A claim by a pet food supplier that its products were “fresh, home-cooked meals” has been ruled as misleading by the Advertising Standards Authority.

The ASA has told Dogmates Ltd, who produce the Butternut Box brand, that the advertisement on its website must not appear again in its current form.

It sated: “We told Dogmates Ltd t/a Butternut Box to ensure that their future advertising did not mislead by implying a product was created in a home kitchen when that was not the case.”

The ASA had received a complaint challenging whether the claim "home-cooked meals" was misleading.

In response Dogmates Ltd informed the ASA their business originated in a home kitchen where their recipes were developed and it would be possible to recreate their dishes using equipment designed for use in the home. At the time of the complaint, their production was done in a rented kitchen and all their meals were run in small batches, with each part of the process being completed by hand. They said the kitchen was specifically designed for small-food businesses to run and scale up their production.

Butternut Box said their dog food could clearly be distinguished from the categories of wet (canned) food and dry food, which were not possible to produce at home. It could also be distinguished from raw dog food as they minced their meats and mixed them with their dry ingredients, filled them into a sealed pouch and gently cooked the food.

They said their food did not belong to any of those existing categories of dog food; they felt "home-cooked" was the most appropriate way to describe their food.

Butternut Box provided the results of a survey they ran by asking 500 dog owners what language could be used to describe their product.

They proposed to amend their website so that the claim was qualified on the home page. They also proposed to create a page that provided further information on their product, which included an explanation on how the food was produced.

The ASA considered that consumers would interpret the term “home-cooked” to mean that Butternut Box’s products were prepared within a residential kitchen.

In its ruling the ASA stated: “We considered the evidence provided by Butternut Box. We acknowledged the process followed in the preparation of the food and the fact that each step was completed by hand. We also recognised that they sought to differentiate their product from other types of dog food available on the market. However, the product was produced in a rented commercial kitchen and while the processes used could all be replicated in a residential kitchen, the commercial environment in which the food was produced was not one that consumers would readily associate with the claim “home-cooked”.

“We noted the survey conducted by Butternut Box. The results showed that 207 of 500 participants described their food as “home-cooked” or “homemade”. However, participants were only shown images of the food and an explanation that it was dog food sold online. Participants were not shown how the food was produced and the results showed that the majority in fact described the food as something other than “home-cooked” or “homemade”.

“While we welcomed Butternut Box’s attempts to provide further clarification on the product on their website, we did not consider their proposed amendments sufficient to alter the overall impression that the food was produced in a residential kitchen.

“Therefore, because Butternut Box’s product was not prepared in a residential kitchen, we considered the claim ‘home-cooked’ was misleading.”

The ASA ruling can be viewed by clicking here

Pet trade recruitment specialist Lynda Ward claims “the last 12 months has seen the biggest leap in base salaries for over a decade.”

Her business Pet Trade Solutions has recruited Sales, Marketing and Management staff at all levels and in all sectors for over 18 years and she says: “Salaries had been stagnant for so long that many experienced people left the trade in a quest for better pay, but suddenly there has been a big leap in what quality personnel are being paid.”

She adds: “This can of course be a headache for start-up businesses needing expertise or even long-standing companies looking to expand – some of whom who have become used to paying salaries which are no longer attractive - and it can come as a big shock to them when I advise the average salary they realistically need to look at offering.

"Of course the key factor is in my comment about ‘quality personnel’…it is always possible for employers to search and find someone to fill a role at a lower salary … but they need to ask themselves why that person will accept it.”

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

Pets at Home has been in the news again this week with a number of stories hitting the headlines, including a puppy and its owner being attacked by a Staffordshire Bull Terrier-type dog inside one of its stores.

Here’s our look at some of those stories:

The Stoke Sentinel reported that Pets at Home has reassured customers after a dog owner was badly bitten in the attack at its Festival Park shop. The man’s French Bulldog was lunged at twice by the other dog.

A Pets at Home spokesperson told the newspaper: "Unfortunatel incidents like this are extremely rare and our colleagues at the Stoke-on-Trent store handled the situation very professionally.

The full story can be read here

Meanwhile the Bristol Post reported that a branch of Vets4Pets in Bedminster that’s part of the Pets at Home group is to be closed down. It’s understood that Pets at Home could close up to 30 of its vet practices under plans to overhaul the business and save money.

It was a similar story on the Devon Live website with a report that seven jobs will be lost with the closure of  Exeter Vets4Pets on April 18, with the loss of seven jobs.

For the Bristol Post story click here, Devon Live story click here

On a more positive note several websites reported that Pets at Home stores are hosting free animal workshops for children over the Easter holidays. Click here for the Derby Telegraph’s version.

The Naturediet Feel Good range is expanding to include a smaller 200g pack into its range of nutritional, steam cooked dog meals - perfect for smaller breeds – and to include Feel Good Natural Treats, which are semi-moist bite size treats, perfect for training.

The 200g pack size wet foods range will sit alongside the existing 390g pack size range and includes 12 popular flavours such as chicken, lamb and salmon. The range is suitable for all breeds of adult and senior dogs and puppies over six months old and the new smaller pack size is perfect for smaller breeds; preventing waste and making it even more convenient for owners of smaller dogs to provide their beloved pets with nutritionally balanced meals.

The Feel Good Natural Treats, which are semi-moist bite-size treats packed with freshly prepared ingredients, are perfect for training too. The Naturediet Purely range is also still available - all exclusively for pet specialist retailers to buy from either Bestpets or direct from Naturediet.

The Naturediet Feel Good range of healthy, 100% British made wet food for dogs is a vibrant and exciting variety of products, providing dog owners with premium, natural meals packed in the eco-friendly Tetra Pak cartons. Naturediet are proud of their honest labelling ethos and promotion of valid claims and are transforming their manufacturing capabilities to make a positive difference to the environment. Naturediet are leading the way with Tetra Pak - an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional dog food packaging.

Of the partnership, Peter Brame, Director of Trading – Pet at Bestpets said: ‘We are delighted to be the exclusive wholesale distributor of Naturediet to the independent pet trade.  As the UK’s number one pet products wholesaler, this partnership makes total sense not only for Bespets and Naturediet, but more importantly for pet retailers who will have easy access to the range through our website and in our 17 depots throughout the UK.

We’ve got exciting plans with Naturediet and we very much looking forward to continuing to work together to deliver the best selection of products and trading support for our customers.’

In November 2018, Naturediet was honoured to receive the Sustainability Award at the Pet Industry Federation Awards in recognition of their efforts to reduce the company's environmental impact. 

Nylabone has added an exciting variety of new products to its UK offering. Made with tough durable nylon and designed for even the most powerful of chewers the new products include:

An Extreme Chew Wishbone in bison flavour. Available in small and large sizes it has an easy to hold arched design and three textured ends which help to clean teeth and freshen breath.

A peanut butter flavoured Extreme Chew Fill It Treat Toy. Created with three separate ‘spread zones’ on each side, this toy is perfect for use with peanut butter, soft cheeses and even soft treats. It is available in a medium size.

Designed as a rawhide alternative, the new Extreme Knot Bone is flavoured with bacon and cheese. Unlike rawhide it guarantees no splinters, odours or mess, and is available in medium and large sizes.

A beef flavoured Puppy Chew Knot. Designed for puppies who have their first set of teeth this chew is made from a soft durable nylon that offers a safer and cleaner alternative to rawhide.

The Wooden Stick Extreme Chew, the perfect alternative for dogs who like sticks, this features Nylabone’s patented over-mold technology which gives each chew the look and texture of real bark, but with no splintering or mess.  Packed with delicious bacon flavour they are available in medium and extra large sizes.

The products are available to order now.

www.nylabone.co.uk

Now’s about the time of year that workers start planning for Britain’s best day out for dogs – Bring Your Dog To Work Day (June 21st) – the charity day when thousands of us take our precious pooches to help us out at work.

The organisers have put together some essential tips to make sure your furry friend, and your colleagues all have a puptastic fun and memorable day at work.

• Puppies in the office are cute but while they might be house trained it might not be the same at work – take care, make sure they are leashed and safe at all times
• If you’re commuting on public transport, make sure your dog is used to buses and trains – especially during rush hour
• Take into account your dog’s personality - are they people dogs, friendly or reserved? If they are shy tell your colleagues, like people some dogs can be overwhelmed by attention and too much petting. Sometimes it can be a good idea to put a cute jacket or jaunty bandana on a nervous dog and tell your colleagues to be cautious with the dog with the bandana.
• If you are going into a lift - check with the people on board before you get in the lift if they are nervous or ok with dogs
• Even if your dog is not a chewer at home the office cables might be irresistible – bring lots of chew toys to distract them from having a nibble on interesting looking wires. Better yet, tape down wires.
• Take them out for plenty of breaks but don’t let colleagues take your precious pooch out without you unless they know each other very well
• Keep them occupied, and while filing or data entry might be out of the question some puzzle toys to stimulate their brains will keep them busy at their desks – they could become an invaluable member of staff
• It might be a good idea to bring their bed in for the day or a comfortable blanket so there is somewhere that feels familiar and it will encourage them to have a rest after all the initial excitement has died down.

The organisers have also put together a handy HR guide on the website with more essential info.

Canine co-working is taking off and more businesses in UK and around the world are becoming dog friendly as they welcome well-behaved pooches into the office all year round.

Taking a dog to the office can be very enriching for dogs as well as the staff in the office and since its launch in 2014 Bring Your Dog To Work Day has grown in pupularity with lots of celebrities and large organisations getting involved as everyone benefits from having their four legged best friends with them during the working day.

Bring Your Dog To Work Day always trends at number 1 on Twitter – it’s a great day out and our Hall of Fame on our website is packed with some pawsome pictures of dogs having a lovely time at work with their owners. Make sure you sign up now by simply clicking on the donate button, get your company to sponsor your workplace for £100 that will be split between the charities All Dogs Matter and Animals Asia. 

The charities and the social pages of Bring Your Dog To Work Day will give your business a thank you shout out on social media. Anyone can donate £10 via the website to post your dog’s picture and description of its work duties on our ‘dog with a job’ Hall of Fame. One lucky winner every year wins £1000s worth of goodies from the sponsors.

www.bringyourdogtoworkday.co.uk

Oscar & Hooch exhibited at Crufts for the first time this year and used the show to launch its new range of Neon collars.

The company also used the show to promote its partnership with the Medical Detection Dogs, a charity that is at the forefront of the research into the fight against cancer and helping people with life-threatening diseases.

Style, comfort, practicality and durability are the hallmarks of the Oscar & Hooch brand. All collars and, leads are machine washable and are handmade in luxury soft suedette made right here in the UK. 

For the owner, Oscar & Hooch also manufacture luxury treat bags made from the same suedette as the collars to carry those tasty treat morsels in. Together, they make an attractive and stylish ensemble for any pooch whilst they are out and about on their favourite walk.

On the stand at Crufts, Oscar & Hooch also displayed their luxury pet beds and stylish coats and colourful bandanas.

The new Neon collars which turned out to be a big hit with visitors to the stand are available in a range of bight luminous colours and make quite a fashion statement.

Elaine Steckler co-founder of Oscar & Hooch said:“We were absolutely delighted with our success at Crufts. Our stand was extremely busy over the four days and we sold lots of our Signature Range of products and it provided the right platform to launch our new Neon Range of collars.

"It was also great that the Medical Detection Dogs were able to make an appearance on our stand. The Bio-Detection Dogs are trained to find the odour of diseases in samples such as urine and swabs.

"The Medical Alert Assistance Dogs are trained to detect minute changes in an individual’s personal odour triggered by their disease and alert them to an impending medical event.

 “At Oscar & Hooch we are very proud to be partners with Medical Detection Dogs This fantastic charity work tirelessly in undertaking groundbreaking research and training medical assistance dogs, allowing them to identify dangerous health conditions with the people they live with.

"For every dog that qualifies as a medical assistance dog, they will receive an Oscar & Hooch collar and lead. We also donate some of the proceeds for every sale of our Medical Detection Dog collar and lead range to support this amazing charity.”

For further information about Oscar & Hooch visit www.oscarandhooch.com

A charity vet from Leicester is getting ready for the Manchester Marathon, marking his 22nd marathon challenge.

Chris Sherwood (53) will be taking on the 26.2 mile course in aid of two charities - vet charity PDSA, and MOVE, a local charity which supports children and young people with cancer.

Chris said: “This year's run will require a lot of willpower and determination! I've managed most of my long runs at the weekend but with a busy work schedule training often takes a back-seat.

“Every year I raise funds for PDSA, but this year I’m also supporting a local cancer charity, MOVE. My wife Jane is undergoing treatment for breast cancer and has become an ambassador for ‘5k your way’ which encourages those affected by cancer patients to take part in a Parkrun on the last Saturday of the month and chat over a well-earned cup of tea afterwards. More and more studies show that doing some exercise can help speed recovery and reduce the risk of cancer recurrence, and can help boost your mood during a difficult time.”

This year will be Chris’s first Manchester marathon, breaking his nine-year London marathon streak, and he will be joined by his daughter.

“As I get older the training is becoming tougher and willpower to get up and out before work is harder. I work as a vet surgeon at the PDSA Pet Hospital in Leicester, which can be extremely busy, so juggling work alongside training can be tough.”

Chris has been working at Leicester’s PDSA Pet Hospital for 22 years, where the team treat over 70,000 pets every single year. On an average day, the PDSA team see 119 pets. 

Amy Wareing-Reid, Fundraising Manager at PDSA, said: “Chris’s inspiring marathon effort means many pets will receive the vital vet care they need and we’re enormously grateful to have his support once again this year for his twenty-second marathon! We’ll be cheering Chris and the rest of Team PDSA’s runners along the course and I hope local animal lovers will support him too.”

Between now and the Manchester marathon day – on 7 April – Chris will be pounding the streets of Leicester as he continues his intense training to get through those 26.2 miles.

For more information about fundraising for PDSA visit: www.pdsa.org.uk/run

Dr Vince MacNally, a veterinary surgeon in Southport with over 30 years’ experience, has made available a unique range of clinically proven, natural supplements and remedies, which have transformed the lives of countless dogs and cats.

Vince the Vet  Superfood Supplements supply concentrated bursts of nutrients to important parts of the body, to support specific areas of health, including digestion, energy and vitality, immunity and joint mobility.

Added to a dog or cat’s diet each day, significant health benefits are typically seen in a matter of weeks. The supplements are made using only the finest natural, raw ingredients and contain no fillers or chemical additives of any kind. A little therefore, goes a long way, which makes them affordable as well as highly effective at enriching any diet, and supplying many of the nutrients necessary for optimum health.

Vince the Vet Remedies are clinically proven blends of plant and mineral extracts which support the body’s natural adaptive and recuperative powers.

Available in 50ml dropper bottles, there are formulations to naturally relieve fears and anxieties, and reduce the stress of thunder, fireworks, travel, vet visits and other challenging events.

There are also remedies to support the normal, healthy functioning of key organs in the body, such as the joints, heart, liver, kidneys and bowels. There are those which can be used throughout the year to maintain healthy, hygienic bowels and cleanse the organs of detoxification, while others such as Recuperation and Skin Irritation are useful to have to hand, to aid a return to full health following recovery from an injury or illness.

Both the Vince the Vet Superfood Supplement ‘JOINTS’ and ‘JOINT SUPPORT’ Remedy are proving to have amazing results amongst referrals and clients. Star, an 8 year old Leonburger had severe wear and tear on her knees. Noora her owner said: “She was on a different joint supplement without much noticeable difference. We changed her to Vince the Vet Joints and within 5 days she was bouncing about like a youngster. She can now jump on our bed (which she has not been able to do for few years), stand against gates and generally cause trouble like she used to in her younger years."

Adding JOINTS Superfood Supplement to the diet each day provides a rich supply of nutrients to bones, cartilage, muscles, joint fluid, tendons and ligaments, which help to maintain maximum mobility and the best possible joint health. Active ingredients include a unique blend of hydrolysed collagen, organic kelp, bromelain and hyaluronic acid. Available in 200g and 400g tubs.

This is typical of many responses from satisfied dog and cat owners who have used Vince the Vet  products.

Given 3 times a day Joint Support Remedy provides additional, natural relief to very stiff pets. Ingredients include a unique blend of calcium phosphate, harpagophytum, symphytum officinale and wild rosemary. Available in a 50 ml dropper bottle.

To find out more about Vince the Vet visit www.vincethevet.co.uk. Telephone 0800 689385 or 07403 663263 or email: info@vincethevet.co.uk to enquire about becoming a stockist.

Wyevale Garden Centres  has announced the sale of 31 centres to Dobbies Garden Centres for an undisclosed sum. This is the third transaction with Dobbies following the sale of five centres, plus a single site sale, both in October 2018.

The centres include: Altrincham, Andover, Beaconsfield, Brighton, Bury St Edmunds, Cadnam, Findern, Galton, Gosforth, Hare Hatch, Harlestone Heath, Havant, Hungerford, Keston, Leicester Rowena, Lelant, Marple, Moreton Park, Northampton, Pennine, Poppleton, Royston, Rugby, Shenstone, Stratford upon Avon, Stockton, Swansea, Swindon, Telford, Thornbury and World's End.

The centres will continue to trade as WGC over the coming weeks with completion of the sales phased from late May through to the end of June.

Following the sale to Dobbies, WGC remains a top three garden centre operator in the UK with 60 centres and a further four centres that are operating under licence. The announcement comes as WGC reports strong trading in the first quarter of 2019 with sales up 26% year on year, profitability significantly improved and high levels of liquidity. 

Anthony Jones, Chief Operating Officer of WGC, said “We are pleased to have agreed the sale of a portfolio of our centres to Dobbies Garden Centres. We would like to thank all of our garden centre colleagues for their contribution to Wyevale Garden Centres and wish them well for the next stage of their growth and development with Dobbies. I am delighted with our strong start to the year and am excited about trading for the rest of the main gardening season. Meanwhile, we also continue to evaluate a wide range of options as part of our ongoing sale process.”

Graeme Jenkins, CEO of Dobbies, said: “We are very pleased to have agreed this acquisition and look forward to welcoming our new customers along with 1,400 new members to our team.”

Separately, WGC today also confirms the commencement of a collective consultation process with all colleagues at its Syon Park Customer Support Centre (“CSC”). This process is required due to the potential reduction of at least 20 roles at the CSC and commences with the nomination and appointment of employee representatives before a 45 day collective consultation can begin.   

Anthony Jones, Chief Operating Officer of WGC, said “I appreciate the commencement of a collective consultation process is unsettling for our CSC colleagues. We are committed to keeping all our colleagues informed as the consultation process progresses and any potential impacts are clarified.”

Christie & Co, the specialist business property advisor managing the sale process on behalf of WGC, have run a two-phase process that has achieved considerable interest from a wide variety of buyers. The opportunity to run one, a small group or a portfolio of garden centres has ignited interest within the sector and beyond, and there are still opportunities to acquire strongly located well-performing centres.

The best news service every week.

Subscribe for free by clicking here

2019 got off to an exciting start for one of the UK’s newest manufacturers of pet treats, the Big Biscuit Company with the appointment of Leo Baker, to the role of Operations Director.

The company which manufactures baked pet treats on behalf of private label manufacturers, as well as for its own brand, Betty Miller, has gone from strength to strength since it was founded by Alex Baker in February 2017. Alex was quick to appoint his brother, Leo, to head up production and he has been key in growing the business to where it is now.

When Alex set up the company, he saw a gap in the market of baked pet treats for an ethical manufacturer with high environmental credentials and set about creating a bakery with ovens powered exclusively by renewable energy sources. He believes that this coupled with the friendly and personal nature of the family run business is what has led to its success so far.

“As animal and nature lovers, the environment is something that Leo and I both feel passionately about. Having worked in the pet food industry for over 20 years, I knew we weren’t the only ones who felt this way and that if I could create a bakery with the best environmental credentials then others would get on board with that”, said Alex.

“Bringing Leo into the project allowed me to fulfil my vision for the business. His previous experience outside the industry meant that he was perfect to head up production and as brothers, we understand the best way of working with each other. His skills and personality compliments mine and vice versa.

“We are a true family run business that really cares about all of its customers. We love to get to know their goals and visions for their brands and we get really excited to see how much innovation there is in the industry. It is fantastic to work with so many people who share our passion for pet treats.

Having spent the previous 10 years building up a successful career in the hospitality industry, Leo was excited to have the opportunity to put the skills he had developed to good news in a new industry and one that he is very interested in.

“As a family we have always owned pets from dogs and cats to parrots and even a goat – they are part of our family and we have always wanted to feed them the very best. We are true animal lovers so its great to be a part of this venture with my brother and hopefully making a positive impact on the industry.

“Coming into the business at the beginning was brilliant. It means I’ve been there through everything – the bakery build, establishing client relationships and fulfilling the ever expanding order book in 2017, and then 2018 was just a mad year – it just got busier and busier and showed no signs of letting up. 2019 is also off to a busy start and organising production is a constant (but welcome) challenge. I can’t wait to see where the business goes in 2019."

For more information about the Big Biscuit Company or to speak to Alex and Leo about manufacturing your treats, visit www.thebigbiscuitco.com

Manchester-based pet bedding and accessory specialist Scruffs have confirmed its participation at this year’s Zoomark in Bologna next month.

Based in Hall 25, B96-C97 this year; Scruffs is set to re-imagine its ‘British Country Manor’ themed stand, with notable improvements to display space and overall aesthetics.

Scruffs will be showcasing several new product ranges and designs this year, as the brand continues to update its core collections to reflect changes in the market.

Dubby Klyne, Sales Director at Scruffs, said: “We’ve been hard at work over the past two years, and since our last visit to Bologna there have been various enhancements to our product range. We are excited to display our new-looking pet bedding and accessory collections, with improvements and additions throughout.”

First Look: Scruffs has confirmed that three products will be displayed in the New Product Showcase at Zoomark. These products make up the new-look bedding collections for small dog breeds, including the Rustic Wooden (pictured), Haven Rope and Habitat Felt Beds.

For more information contact a member of the Scruffs marketing team using pr@petslovescruffs.com or via phone on +44 (0) 161 702 5060.

The Petplan Veterinary Awards 2019 received more than 40,000 nominations, highlighting the fantastic work that goes on in practices on a daily basis, and following a difficult judging process, the winners have been announced.

Practice of the Year

Winner: Blue House Veterinary Centre Ltd, Stoke-On-Trent

Finalists: Wendover Heights Veterinary Centre, Halton and White Cross Vets, Derby

Vet of the Year

Winner: Danielle Greenberg, The Liverpool Vets

Finalists: Brian Hogan, Black’s Veterinary Hospital, Dudley, and Hannah Capon, Canine Arthritis Mgmt, Shoreham by Sea

Vet Nurse of the Year

Winner: Sarah Barnett, Watkins and Tasker Veterinary Group, Yatton

Finalists: Craig Tessyman, Rutland House Veterinary Surgery Ltd, St Helens, and Jasmine Kilpatrick, Casvet, Cheltenham

Practice Manager of the Year

Winner: Rachel Duncan, 387 Veterinary Centre Ltd, Walsall

Finalists: Helen Coe, Ledbury Park Veterinary Centre, Ledbury, and Katie Bull, Vale Vets, Portishead

Practice Support Staff of the Year

Winner: Sharon Scarrett, Blue House Veterinary Centre Ltd, Stoke-On-Trent

Finalists: Graham Skelton, Orchard House Veterinary Centres Ltd, Hexham, and Zoe Pickering, Orchard House Veterinary Centres Ltd, Hexham

Videos of the winners can be found by clicking here

The Think Parrots Show and exhibition, now in its 8th year, will be taking place at Kempton Park Racecourse, Staines Road East, Sunbury-on-Thames, Middlesex, TW16 5AQ, on Sunday 9th June 2019, 10am to 5pm.

The show will include three free Masterclass sessions, delivered by top avian experts, Miniclasses about eco-tours, as well as free-flying bird demonstrations by a top UK bird trainer and a microchipping special offer by a well-known avian veterinarian.

The event, organised by Parrots magazine and sponsored by Northern Parrots, is aimed at dedicated parrot owners, who are eager to improve their knowledge, and brings together a wide range of parrot enthusiasts including pet owners, hobby breeders, conservationists, avian vets, and the UK’s top parrot experts, as well as an extensive range of exhibits and product displays.

Show organiser John Catchpole said; “As our Think Parrots event has grown over the past seven years, it is very clear that genuine parrot owners and enthusiasts are delving deeper into the way parrots behave and how to provide the best care.

"As a highly intelligent creature, it is important that they are provided with a proper nutritional diet, an ideal environment, and above all else, good stimulation.  In the wild, they can choose and forage for food they think best, play and self-stimulate. 

"But in a captive environment, they are solely reliant on what we provide. So it is very encouraging to see that there are increasing efforts from a wide range of experts to provide the best care for them to enjoy a happy and contented life, and indeed, our company as well.

"Apart from our regular Masterclasses, Steve Brookes will be giving two mini-talks about his amazing eco-tours to South America, which will be interesting for anyone who would like a holiday with a difference. Also once again, we are offering a microchipping service by well-known avian vet, Alan K Jones MRCVS. Plus free-flying bird demonstrations by top UK bird trainer, Mike Simmons, as well as Craig Young."

The details of the free Masterclass sessions are:

• 11am-12pm       Dr Brian Stockdale, MRCVS      The Colour of Flight – nutritional implication of feathers
• 1pm-2pm           David Woolcock                          The Kiwa Centre – rehoming and reintroduction
• 3pm-4pm           Stephanie Jayson, MRCVS        From complex cognition to enriching environments

Entry into the show costs £10 on the day or for ‘early bird’ advance tickets, £9 per person.

For further information and to book tickets, log on to www.thinkparrots.co.uk

Brambles Pet and Wildlife is continuing to run Facebook giveaways where members of the public nominate their favourite wildlife rescue centre to be in with a chance of the rescue winning food and other essential supplies.

Brambles PAW has teamed up with Royal Canin, Kruuse UK (Esbilac Milk), Brinsea Incubators and many others to offer hundreds of pounds worth of supplies to wildlife rescues.

Sales Manager David Tracey said: “These giveaways are our way of helping these amazing people who are often self-funded and rely on donations and do a fantastic job in giving wildlife a second chance."

Pictured is one of the recent winners ‘Wild Hogs Rescue Centre in Gloucester’.

Brambles Wildlife foods are available from pet wholesalers and the company is proud suppliers to the RSPB and Woodland Trust.

www.bramblespaw.co.uk

https://www.facebook.com/BramblesPAW/

https://twitter.com/BramblesPawLtd

https://www.instagram.com/bramblespaw/

Ex public schoolgirl Katy Cropper tells how at 19 having seen a sheepdog trial in Anglesey, she “Got rid of the husband and bought a sheepdog” on CSJ’s new A Way With Dogs site https://www.awaywithdogs.co.uk/handler-interviews/

Coming to public fame in 1990 as the first female winner of One Man and His Dog she went on to international acclaim as a handler, breeder and trainer of sheepdogs.

In the fascinating and sometimes funny 20 minute video on home turf at Shap with her dogs and sheep Katy’s passion shines through as she shares memories and insights into how she chooses and starts training her Border Collies and tells Paddy Fanning, “It’s a lifetime study.”

As well as working and trialling her dogs Katy holds courses and trains for other owners and tells would be trials enthusiasts, “You need to want this more than anything – it’s an emotional rollercoaster and it’s hard!”

She touchingly pays tribute to H. Glyn Jones (the father of CSJ’s founder Ceri Rundle) who helped and encouraged her and says his book ‘A Way of Life’ was invaluable.

https://www.awaywithdogs.co.uk/handler-interviews/  also features interviews with other handlers in the soon to be aired A Way With Dogs 2 in which Katy runs her 8 year old Border Collie Zac – saying, “I’m still in shock, I was honoured to be invited to take part amongst such a skilled and renowned field of opponents.”

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

Owners of a family-run pet stall have shut their city centre business after more than three decades. 

Doolan Pet Supplies - based in Hanley's indoor market - shut for the final time at the weekend with fellow traders revealing how much the stall will be missed. 

A sign had been placed at the pet store revealing March 30 is the final day - with members of the family continuing to operate at Stoke Indoor Market.

To read the full story click here

Manufacturers and suppliers are getting right behind PATS as the UK’s number one pet trade event prepares for two more exciting and successful shows – PATS Telford in September 2019 and PATS Sandown in February 2020.

More than 110 companies have booked their stand space for the Autumn showpiece with still over five months to go, while PATS Sandown 2020 is already two-thirds full as 72 exhibitors have confirmed their place at the Spring event.

With such a winning formula, the two PATS exhibitions have become ‘must-visit’ events for UK and international retailers and buyers. Showcasing all the latest launches under one roof, the show’s reputation has grown impressively over the past 10 years since launching in 2009.

George Bramble, co-founder of Beco Pets, summed up why companies can rely on PATS to deliver the best shows for the UK pet trade.

“Both PATS shows are musts in the Beco calendar,” said George. “We traditionally launch products in Spring and Autumn so PATS Sandown and Telford respectively are ideal opportunities to showcase innovation to the industry. As a fast-growing business, but without huge marketing budgets, we rely heavily on pet specific retailers to promote and educate pet owners on our eco-friendly range of products. PATS attracts the best pet retailers in the country, and the organisers do a fantastic job in maximising manufacturers’ exposure before, during, and after the show. PATS is a first class trade show!”

These sentiments were echoed by Jo Boughton-White, MD of Dorwest Herbs, who said: “We consider PATS to be the most important trade shows in our calendar. These exhibitions are the perfect platform for us to launch new products to the right people, the decision makers in the pet trade industry! Not only that, but they are the perfect opportunity to meet current customers under one roof. We have gained several new customers from the shows and we continue to nurture those relationships thereafter.”

Rob Newsome, Director of Sales & Operations at Danish Design Pet Products, said: “We believe that PATS is the go-to event for all businesses across the pet industry. We know that we make contact with our valued existing customers as well as opening up new opportunities every time.”

And Sam Marriage, MD of Marriages Specialist Foods, commented: “PATS is a really important launchpad for us and we try to come to every single show with at least one new product. It’s really good that PATS supports us in the industry with the New Product Awards as it helps to keep innovation in the market.”

Bill Kimberling, Trade Channel Controller at Forthglade, said PATS was a great place to meet customers and to showcase the company’s full range of natural products. “The event always has such a buzz. It provides the ideal opportunity for retailers to ask lots of questions face to face, while taking advantage of the special offers available at the show.”

Steve Driver, of Pet Trade Innovations, added: "PATS has always been the best place for us to present our new products and innovations to the trade. The exhibitions attract an excellent range of buyers, including retailers, groomers, kennels and catteries, plus some major distributors from the UU and overseas. Nowhere else in the UK do we get such a good opportunity to meet all these key buyers in one place and get to present our full range and new lines."

Inspired Pet Nutrition were the first company to book a stand with PATS in 2009 under the Wagg brand, and have exhibited ever since. Sales Director Ben Anderson revealed: “From IPN’s standpoint, PATS Sandown and Telford are the only UK pet trade shows that we will be supporting going forward. PATS gets better year on year in terms of visitor numbers, quality of visitor, event timings and location. As a major manufacturer, we know that the show will deliver the level of retail buyer that we are targeting with our new product launches and wider branded ranges. Since day one PATS has been a successful show for IPN, organised by people that truly understand the pet market and the calibre of customer that we are looking to see on our stand.”

PATS is the only exhibition where the entire industry comes together under one roof, making it ideal for all pet retailers, vets, groomers, farm shops, and garden centres. With hundreds of items being exhibited at every show, many of which are new to the market, there is something to meet every retailer’s needs.

Organiser Gordon Thomas explained how PATS is able to stage such first class exhibitions. “We work closely with new and regular exhibitors to make sure our shows are fit for purpose. We listen to their comments and make changes when necessary. For instance, we switched PATS Sandown to a Sunday and Monday in February this year after consultation with our customers – a move that proved hugely successful. We also work hard at delivering the right audience, ensuring that our visitors are the people making the key buying decisions.”

The PATS winner formula delivers:

• Hundreds of the latest pet product launches under one roof
• New Product Awards, judged by a panel of pet retailers and sponsored by pbwnews
• Informative talks by leading experts from across the industry
• Top class demonstrations and workshops from award-winning groomers
• Unrivalled show offers and competitions
• An opportunity to network with UK and international retailers and buyers

PATS Telford also plays host to the prestigious PetQuip Awards, now in their seventh year. These awards have consistently delivered a professional, enjoyable and successful networking evening event for the whole industry where suppliers and retailers can mix, have fun and celebrate the industry’s many successes.

A full and up-to-date list of exhibitors is available on the website www.patshow.co.uk together with information on how to reach the venue and regularly updated show news.

On the day of its Annual Convention (28 March), the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association (PFMA), representing 85 UK pet food companies, brought together its members, vets and Government departments to focus on what lies ahead for the pet food sector and pet nutrition.

Under the theme ‘Pet food nutrition: what’s next on the menu?’, there is a lot more clarity and certainty about the pet food sector’s objectives than what’s on the Brexit Menu.

PFMA Chief Executive, Michael Bellingham, explains: “Today we set out the next stage of our 3-year pet food vision, this year focussing on pet nutrition. Our ambition is to remain a world leader in this critical area, by encouraging and acting on the latest science. As a result, our nation’s pets benefit from the highest nutritional quality products, developed over several decades.”

Michael (above) continues: “This ambition is threatened by the continued uncertainty over our future relationship with the EU. This uncertainty is the enemy of our pet food businesses; it lowers confidence levels and risks curbing growth and innovation in the UK. We therefore call on the UK Government to end the Brexit uncertainties which are placing high costs on our businesses and diverting focus from our main job of feeding safe, nutritious high-quality food to our pets."

Pure Pet Food, the award-winning manufacturer of dehydrated and freeze dried pet food, has secured a £2m investment from NVM Private Equity(NVM) to accelerate its plans to make healthy choices for pet owners easy and accessible.

The company's low processed natural recipes have become the go-to option for pets suffering with a range of ailments and sensitivities. The innovative Yorkshire based company formed by childhood friends Mathew Cockroft and Daniel Valdur Eha has quickly grown from a tiny business which started life in Daniel’s kitchen, to a brand that is now sold around the world and in major retailers such as Pets at Home.

Pure produces natural pet food products in their very own human grade food facility in West Yorkshire. The company’s innovative manufacturing techniques allow for products that not only address current market trends to feed a low processed and high quality food, but also avoids the inconvenience and expense which can prevent a significant number of owners from doing so.

The investment from NVM comes after a host of recent accolades and achievements for the business. Pure won the Lloyds TSB’s National Best Start-up award and the PetQuip Pet Product Innovation award.

Mat commented: “Pure first started after we decided to do our own research into the current commercial pet food available and exactly how it was made. It made little sense to us that highly processed food, containing low quality ingredients, manufactured into small brown biscuits that are fed to pets each day was possibly the healthiest diet option.”

Dan added: “We set out to create a food which retained the convenience of a commercial dry or wet pet food, but with the benefits of fresh, wholesome ingredients. This thought process led us to the methods of dehydration and freeze drying, which allow for the gentle preservation of fresh ingredients. Pure requires no refrigeration or freezer space, owners simply have to add water and serve, creating a healthy low processed meal in minutes.

“Pure Pet Food has proved to be a big hit with pets suffering from a range of ailments and allergies such as stomach sensitivities, IBD, Pancreatitis and fussiness to name just a few. I think rather than anything special in our recipes it is more what we haven’t added. Our food contains no grains, corn, additives or any other nasties.”

The pair plan to use the funding to support Pure Pet Food’s rapid growth, whilst launching new products, adding to their team and expanding their offering throughout Europe.

“This investment will allow for the development of a much more personalised offering, improving the level of service we can provide to our customers and their pets. We see huge opportunity within this space and by partnering with NVM we now have the resources and experience to realise our vision,” Mat added.

Aaron Lawson-Clark (pictured above (centre) with Mat and Dan), Investment Associate at NVM, added: “NVM is delighted to be backing Dan and Mat to take Pure Pet Food to the next level.  The team have impressed demonstrating the skills required to build a business, brand and quality product with limited resources.  We are excited by the potential market for natural convenient pet food in the years ahead and we look forward to working with the team to scale up the business and deliver the future of pet nutrition.” 

Hill's Pet Nutrition has expanded its voluntary recall of canned dog food products due to elevated levels of Vitamin D. This expansion relates to the same vitamin premix that led to the January 31st voluntary recall.

While vitamin D is an essential nutrient for dogs, ingestion of elevated levels can lead to potential health issues depending on the level of vitamin D and the length of exposure, and dogs may exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, loss of appetite, increased thirst, increased urination, excessive drooling, and weight loss.

Vitamin D, when consumed at very high levels, can lead to serious health issues in dogs including renal dysfunction. 

Dog owners whose pets have consumed any of the products listed and are exhibiting any of these signs should contact their veterinarian. In most cases, complete recovery is expected after discontinuation of feeding.

The affected canned dog foods which were manufactured by the Hill’s Pet Nutrition facility in Topeka, Kansas (EU approval # KS-PF0-0004) were distributed through retail pet stores and veterinary clinics and e-commerce. No dry foods, cat foods, or treats are affected.

The company says that dog owners who purchased the product with the specific lot/date codes listed should discontinue feeding and dispose of those products immediately. Any questions should be sent to hillsukcustomerservices@hillspet.com or (UK): 0800 282 438, (ROI): 1800 626 002.

Hill’s Pet Nutrition learned of the potential for elevated vitamin D levels in some of its canned dog foods after receiving a complaint in the United States about a dog exhibiting signs of elevated vitamin D levels. Our investigation confirmed elevated levels of vitamin D due to a supplier error.

A Hill’s spokesperson said: “We care deeply about all pets and are committed to providing Dog owners with safe and high quality products. Hill’s has identified and isolated the error and, to prevent this from happening again, we have required our supplier to implement additional quality testing prior to their release of ingredients. In addition to our existing safety processes, we are adding our own further testing of incoming ingredients. All products within Hill’s control have been placed on hold. Hill’s will be contacting all clinics and retailers to retrieve products.”

The full Hill's statement can be viewed by clicking here