Sainsbury's is recalling a selection of its own brand cat and dog food because the products may contain high levels of vitamin D which could make pets ill.

High levels of vitamin D fed to a pet over a long period with excessive levels of vitamin D, can cause lethargy, stiffness, vomiting, diarrhoea or excessive urination.

Notices will be displayed in all retail stores that are selling these products.

These notices explain to customers why the products are being recalled and tell them what to do if they have bought any of the products.

The company will also be contacting customers who have bought the affected products wherever possible.

Sainsbury's stated:

"We have identified that some batches of our pet food pouch range have higher than specified levels of vitamin D that should not be consumed over long periods of time.

"We are asking customers who have bought any of the above products not to use it and to return them to their nearest Sainsbury’s store where they will receive a full refund.

"No other products are affected by this issue, and we apologise for the inconvenience this has caused."

Find out more at

https://help.sainsburys.co.uk/help/products/customer-notice-pet-food

Amazon  has launched its own brand of pet products, called Wag, adding to the internet retailer's expansive list of private-label brands, which has grown to include diapers, clothing and even mid-century furniture.

The Wag brand debuted with dry dog food, with other pet products to be added later. Like some other Amazon private-label brands, Wag products are available to purchase only by Amazon Prime subscribers, who pay an annual fee to free two-day shipping and other benefits, such as access to music, movies and TV shows.

The Wag.com previously resided in Amazon's Quidsi business, which included such specialty retail sites as Diapers.com, Soap.com, BeatyBar.com, Yoyo.com and Casa.com. Amazon bought Quidsi in 2011 for $545 million, but shut it down last year after struggling to make it profitable for seven years.

Amazon launched its first private-label brands in 2009, and now sells items from more than 70 lines, including jewelry, kitchen and health products.

The brand has been in testing for several weeks with members of Amazon's Vine program, which invites trusted reviewers on Amazon to post opinions about new and prerelease products.

The launch of Wag was first reported by Bloomberg.

Nestlé Purina PetCare has acquired a majority stake in Tails.com, a direct-to-consumer, tailor-made dog nutrition business based in the UK.

With the rapid growth of personalised pet nutrition, as well as subscription services, Nestlé Purina’s shareholding in this digital first business offers significant growth opportunities for both companies.

Launched in 2014, Tails.com has brought tailored dog nutrition to consumers at competitive prices.

The company was early to identify changes in the way consumers want to shop and care for their pets, and married digital technology, food innovation and new manufacturing techniques to provide food individually tailored according to factors such as a dog’s age, breed, size and level of activity.

Powered by a proprietary nutritional algorithm developed by vets, nutritionists and software engineers, the company now feeds more than 100,000 dogs in the UK.

Tails.com customers also benefit from home delivery, as well as access to an in-house nutrition support team.

Tails.com will continue to operate as a stand-alone entity, with co-founder and CEO James Davidson at the helm.

The current management team and employees will remain shareholders and continue to run the business from its base in Richmond, West London.

Both companies have a mutual desire to help make pets and their owners’ lives better, with Purina’s extensive pet nutrition expertise, industry leading research and new technologies complementing Tails.com’s own existing capabilities.

Bernard Meunier, CEO, Nestlé Purina PetCare EMENA, said: “Personalised pet nutrition, along with direct-to-consumer subscription services, are expanding rapidly and this move underlines our focus on investing in high-growth categories and acting on consumer trends.

"Tails.com has a unique and winning business model that successfully combines individually customised recipes with a best in class pet owner experience, and all at competitive prices.

"The team behind Tails.com has achieved strong growth and generated outstanding customer engagement and loyalty. Our support will enable the acceleration of Tails.com’ expansion plans in the UK and beyond.”

James Davidson, CEO, Tails.com, said: “When we launched the company nearly four years ago, we were excited to bring something totally new to pet care in the UK.

"Our mission is to change the world of pet food for good, by providing every dog with its own unique, blended recipe. We’ve been amazed by the response from pet owners. We now provide four million bespoke meals per month to dogs across the UK and expect to see sales of well over £20 million this year.

"Purina’s support gives us the opportunity to build on this success in the UK and beyond, reaching more pets with our tailored nutrition.

"We will continue to run the business with the same entrepreneurial and customer-centric vision that has already brought us so much success.”

Headquartered in Richmond, Surrey with their Factory Kitchen in Hounslow, Tails.com has grown from a founding team of eight to over a hundred employees and production staff, led by a team of senior management and in-house experts including:

                        ●  Co-founder & CEO: James Davidson

                        ●  Chief Financial Officer: Mel Hedley Lewis

                        ●  Chief Operating Officer: Steve Spall

                        ●  Chief Marketing Officer: Miranda Creswell

                        ●  Head Vet: Sean McCormack Bsc (Hons) MVB, MRVS

                        ●  Lead Nutritionist: Dr Samantha Ware, PhD

                        ●  Vet Nurse: Amy Henson BSc (Hons) RVN, N.Cert (SAN)

Tails.com is Europe’s most advanced player in the direct-to-consumer, tailor-made pet food category.

The business now delivers more than 4 million bespoke dog meals each month and expects sales to exceed well over £20 million this year. Co-Founder & CEO James Davidson Born and raised in Kent, James studied Chemical Engineering at The University of Nottingham, graduating with a BEng 1st Class Degree.

James joined Unilever as a graduate trainee and went on to become a Factory Operations Manager.

A big turning point for James was his time volunteering at Raleigh International as Deputy Expedition Leader straight after Unilever. He spent four months with Raleigh in Central America and came back to the UK with a commitment to work on things that brought together a strong sense of organisational purpose along with an entrepreneurial approach to making things happen.

Joining Innocent Drinks as Head of Production responsible for the manufacturing base, his role grew to Head of Supply Chain Operations, supporting the company during a period of 5x revenue growth. Following seven years at Innocent, James was approached by Graham Bosher (Graze, Lovefilm) and Joe Inglis (Vets in Practice) with a new pet food idea – given his experience in human food innovation and operations.

As one of the co-founders, James took over as CEO shortly after the brand’s launch in November 2014. Timeline

                        ●  June 2013: The idea of Tails.com was born

                        ●  December 2013: Tails.com raise £5M in their first round of Seed Investment

                        ●  July 2014: Tails.com launches

                        ●  September 2015: Tails.com introduces wet food to the service offering to complement their customised kibble blends

                        ●  November 2015: Raised Series A Round with Octopus Ventures, Jam Jar (run by the founders of Innocent Drinks) and Draper Esprit

                        ●  April 2016 : Tails.com increases offering to include a range of treats and biscuits, as part of their subscription package

                        ●  July 2016 : Tails.com introduce a weaning food for puppies; customised recipes for each stage of a puppies growth

MDC Pet Products will merge with Pet Trade Innovations and be renamed ‘Pet Trade Innovations Ltd’.

Over the past two years Pet Trade Innovations (pti) has worked as a consultancy business helping inventors and designers bring new products to the pet market and MDC Pet Products in turn handled the distribution of the products to the trade as well as distributing its own range of ‘Smart’ products.

Merging of the two businesses will mean they can combine resources giving a clearer message and service to the pet market as well as giving us the resources to grow together.

Steve Driver, Managing Director, said: "Both businesses have expanded quickly and we are taking on new ranges all the time.

"I feel the name ‘Pet Trade Innovations’ better reflects our goals to bring the latest products to the Pet Trade Industry."

Both businesses started around two years ago with just the MDC ‘Smart’ brand but now has a number of ranges including Aikiou, Doc & Phoebe, King Kanine and a brand new range called ‘Findables’

As well as bringing in new exciting ranges from other companies, Pet trade innovations will also be working with product designers to come up with some brand new innovative ranges which they will be launching later this year.

The long term goals of the business is to be the hub for developing and helping bring new idea’s to the pet trade, things people haven’t seen before that help pet owners and also enrich the lives of their loved ones.

Pet Trade innovations will be exhibiting at the Interzoo show in Germany next week – you can find them in Hall 2 stand 302 where they will be launching the ‘Findables range and showing some of their other exciting new innovations.

For more information contact steve@pettradeinnovations.com

Animology has launched Animology Essentials, a budget friendly range of shampoos and spritzes designed to raise the standard of budget shampoos.

With an SRP of just £2.99 the new product range offers a cheaper alternative to the core Animology range.

The range of four SKUs comprises two shampoos and two spritzes. Dapper Dog is a ‘Tutti Frutti’ scented line for dogs and Perfect Puppy is a ‘Baby Powder’ fragrance for puppies, although all four products are suitable for use on all dogs aged from six weeks upwards.

Managing Director Stephen Turner said: “Animology Essentials marks a shift change in what should be expected from an entry level pet shampoo.

'Not only do the products deliver quality formulations and performance, but they are also 100% compliant with EU CLP regulation and law.”

For more information, a POS pack and to buy now visit www.animology.co.uk or your local pet wholesaler.

PATS Telford in September is set to have a strong international presence with a growing number of pet buyers from abroad expected to attend the autumn showpiece.

The PATS team will have a stand at next week’s Interzoo show (May 8-11) in Nuremburg, Germany, where huge interest is expected to be shown in the UK’s No 1 pet trade exhibition.

The PATS stand at Interzoo is part of a strong UK exhibitor pavilion organised by PetQuip. The trade organisation’s’s team mans a UK pet industry information stand at the show where international visitors are able to find out more about the British pet industry, source innovative products and learn more about visiting PATS. 

PATS will also be working closely with PetQuip to ensure the Telford exhibition has a real international feel to it.

Amanda Sizer Barrett MBE, Director General of PetQuip, recognises the importance of a major trade exhibition like PATS Telford. Here Amanda reveals why she thinks the show has become so popular, both in the UK and internationally.

How important is a pet trade exhibition like PATS Telford to the UK pet market?

PATS is an essential event in the UK pet industry calendar. It’s an excellent opportunity for suppliers and retailers across the pet industry to meet and network and it is an order-placing show for many.

Is there a growing interest from international buyers in British-made pet products?

International interest in PATS is increasing, with several trade journalists from European countries visiting it in recent years and more and more international retailers are also realising that the exhibition provides them with the chance to source high quality products and a wide ranging choice of suppliers, plus innovative new product launches too.

How will PetQuip be helping to entice international visitors to the Telford exhibition?

PetQuip is pleased to be working closely with the PATS organisers for the third year running to invite selected international buyers to the exhibition. We have an extensive database of international buyers who enjoy working with our PetQuip team and who admire their professionalism. Many of the buyers frequently state that it would be good to have a similar service in their home countries.

What activity will PetQuip be engaged in at the show?

We will be providing the facilities of the Buyers’ Centre on the show floor, arranging one-to-one buyer/supplier meetings during the show, helping the international buyers with all their product sourcing enquiries, organising an escorted retail tour for them round a range of pet product retailers and hosting their attendance at the PetQuip Awards dinner and party, where they will also find out the winners of the PATS New Product Awards. We will also be engaging with our PetQuip member companies and helping them with any and every business enquiry they may have, taking sales leads and enquiries on the stand and signing up more members to our growing membership.

How do the ‘Meet the Buyer’ sessions work?

Firstly, we recruit appropriate international buyers to attend the exhibition and ask them which product areas they are interested in sourcing; then we ask interested suppliers to get in touch if they wish to meet with those buyers. If both firms are keen to meet to explore possible business opportunities, we draw up a matrix of one-to-one meetings during the show. Then the PetQuip team is on hand afterwards to help advise on the best way to convert that interest into new business. It works well and on past form, a large number of new business sales are made as a result of these valuable meetings.

Are you pleased that you decided to organise the PetQuip Awards alongside the September exhibition?

We are a loyal supporter of PATS and applaud the organisers for putting on a professional, successful exhibition at Telford. So it’s great for the PetQuip team to work together with the PATS team to deliver a professional, enjoyable and successful networking evening event for the whole industry where suppliers and retailers can mix, network, have fun and celebrate the industry’s many successes. That’s why for the second year, we are pleased that the PATS New Product Awards are also being presented to an audience which is a true cross-section of the UK pet product supply and retail sector.

How can companies enter the awards?

Entry for the PetQuip Awards 2018 is now open in the following categories (companies can enter as many applicable categories as they like as it’s free to enter):

• Pet Product Innovation of the Year (three sections – Food/Treats; Health/Technical; Accessories)
• Exporter of the Year
• Marketing Project of the Year
• Business of the Year
• UK Pet Retailer of the Year
• International Pet Retailer/Distributor of the Year
• Lifetime Achievement Award

Companies can visit www.petquip.com/awards to download a registration form or email info@petquip.com for more information.

Tickets to the awards evening are modestly priced and include a drinks reception, three course meal with wine and entertainment in the form of a casino to give more networking opportunities following the awards presentations. More details on how to book tickets for the awards evening are also to be found on the same web page (PetQuip members receive a discount on tickets) or you can phone the office on 01959 565995 to book your tickets or tables.

Finally, what do you think makes PATS Telford a ‘must-visit’ event for pet retailers and buyers?

It’s friendly, professional; there’s a wide range of suppliers across the spectrum of pet products for retailers to meet; plus product innovation is highlighted and celebrated at the show; and there’s the opportunity at the PetQuip awards event to mix with fellow retailers and suppliers at a great party on the first night too! 

A full list of those companies exhibiting at PATS Telford can be found at www.patshow.co.uk

Woofs is an exciting new range of veterinary approved dog treats which are made from the finest wild Cod fished from the North Atlantic Sea.

Caught by Norwegian trawler men, the fish are landed and then turned in to treats at Woofs’ manufacturing plant in Cornwall. 

Woofs is one of the only few UK pet food companies to hold the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certificate which means that all the fish that goes into the manufacture of the treats is from fully traceable and sustainable sources and that the Woofs’ fishery has been independently assessed on its specific impacts to wild fish populations and the ecosystems surrounding the areas where the fish are caught.

Both Woofs’ founders, Stewart Irvine and David Judd have been great campaigners for the preservation of our oceans and environment for many years.

Stewart has worked in the fishing industry for most of his working life. He started his career in Aberdeen, moved to Sweden and then followed fish around the world. Seeing the wonderful diversity of ocean life first hand, Stewart brought his values into business, believing that we must protect our seas and oceans.

“That is why Woofs will never compromise on using anything other than fish where possible from sustainable fisheries,” says Stewart.

David similarly for years has been campaigning for governments and corporations to look after their forests. His passion for sustainability found a connection with Stewart and means that Woofs will never compromise on this issue.

“We believe in clear labelling and full transparency when it comes to the manufacture of our treats” says David.

“So many fish-based pet food manufacturers are not species specific or make it clear from which waters the fish are caught. At Woofs we can even give you the name of the boats that the fish are landed from. We think that the consumer should have access to only the very best fish for their pets which is why we also made sure that all our products are veterinary approved and carry the MSC certificate where possible.”

One of the most popular treats in the Woofs’ range are the new Cod Fish Fingers which are manufactured in the UK and are made from 100% cod skins. Packed full of  Omega 3, an essential fatty acid that must be supplied in the diet because it cannot be created by the body, these tasty treats help support healthy vision, joint mobility and can help heal sore, flaky, damaged or itchy skin .

The rough texture of the fish skin is also great for reducing tartar and plaque build-up for healthier teeth, gums and a fresher breath. Fish is a great, easily digestible protein source for dogs and is ideal as a snack for overweight dogs who are trying to lose weight or dogs with allergies or intolerances. It also makes a great dog training treat so ideal for use in the show or agility ring and can also be used to train gun and working dog breeds.

Other products in the range include Woofs Cod Cubes, Cod Cookies and Dried Sprats.

To find out more about Woofs products visit the Woofs website at: www.woofs.co.uk

Henrietta Morrison, the CEO and founder of Lily’s Kitchen, has been named in this year’s prestigious Sunday Times Maserati 100 List, an accolade dedicated to the UK’s most inspiring innovators -  those entrepreneurs who take a big idea and make it work.

The award, sponsored by the luxury Italian car manufacturer, showcases the crème de la crème of business innovators and highlighted Henrietta as the driving force behind a much celebrated entrepreneurial British brand that continues to transform the pet food industry by improving the quality of pets’ lives whilst disrupting a category dominated by the large corporates.

Henrietta said: “I am honoured to receive recognition in the Maserati 100 list for Lily’s Kitchen’s innovation. 

"It’s also a huge recognition of the dedication from the Lily’s Kitchen team who make a real difference to the health and happiness of pets. It’s this uncompromising approach to the quality pet food we produce and the innovation we have brought to the category, which has resulted in this achievement.

"These awards are significant for entrepreneurial British businesses. I’d also like to thank my extraordinary team and all our producers who work so hard to meeting our standards.”

Maserati itself was founded more than 100 years ago by five brothers who were innovators of their time.

In the same week, Lily’s Kitchen has also been shortlisted for two other prestigious awards – The Grocer’s SME Brand Of The Year and Employer Of The Year

The Pet Industry Federation and Hadlow College in Kent, rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted, have extended their joint venture to open a new dog grooming school in Greenwich, London.

Situated along Shooters Hill, the new ‘state of the art’ school opens three years after the partnership to manage the dog grooming school based at Hadlow in Kent begun.

The Hadlow PIF Greenwich Dog Grooming School will offer City & Guilds qualifications for dog groomers which are recognised by industry as providing the ideal foundation for those embarking on a career in dog grooming.

The enterprise continues this unique and successful relationship between industry and education. Hadlow has had a site in Greenwich since 2013, and this expansion of the offer presents new opportunities for the area and builds on the existing solid links with the local community.

"The Hadlow PIF Greenwich dog grooming school provides an excellent platform for those considering a career in dog grooming, by providing them with first class facilities, excellent teaching and a steady supply of dogs," said Nigel Baker, Chief Executive of the Pet Industry Federation.

"This link between further education and industry ensures the highest standards of teaching and facilitates access for newly qualified groomers to industry.

"Led by team leader, Sophie Marriott, staff at our Greenwich school will ensure that our qualified and professional groomers will be fully equipped with the skills and knowledge to enter the workplace and offer the highest quality grooming and care for the public’s dogs."

Head of Faculty Jessica Berry commented: "Hadlow has always had an excellent reputation in relation to dog grooming and the new school at Greenwich is testament to the quality of the teaching that our students receive. The new partnership will undoubtedly result in benefits for the entire industry."

Operating on a commercial basis, the Hadlow PIF Greenwich Grooming School will not be constrained by the academic calendar and will operate all year round, thereby helping more student groomers achieve success.

The modern dog grooming salon is fully equipped giving students the experience of working in a commercial environment as well as access to the latest in teaching resources.

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Often known as the ‘silent killer’ because there are no early warning signs, hypertension (otherwise known as high blood pressure) is a common and potentially devastating condition affecting one in eight cats over nine years old. 

The risk increases as cats age or if cats have other conditions such as chronic kidney disease (where one in three cats suffer with hypertension) or overactive thyroid disease (where an estimated one in four cats suffer with hypertension).

“High blood pressure can cause severe damage to key body organs including the eyes, kidneys, heart and brain,” explains Rosanne Jepson, a specialist in small animal internal medicine at the Royal Veterinary College. 

“Unfortunately, it is a condition that develops without much warning for the cat owner; a cat may seem perfectly fine until either the blood pressure is checked, or other organs are damaged.”

Ceva Animal Health has launched Feline Hypertension Month in May to raise awareness of feline hypertension and improve the detection and management of high blood pressure in cats. 

As part of the campaign, owners are being urged to get their cat’s blood pressure checked at least once a year if he or she is over seven years of age, as recommended by ISFM (International Society of Feline Medicine). 

Routine blood pressure checks, performed by their veterinary health care team, will help detect hypertension at an early stage and prevent damage to organs such as the eyes, kidneys, heart and nervous system.  If blood pressure is found to be high, treatment is available to help reduce blood pressure.

For information on feline hypertension visit www.amodeus.vet or contact your local veterinary practice.

It was a case of ‘winner winner healthy snack dinner’ last week for Pinions Pet Foods of Aylesford, Kent.

The popular pet store took part in Nylabone’s prize draw whilst visiting PATS Sandown in March, and amongst the many entries was drawn as the lucky winner, receiving £500 worth of Nylabone’s new Healthy Edible Snacks range.

Speaking about the draw Jason Booker, Nylabone’s UK Commercial Manager, said: “Nylabone is a great brand that is fortunate enough to enjoy a loyal retail customer base both here and the US.

"The prize draw was our way of thanking customers whilst introducing them to our new Healthy Edible Snacks range.

"We are delighted that Pinions won the prize and look forward to hearing what their customers think of the new product range.”

Pictured:: Pinions staff receiving their prize from David Craig, Area Sales Manager for Nylabone UK

www.nylabone.co.uk

The exhibitor group in next week’s British pavilion at Interzoo is offering buyers from across the world a multitude of new product launches at this year’s show.

Almost all of the 50-plus exhibiting companies in the PetQuip-organised group have new and exciting products on display, covering many sectors of the pet industry.  

New food and treat varieties include gluten-free, grain-free, high meat content and festive treats. There are even dog chews that have their origin in the hills of the Himalayas. 

In the field of high tech there are the latest innovations in app-enabled dog behaviour monitors, food measures and cat flaps. 

Other product sectors to feature innovations include dog training aids, jackets that allow dogs to be seen in the dark, pet bedding, microfibre towels, mats, pet hair removers, feeding bowls, dog toilets, shampoos and cosmetics.

In addition to the UK product supplier exhibitors, PetQuip is organising and manning a British pet product information stand, which buyers can visit to source thousands of British pet products.  

Buyers visiting the PetQuip team on the information stand can also take a copy of a completely new publication ‘Companion Pets in the UK’. This informative publication has been published by PetQuip in association with the UK Department for International Trade, and highlights the UK’s extraordinary capability that exists in the UK companion pet sector.

The British exhibitors and their products are:

Accapi Group (Hall 7, Stand 431) is exhibiting its range of Ruffwear performance dog gear that includes harnesses, leads, collars and jackets.  The products are designed to encourage exploration of new trails by canines and their handlers.  The range includes the Trail Runner™ System, Trail Runner™ Bowl and Hi & Light™ Harness. The Kurgo dog products on show range from crash-tested safety harnesses to vehicle interior protection products.  New to the range is a dog carrier that converts to a booster seat.  Items from the Planet Dog toy range provide fun, are interactive and functional with quirky designs and features designed to appeal to dogs.  New products include the light-up Strobe and GuRu puzzle toy.

ALF (Aquatic Distributors) Ltd (Hall 9 – Stand 506d) is introducing its range of Python products to EU countries, as well as its full online service of other competitively priced aquarium products.

Armitage Pet Care (Hall 9 – Stand 604b) is showing a wide selection of festive treats for pets. Products launched for 2018 include Chewy Strips with Duck & Orange and the classic Three Bird Roast. Both products are made from 100 per cent natural meat.

Beco Pets (Hall 9, Stand 407) is showing its dog food that is loaded with nutritious and digestible superfoods.  Instead of using grains the company use ingredients such as chickpeas, which double up as a nutritious carbohydrate and a good source of protein.  Natural health foods such as kale and spirulina are then added to provide added nutrition. 

Benevo Vegan Pet Foods (Hall 9 – 603c) is adding a new variety to its Pawtato range of complementary food for dogs.  The latest tasty treat is Purple Sweet Potato Knots. This is made from a blend of organically grown, non-GM Purple and Orange sweet potatoes and rice.  The dog chews provide a healthy meat-free alternative to rawhide. Purple Sweet Potatoes are high in anthocyanin, which is a natural antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties as well as phytonutrients, making them an excellent superfood. Free from wheat, dairy and soya, the treats make an ideal hypoallergenic choice for dogs with sensitivities.

Bronte Glen Limited (Hall 9 – Stand 515a) is introducing new colours and patterns to its range of vet bedding for the 2018 season.  The company is a designer of luxurious boutique cosy beds made from English tweed wool fabric with a 100 per cent merino wool fleece fabric.  Own label and bespoke designer vet bedding is also available from the company.

Burgess Pet Care (Hall 9 Stand 515c) is showing its Burgess Excel long stem feeding hay, comprising timothy hay that has been grown in Yorkshire.  The hay is cut at the optimum time and dried within 48 hours. It is high in fibre which aids digestion, while the long stems of hay satisfy both chewing for dental health and natural foraging to give rabbits the emotional enrichment they need. The product is available in a re-sealable 1kg bag that retains the freshness of the hay and is clean in use.  

Butcher’s Pet Care (Hall 9 – Stand 519) is showing its new Butcher’s Monoprotein dog food containing a single meat protein. This product is suitable for everyday feeding and contains only one source of highly digestible protein that promotes the growth and development of muscle mass, while being gentle on sensitive stomachs. Enriched with vegetables and herbs, the product plays a crucial role in digestion and also delivers added health benefits. The products are grain-free and steam cooked and do not contain any artificial preservatives, colours or flavours. They are recommended for every day feeding to dogs with gluten and grain intolerance and are also ideal as a part of an elimination diet for convalescent dogs or dogs with intolerance to particular ingredients.

Cambrian Pet Foods Ltd (Hall 9 – Stand 610a) is displaying its ranges of pet food in cans, trays and pots as well as complete dry foods in a range of sizes.  The products are produced in the company’s two state-of-the-art facilities based in Carmarthenshire, West Wales.  These plants combine and utilise high-speed manufacturing equipment and leading edge technology to produce a complete premium range food for dogs and cats.

Canagan, Symply and Piccolo (Hall 9 – Stand 615) is showing a variety of new products for the 2018 season.  A new 'Highland Feast' multi protein dog food contains the finest British ingredients including Pheasant and Trout. There is also a new 'Dental' product for dogs and cats that contains PlaqueOff to help reduce tartar and plaque. Finally, ‘Scottish Salmon - Small Breed' is the award-winning salmon formula in a smaller kibble.  In addition, Canagan, Symply and Piccolo will be introducing refreshed packaging across all lines from summer 2018.

The Canny Company (Hall 9 – Stand 603b) is showing a dog collar that is designed to stop dogs pulling on the lead. Kind, safe, comfortable and effective, it helps owners to enjoy walking their dog. Voted ‘Best New Product’ by the UK Pet Product Retail Association when it was first launched, it has since sold almost a million units worldwide.  A range of colours and sizes to suit all dogs is available, as well as eye-catching point of sale material to help maximise sales.

CarPET-Pet Hair Remover (Hall 9 – Stand 506b) is launching a totally natural eco CarPET- pet hair remover. With no Plastic!! is a practical and effective cleaning product made from totally natural materials and is durable, hygienic and suitable for working on all types of pet hair. It will also effectively remove horse hair from horse rugs and saddles etc.

ChickenGuard (Hall 9 – Stand 507b) is introducing a new door kit that is compatible with all versions of the ChickenGuard door opener.  The innovative self-locking mechanism provides greater protection from predators, to provide peace of mind to chicken owners.  With 8 million chicken owners in Europe, ChickenGuard is leading the way in helping to keep chickens safe from predators.

Devoted Pet Foods Ltd (Hall 9 – Stand 505b) is showing its British-made high meat content grain-free foods for dogs, puppies and cats. The perfect ratio of ingredients constitutes foods that are highly palatable and digestible, bringing noticeable improvements to general health, wellbeing and appearance. Flavours in the dog food range include Free Range Chicken, Scottish Salmon, Duck with Trout and Premium Puppy, while the cat food range comprises Free Run Chicken and Scottish Salmon.

Earthbound UK Ltd (Hall 9 – Stand 613b) is exhibiting its high quality pet bedding, blankets, dog coats, toys and accessories. The company also has a homeware range that has been launched to complement the fabrics that have been used on these lines. Earthbound is a family business that has over 30 years’ experience within the textile manufacturing trade, having manufactured and supplied clothing to some of the biggest retailers in the UK prior to working in the pet bedding industry.  A large part of the product range is manufactured by the company within the UK.

Eden Holistic Pet Foods (Hall 9 – Stand 501b) is introducing three new product ranges at Interzoo 2018. The first is an air-dried range of treats with 70 per cent meat content. The dog and cat treats contain an Eden Health Pack to support digestive, joint and dental health. The second product is a wet food range for cats and dogs that focuses on high-meat content and superfood herbs and vegetables. The third product launch is a supplement range that brings together modern-day supplements and herbal remedies in the form of digestive support, joint support and skin and coat formulas.

Fold Hill Foods (Hall 7A – Stand 640) is a leading private label supplier and owners of the premium brand Laughing Dog since 1936. Laughing Dog offers wheat-free and grain-free completes, mixers and treats. New for 2018 is Natural Baked Grain Free Puppy Complete that is formulated to promote healthy growth and development. Made from 100 per cent white fish and packed with naturally wholesome ingredients, the recipe is free from soya, diary and grains and has no added artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. The puppy food is baked to be gentle on digestion and to create a uniquely crunchy biscuit which helps to slow down fast eaters and keep teeth clean.

Forthglade Natural Pet Food (Hall 9 – Stand 508a) is showing its award-winning grain-free range of complete wet meals for dogs. The meals contain 75 per cent quality meat, including chicken, duck, turkey, lamb, salmon or sea bass. Using 100 per cent natural ingredients, recipes include wholesome vegetables such as butternut squash and sweet potatoes to ensure dogs receive a balanced diet full of essential proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.  Available in 395g convenient trays, there are eight delicious recipes, including meals specifically for puppies, adult dogs and senior dogs.

GET OFF – Blumen International Ltd (Hall 9 – Stand 502b) is launching a new Natural Range in which all the products are based on natural ingredients to care for a pet’s home environment. The products include seeds that allow pet owners to grow their own pet herbal additive for small animals and birds, and natural dog calming products. The company is also launching a new look GET OFF range.  

Henry Wag (Hall 9 – Stand 508c) is launching two new microfibre products at Interzoo.  The new Micro-Fibre Glove-Towel is designed to simplify the cleaning and drying of pets. The design allows added control of the pet while offering highly absorbent and dirt catching properties, making cleaning and grooming easier.  There is also a new Noodle Mat in three sizes that fits the Henry Wag elevated dog bed. The mat is multi-functional and can also be used as a floor mat or in the car boot.  It is light and flexible enough to be used as a cleaning and drying towel that is perfect for cleaning up dogs after a muddy walk.

Hing Designs (Hall 9 – Stand 610c) is using the Interzoo platform to introduce exciting new additions to the current range of patented designer feeding bowls for both dogs and cats.

The House of Paws Ltd (Hall 3, Stand 405) is showcasing its pet bedding, now available in a range of new and exciting fabrics, materials and colours to suit all homes and interiors.  Also on show will be a variety of toys for both dogs and cats.  The company will also be exhibiting its ranges of pet clothing and accessories.

Howler & Scratch by Phoenox (Hall 9 – Stand 500c) is displaying its Phoenox range of British-made environmentally-friendly interior door mats, rugs and runners.  The brands include classic and contemporary designs from the Hug Rug range of high quality washable mats designed for every room in the house.  There are also Muddle Mat indoor washable barrier mats in cotton and hard-wearing nylon and a new Howler & Scratch brand range of barrier mats and runners inspired by the love of pets.  The products are washable and have antibacterial properties.

Hownd (Hall 9 – Stand 515b) is showing its patent-pending HERO food and water bowl that has built-in proven antimicrobial technology and is the ideal solution for health-conscious pet owners, especially those with young children and multiple pets. It is guaranteed to prevent growth of up to 99.9 per cent of microbes, including bacteria, mould and fungi, making it more hygienic and able to reduce cross contamination. It is stain and odour resistant and offers protection from germs that can lead to diarrhoea and infection in both pets and humans.

Hugo Kamishi (Hall 9 – Stand 605b) is showing its Rock and Plants Décor Kit from its range of ornaments, fish tanks and accessories for the aquatics industry. The complete decor kit comprises different resin rocks and plastic plants that complement each other and provide a speedy way of setting up a tank in order to create a beautiful environment. The kits are available in 60cm and 150cm sizes.

Inspired Pet Nutrition (Hall 9 – Stand 610b) is introducing Nineteen 87, a new range of lovingly baked dog food. The range is oven baked to ensure the food is gently cooked to lock in the goodness of essential ingredients, as well as creating real flavour and an extra crunchy texture. There are grain-free and superfood complete food and treats in the range, and they are made with 50 per cent fresh chicken, lamb, beef or salmon that has been sourced from UK farms. No meal or flavourings are added to the range.

James and Steel (Hall 7, Stand 369) is introducing its Bubble Dog & Bubble Cat range of bubble toys at Interzoo.  The range of pet-friendly bubble guns include electric and manual versions and provide interactive fun for dogs, cats, children and adults.  The Magic Wand item uses an extra long pole to give a more natural movement to the fly.    Also being exhibited is the Sötnos (cute nose) range of Scandinavian inspired clothing, collars and leads.  Completing the display are Colour POP training dens that are coated using a special plating technique to create vibrant glossy colours.  

Kennelpak Ltd (Hall 9 – 506c) is showing its range of YAKERS that have their origin in the hills of the Himalayas. Originally made for human consumption, they are still widely eaten by the Himalayan people and their dogs. YAKERS are made from a mix of skimmed Yak and Cow milk. A very small amount of lime juice and salt is added to coagulate (harden) the milk, which is then compressed into blocks and smoke dried for 28 days to give the chews their flavour.  YAKERS are preservative and gluten-free, rich in protein and calcium, are vegetarian and they also help to fight plaque and tartar.

Law Print and Packaging (Hall 9 – Stand 607c) is introducing Brick-Pack, the latest innovation in packaging from the UK-based flexible packaging supplier. As pet food brands look to implement sustainability across the supply chain, the packaging supplier has focussed on providing complete format optimisation without impairing pack performance. Designed with ultimate convenience in mind, Brick-Pack offers great portability, with multiple handle options as well as easy cut and pour features. The compact brick-like shape optimises storage and distribution.

Lily’s Kitchen (Hall 9 – Stand 513) is extending its range of nutritious food for pets by adding a tray format to its range of food for dogs. The new tray range reflects the same great flavours as its tins and is designed as single servings for smaller dogs or as a delicious topper when combined with dry food for larger dogs. International customers will be able to access four recipes.  There is Cottage Pie, which replicates the ingredients list in the already popular 400g tin of Beef Potato & Vegetable Dinner; and a Fishy Fish Pie, which is a grain-free recipe, packed containing freshly prepared salmon, herring and turkey.  Completing the new recipes are Chicken and Turkey Casserole and Lamb Hotpot recipes.

Lintbells (Hall 9 – Stand 506a) is showing its YuMOVE PLUS for dogs. The product is an extra-strength triple-action dog joint supplement for older dogs with stiffer movement. The supplement contains Green Lipped Mussel and is proven to be effective in just six weeks. It contains 20 per cent more ActivEase® GLM than the company’s regular formula and is 100 per cent natural. It helps stiff-jointed and older dogs to keep mobile by soothing stiffness and supporting their joints.

Little Big Paw (Hall 9 – Stand 514a) is showing its Little BigPaw Oven Baked Treats that are a trio of British-made, 100 per cent natural recipes suitable for all dogs. Great for tartar control and dental health, the “Little BigPaw” shaped biscuit can be broken into smaller pieces, making it an ideal training treat. The hypoallergenic recipes are packed with 50 per cent British meat, superfood fruits, vegetables, healthy herbs and conditioners. They are grain-free and contain no artificial colours or preservatives. They are baked in wood fired, carbon-neutral ovens using locally harvested timber, and this process ensures that each biscuit holds on to its super nutrients and crunchy perfection.

Long Paws (Hall 7, Stand 838) is an award-winning dog-accessory brand, and the company will be returning to Interzoo with a new line-up of products.  The new range will include extra strong reflective ribbon leashes and collars, as well as an eye-catching neon yellow set for the darker winter evenings.  The range will also include Long Paws’ new anti-shock leash extenders.  The leash extenders can be used with any leash, and are ideal for dog owners who enjoy jogging with their dogs or walking with heavy pullers.  The new Long Paws range is suitable for puppies through to adult dogs and bears the Long Paws lifetime guarantee.

Max and Lucy (Hall 9 – Stand 607a) is introducing its family of dry shampoos with essential oils. They are a fast, convenient and a natural solution to clean and freshen dogs without the need to use a single drop of water. The shampoos are 100 per cent natural with a choice of lavender, orange & lemongrass or rosemary & thyme essential oils. They are ideal for use between baths, when travelling and for freshening bedding and in other areas where dog odours linger.

Meatiful (Hall 9 – Stand 603a) is showing its range of food for dogs.  There are three mouth-watering varieties: free range chicken, farm reared duck and Scottish salmon. The 100 per cent natural product ensures that dogs have a balanced, easy-to-digest meal that supports tissue growth and repair. The company has a range of attractive introductory offers available.

Micro-ID Ltd (Hall 9 – Stand 501a) is showing its compact mini scanner that reads all modern electronic tags and microchips for dogs, cats and other animals. It is available in a small carry case with charging cable and test microchip.

Naturo Pet Foods (Hall 9 – Stand 507a) is launching two new products at Interzoo.  The introduction of Naturo Grain & Gluten Free can variety pack and Naturo Grain Free tray variety pack will provide customers and their pets with not only a healthy, natural dog food for pets with specific dietary needs but also with a variety of flavours and textures. The products will be shown alongside the company’s wide selection of innovative products that include grain free ranges, gluten free ranges, senior food, cat food with added Taurine, and many more. 

Nutriment (Hall 9 – Stand 613a) is one of the fastest growing raw food companies in the UK, securing the 50th spot in The Sunday Times Fast Track 100.  The company’s enhanced raw food was the first of its kind to provide a food product that introduced vital superfoods into the traditional BARF (biologically appropriate raw food) diet. The inclusion of the very best human-grade meat and restaurant quality ingredients has been instrumental in Nutriment’s expansion.

Oggi’s (Hall 9 Stand 607b) is a home baking solution to provide a healthy treat for dogs. It is a great way to involve the children in the care of the family pet.  Oggi is made in the UK from the finest human grade, all natural, ingredients.  It is available in eight flavours in addition to award-winning birthday and Christmas gift boxes.  Also on display will be the patented TRIKKA, which is a dual action training clicker that has eye-catching packaging.

PATS 2018 and AQUA 2019 (Hall 9 – Stand 501c) is promoting its UK based trade shows.

PATS is the UK’s only pet trade event, taking place at The Telford International Centre UK, from 23 to 24 September 2018 and at Sandown Park from 19 to 20 March 2019. AQUA 2019 is the UK’s water gardening and aquatics trade event and it takes place at the Telford International Centre from 16 to 17 October 2018.

Pet Bakery (Hall 9 – Stand 507c) is launching a new Gluten-Free Liver Brownie. This product is an all-natural semi-moist liver brownie for dogs. Made with 35 per cent liver, rice flour and honey, it is an all-natural treat that dogs will love.

PetQuip (Hall 9 – Stand 502a) is the International Trade Association of Pet Equipment Suppliers.  The PetQuip team assists and promotes the development of international trade in the pet equipment sector, providing a catalyst for business contact between UK manufacturers, suppliers and international buyers. PetQuip has published the PetQuip Buyers’ Guide, which includes a directory of members’ product ranges, and copies will be available to all buyers visiting the PetQuip stand. Buyers will also be able to take a copy of a completely new publication ‘Companion Pets in the UK’, highlighting the UK’s capability in pet product innovation. 

PJ Pet Products (Hall 9 – Stand 613c) is exhibiting at Interzoo for the first time. The company has a diverse range of innovative and unrivalled brands including K9-Pursuits®, DO&G™, CA&T™, AquaSpring™ and more.The company will be seeking worldwide distributors and retailers for many of its products. Also on show will be a first showing of the H2O-KONG® water bottles, for which the company is seeking distributors and retail outlets throughout Europe.

Podium Pet Products (Hall 9 – Stand 605a) manufactures or procures a wide range of innovative and often ‘green’ pet products,  These range from pet calming products and prebiotic supplements to grooming brushes, feeding bowls and Dog Rocks.  The company has distribution in Europe, UK, USA and Canada.  Podium Pet Products and its offerings have received numerous awards including the Queen’s Award, an Editors’ Choice Award from Pet Product News, an Industry Recognition Award from Pet Business and a Family Choice Award.

Pooch & Mutt (Hall 9 – Stand 503a) is displaying chews that are free from artificial colours, preservatives, and flavours. Also on show will be a new Superfood complete dry food for dogs of all sizes and life stages.  Pooch & Mutt is also showing new wet foods that enforce the brand’s commitment to sustainably sourced, quality food that has the environment at heart. The company’s innovative Tetra packs are made from 70 per cent renewable resources and are widely recyclable.  

Profleece Pet & Vet (Hall 9 – Stand 500b) is displaying its specialised polyester fur fabrics for the veterinary sector. The products are manufactured from the very highest grade of materials, and bedding can be supplied in any colour, pattern or logo to suit individual customer’s requirements.

Sure Petcare (Hall 9 – Stand 503b) is a pet technology specialist, manufacturing microchip-enabled and connected products. The company’s products are designed to provide insights into the pet’s daily activities and behaviour, enhancing the bond between owner and pet.  Previewing at Interzoo are three new app-enabled products. The first of these is Animo, a unique dog behaviour monitor focused on health and wellbeing throughout the lifetime of the pet.  There is also the SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder Connect that uses integrated scales to precisely measure food and accurately monitor feeding for each pet.  Also available is the SureFlap Microchip Cat Flap Connect that enables owners to set individual and remotely changeable entry and exit permissions for each pet.

TastyBone (Hall 9 – Stand 601) is showing a wide selection of nylon chews and edible treats that are in an array of sizes, shapes and flavours. TastyBones are made with 100 per cent virgin nylon and human grade flavours.  They are impregnated with flavouring using a magic formula that results in them staying tasty for longer.  The bones have been tested on the most vigorous of chewers.  New additions to the range include the QuadBone, which is available in two sizes and four irresistible World Flavours; limited edition Halloween bones in Toffee Apple and Pumpkin flavours; and the latest ‘Tastybone Toothbrush’ shape in the Dental range.

Tribal Pet Foods (Hall 9 – Stand 604a) is debuting its range of cold-pressed dog food to international audiences at Interzoo 2018. Tribal’s TLC (Truly Lower Celsius) is a grain-free, high quality, hypoallergenic, cold-pressed dog food.  TLC optimises the food’s nutritional potential by carefully selected biologically appropriate ingredients, then applying significantly lower temperatures to the production process.  Available in Puppy, Adult and Senior varieties, TLC only uses fresh meat (no meat meal) to ensure healthy dogs and happy customers.  

Trilanco (Hall 9 – Stand 505a) is a ‘one stop shop’ for pet, equestrian and agricultural retailers, bringing together great brands at competitive prices to help create a great trade buying experience. Stocking over 250 brands, ranging from entry level to luxury, the company will be showcasing the latest and greatest British brands including Country Pet, Ralph & Co, Mark and Chappell, Easidri, Mark Todd and many more.

Vetbed (Hall 9 – Stand 508b) is launching an innovative dog jacket at Interzoo 2018.  The Flecta Vizlite dog jacket incorporates patent-pending Vizlite technology that absorbs UV light from any source and works like a battery to store the absorbed light. When there is no more light to absorb (in darkness), the stored energy is emitted as a bright afterglow that remains visible for up to eight hours, providing high visibility in the daylight, dusk and even complete darkness without the need for electricity or wires.

Vitalin – The Natural Choice (Hall 9 – Stand 502c) is showcasing its new super premium pet food range.

Waterlife (Hall 9 – Stand 500a) is celebrating its 50^th anniversary in 2018, and is displaying its ranges of aquarium and pond items, including several new products.  The company’s Ultramarine sea salt has been reformulated using the latest science based techniques. Fine homogenous particle size ensures quicker solubility and even distribution of components to give greater uniformity. Waterlife’s new Algiblitz resolves blanket weed issues by altering the water chemistry, causing the weed to lose structure, and forming into balls/clumps that can then be removed easily.  Waterlife is also launching a new 10 kilo size pond tonic salt (PondSal).  PondSal improves fish health and vitality, deters parasites and pathogens, cleanses wounds and improves filter efficiency.  

WildWash (Hall 9 – Stand 514c) is showing its ranges of natural shampoos and cosmetics.  Products in the WildWash Pet Range are ready to use and do not contain any parabens, phthalates, phosphates, petrochemicals, sulphates or PEGs. The range consists of ten core products that have fun, easy to understand and colourful labels explaining the attributes of each shampoo.  WildWash has also introduced a Perfect Cat Shampoo with catnip.

Woofaloo (Hall 9 – Stand 514b) is exhibiting its easy-to-use indoor/outdoor dog toilet for puppies and small/medium dogs, first exhibited at Interzoo in 2016, and is now set to launch a new Rock Woofaloo, and a female dog toilet in a big size. The company focuses on a dog’s habitual behaviour of urinating on or next to chosen objects, and then replicating those situations. Woofaloo’s dog toilets are cute, funky, modern, portable and easy-care. The new Rock toilet and other products will provide buyers with the choice of a range of dog toilets suitable for puppies through to big dogs. Germany is currently the largest market for Woofaloo products.

A tarantula has been rescued by the RSPCA – after being found in a bin in a Nottingham park.

The white knee tarantula, which was the size of a hand, was cold and wet when RSPCA inspector Teresa Potter rescued the spider on Tuesday last week (24 April), after being found by a shocked dog-walker in Acorn Avenue, Giltbrook.

Inspector Potter said: “It’s rare that we get reports of tarantulas in public so as I was making my way there, I was sure it would be a plastic toy or maybe just a piece of litter!

“There was also a broken tank in the bin, so whoever dumped this spider just carelessly tossed the spider and their home in this bin without any thought for their welfare.”

Inspector Potter took the spider to a specialist vet, who identified it as a white knee tarantula, a species from Brazil which is commonly kept as a pet.

The white knee tarantula can grow up to around eight inches long. Whilst they are capable of biting, their main defence method is by flicking hairs (called ‘urticating setae’) upwards from their abdomen, which can cause irritation to eyes and skin, or to the respiratory tract if inhaled.

The woman who found the tarantula, who does not want to be named, said: “I had taken my dogs onto the field when I saw that there was a tank in the bin. I was curious so I had a closer look, expecting it to be a mouse, and I was very surprised to see a tarantula in there. The spider was clinging onto the side of the bin bag.

“I went home to my husband and asked him to come and look – he couldn’t believe it either. It’s not something you expect to find in a public bin.”

The tank hadn’t been in the bin when the woman walked her dogs at the same spot that morning, so it was dumped at some point during that day.

“Luckily we have found someone who has taken the spider on, so the spider will now live the rest of their life being looked after properly,” added Inspector Potter.

“We are concerned that someone abandoned a spider in a public bin like this. These tarantulas live in a warm and humid environment in the wild and need the same provided in captivity, to meet their needs and keep them healthy.

“It is likely that the spider was an unwanted pet which someone decided to dispose of for whatever reason. We would recommend that anyone interested in keeping a tarantula as a pet thoroughly research the particular species’ needs carefully first before deciding to get one, so they know what is involved and how long it is likely to be for.”

Exotic pets often end up in the RSPCA’s care after people realise they’re not easy to care for, or once the novelty wears off, as for many people an exotic animal represents too much of a commitment.

Caring for exotics can be challenging and expensive; the animal may grow very large, live for a long time, become aggressive or require a licence or other paperwork to be legally kept or sold. They have the same needs as in the wild, which include the need for a suitable environment, diet and to express normal behaviour.

For more information about exotic animals as pets, visit the RSPCA’s website.

The RSPCA is highlighting the risks and realities of buying puppies on the internet. It says there are huge issues about buying pets online.

It comes alongside a massive increase in the use of websites to sell and rehome dogs in the last decade. There's been an almost 800% increase in the number of dogs listed on online marketplace Gumtree between 2007 and 2016.

In teaming up with Gumtree, the animal charity is warning buyers to take care when looking for dogs online. It says the internet can provide the perfect marketplace for a trade which puts profit over the welfare of the dogs.

The RSPCA fears the soaring demand for fashionable breeds is fuelling the online puppy trade, as demand drastically outstrips the numbers coming to market through legitimate and responsible sources.

French Bulldogs are the most searched-for breed for sale online, ahead of Labradors, Jack Russells and Pugs. According to figures from the RSPCA and Gumtree, there were more than 66,000 searches for the fashionable breed in February last year alone.

Gumtree UK says it works to ensure its site is a safe place to find pets and makes it as hard as possible for illegal traders to operate on the site. For example, it deletes any ads thatr indicate signs of animal cruelty.

Funding from Worcestershire County Council's Proof of Concept programme has helped an innovative entrepreneur create a simple new bowl that keeps pet food fresh and sealed when not in use.

Called Pedaldish, the product launched this week, and will initially be on sale for six months exclusively at Pets at Home - both online and in selected stores across the UK.

Pedaldish keeps pet food in a sealed container with a flap lid. A cat or small dog can open the lid by stepping onto the ramp. Inside is a shallow bowl for a single portion of meat and a deeper bowl for larger meals.  Biscuits stay crunchy, meat stays moist and the sealed dish also contains the smell of food.

"Unlike other pet bowls with lid, Pedaldish doesn't use motors, electrics or sensors.  Best of all there's no batteries to replace," said inventor Peter Hill.

Flies can't reach the food inside and floating airborne microbes are kept away, reducing the risk of infections such as campylobacter.

In hot weather, you can keep meat cool by adding ice to the deep bowl. The product has been designed to help raise pet food off the floor so a cat or dog doesn't have to crouch to eat, aiding digestion.

Peter designed the original prototype of Pedaldish using parts from a pedal bin in his garage in Redditch, Worcestershire.

"I would come home to find my cats' pet food untouched and covered in fly eggs and I knew something had to change. I modified a pedal bin, fitted it with a ramp and taught my cats to step onto it when they wanted to eat. From that day I never lost pet food to flies ever again," said Peter.

"Visitors saw my cats using the homemade feeder and it became the source of many discussions. When I started getting requests to make them, I knew it was something that could help other pet owners," he said.

Peter spent two years developing Pedaldish, experimenting to find the ideal size and shape for the ramp and bowl.

Once he had created a prototype, Peter worked with Blue Orchid, a Worcester-based business growth consultancy and Worcestershire Proof of Concept (POC) grant-funding programme - which is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund 2014-2020. POC is one of a suite of business support programmes at Worcestershire County Council and aims to support smaller businesses  to  explore, develop  and protect early stage innovative business ideas, through a partnership with the Central Technology Belt (CTB).

"It was a very straightforward process. I applied for funding to subsidise the first 3,000 products and help purchase the tools I needed to mass-produce the product," explained Peter.

"If you're a small or medium business in the Worcestershire area and you're looking for help to launch or develop an innovative product or service, the Proof of Concept programme should be top of your list as a point of contact."

Manufactured in the UK, Pedaldish has been designed and built to be used every day, and to last for many years. Click on the image above to see the product in action.

Pedaldish is the first product in Peter Hill's Petvictus range of pet products. It currently comes in an attractive charcoal grey colour, but a range of finishes will shortly be available, including bespoke artwork by local artists. 

The best way for independent retailers to find out how to stock Pedaldish is to go on to the Petvictus Facebook page, or to www.petvictus.com. It will be available via wholesale suppliers and they can approach their wholesaler asking them to contact Petvictus directly.

Innovative pet companies have featured strongly in the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, which were announced on Her Majesty’s birthday on Sunday.

These awards are for outstanding achievement by UK businesses in four categories.

The awards are selected by the Queen on the advice of the Prime Minister, who is assisted by an Advisory Committee that includes representatives of Government, industry and commerce, and the trade unions. 

Click on the links below to find out the stories behind the success of pet companies in this year’s award.

Lintbells achieves second win in awards

International trade award for The Company of Animals

Royal recognition for Little BigPaw

Vegan pet food company wins Queen's Award

Royal award for family-run natural pet food producer

A pet shop owner is closing his business in Norfolk because online shoppers are taking custom away from the high street, he has told his local newspaper.

Teresa’s Pet Necessities in Gaywood, King’s Lynn, will close its doors for the final time on Saturday.

Nicholas Kulkani took over the running of the shop from his sister, Teresa, following her death from ovarian cancer in 2011.

He told the Lynn News: “I’ve watched the town have the heart and soul ripped out of it. The future of retail is very depressing and small, independent stores are under threat.”

Set to close on Saturday, Teresa’s Pet Necessities has customers who have stayed loyal for 30 years, buying from Teresa when she worked at Anne Kennedy’s Pet Store, and then when she set up her own business in 2004.

Nicholas said: “She loved her animals, and she loved her customers. She said to me before she died that I must never treat them as customers or she would come back and haunt me, because they were her friends.

“And they were, she would even run deliveries for the elderly in the evening if they couldn’t get to the store to pick up their bird seed.”

Teresa died in 2011, aged 46, and the family made the decision to keep the store going in her name until now. The family have decided to close the store after feeling the hit from online shoppers.

Read more by clicking here