and mortgage payments.

“The leadership team has been discussing ways in which we can support our colleagues and show our appreciation of their hard work and effort by doing something that will make a difference around Christmas.

“It’s not just about the cash. The majority of our colleagues are pet owners themselves and the discounts mean they can bring a little seasonal cheer to furry family members too.”

Jollyes announced the payments and discounts in a letter to colleagues in which it said it had delivered a strong performance. Over the past year it has been expanding across the UK through new store openings and acquisitions.

As a national retailer offering a local pet store feel, Jollyes has a unique proposition, priding itself on the friendliness and expertise of its colleagues.

Earlier this year it also introduced a ‘Jollyes Treats’ programme for its colleagues giving its own people discounts off big high street and online retail, travel and financial services brands.

The £600 cost of living support will be paid subject to PAYE and NI deductions to full-time employees, based on average number of hours worked in October or minimum contract hours, and pro-rated for part-time workers. The payment does not apply to store managers.

Under the staff discount scheme, the discount on Lifestage and K9 own brand dry dog food increases from 50 per cent to 60 per cent and on own brand wet dog food from 35 per cent to 45 per cent. Discount on all other items rises from 20 per cent to 30 per cent, except where items are already discounted.