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Australian firm acquires UK pet business Billy+Margot
V.I.P Petfoods Pty Ltd, trading as Real Pet Food Company (RPFC) in Australia, announced it has acquired the UK business Billy + Margot from its current parent company, The Company of Animals.
Billy + Margot was set up by Marie Jones, who entered the Dragons' Den and won investment from Deborah Meaden.
V.I.P Petfoods Pty Ltd, trading as Real Pet Food Company (RPFC) in Australia, announced it has acquired the UK business Billy + Margot from its current parent company, The Company of Animals.
Billy + Margot is a UK based producer and distributor of optimum nutrition for Dogs. It gained traction in the market after successfully being supported through its appearance on ‘BBC Dragons’ Den’, and was subsequently bought by The Company of Animals in July 2015.
David Grant, CEO for RPFC said the acquisition represents an important step in the Company’s strategy to grow internationally and enter the UK market with a strong and strategically aligned brand to that of the company’s current portfolio.
Mr Grant pointed out that RPFC is the global market leader in Chilled & Fresh Pet Food.
“This move will strengthen our position in the pet care market globally,” he said.
“Importantly, it allows us to continue to focus on natural and organic ranges that are becoming increasingly important to our consumers."V.I.P Petfoods was acquired by Quadrant Private Equity (Quadrant) in June 2015.
Billy + Margot's founder Marie Jones told Pet Trade Xtra she is staying with the company as Country Manager.
Pictured: Marie Jones (right), who entered the Dragons' Den and won investment from Deborah Meaden.
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Revealed: the secrets of success of the UK's Pet Retailer of the Year
Tails 'n' Whiskers pet store in Oakham, Rutland, has only been open for three-and-a-half years but this week it was crowned UK Pet Retailer of the Year at the PetQuip Awards. Owner Tony Sharpe, who runs a second store called Pets Korner in nearby Stamford, reveals how independent pet retailers can achieve success in today's challenging times...
Tails 'n' Whiskers pet store in Oakham, Rutland, has only been open for three-and-a-half years but this week it was crowned UK Pet Retailer of the Year at the PetQuip Awards. Owner Tony Sharpe, who runs a second store called Pets Korner in nearby Stamford, reveals how independent pet retailers can achieve success in today's challenging times.
What does the award mean to you?
The award means a great deal to us, to be recognised by the industry and also for other small independents like ourselves to aim high.
What sets the store apart from others?
We hope we are different by the care and attention to detail we give to our customers, and stocking products that are not available in the bigger chain stores.
How many people work in the store?
We have two full time members of staff.
Are they all animal lovers?
Yes they are animal lovers, how could they not be?
 How did it all start?
We had been looking for an opportunity to open another shop in addition to our Pets Korner shop in Stamford, and asked around a few other shop owners if they knew of any premises in Oakham coming up for occupancy. Luckily one of them did, and contacted us.
Are there similarities between the two stores?
We stock a lot of the same products in both shops, but there are quite a few of different items in each shop, according to what customers are asking for. Some things sell better in one shop than the other.
Do you allow the store manager to influence things at Oakham?
Paul Croft, our manager in Oakham, has total control over stock and ordering, and we regularly meet up to discuss products.
How do you keep your customers loyal?
Hopefully we keep loyalty by great customer service and getting to know our customers and what they need from us, some of our food suppliers have loyalty schemes for their food and this helps us beat off the competition.
What kind of events do you run?
We help organise an annual dog show every year for charity, and this year we are sponsoring a Santa fun run in Burghley Park in December for charity, prizes for the best dressed dog.
What are the secrets of your success?
Watch the prices, don’t rest on your laurels, be the best you can be and enjoy doing it.
Tony Sharpe was invited to give a talk to visitors of PATS Telford.
Above, Tony (left) and wife Sandra receive the PetQuip Award from sponsor John Pullen of Petface.
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Shop fitting is crucial to a store's success
Award-winning pet store Tails 'n' Whiskers was helped on its way thanks to some fantastic shop fitting from Hertford Shelving. Here the company's Steve Lodge explains how a store's layout and appearance can make a huge difference between success and failure....
Award-winning pet store Tails 'n' Whiskers was helped on its way thanks to some fantastic shop fitting from Hertford Shelving. Here the company's Steve Lodge explains how a store's layout and appearance can make a huge difference between success and failure.
When a retailer approaches you about fitting out a shop how do approach the task?
Ask them if they have a plan or design in mind or certain idea they want to follow then arrange to meet them on site to look at the premises. Do you try to tailor the fitting to a client’s needs?
Yes of course, but more importantly, tailor them to the shape and size of the premises. How much input do you have in the design?
I am not an interior designer, but trained as a retail planner. I try to fit in the maximum amount of fixtures and fittings possible and try to use every area possible for retailing. Do you suggest ideas for how a shop should be laid out?
Yes, I always make suggestions but take in what they are trying to achieve. How important is the layout of a shop?
It is very important as the shop needs to work and customers should have a good shopping experience and not be challenged with looking for the goods or seeking directions. A badly laid out shops puts off customers. How did you help Tails 'n' Whiskers?
By implementing all of the above and having a good relationship with the client. Tony Sharpe, owner of Tails 'n' Whiskers, explains how important it was to employ the services of Hartford Shelving.
"Steve has refitted our Stamford shop bit by bit over the years, so was a natural choice when we found our premises in Oakham," said Tony.
"He came with his fitters early on the Sunday morning, and didn’t leave until the job was done. (around 9pm the same evening).
"Apart from being a really nice bloke, he worked so hard for us to get the job done, so we could receive our deliveries first thing on Monday mornin.
"We would definitely recommend him to anyone wanting their shop refitting."
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The number of visitors attending the two-day PATS Telford show has broken the 2,000 mark for the second time in the exhibition’s eight-year history.A total of 2,009 visitors came through the doors at the impressive Telford International Centre, just 27 people fewer than last year’s record-breaking event. The successful show closed with visitors and exhibitors agreeing it had been a huge success, with the event delivering an unrivalled platform for the launch of hundreds of exciting new pet product innovations. Organiser Gordon Thomas said many of the companies exhibiting at PATS Telford were eager to point out the quality of people visiting their stands had been of the highest standard. “Exhibitors told us they met with the key decision makers and buyers, and that was good to hear because we put in place measures that ensured the right people attended. “I also think the uncertainty caused by Britain’s vote on Europe has resulted in a decrease in the number of international visitors, as has been the case at a number of recent UK trade shows. I do feel that once things settle down, we will return to a high number of overseas buyers visiting our shows. “Overall the response to PATS Telford 2016 has been excellent and positive, and proves that the pet industry is firmly behind this show.”
 Edgard & Cooper announced their arrival in the UK at the event, and the company’s Rebecca Owens said: “PATS is a fantastic opportunity for businesses like ourselves to meet a wide range of retailers under one roof. PATS really facilitated Edgard & Cooper’s launch in the UK by giving us a great platform to shout about our brand, and have important conversations over the course of two days. “Edgard & Cooper have developed the world’s first fresh meat kibble using no meat meal. As this is a new concept, it was paramount for us to be able to explain the product range to retailers in the UK, and PATS Telford allowed us to have those conversations in abundance.” Cotswold RAW made their first appearance at the exhibitions and owner Chris Brierley said: “PATS was everything we'd hoped for and more - our stand might have been one of the smallest but interest, kind words and enthusiastic enquiries were the norm and it will take a good few days to sieve through all our leads. “For a fledgling, rural brand it was fantastic to meet new potential customers from every corner of the country – and beyond – as well as catch up with many of the brand loyalists who've manfully championed our cause from day one.” And for Pet Munchies, who’ve been attending PATS shows for the past six years, it just gets better and better with every show. “This year has been phenomenal,” said managing director Suzanne Rothman. Award-winning retailer Piers Smart, of Scampers Natural Pet Store, summed up the mood of visitors. “PATS Telford is perfect for the UK pet store buyer. The halls are easy to navigate, stand designs allow quick routing so you don't miss anyone, there’s great parking and it’s easy to get to from anywhere in the country. “Yet again we renewed old friendships, strengthened new ones, found great new products, got a great feel for where specialist pet currently sits and spent a huge amount of money.”
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Picture round-up from the pet extravanganza
There was so much to see and do over the two days of the PATS Telford exhibition. If you weren't lucky enough to make it, here's a picture round-up from Telford...
Marriages launched a new parrot food and had a pirate theme on their stand.
There was so much to see and do over the two days of the PATS Telford exhibition. If you weren't lucky enough to make it, here's a picture round-up from Telford.
Marriages launched a new parrot food and had a pirate theme on their stand.
Sam Marriage, Managing Director and Captain Hook, admitted: “We love it here and we always try to bring something new and interesting when we come. The pirate theme really seems to have captured the imagination – we’ve had people dropping by, having a laugh with us and of course doing a lot of business!”
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PATS Telford was Beco Pets' "biggest and best yet" expo, according to the two founders of the company, sales director George Bramble and design director Toby Massey.
"PATS was a glowing success for us and our Beco eco-market, displaying our fresh cod and haddock, wild boar and free-range chicken drew in the crowds and created a lot of interest in our new eco-conscious food for dogs. We are now busy following up leads from the show," said Bramble.
Massey added: "We put in a huge effort and big resources to deliver the biggest Beco stand we have ever put together for any trade show. Many delegates complimented us on our display during the show and it's all helped to generate a lot of interest in our new dog food range."
Britain's biggest manufacturer of eco-friendly pet products and accessories, Beco Pets, based in Lewisham, south London, now exports to 43 countries around the world.
During the Telford show, the company was proud to walk away from the PetQuip Awards 2016 with the Exporter of the Year gold award, hailed as a tribute to their international sales team, one of two gongs they won at the gala.
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Torus Bowl proves to be a winner for Dog Rocks UK
The Torus Bowl has been an outstanding sales success for Dog Rocks UK Distribution Ltd, a feat recognised at the PetQuip Awards with the crown of Pet Product Innovation of the Year. We spoke to the company's PR & Marketing Executive, Archit Chopra...
The Torus Bowl has been an outstanding sales success for Dog Rocks UK Distribution Ltd, a feat recognised at the PetQuip Awards with the crown of Pet Product Innovation of the Year.
We spoke to the company's PR & Marketing Executive, Archit Chopra...
What does this award mean to you and the product?
We are very proud of this achievement, absolutely delighted and thrilled to accept the Pet Product Innovation of the Year award. Torus Bowl has become a hugely popular product amongst pet owners and retailers. Torus also won an award for product innovation from Pet Product Marketing and it’s a massively well designed bowl which really fits a gap in the market between pet fountain and normal water bowl, it has all the attributes you need for your pet’s drinking bowl and more. Extremely pleased to be delivering this innovative product to its customers and helping pets and pet owners.
Has the product been a success so far for the company?
In the space of four months into its launch, Torus Bowl was already listed and selling through all UK based wholesalers and Interzoo saw its introduction into many European based retailers and wholesalers and since then the company hasn’t looked back; indications are that the sales curve is only going to keep going up. We are shipping by 40ft container, one is constantly at sea to service the market so although we were a little scared of the price point, the quality and usefulness of the product is what has sold it. We now have a number of products in our portfolio, not a lot but all quality unique solutions. Torus has allowed us to grow as a business and its exciting times.
What makes it so special?
The Torus is a watering system and portable storage bowl in one. There is no need for batteries or power, you are providing your pet with constantly fresh filtered water, there are two sizes so suits all size household pets (including chickens!), it’s great for travel as you lock the water away in the rim. The Torus ergonomic and anti-kick pads ensure less spillage, it comes with a 12-month warranty and is made from food grade materials. On top of all of that, it looks really stylish, something none of us mind being part of our kitchen or office in this case!
Will there be any new launches in the range in the future?
Yes, we are able to “home brand” product and we have water soluble tablets under consideration. There are carry bags and different colours being added to the line also.
The Dog Rocks UK Distribution Ltd team receive their PetQuip Award.
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Pet Rebellion came up with a great way to showcase their range of pet mats for cars at PATS Telford...park a 4x4 vehicle inside the Telford International Centres.
The company fitted the vehicle with their mats and visitors were able to see them in situ before visiting the Pet Rebellion stand inside the exhibition hall.
Promotion girls also gave away pet bowl mats, which also proved popular with visitors.
Sales director Tommy Weedon said the plan had worked perfectly, drawing people onto their stand. "We had a great show and saw lots of quality people."
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The Bucktons and Nature’s Feast brands have unveiled an exciting range of new products and merchandising solutions.
Following extensive research and development, Nature’s Feast has strengthened its offer with the launch of a new small animal food collection. The collection features a range of food, treats and hay for rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters, an area which represents a £72m market opportunity year on year.
It has been launched to add value to the category and is based on insight which shows 43% of shoppers perceive nuggets to be boring and processed despite their health credentials. It launched in July this year, alongside care guides, POS and other educational support.
Bucktons will once again be at PATS following a hugely successful year for the brand, which unveiled its new look aviary food range a year ago. Since then, the brand has ruffled feathers and soared from strength to strength with its new ranges, new packaging and new brand positioning. This year will see Bucktons showcase its indoor bird and aviary product range along with their wild bird offering, with focus on the new suet range ready for the forthcoming winter season.
Kirk Rothwell, Brand Manager, said: “PATS Telford is a key date in our calendar and is a must visit event for the pet trade industry. This year is no exception. We’re delighted to be showcasing our new Nature’s Feast small animal collection which has already had some great listings and some really positive reviews.”
Bucktons and Nature’s Feast are on Stand G8. For further information, contact Richard Greenwood, Pet Sales Manager on 07976 490341 or email rgreenwood@westlandhorticulture.com
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The Pet Industry Federation offered new members a free bottle of bubbly, if they joined on the PIF stand at PATS Telford.
In addition, to celebrate the launch of its exclusive new card-processing solution, members had the chance to get £50 off their next year’s membership fee when they signed up to a card-processing solution with Chip & PIN Solutions through PIF.
From their stand (A31), the PIF team were on hand to talk to visitors about the full range of business services available to members, as well as being available to talk about the lobbying work it has been undertaking on behalf of the industry on animal establishment licensing.
PIF also ran a competition for two retailers to win tickets and accommodation to the Pet Industry Forum & Awards, which this year takes place from 1 November at Wokefield Park, near Reading.
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Vividarium scoops pet industry’s top accolade
Vividarium, an East Yorkshire based pet product firm, had reason to celebrate last weekend when their innovative new tortoise enclosure took the coveted Best New Small-Animal Product Award at PATS Telford...
Vividarium, an East Yorkshire based pet product firm, had reason to celebrate last weekend when their innovative new tortoise enclosure took the coveted Best New Small-Animal Product Award at PATS Telford.
The Tortoise habitat, which is moulded from lightweight polyresin, is designed to look exactly like the creatures it’s been manufactured to house – namely, a tortoise!
The 3ft long enclosure, complete with head, legs, shell, and even a tail, has been expertly conceived with both aesthetics and the welfare of it’s inhabitants at the very forefront of its design. Les White, Chairman of Vividarium, explained: “We wanted to create a habitat which the public would be proud to have as a main focal point in their homes.
"So the aesthetics had to be just right. Every wrinkle of its neck, or scale on its legs had to be designed and finished with superb quality and in exquisite detail. However, primarily its main objective is obviously to serve its purpose as a healthy and safe environment for the animals which it houses, and we didn’t want to settle for mediocre in this respect either.
"The enclosure boasts industry-leading features such as a circular internal design which helps to prevent tortoises from falling on their backs when “chimneying” up right angled walls as you obviously get with all traditional rectangular enclosures.
"We’ve added a built-in hide area within the head of the design, which tortoises can retreat to when they feel the need, reducing stress levels.
"It’s lightweight and waterproof construction enables it to be easily cleaned out and disinfected and it will never rot, unlike its wooden counterparts. Its compatible with all the commercially available hanging basking lamps or clamp lamps and it even features a neatly built-in cable-tidy too.
"All-in-all we think we’ve pretty much nailed exactly what we set out to do.
"As for the future we also have similarly striking designs in the pipeline for frogs, spiders, snakes and lizards too, having had their designs patented in 28 countries worldwide, along with the current tortoise home.” The judges shared Les’ optimism and summed up its feature-packed design by stating “It’s a truly stunning feature. It would make anybody want to go out and buy a tortoise. Its good fun, but its also a practical product and very reasonably priced too for what you get” More information can be found on the company’s website www.vividarium.co.uk
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Bessie and Boo, nominated for PIF's Pet Retail Chain of the Year, is to launch Just for Pets' huge fundraising week for Guide Dogs.
The boutique-style pet store will kick start Just for Pets' annual fundraising efforts as part of Guide Dog week by joining Dogs Unite for a sponsored walk at The Valley, Evesham on Saturday (October 1).
Just for Pets has worked closely with Guide Dogs for many years and has so far raised over £40,000, enough to sponsor nine potential guide dog puppies throughout their first year.
Kate Byrne, Retail Operations Director, said: “Although we fundraise for Guide Dogs throughout the year, Guide Dog week is a great opportunity to have a bit of fun whilst highlighting a fantastic charity that really changes lives. We are always left in awe and immensely proud of our store teams with how much effort they put into raising money for Guide Dogs every year.”
This year’s theme is 'Move it for Money' and the company has recently launched '10 for 10'; the idea being to raise £10,000, enough to sponsor puppy number 10 for the first two years of his journey to full guide dog status.
Ali Waterer, Guide Dogs Community Fund Raising Development officer, said: “On behalf of Guide Dogs, I would personally like to thank all the staff and customers of Just For Pets, for once again going the extra mile to do some incredible, innovative and exciting fundraising during Guide Dog Week and throughout the year.
"I am delighted that our partnership is continuing with the aim of raising £10,000 for puppy number 10! This will enable Just for Pets to not only name their puppy but to follow its progress from birth until qualification – what a truly fantastic achievement.
"Naming a puppy is a fantastic way for people and organisations to make a difference to the lives of people who are blind or partially sighted. Around 180,000 rarely leave home alone and without the help of fundraising schemes such as this we would not be able to help the number of people that we do.
"A total of 863 new guide dog partnerships were created last year and we have helped more people than ever before. It’s only through support such as this from Just For Pets that we’re able to maintain our lifelong commitment to blind and partially sighted people in the community as the guide dog service relies purely on voluntary income which is why we are so grateful for the efforts that companies such as Just For Pets put in to support us. Thank you! You are all life changers!”
Rebecca Hitchcock, Regional Manager for Bessie and Boo, added: “I am incredibly proud of the team at Bessie and Boo for all of their efforts in organising this event for Guide dogs. Special thanks have to go to Kerrie the Duty Manager, who has worked tirelessly on the details and recruiting Guide Dog Heroes to attend the dog walk and raise much needed funds.”Events are taking place throughout the company in all Just for Pets stores. Bessie & Boo dog walk event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/168968538801751/?ti=icl Bessie & Boo: https://www.facebook.com/BessieandBoo/ Just for Pets: https://www.facebook.com/JustforPetsUK/ Dogs Unite: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/dogs-unite/find-events/evesham-dogs-unite The Valley: http://thevalleyshopping.co.uk/
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New Look’s former chief financial officer Mike Iddon will join Pets At Home next month, replacing interim group chief financial officer Mark Adams.
Iddon, who departed from New Look in March, will also be an executive director and be a member of the pet food and accessories retailer’s board.
Prior to New Look, Iddon held a number of finance roles at Tesco over a period of 13 years, with his last position there as group planning, treasury and tax director.
Before that, he held finance roles with Kingfisher and Whitbread and is a chartered accountant.
“With so many growth opportunities, not just within retailing but also in the many services that support customers and their pets, this is a really exciting time for me to join the group,” Iddon said.
Meanwhile, Adams, who has held the interim finance boss position at Pets At Home since April, will leave the retailer towards the end of November.
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PATS Telford 2016 New Product Award winners
The winners of the PATS Telford 2015 New Product Awards were chosen by a team of expert pet retail judges, who arrived at the show before 9am today (Sunday), in order to make their choices from a record number of more than 260 new products entered...
The winners of the PATS Telford 2015 New Product Awards were chosen by a team of expert pet retail judges, who arrived at the show before 9am today (Sunday), in order to make their choices from a record number of more than 260 new products entered.
Their decisions took into account a number of guideline criteria such as product innovation, design, quality, packaging and value for money.
The judges agreed that the New Product Showcase had produced a high calibre of entries with a tremendous amount of innovation. They were pleased to see such a wide range of products, and felt the majority of items on display showed some great innovation.
Here is a full list of the winners together with the judges’ comments:CAT PRODUCT
Winner
Wellbeing Range
Entered by: Burgess Pet Care
Judges’ comments: Eye-catching, clear presentation with easy-to-read information and a good price point. DOG FOOD AND TREATS
Winner
Naturediet Dog Treats
Entered by: Naturediet Pet Foods
Judges’ comments:
Welcome addition to treat ranges with a moist dog treat, which is something a little different. Packaging is attractive. DOG ACCESSORY PRODUCT
Winner
‘Le Bol’ dog bowl
Entered by: Loving Pets
Judges’ comments: Reasonably priced, bright colours that could co-ordinate with kitchen. This is a non-stick versatile bowl with a good enameled design.
 BIRD PRODUCT
Winner
Ultimate Goldfinch Mix
Entered by: Walter Harrison’s
Judges’ comments: Stand-out packaging and a food for birds that everyone wants to have in their garden. Well priced.
SMALL ANIMAL PRODUCT
Winner
Tortoise Home
Entered by: Vividarium
Judges’ comments: Stunning feature – would make us want to go out and get a tortoise. Good fun but practical product and a reasonable price point for what you get.
PET CARE PRODUCT
Winner
Frontline Pet Care
Entered by: Merial Animal Health
Judges’ comments: A good presentation stand with many interesting products to browse through and all reasonably priced.
GROOMING PRODUCT
Winner
FoOlee Easee De-Shedder
Entered by: Kruuse UK Ltd
Judges’ comments: A very useful tool for any pet dog or cat owner to assist with de-shedding. Versatile, detachable and easy to use.
 GIFTWARE PRODUCT
Winner
The Fox
Entered by: Supa Ltd
Judges’ comments: Looks like a very good quality product and animal designs are currently ‘flying off the shelves’
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PetQuip Award winners
The PetQuip Awards were announced at a special party on the first evening of PATS Telford. Here is a full list of the winners...
The PetQuip Awards were announced at a special party on the first evening of PATS Telford. Here is a full list of the winners...
Beco Pets repeated their 2015 double success at the PetQuip Awards, winning a 2016 Gold award and a Silver award again for the second year running, taking their tally to an impressive haul of four gongs over the past two years.
Beco Pets co-Founder and Design Director Toby Massey said: "Coming to award shows always makes me slightly tingly with anticipation, and it's extra special to win anything. So to walk away with two awards, was truly amazing.
"We consider ourselves a truly international business and we pride ourselves on the extra effort our team puts in. To walk away with the Exporter of the Year award is a great tribute to our team. We never expect to win but it's fantastic to be congratulated for all the hard work."
Steve Brown, Managing Director of Pedigree Wholesale, said: “To win the PetQuip Wholesaler of the Year Award for a third year in succession is a great achievement for the team. It’s a reward for the work we put in to make sure we provide the best possible service for retailers.”
The PetQuip Awards 2016 – Winners
 Supplier of the Year Gold: Danish Design Silver: Beco Pets Highly Commended: Natures Menu  Wholesaler/Distributor of the Year Gold: Pedigree Wholesale Silver: Bestpets Highly Commended: Collarways  Exporter of the Year Gold: Beco Pets Silver: Dog Rocks Highly Commended: Symply Pet Foods  Marketing Campaign of the Year Gold: Forthglade Silver: HOWND Highly Commended: Petfood UK  Pet Product Innovation of the Year (Food & Treats) Gold: Cotswold Raw (Raw Pet Food) Silver: Pet Munchies (Natural Duck Drumsticks)  Pet Product Innovation of the Year (Health & Technical) Gold: Blu-Poo Ltd (Poo Guard) Silver: Protectapet (Pet Containment System) Highly Commended: Sureflap (SureFeed Sealed Pet Bowl) Pet Product Innovation of the Year (Accessories) Gold: Dog Rocks UK Distribution Ltd (Torus Water Bowl) Silver: Howler & Scratch (Pet Mat Range) Highly Commended: Oggie’s Oven (The Trikka)  International Retailer/Wholesaler-Distributor of the Year Gold: Comercial Dimac SA, Spain Silver: Eye4Pets, The Netherlands  UK Retailer of the Year Gold: Tails n’ Whiskers, Rutland Silver: Bodle Brothers, West Sussex Highly Commended: Paws and Claws, Cheshire  Lifetime Achievement Dr Bruce Fogle MBE DVM MRCVS
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 Walter Harrison’s Ultimate Goldfinch Mix won the Bird Product Award at PATS Telford.
On receiving the award Chris Richmond, Walter Harrison’s Brand Manager, commented: “We are delighted to have won this award which comes on the back of a complete relaunch of the Walter Harrison’s brand.
"The relaunched range was showcased for the first time at PATS Telford and we have received tremendous feedback from retailers. What makes this award even more important is that is has been voted for by retailers who have clearly decided it is a must stock, profitable line.” Walter Harrison’s Ultimate Goldfinch Mix is a blend of seeds and grains specifically developed to attract a wide variety of Finches into the garden. Available in two pack sizes, 2kg and 12.75kg, this is one product from the Walter Harrison’s offering which includes a range of seed mixes, straights, suet, mealworms and fat balls alongside a range of feeders and accessories. If you would like more information about Walter Harrison’s call 0115 982 3900 or e. info@petproducts.co.uk.
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Soaps’ biggest pet star since Schmeichel, Maria Connor’s black Labrador Ozzy, has filmed his last scenes and is due to leave the famous street this week, in one of 2016’s saddest soap storylines.
The loss of Ozzy, who has been charming his way into the hearts of viewers over the past nine years, will be felt by his co-stars.
Samia Ghadie, who plays Maria said: “I’ve been recording one of the saddest scenes I’ve ever done in my 17 years at Corrie. We say a sad goodbye to a well-loved member of the cast.
“When I first read the scripts I was in tears so getting to film them has just sent me off. You may need your tissues when they air.”
However, the emotional effects will also be felt by the nation too and the loss of a pet is not to be underestimated. In a report* by Pets at Home, 40% of Brits said they would ask their boss for a day off work to grieve over the death of a pet.
Leading international psychologist, Wendy Dignan, who practices in Harley Street and Wilmslow explained: “We emotionally engage with dogs on TV as we know that they are more authentic than a person playing a part – especially a dog on screen which appears frequently and over a long period of time.
“People are emotional stakeholders of the soaps they immerse themselves in, so the loss of a dog on a TV show will feel surprisingly very real.
“Part of the unique attachment we form to pets - dogs in particular - is because we feel that they have ‘no agenda’. A dog’s love is given unconditionally and endlessly. Research shows that we view the bond with a dog as more authentic or truthful than those we form with humans. When people watch shows with dogs, we don’t have the same filter we do with humans who are merely acting, as we perceive dogs to be more ‘honest’.”
Dr. Maeve Moorcroft, Veterinary Advisor for Pets at Home, said: “Owners who experience the loss of a pet should take time to grieve and not rush into replacing their pet straight away. Allowing yourself to go through the grieving process is really important and if that means asking for a day off to grieve and make necessary arrangements such as burial or cremation then so be it.”
On a more positive note, the passing of a pet can actually prepare children for loss of people close to them in later life. A third of parents (33%) questioned in the study** said that their child’s experience of a pet passing away had helped them come to terms with the death of a family member or friend.
*Pet Report of 3,000 people in the UK commissioned by Pets at Home and carried out by ONEPoll 2011
**Pet Report of 4,321 people in the UK commissioned by Pets at Home in 2015
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A Lifetime Achievement Award has been presented leading vet Bruce Fogle during the PetQuip 2016 Awards at the Telford International Centre.
Bruce Fogle, the principal vet at the London Vet Clinic, is also a writer and broadcaster. With over ten million books sold, Bruce is the world’s best selling practicing vet. For services to pets, pet owners and the veterinary profession, the British Small Animal Veterinary Association awarded Bruce Honorary Life Membership. He is co-founder and vice-chairman of Hearing Dogs for Deaf People (www.hearingdogs.org.uk) the largest charity of its kind in the world. For services to disabled people Bruce was appointed an MBE. He is also the Chair of HSI, an international charity that celebrates animals and confronts cruelty worldwide (www.HSI.org). Pictured above: Bruce Fogle with his TV celebrity son Ben and their dogs Plum and Storm.
Below: Bruce receives his PetQuip Lifetime Achievement Award.
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 Tongues and tails are wagging at the news that a brand new dog product has earned a big thumbs up from the Channel 4’s ‘Supervet’ – a TV show featuring one of England’s top veterinarians, Dr Noel Fitzpatrick, and known for promoting innovative veterinary care.
PetWeighte, from Peak Pet Products, is a new dog bowl, specifically designed to assist the needs of dogs requiring a guaranteed supply of water, but praised just as much for its ability to assist dogs with arthritis. Its use with dogs suffering with sore and painful joints was something the Supervet team specifically picked up on and praised.
These two product benefits derive from its clever design. PetWeighter is a two-part dog bowl that has learned the command ‘stay’, thanks to being an immovable object once its based is filled with water, sand, or a combination of the two, taking its weight up to a sizeable 13kg. The bowl section of the product is easily removed from the base, when it needs filling or washing, by hand or in dishwasher. It then simply clicks back into place, on the weighted base, when it is ready for the dog to use again.
A dog cannot do its favourite trick of pushing the bowl around the floor, becoming frustrated when its ‘prey’ keeps moving. Consequently, water spillage and scattered food mess is a thing of the past.
Additionally, because the two-part design of a PetWeighter elevates the bowl to a height of 21cm, the dog does not have to stoop to drink or eat, which alleviates pressure on the neck, shoulders, chest and elbows.
Once the Supervet team had tested the product, they soon appreciated what an asset PetWeighter™ is for arthritic dogs. Their feedback was that: “PetWeighter is very stable, even with large boisterous dogs. The raised bowl height is very good, especially for our dogs with neck and spinal issues. It is ideal for use in a home environment.”
PetWeighter is available from distributor Igloo Pets for any pet shops or vets’ surgeries wishing to stock the product. Its RRP is £24.99 and good margins are available. More information about stocking the product can be obtained from enquiries@petweighter.com, by calling Igloo Pets on 02392 474676, or by filling in an enquiry form at www.petweighter.com
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Equine supplement specialist NAF is set to pop the cork on another year of Champagne Bar sponsorship at BETA International 2017. This sparkling feature is the perfect place for visitors to meet friends and business colleagues for a glass of bubbly in comfortable, relaxed surroundings.
“The sponsorship of the NAF Five Star Champagne Bar is the perfect opportunity for us to support BETA International once again,” said NAF sales and marketing director Linda Porter. “We look forward to meeting customers, friends and business partners from the UK and overseas at this unique event in the equestrian business calendar – and to toasting another successful year.”
Trade fair organiser Claire Thomas added: “We are thrilled that NAF is to support the Champagne Bar for a second year and delighted that the company has chosen BETA International as the perfect platform to engage with the equestrian trade. It's great to have the NAF team back and we are really looking forward to working closely with them once again.”
NAF joins fellow sponsors Battles, Charles Owen, Ekkia, Equestrian Trade News, Henson Franklyn, Hy, Shires Equestrian, Schockemöhle Sports, Toggi and main sponsor Neue Schule.
BETA International is the world’s leading equestrian, country clothing, outdoor and pet products trade exhibition.
The 2017 show takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, from 22 to 24 January. Visitor entry is free on pre-registration at www.beta-int.com. For information about exhibiting, contact James Palmer, telephone +44 (0)1937 582111 or email jamesp@beta-int.com.
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Hold onto your seat – the competition is fierce - top sheepdog handlers compete in CSJ’s brand new 4 part film series starting 14th November on www.csjk9.comThe four episodes span ten weeks and feature nine of the UK’s top sheepdog handlers and dogs. Each uses their skills and intelligence to compete over a challenging course to be the first to win the title ‘A Way with Dogs’ Champion. Viewers will be able to see clearly how the experts handle their dogs and hear full commentary from international judge and handler, Mike Northwood and presenter Bryony Billson at www.csjk9.com The nine top handlers compete over a tricky course in the Clwydian Hills of North Wales at the home of the late H Glyn Jones, himself a former International Supreme Sheepdog Champion and 5 times winner of the Brace Competition on ‘One Man & His Dog’. The competition will be judged by Aled Owen, four times winner of the International Supreme Championship and two times World Trials Champion and the handlers include a full time shepherd, Medwyn Evans, this year’s Welsh National Champion, farmers including the ‘Master’ handler Gwyn Jones (3 x International Supreme Champion), as well as a Stock Buyer, a retired head teacher/OFSTED Inspector and a milk retailer. CSJ Specialist Canine Feeds founder, Ceri Rundle (H Glyn Jones’s daughter), is a renowned sheepdog handler herself,having been the first lady to qualify for the Welsh National Team with her homebred dog, Bwlch Hemp in 1996, later earning two further national ‘caps’ and competing in the World Trials in Ireland in 2005. She was the first lady to be elected on to the Panel of National Judges for Wales which has allowed her to judge in USA, Europe and Scandinavia and she was also honoured to become Chair of the North Wales Sheepdog Society in the early '90s. Ceri now spends most of her time promoting CSJ’s feed, herbs and treats for dogs but tries to find time to train and trial her young dogs and continues to develop her world famous Moel line of Border Collies (a continuation of her parents famous 'Bwlch' line). She says, “We wanted to portray the true skills of the handler and the dog, enabling the viewer to see the straight lines to and through the hurdles and the tight turns …. which is the aim of the handler. Our films will show this very clearly - allowing the viewer to understand what is going on and how the run is judged.” Filmed against a stunning backdrop the action culminates in a nail-biting final film available on Boxing Day - the four programmes will be released on: Monday 14th November; Monday 28th November; Monday 12th December; Monday 26th December.
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Noel Edmonds has defended himself against critics who mocked a website he launched to arrange motivational speeches for animals that may be feeling under the weather.
Pet owners who feel their “feathered, furry [or] scalely friends” would benefit from some “positive words of appreciation” can now call on Edmonds for help.
Fans feared the TV presenter had “lost the plot” – but Edmonds said he was trying to make the world a “better place”.
Speaking to Mail Online he said: “What plot? Someone accused me of having ‘gone off the rails’ but I’ve never been on them hence the success and happiness I enjoy on a daily basis.
“I always have a giggle. Too many people take the living experience too seriously. What's the point of life if we can’t be positive, have fun and make the world a better place?”
Despite the criticism, Edmonds is said to have received 2,000 email applications in four hours seeking his help and is planning to launch the first radio station exclusively for animals.
“We have now decided to bring forward our plans to launch the world's first radio station exclusively for animals - Positively Pets - and hope to be on-air by Christmas,” he said.
“I’m inviting pet lovers to send in their audio messages for their loved ones and we will broadcast them plus music requests and "special relaxing tones" for pets left at home alone.”
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