An acclaimed pet retailer has invested more than £250,000 in powering ahead with its net-zero vision.

PetPlace has installed up to 450 solar panels at its stores in Abergele and Llangefni, with Ruthin, Mold and Gledrid, Oswestry, set to follow.

The business has also introduced electric charging points at Gledrid, Llangefni and its Kinmel Bay headquarters – with Mold and Abergele next to have them - and they now have electric rather than gas forklift vehicles, electric company cars and digital display screens, which they hope will help towards the reduction of printed material.

Owners Sion Pritchard and Paul Penketh enlisted Tremeirchion and St Asaph-based Hafod Renewable Energy to supply and fit the panels and worked closely with other local firms to support the North Wales economy and push ahead with its ‘green vision’ as a sustainable, responsible employer, one of the leading names in the pet retail arena.

“The investment in solar panels alone will result in a carbon saving of around 40 tons of C02 per year, so long-term we will see the benefits,” said Sion.

“Initially we have focused on Abergele and Llangefni, but we will look to roll out as we rebrand and refurbish our other stores.

“All of our vehicles are now electric – including forklift trucks in the warehouses – and we are more sustainable than ever before, with more energy efficiency improvements to follow.”

He added: “As well as Hafod Renewable Energy we have worked closely with Gwynedd Forklifts and Rawson EV Power, two North Wales companies that helped us with these projects and others over the years.

“We are focused on supporting local businesses in all sectors, not just our own, which also lowers our carbon footprint and further strengthens the economy in this region at a challenging time for all industries.”

David Jones founded Hafod Renewable Energy in 2010 with his late father Richard.

He was delighted to work with PetPlace and said: “It was a big project which equated to around a quarter of an acre of solar panels.

“The installation took a couple of weeks from start to finish and also included more than 1km of mounting rail and a battery system that will store energy to run their freezers overnight, producing more than 160,000kwh per year – enough to power 50 homes.”

David added: “It was fantastic to work in partnership with such a respected, growing business which has embraced sustainability and renewable energy.

“Due to the energy crisis – which has resulted in a surge in enquiries - we are also expanding, opened a new head office and taken on two more staff so it’s a very busy time for us.”

For more on Hafod Renewable Energy, visit www.hafodrenewables.co.uk.

For more information on PetPlace, including the PetPlace Plus+ loyalty app, follow @petplaceUK on Facebook and Instagram or email hello@farmandpetplace.co.uk.

Dobbies, the UK’s leading garden centre, is welcoming families – including their dogs – across the country to its Santa’s Grotto experiences, available across 50 of its stores.

This year, kids are invited along to enjoy an immersive visit to the grotto where it will be love at frost sight with the elves taking visitors through a magical woodland, spotting reindeer, rabbits and forest creatures along the way. Children will become Santa's little helpers, participating in various activities revealed during their visit. 

After lending a helping hand, children will then get to meet Santa himself and receive a special gift. Families can also opt in to purchase a picture of their child with Santa, creating memories to last forever. Santa's Grotto will be available in 50 Dobbies’ stores across the country from 24 November. 

Dobbies’ Quiet Grotto experience returns this year on 9 December to support children with special needs. Sound and visual elements are adapted to reduce anxiety and ensure every child has an opportunity to meet Santa and his elves.

If you’re looking to get the whole family involved, the 50 stores will also offer a Santa Paws grotto experience where dog lovers can bring their pups to see Santa, with a special doggie gift and photo opportunity available. Child tickets can be added to make it a full family experience.

Dobbies’ Partnership and Events Manager, Sarah Murray, said: “Meeting Santa is an important part of Christmas and we’re looking to make this inclusive for all, with quiet and dog-friendly events available across all our grotto locations. We can’t wait to bring the magic of Christmas to life for our customers.”

Advance booking for Dobbies' Christmas events are recommended to avoid disappointment. All grotto prices have been held, with no price increases. Customers have the opportunity to make a donation to Dobbies’ national charity partner, Teenage Cancer Trust, when booking online:https://www.dobbies.com/events

• Santa’s Grotto is available in 50 stores and starts on 24 November, prices from £11.99 per child
• Santa’s Quiet Grotto is available in 50 stores and is on 9 December, prices from £11.99 per child
• Santa Paws is available in 50 stores and starts on 3 December, priced at £6.99 per dog

Dobbies offers Book with Confidence. For more info:https://www.dobbies.com/book-with-confidence

Pet retailers, garden centres and groomers are being urged to register now for free entry to PATS Sandown 2023, the UK’s Spring pet industry exhibition, where the leading brands will be showcasing their new products and services under one roof.

With so many exciting plans for 2023, PATS Sandown is shaping up to be another spectacular event in March.

Leading companies, including Beco, Sharples Pet, Burns Pet Nutrition, Danish Design, Johnson Veterinary Products, Pero Foods, Scruffs, Nutriment and Pet Trade Innovations, have already secured their space, so retailers and buyers can be certain the exhibition halls at Sandown Park Exhibition Centre in Surrey will be packed with hundreds of new products.

As well as meeting up with a long list of PATS regulars, visitors will be greeted by a host of new faces when the show takes place on Sunday, 26th March, and Monday, 27th March, 2023.

The importance of a Spring show like PATS Sandown was emphasised by Rob Newsome, director of sales and operations at Danish Design. He said: “PATS works for us because people can touch and feel the products, which makes a huge difference. After our busiest show at Telford in September, we’re looking forward to another successful event at PATS Sandown in 2023.”

Retailer Becky Seviour, of Pet Pals, Surrey, is a regular visitor to PATS Sandown. She commented: “The show gives us the opportunity to meet and speak to producers in person, rather than over the phone or online all the time. Also, buyers can see the quality of the products on offer, not always possible from a photo.”

And Chris Brown, of Garsons Garden Centre in Surrey, said: “This is our one-stop place for buying pet products for our garden centre. It’s the best place for picking up new supplies.”

So why should retailers register now for free entry to the two-day exhibition? Here’s just a quick summary of popular visitor attractions:

• The biggest and best showcase of new pet products
• The opportunity to have face-to-face meetings with suppliers
• Unrivalled show offers and competitions
• Top groomers giving insightful demonstrations, workshops and talks
• Free parking, free access and free parking

Exhibitors are well advanced in their preparations for PATS Sandown and are getting excited about showcasing their new products at the show.

You can register online at www.patshow.co.uk where you’ll also find a full list of exhibitors and information on how to reach the venue.

UK pet product suppliers looking to grow their export business will be taking part in the largest ever British group exhibiting at Zoomark International in 2023.

The PetQuip trade association has secured a prime location for the UK pavilion at the show, which takes place in Bologna, Italy, on May 15-17...

With Zoomark gearing up to biggest ever in the event’s history, space in the pavilion is selling quickly, with more than 450sq m of stands already snapped up.

The pavilion offers suppliers an outstanding opportunity to exhibit their products to an international audience, with help from the experienced multi-lingual PetQuip team to support and promote them before, during and after the show.

Also featuring the UK pet industry information stand manned by the PetQuip team, the pavilion is located in a prime location in hall 26, by the cross aisle that connects all the halls for Zoomark 2023.

PetQuip provides exhibitors with a comprehensive turn-key package of exhibitor support, to simplify suppliers’ participations, plus advance publicity and research information on international markets.

Amanda Sizer Barrett, Director General of PetQuip, confirmed: “The Italian market for pet supplies is one of the most dynamic in Europe. 

“According to figures published by Assalco in 2021, pet ownership is phenomenal in Italy, with 62 million pets in Italian homes: dogs and cats both have populations of over 16 million, a notable increase during the period of the pandemic. 

“The supply chain for pet products is one of the most dynamic in the Italian economy. According to the report, there are around 9,000 supermarkets, around 750 stores belonging to pet chains and 5,000 independent pet shops. 

“Added to that, at the last Zoomark edition there were 750 exhibitors from 40 countries and 27,000 buyers from 85 countries, and 2023 looks on target to exceed these totals by far.”

With stand space being sold so fast, UK companies thinking of exhibiting at Zoomark are being advised to contact PetQuip immediately. Call Emma Brazier on 01959 587446 or email emma@petquip.com for further details.

Nutriwolds raw pet food company has been acquired by Akela Pet Foods, with the new owner immediately forming a new limited company called Nutriwolds Raw Ltd.

Nutriwolds was launched three years ago by Lizz Adair, who saw a gap in the market for raw pet food suitable for both cats and dogs.

In a statement posted in social media following the acquisition, the new owner said: “Akela Pet Foods Ltd are proud to announce their acquisition of all of the assets of Nutriwolds Ltd and the relaunch of this much-loved brand with the help of Nutriwolds pioneer, Lizz. 

“Akela's owner James (Wigby) has formed a new limited company (Nutriwolds Raw Ltd) along with co-director Lizz. 

“The Nutriwolds raw range will continue to be made by Lizz and her team at Pocklington near York. York is close to James' heart, having studied at the University of York just down the road and he could not sit by and see Nutriwolds disappear. 

“We are all very excited that with Akela's backing. Nutriwolds can go from strength to strength.

“We are currently in the mist of restart, making your favourite flavours, please bear with us whilst we fully transition, orders may be taken from website as normal from the 1st of November and pre orders from trade are welcome now.”

Pictured: Lizz Adair, centre, joined the Akela Pet Foods team at the recent Discover Dogs show.

A London-based pet treat and accessory company offering British-made treats, toys and chews for both cats and dogs is launching a wholesale operation to allow pet retailers to stock its products.

Wuf Wuf and its cat counterpart Mymeow were started in 2018 initially as a subscription box service by a group of business entrepreneurs and pet owners from Turkey who moved to the UK following successful careers in advertising and marketing.  

One of the directors, Umut Ihlan, had already set up one of the first award-winning digital marketing agencies in the EU, working on international brands such as Turkish Airlines, Opera and Ulker. In 2017 he set up HavHav, the biggest subscription service in Turkey. 

Inspired by the success of HavHav, Umut and his colleagues decided to set up Wuf Wuf and Mymeow in the UK. Since launching, the company has acquired over 15,000 regular subscribers to its boxes which are packed with quality treats and toys. 

Umut said: “Our pets need some fun beyond their basic needs. To make them happy we make monthly themed boxes with premium toys and treats and we tailor the boxes to each pet depending on their size, age, breed and allergies. 

“As a pet parent myself when I looked at the ingredients of the dog and cat treats on the market I was shocked. They weren’t good at all. Same for the quality of toys so in order to make our pets healthy, I decided to make my own treats and toys. Then I started to do the same thing for my friends’ pets and as a result, Wuf Wuf and Mymeow were born.”

The company recently exhibited at PATS Telford for the first time and encountered a lot of interest from retailers. It is now the number one pet subscription box based in the U.K. 

The company has created over 50 cat and dog products in two years. It is currently selling over 50,000 pet products a month with a strong monthly retention of 87% with its subscribers. In 2022 Wuf Wuf won the Subscription Business of the Year at the Pet Innovation Awards.

All the toys are designed and produced in the UK or in Europe, making them sustainable and are made to encourage healthy play. The treats are made from quality human grade ingredients which are dehydrated to produce natural treats that are grain, sugar and rawhide free.

The business is data driven which means it is able to monitor customer feedback from the thousands of items sent out every day. This allows the company to match the requirements of each pet breed, age and preference. As part of the business model it also donates to All Dogs Matters every month to rescue a dog.

With the wholesale arm of the business, Wuf Wuf hopes to expand its operation even further. From 2020 to 2021 the growth rate was 300% year on year and the company hopes to continue that trend going forward by selling into the trade and continuing to design and produce more toys and treats month by month.

Umut added: “We want to make Wuf Wuf a global pet brand, focusing on making the best possible products for our four-legged friends in order to ensure that they’re happy and healthy. Whilst 90% of our customers are in the U.K. we’re currently in 30 countries.

For further information visit: www.wufwuf.co.uk

If you are interested in becoming a stockist or to find out more you can visit the showroom, which is located at 9 Brewers Lane, Richmond, London TW9 1HH. 

Tel: 020 8133 4272

Email B2B: sales@wufwufB2B.com

B2C: wuf@wufwuf.co.uk

The Government has announced a new ‘Approved Importers scheme’ for pet imports from currently higher risk countries. It is being introduced to replace the temporary ban on commercial imports, including rescue animals, from Belarus, Poland, Romania and Ukraine, and allow for safer movements to resume.

Under a new safeguarding declaration, anyone commercially importing dogs, cats and ferrets into Great Britain from the previously suspended countries can now apply for Approved Importer status with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) from 29th October 2022.

In order to be approved, importers must be based or have representation in the UK, have no record of serious non-compliances in the last 12 months, and share with APHA the details of the transporter and the registered premises from where the animals originate from.

The UK Government is absolutely committed to protecting our biosecurity and public health, particularly ensuring we retain our long-held freedom from rabies and tapeworm. The new regulations will allow rescue organisations to resume activities, while still complying with our strict animal health and biosecurity standards.

The move is being taken as an increasing number of people are choosing to import pets from abroad with the hope of rehoming them, unaware of the associated health and welfare risks.

Chief Veterinary Officer, Christine Middlemiss said: “Commercial imports, including rescue animals are often of unknown background and disease status.

“Under the Government’s new scheme, tighter controls will mean approved importers must arrive through designated points of entry and share all relevant health certificates, documents and blood tests before arrival to allow for more rigorous checks to take place. This will help protect animal and human health.”

Biosecurity Minister, Lord Benyon said: “We are committed to ensuring safe commercial pet movements including rescues can continue and stopping those which carry too great a biosecurity risk.

“The new scheme means we can safely lift the temporary suspension and allow only for safe movements from Animal and Plant Health Agency approved importers, helping to ensure we maintain our biosecurity standards and our vital rabies free status.”

We are aware of serious non-compliance in movements, exacerbated by the present crisis in Ukraine. The scheme will remain in place until the Government is satisfied risks have reduced enough to allow controls to be lifted.

This measure only applies to commercial imports including rescue animals and it does not change the Government support for pets travelling Approved Importer status is not required for those commercially importing cats, dogs and ferrets that originated from countries other than those specified.

Before legally importing animals into Great Britain, Approved Importers are required to:

• Notify APHA details of the planned movement including place of origin, name of transporter, destination of animals, the planned route and carrier at least 7 days prior to arrival
• Upload all relevant export health certificates and blood tests 2 days before arrival. This is to allow more rigorous checks to take place
• Note that imports arriving from or via the EU by rail or car must arrive at Dover or Folkestone, only on Monday to Friday between 10am and 4pm. Animals travelling by air must enter Great Britain at a Border Control Post. (Edinburgh, London Gatwick or London Heathrow).

FatFace is expanding its pet range this autumn/winter as part of its commitment to clothing the whole family.

The full range will be available online and in selected stores. Focusing on fun treats, stocking fillers and outfits, the latest expansion will allow pets to be kitted out in the FatFace range alongside the rest of the family. 

FatFace revenue for pet accessories has grown 51% this year compared to 2021.

Kate Brown, Product Director of FatFace, said: “We have seen demand increase for pet accessories since the pandemic and with 59% of households in the UK now owning a pet,1 more consumers are looking for ways to treat their four-legged friends. We’re delighted to be launching our expanded pet range, so that our customers can kit out the furry members of their family too!”

See a gallery of the new range below...

Henry Wag has launched a new customer-friendly website with easy navigation, a stronger brand story with lifestyle imagery portraying the product range in its intended environment. The website also translates into at least five languages for further ease of use for the brand’s export clientele.

Henry Wag is a pet company that specialises in designing products for improving the health and wellbeing for pets. 

During the past year the company has developed the new website with lifestyle imagery showcasing products in their intended setting – wet and muddy walks, playdates at the beach and travelling in comfort. 

The website has strengthened the brand message by presenting online visitors with a more complete picture of Henry Wag by showcasing an insight into how a product is designed, the company’s brand story and its achievements to date.

The clearer page layout and easier navigation makes the website a smooth read and with clear click through links visitors can jump to the exact location they're looking for. 

The integration of Instagram to the main home page clearly shows the viewer the latest social media activity, which is a large part of the company’s marketing ethos and the strong brand message of pets living their best life. There are clear links to their additional social media channels.

The website is currently in its final stages of internationalisation, with the website being translated into at least five other languages, to support Henry Wag's existing export clientele and its clear drive to increase export sales.

Visit  http://www.henrywag.com

Wilsons, the Scottish-based pet food manufacturer, is rolling out an innovative range of insect and vegan products to the UK market. Both flavours offer a nutritionally complete and balanced meal, and use unique protein sources to support dogs with allergies and sensitivities. 

The range also boasts eco credentials to support customers interested in doing their bit to reduce carbon footprint.

Worldwide sales of insect and vegan dog food have been growing steadily in recent years. It is reported that during the sourcing and manufacturing process, insects will use up to 20 times less water and plant-based products up to 85% less carbon dioxide when compared with beef.

As part of the company’s ‘planet positive’ approach, each pack is fully recyclable, and customers even have the option to save on the box and opt to just receive their food in a recyclable paper bag at reduced cost.

CEO Craig Wallace says the new range signifies the company’s ability to meet customer demands and offer a choice suited to every lifestyle.

“We are optimistic about the future and plan to further extend our innovative range of pet foods,” he said.

“Sales have grown month-on-month for over two years now and we’re seeing no let-up in demand.

“By offering a premium product, competitive pricing and first-class advisory service, we appear to be satisfying our customers”.

Wilsons was rescued from administration just four years ago and now manufactures the UK’s largest range of cold pressed dog food from a purpose-built facility near Blairgowrie in Perthshire.

The company has also witnessed rapid growth in sales of its raw frozen products and recently moved its entire Perth operation to a new 25,000 sq.ft factory at Drongan in Ayrshire.

The new range is available in pet stores or can be ordered online at www.wilsonspetfood.co.uk

Natural Cornish Pet has added to its range of natural conditioning products by introducing a new Flaxseed Oil to support a pet’s health particularly through the winter months.

This new product which is suitable for both cats and dogs is made from 100% fresh, ethically and sustainably sourced quality British Flaxseed which is packed with Omega 3, 6 & 9 to deliver a wide range of health benefits including:

• Strengthening the immune system
• Improving joint mobility and arthritis
• Calming dry itchy skin
• Supporting cardiovascular health
• Aiding cognitive function, vision and hearing

This is a supplement for pets of any age, to be served with the main meal of the day. Older dogs in particular will benefit from anti-inflammatory properties that should help aid in the reduction of any pains from the onset of arthritis. Younger dogs, on the other hand, generally see improved cognitive function and improved bone density. All great news to keep any four legged friend healthy.

Use as part of a balanced diet to support the health and wellbeing of cats and dogs.

The Natural Cornish Pet range developed by reacting to the needs of customers both at the Natural Cornish Pet Shop and Doggy Day Care Cornwall businesses that the founders Katy Peck and Jordan Coombe run in St. Erth Cornwall.  Last year Natural Cornish Pet Shop won the Pet Retailer of the Year at the PetQuip Awards and both the pet shop and Doggy Day Care Cornwall have made the finals of the PIF Awards 2022.

For further information visit www.naturalcornishpet.co.uk.

Pet owners looking to reward their dogs during the Christmas festive period are being urged provide them with tasty treats using the award-winning smoothie drink, Furr Boost.

Furr Boost, voted Best Pet Product in the food and drink category at the PetQuip Awards 2022, is available in three varieties which use 100% natural human grade ingredients: Chicken, Butternut Squash & Cranberry, Pork, Apple & Sweet Potato and Beef, Broccoli & Blueberry. Other added ingredients include flaxseed, coconut and salmon oils, dried sea kelp, chicory root extract, yeast beta glucan, vitamins B&C and water. Each drink comes in a Tetra Pak Carton.

The following ideas have been supplied by Furr Boost...

Winter Warmer

Warm up a favourite Furr Boost recipe slightly, place in a cup and top with xylitol-free squirty cream. Add sprinkles using your dog’s favourite pet treats and a cookie for an indulgent festive fair.

Furr Boost Pawpresso Martini

Add ice and Furr Boost to a cocktail shaker, shake well and pour into a martini glass, top with training treats cut in half-width ways so they float on top and serve.

Christmas frozen treats

Pour Furr Boost into festive ice lolly moulds together with a stick and place in the freezer. Serve once frozen.

Gravy topper for Christmas Dinner

Pour over your dog’s favourite pet food as a perfect Christmas dinner gravy topping.

For further information visit: www.furrboost.com

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Chicken is the latest addition to the Karnlea Bone Broth range and it’s all set to be a ‘winner, winner’.

Chicken broth is known the world over as the perfect comfort food – a light and lean protein source that is as good as it tastes. Now, cats and dogs can get some of that ‘soul food’ when the new flavour is launched next month (12 November).

Ideally timed to become a seasonal favourite – Karnlea Bone Broth can be served in a variety of ways: straight from the carton as a liquid, chilled, frozen or gently warmed to keep out those winter chills.

It’s no surprise that chicken is considered a ‘wonder food’. It has many benefits: it is a great source of amino acids, helping to build mean muscle mass, while high levels of Omega 6 provide essential fatty acids to sustain healthy skin and shiny coats. Chicken bone broth also boasts high levels of collagen which supports joint health.

Highly palatable and easy to digest, Karnlea’s chicken flavour bone broth is ideal for pets who are fussy eaters or suffer from delicate tummies.

Karnlea’s founder Lara McCullough, said that the new flavour was a great addition to the range: “What could be more perfect than chicken broth in the autumn and winter? It is known to provide great sustenance, a ‘turn to’ staple when we feel a little under the weather. It helps people recover from bouts of cold and flu by providing essential nourishment. Its recuperative and strengthening qualities are equally good for cats and dogs.”

Like Karnlea’s beef and lamb varieties, its new chicken flavour is slow-cooked using only natural ingredients: bones from free range chickens reared on cooperative farms, filtered water and a touch of apple cider vinegar to extract protein, collagen and minerals from the cooking process. 

It is packed in heat-sealed carton which maintain its freshness without the need of additives or preservatives. It can be used as a supplement, topper or treat.

Each unit contains 500ml of bone broth which has a recommended retail price of £10.99.

Pre-orders are now being taken and stockists can ‘mix and match’ their orders with beef and lamb flavours to save on postage or present to customers as a Christmas flavour bundle.

For more information visit: www.karnlea.com/trade

Nearly half of pet reptiles are given away or sold on classified websites due to reasons stemming from a lack of education, according to an extensive research project carried out by a Hartpury University academic.

Helen Tedds, a Lecturer in Animal Welfare and Programme Manager for the MSc Animal Welfare, Policy, and Legislation at Hartpury University, is currently researching the pet reptile trade across England as part of her PhD at the University of Northampton. Part of her research has involved sifting through tens of thousands of classified adverts selling reptiles to better understand the reasons behind giving up a pet.

Over the last three years, of the 20,908 reptiles advertised by their owners with a reason for sale or rehoming, 44.6% cited reasons that could have potentially been avoided by education.

Helen’s investigation is part of her wider research into the pet reptile trade, identifying what kind of advice is available to potential owners when buying a reptile as well as acquiring a better picture of how many species are available to buy in England – over 500 different species, so far.

She has been invited to the House of Lords next week for a discussion hosted by the Companion Animal Sector Council to hear about the launch of their new initiative ‘Pet Know How’ which aims to help educate prospective owners before they buy reptiles.

“Reptiles, like so many other pets, can be extremely rewarding for their owners. However, they often have specialist needs when it comes to things like housing, nutrition, and enrichment,” said Helen.

“Rehoming reptiles can be unsettling for the animal and is often upsetting for the owner, who with the right guidance and support, may feel more confident and empowered to keep the pet and provide a good home.

“Given the findings from my research, I believe that education is a key aspect of protecting wider reptile welfare and I’m very much in support of this new initiative from the Companion Animal Sector Council” she added.

Research carried out by Hartpury and submitted as part of the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 earlier this year, was recognised as ‘world-leading’ and ‘internationally excellent’. In results released as part of the Knowledge Exchange Framework 2022, Hartpury was also named as the no. 1 specialist STEM university for local growth and regeneration.

This exciting new online postgraduate degree has been designed to meet emerging animal welfare challenges linked to the UK legal system. Students learn how animal welfare legislation is developed, what it means when put into real-world contexts and how scientific developments may change the way it is applied.

Hartpury is home to an animal collection with over 70 species, research laboratories, access to a commercial farm and equine centre, providing students with a chance to gain work experience and a better understanding of animal welfare, behaviour and management.

This, combined with a high quality education, can make a significant difference to the graduate prospects of students (97% of students surveyed as part of Graduate Outcomes 2022 are in work, further study or other meaningful activity). Hartpury University was also recognised in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023, placed in the top 6 for Teaching Quality, enhanced by lecturers such as Helen Tedds who are engaged with industry in areas including research.

The British Independent Retailers Association has urged new Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to focus on stabilising the financial market.

With independent retailers across the UK entering the 'Golden Quarter' of trading as the festive season approaches, BIRA has stressed now is the vital time for the government to bring certainty back to the country which could help thousands of businesses survive the turbulent period.

Jeff Moody, Commercial Director of BIRA, said: "We welcome the news that Rishi Sunak is the new British Prime Minister and we hope this ends the period of uncertainty for business' and the country as a whole.

"Anything that will stabilise financial markets and improve consumer confidence will help the High Street in such a vital trading period is key and we hope that they restore the much needed confidence in the financial market after so many weeks of turbulence.

"Now we ask for the Prime Minister and his cabinet to concentrate on reducing the cost burden now with prompt support for business on energy and tax burdens but also in the long term by committing to reducing the rates burden on 'Bricks and Mortar' retailers to prevent further closures announcements," he added.

This week's call from BIRA follows earlier requests for the government to deliver confidence, clarity and certainty for its traders.

Bridgend County Borough Council is the latest local authority to ban the giving of pets as prizes on their land.

The council’s decision follows a meeting with the RSPCA, which is urging local authorities to impose a ban.

Councillor Rhys Goode said: “We are delighted to support the RSPCA with this campaign and hope that it will help to bring the charity closer to its goal of persuading the Welsh Government and the UK Government to consign this practice to the past where it belongs.

“We are committed towards maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare across Bridgend County Borough and the superb efforts of The Shared Regulatory Services (SRS) team have not gone unrecognised.”

Sioned Nikolic, RSPCA Cymru’s public affairs advisor, said: “We are delighted that Bridgend County Borough Council has taken this action, which really highlights how important animal welfare is to local representatives and their constituents.”

Fireworks can be a source of fear for many pets, but WildWash has lots of ways to help reduce their anxiety.

The company is urging pet owners to plan ahead to help their animals feel safe naturally by making fireworks celebrations less frightening for them.

Firstly, the Calming Shampoo Fragrance No.1 for Dogs contains Ylang Ylang which is renowned not only for its beautiful aroma, but also for its soothing and calming qualities. It is perfect to use on your dog prior to Bonfire Night to anticipate their calm.

WildWash Calming Perfume Fragrance No.1 for Dogs uses Ylang Ylang which has a luscious sweet lemony scent, both fresh and floral that is light and revitalising. This perfume can be used to keep the skin and coat hydrated and smelling delicious and the essential oils will help to calm and relax your pet if they are feeling anxious.

The company has also created a therapeutical WildWash Candle in a Tin Fragrance No.1 with Ylang Ylang and Magnolia, which has a luscious, sweet, lemony scent that is both fresh and floral, revitalizing and captivating. Perfect to help your pooch get calmer and more relaxed until the fireworks show is over.

Nationwide pet retailer Jollyes has accelerated supply of wood pellet cat litter after a surge in demand from people using it as an affordable fuel to heat their homes. 

Jollyes, which has more than 80 stores across the UK, has replenished stocks and introduced a two for £18 deal on three brands after running low in the last fortnight. 

The new deal is also available via one-hour click and collect via www.jollyes.co.uk at selected stores. 

Stores with good levels of stock include Kettering, Enfield and Waterlooville in the south, Newcastle, Wakefield and Selby in the North and Enniskillen and Lisburn in Northern Ireland. (Full list in editors’ notes). 

Phil Turner-Naylor from Jollyes said: “We started seeing a lot of chatter on social media about using wood pellet cat litter as household fuel in the last few weeks around the cost of living crisis, followed by a sharp increase in demand at our stores. 

“For pet owners who simply want to keep their homes clean, we’re doing our best to make sure there’s enough for everyone and where stocks of wood pellet litter are low we can offer alternative types of cat litter.” 

Jollyes says anyone planning to burn wood pellet cat litter should check whether it is suitable for their log burner.  

Jollyes sells Pampuss, Smart Cat and CJ’s ultra-absorbent wood pellets in 30 litre bags for £10 or two for £18. 

Amazon is currently selling 30 litre bags of CJ’s wood pellets cat litter for £20.14 (price correct 20 October 2022). 

Jollyes' customers can see which stores have stocks available at https://www.jollyes.co.uk/

International pet food producer, United Petfood, has announced the takeover of Northamptonshire-based Gold Line Feeds, whose brands include Autarky, Chudleys, Gusto and Trophy Pet Foods.

The acquisition strengthens the position of United Petfood as full-service pet food producer.

United Petfood Group will take over the brands and customer base of the factory. They will house production and distribution at their current sites and move administrative functions to United Petfood UK.

Gold Line Feeds is an independent animal feed manufacturer with 80 years of experience situated in Islip near Kettering, Northamptonshire. The British factory supplies about 20.000 tonnes of dry pet food each year.

This takeover strengthens United Petfood’s position within the pet food manufacturing market and in particular within the UK. United Petfood Group operates out of 20 pet food facilities situated in eight different European countries. The takeover is in line with the strategy of United Petfood to reinforce and grow the business.

Leicestershire-based All About Pet Health is set to provide its own label products to two new major players in the pet market following a successful PATS Telford. 

The company, which made the finals of the PetQuip Awards in the Supplier of the Year category, currently distributes the successful Naturvet (Overby Farm in the UK) range of supplements, grooming products and pet aids.

All About Pet Health targets pet food manufacturers, large pet shop chains, smaller multiple independent shops, online pet retailers and veterinary practices with its products as well as distributors and stockists overseas.

Dan Mackenzie, founder of All About Pet Health, reported heavy traffic to his stand at PATS.  He said: “We are delighted to have picked up two major accounts at PATS. Being part of a larger group, Garmon Corp USA, which is the largest manufacturer of pet health products in North America, enables us to be competitive on pricing, product range, innovation and customer service. Being part of Swedencare as well enables us to distribute the products throughout Europe.

“We are building our range all the time and our product range is very comprehensive and many items are what we call ‘problem solvers’ so are niche but very highly rated to solve problems like ‘carpet scooting’, chewing carpets, lawn burn, etc. 

“All of our products are formulated by our own veterinarians and materials/ingredients are natural and sustainably sourced. 

“Private/white labelling is currently highly popular with our growing client list. We want to become the ‘go to’ manufacturer for private label customers within the UK.  

“This is a fantastic business opportunity open to anyone looking to set up a pet business or add income to their existing business,” concludes Dan.

Download a copy of the brochure

All-About-Pet-Health-Brochure-15.pdf (allaboutpethealth.co.uk)

For further information visit: www.allaboutpethealth.co.uk Tel: +44 (0)1892 821007 or email: dan@allaboutpethealth.co.uk

A new pet treat brand called Bonkers has been launched in Sainsbury’s stores across the UK, with prices starting at £1.20.

The range comes in three flavours for dogs and four for cats, and the low calory snacks include Bangin’ Beef, Paw Lickin’ Chicken, and Salmon Supreme.

Created in collaboration with leading animal nutritionists, Bonkers’ recipes are made up of high-quality proteins and are free from wheat, soy, artificial colours and flavours.

Bonkers head of marketing Anna Tompkins, said: “Millennials and Gen Z are redefining the owner-pet relationship: their pets are more humanised than ever, parented and pampered. No longer ‘just animals’, they are fur-babies, integral to the family. Pets bring so much joy to people’s lives, which is why our mantra is ‘better when it’s Bonkers’.

“We want to help pet parents celebrate the unique personalities of their pets, and we can’t wait for cats and dogs across the UK to try our delicious treats.”

A major rebrand has been unveiled at Pride Veterinary Centre, the multi-disciplinary, diplomate-led small animal hospital in Derby,

Part of the IVC Evidensia referrals network, the centre has seen notable referral growth over the past decade and now goes under the Pride Veterinary Referrals brand.

The rebrand defines the vision for the future – to refocus and continue to improve the referrals offering to support the needs of referring vets, clients and their pets. 

The first opinion practice on the site has been renamed Scarsdale Vets Pride Park, paying homage to the location; Pride Park in Derby – keeping the successful first opinion and referrals services distinct.

“The launch of the Pride Veterinary Referrals brand is an exciting time for our referral hospital and team, and we are proud of the state-of-the-art service we offer,” said Managing Director Natasha Demir.  

“This is the next step in ensuring that we are delivering the best possible service to our referring vets, clients and their pets, while contributing to the continued advancement of our profession and developing the referral clinicians.”

Opened in August 2011, the state-of-the-art hospital has large wards, spacious operating theatres, extensive imaging suite and hydrotherapy and physiotherapy facilities.

It is equipped with the newest technologies to diagnose, treat, and provide the highest standard of care for patients and clients, while leading in innovative research.

The phenomenal growth in clinical services at Pride Veterinary Centre led to the appointment of Referrals Director, Mark Evans, who joined Pride Veterinary Centre in January 2022. 

Following on from the appointment, five Heads of Services were appointed in March 2022 for the following disciplines: Anaesthesia and Analgesia, led by Sayaka Okushima, Diagnostic Imaging led by Caroline Fina, Medicine led by Marc Dhumeaux, Neurology led by Annette Wessmann and Surgery led by Rosario Vallefuoco. 

In addition to the above services, Pride Veterinary Referrals offer diplomate-led support for referring vets in the following areas: Dermatology, Exotics, Feline Medicine, Oncology, Oncosurgery, and Ophthalmology.

By providing unique opportunities which are reflective of hospital and industry developments, IVC Evidensia Referrals aims to embody a culture of excellence and value and is committed to creating new prospects for staff to excel in their careers. 

Mark Evans, Referrals Director, said: “Appointing our Heads of Service and the rebrand are important steps in the delivery of our strategy for the future. 

“We are focused on maintaining a positive and inclusive culture with the wellbeing of our team at its core, and providing the high quality, stress free and caring service that our referring vets and owners expect and deserve.”

For further information please visit www.scarsdalevets.com