In This Issue
Scampers leads the way with Canine First Aid training course
Pet industry faces 'brain drain' as talented staff look for higher paid jobs, says recruitment expert
New kennels for Manchester dogs left homeless after fire
National Pet Month (April 1-May 2) is almost here!
British pet buyers urged to visit Global Pet Expo
Italian pet product buyers added to ‘Meet the Buyers’ event
Sneyd’s launches super premium Wonderdog Elite
Keep your cool at the ADAPTIL fun fair stand at Crufts
Pooch & Mutt joins forces with sports event planning firm
Get your own copy of Pet Trade Xtra
Pet store forced to close after two decades
Beaphar UK appoints Marketing Communications Executive
Perth pet shop owners reunited with animals stolen in raid
Benyfit Natural set to expand retail operations
Animal charities warn of potential cat-astrophe
DogBuddy aims to solidify its position as Europe’s best dog sitting service
PDSA issues booster reminder after confirmed case of leptospirosis
Useful Links
Send to a Friend »
Subscribe »
Issue Archive »
Update your Profile »
Print All Articles »
Subscribe to RSS »
Visit Our Website »
Example of a Flyer »
CONTACT US NOW
Find out how Pet Trade Xtra can help to promote your business and products.



Contact neil.pope@tgcmc.co.uk for all editorial matters

Or ben.greenwood@tgcmc.co.uk to discuss advertising and sponsorship opportunities.
 
Scampers leads the way with Canine First Aid training course
The Canine First Aid Company has joined forces with award-winning Scampers in Cambridgeshire to hold its first training course in a pet shop. The event will take place on April 3...

The Canine First Aid Company has joined forces with award-winning Scampers in Cambridgeshire to hold its first training course in a pet shop. The event will take place on April 3.

The family-run business, which originated with human first aid training, has had such a huge demand for canine first aid (first aid for dogs) that director Melanie Whitten decided to utilise her love of dogs and vast experience to train thelive-saving skills.

“The skills we use in human first aid are not too different from the skills we use on dogs - still centred around Health and Safety, Primary Surveys, CPR, Recovery Position, Bleeds, Drowning, Shock, Poisons, and Heatstroke," said Melanie.

"We can now help and support our canine friends in the event of a situation arising.  We can be the bridge/chain of survival whilst awaiting professional medical help from vets.

"There are a few differences which we have to make when treating our dogs – no mouth to mouth but mouth to snout, where to find a pulse, utilising whatever is available to ensure human safety by making a muzzle.

"Our courses include handouts, candidate packs and shock blankets as well as a Certificate of Successful Completion, as well as practical sessions on mouth to snout on canine manikins, bandaging and muzzling. Our training sessions are fun even though we are dealing with a serious subject.”

The Canine First Aid Company is taking its training nationwide to offer guidance to canine orientated businesses, pet shops and individuals who want to know how to save a dog’s life.  

"We are working with Scampers to spread the word and get the unique courses available to as many businesses and individuals as possible," added Melanie.

"Piers and Michelle at Scampers know first-hand how important these skills are and have had to use lifesaving skills on their dogs, including CPR which kept their pet alive. They are well aware of the importance of these valuable skills."

The Canine First Aid Training Course is being held at Scampers on April 3 between 10am and 3pm. To find out more information email melanie@caninefirstaidcompany.co.uk

 
Pet industry faces 'brain drain' as talented staff look for higher paid jobs, says recruitment expert
Recruitment specialist Lynda Ward, founder of Pet Trade Solutions, claims the pet industry is experiencing a 'brain drain', with many staff searching for bigger and better jobs...

Recruitment specialist Lynda Ward, founder of Pet Trade Solutions, claims the pet industry is experiencing a 'brain drain', with many staff searching for bigger and better jobs...

“In over 15 years of recruiting sales and marketing personnel for the pet industry I have never experienced so many people leaving the trade," says Lynda.

"Of course, we constantly identify and welcome excellent newcomers, but over the last six months we have lost far too many experienced, well connected professionals. They are leaving they a big gap in our still growing market."

Asked why she thinks there’s a ‘brain drain’, Lynda answers: “In some instances people are in a so-called glass ceiling situation, and seek a bigger role, whileothers have felt they have been treated poorly in some way by their employer. But currently the overwhelming reason is to go for a better salary.”

On the subject of salaries Lynda says: “There has been a gear-shift in salaries over the past year and I will elaborate on that subject another time, but it’s clear that we as an industry are still not keeping pace with others and as a consequence pet companies are losing some of their best sales and marketing people.”

Lynda is always happy to personally advise on any aspects of recruitment and marketing strategy and can be contacted on 07946 743784 or at lyndaward@pettradesolutions.com

New kennels for Manchester dogs left homeless after fire


Manchester Dogs Home has re-opened more than a year after a big fire destroyed its buildings...



Manchester Dogs Home has re-opened more than a year after a big fire destroyed its buildings.

More than 150 dogs had to be rescued in 2014, when an adoption centre was destroyed in a big blaze.

Since then, people have donated more than a million pounds to help the adoption centre rebuild, and it's finally ready to open.

The new centre is better than ever, with glass windows and doors on each kennel, and even underfloor heating!

The dogs seem pretty happy with their new pad.



Watch dog's adorable reaction at becoming first pooch to find new home after rescue centre reopens. Click the image above to watch the video on YouTube.

National Pet Month (April 1-May 2) is almost here!


National Pet Month (April 1-May 2) is just a few weeks away. Not only does the initiative promote responsible pet ownership, it encourages veterinary practices, pet friendly businesses, groups and individuals to stage and attend pet themed events to raise money for UK pet charities...



Time for UK pet fans to unite! National Pet Month is just a few weeks away!
 
This nationwide pet celebration gets underway on Friday, April 1 and runs until Monday, May 2, 2016.
 
Not only does National Pet Month promote responsible pet ownership, but it encourages veterinary practices, pet friendly businesses, groups and individuals to stage and attend pet themed events to raise money for UK pet charities.
 
Now in its 27th year, National Pet Month offers the nation a chance to celebrate the wonderful impact pets have on our lives and this year will focus on the Top 10 Tips for Responsible Pet Ownership, reminding us of how important it is for us to provide the very best levels of care for our pets.
 
National Pet Month’s Top 10 Tips are:
 
1. Think carefully before getting a pet and learn about its special requirements.
2. Ensure your pet is sociable and well trained.
3. Provide a nutritious and well balanced diet.
4. Provide suitable housing and bedding.
5. Clean up after your pet and worm it regularly.
6. Protect against disease. Your vet can provide you with advice.
7. Prevent unwanted litters and neuter your pet when appropriate.
8. Groom your pet regularly.
9. Control your pet and ensure it is properly identified.
10. Take out pet insurance for dogs, cats, rabbits and horses to cover against unexpected veterinary fees and third party liability.
 
This year veterinary practices and pet stores around the country are being urged to team up with National Pet Month between April 1 and May 2, display the Top 10 Tips in their shops and surgeries and put on a pet themed event in aid of a favourite UK pet charity.
 
National Pet Month is also calling on pet friendly businesses across Britain to join in the campaign by either staging a ‘Take Your Pet To Work’ day or other fun pet themed fundraising event.
 
National Pet Month Chairman Michael Bellingham says: “With only a few weeks until the start of National Pet Month 2016 we’re calling on all UK pet fans to join us in this annual celebration of pet ownership.
 
“National Pet Month offers a fantastic opportunity for pet fans and pet care professionals to join together to celebrate our country’s great love of our pets, to remind us of the importance of taking good care of our pets and to encourage us to help raise funds for many of the UKs incredible pet charities who help so many of our nation’s pets in need.
 
He adds: “If you’re a UK pet fan we’d urge you to get involved with National Pet Month by either attending or organising a fundraising event for a UK pet charity during National Pet Month. This simple act could enable them to raise funds for their vital work.”
 
From April 1 to May 2 there will be all kinds of fun and informative pet themed events taking place up and down the country including competitions for schools, sponsored dog walks, pet fairs and pet shows, pet-friendly church services, special open days at veterinary practices and local pet shops, cake bakes, fancy dress events and lots more.
 
To find out more go to www.nationalpetmonth.org.uk and check out the National Pet Month events map, which will be updated throughout the campaign http://www.nationalpetmonth.org.uk/events/
British pet buyers urged to visit Global Pet Expo


PetQuip is urging UK-based pet companies to visit Global Pet Expo in Orlando, Florida, next month (March 16-18) where they’ll be able to see thousands of new product launches...



PetQuip is urging UK-based pet companies to visit Global Pet Expo in Orlando, Florida, next month (March 16-18) where they’ll be able to see thousands of new product launches.

As an enticement for visitors, there will be a daily prize draw to win an iPad Mini in the International Pavilion.

To understand the scale of Global Pet Expo, the 2015 show featured 1,051 exhibitors, 3,113 booths and more than 3,000 new product launches. More than 6,000 of the most qualified pet product buyers in the industry attended the show, including an impressive number of international retailers.

PetQuip is once again organising the British group of exhibitors at Global Pet Expo and will be operating a booth in the International Pavilion (booth 4467). The British group will feature a wide range of innovative products from the UK.

If you're interested in visiting the show and need to register as a new buyer, you must do so before Friday 26 February.

If you need any persuading then go to http://www.petquip.com/emailer/160223.html

 
Italian pet product buyers added to ‘Meet the Buyers’ event
Buyers from an Italian chain of eight pet shops located mainly in the Verona/Padua area of northern Italy are joining the pet product buyers from Finland and Spain at the next PetQuip and Gardenex ‘Meet the Buyers’ event being held on Wednesday 2 March 2016 at Lea Marston Hotel, Sutton Coldfield...


Buyers from an Italian chain of eight pet shops located mainly in the Verona/Padua area of northern Italy are joining the pet product buyers from Finland and Spain at the next PetQuip and Gardenex ‘Meet the Buyers’ event being held on Wednesday 2 March 2016 at Lea Marston Hotel, Sutton Coldfield. 

The Italian buyers are from a family business formed in 1960.  Since 2014, the company has also operated an online store. 

The company stocks pet food, petcare products and accessories for dogs and cats, as well as accessories for wild birds and other garden wildlife.  

The buyers are looking for pet care and accessories to add to the range, in addition to food and snacks that are innovative or vegan.

As well as the pet product buyers, three garden product buyers from Dubai, France and the US will be involved in the one-to-one meetings with UK suppliers.

For more information contact 01959 565995 or visit www.petquip.com

Sneyd’s launches super premium Wonderdog Elite


Sneyd’s Wonderfeeds has launched a new Super Premium dry food called Wonderdog Elite. The range is currently available in two varieties – Wonderdog Elite Premium Hypoallergenic and Wonderdog Elite Premium Grain Free...



Sneyd’s Wonderfeeds has launched a new Super Premium dry food called Wonderdog Elite.

The Lincolneshire-based company, which has specialised in producing the highest quality dry dog and working dog food for the past 42 years, has catered to the needs of customers to create a balanced diet for dogs that not only combines the right combination of vitamins and minerals to support a healthy life but also caters for those dogs suffering from food allergies or intolerances.

Over the past 10 years the pet insurance market has seen an increase in the number of claims for diet-related illnesses from vets and it is now thought that around 1 in 10 cats and dogs in the UK suffers from a food intolerance of allergy mirroring the human trend for special diets.

Wonderdog Elite contains a high percentage of freshly prepared meats such as Lamb, Salmon and Trout with no artificial colourings, additives or preservatives.

The range is currently available in two varieties. The Wonderdog Elite Premium Hypoallergenic contains Prime Lamb and Rice and is gluten free. The Wonderdog Elite Premium Grain Free contains Gourmet Fish and Potato and is ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Both varieties contain natural antioxidants and vitamins designed to support the dog’s immune system and eyesight with a composition that includes vitamins E7, C selenium, beta carotene and marigold meal.

The food is preserved naturally with vitamin E and vitamin C with added rosemary extract which also acts as an anti-oxidant. Both varieties which are rich in omega 3 and 6 using ingredients such as whole linseed or fish to help support the dog’s joints and to promote a healthy and shiny coat.  

The foods also contain seaweed meal, a natural source of iodine used to support a healthy thyroid. The balanced combination of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and the inclusion of yucca extract also aid the dog’s digestive system.

Both varieties exclude ingredients that are thought to cause intolerances or allergies in dogs such as beef, pork, diary, soya, eggs, wheat, wheat gluten, artificial flavourings or colourings.

The new Wonderdog Elite food offers excellent value for money compared to other Super Premium brands costing around only £1.06 per day to feed an average sized dog. The new diets are available in 3kg or 12kg  bags.

Sneyd’s also produce a range of working dog foods and a premium range which has seen prize winning results in the gundog world.

Sneyd’s Wonderdog sponsor John Halsted who recently won the 2015 I.G.L Retriever Championships held at the Queensberry Estate, Dumfries & Galloway He qualified a total of 5 dogs for the finals which is a remarkable achievement. Dave Latham who is also sponsored by Sneyd’s Wonderdog qualified 2 dogs for the finals.

 
Keep your cool at the ADAPTIL fun fair stand at Crufts
The leading dog behaviour product ADAPTIL will again be one of the sponsors for Crufts, the world’s largest dog show, which takes place from Thursday 10 March to Sunday 13 March and attracts over 150,000 visitors...

The leading dog behaviour product ADAPTIL will again be one of the sponsors for Crufts, the world’s largest dog show, which takes place from Thursday 10 March to Sunday 13 March and attracts over 150,000 visitors.

ADAPTIL’s stand will feature a ‘fun fair’ theme where visitors can play Adap’tail’ hoopla, play your dog right and hook a dog to win great prizes such as the ADAPTIL travel bowl and treat boxes to help raise awareness of dog behaviour and ADAPTIL amongst dog owners and breeders. 

The ADAPTIL den will be housing the ADAPTIL office dogs; the dogs belonging to Ceva Animal Health employees that regularly visit the office with their owners.  Selfie sticks will be on hand for visitors to take selfies with the dogs on the ADAPTIL den’s comfy sofa.

Throughout the event Willow the German Short Haired Pointer, Fudge the Black Labrador, Jethro the Border Terrier and Huxley and Harry the Yellow Labrador brothers will be in attendance.

Ceva’s stand will also feature the popular LOGIC products, specifically highlighting the new range of SUPER tasty soft chews containing veterinary strength ingredients to support canine health. There will be the opportunity to win great prizes and visitors can take away a sample of the new LOGIC EaseFlex, LOGIC EaseDerm and LOGIC EaseLife.

“ADAPTIL’s sponsorship of Crufts is an ideal opportunity to demonstrate the benefits of ADAPTIL for both dog owners and breeders,” comments Claire Russell, ADAPTIL product manager at Ceva Animal Health. 

“We are looking forward to Crufts’ visitors meeting our office dogs and enjoying our fun fair games, whilst having the opportunity to learn more about our products.”

For further information on ADAPTIL and LOGIC, please visit www.adaptil.com/uk or www.logicforpets.co.uk.
Pooch & Mutt joins forces with sports event planning firm


Pooch & Mutt is looking to spread the word about its naturally powered pet food through a new partnership with Innovation Sports, who host 15k, 10k, 5k and 2k races and fitness corporate days out across London...



Pooch & Mutt is looking to spread the word about its naturally powered pet food through a new partnership with Innovation Sports, who host 15k, 10k, 5k and 2k races and fitness corporate days out across London.

Innovation Sports is a specialist in event planning with a strong focus on running and outdoor events, working with established centres like The Chelsea Club and ReCentre.

The company's flagship running event, the Clapham Common Series, is in its 8th year and growing rapidly, and with Pooch & Mutt headquarters located a stone’s throw away from Clapham Common, the company is thrilled to be supporting local business.

Both companies share a dedication to promoting a healthy lifestyle and understand the importance of proper nutrition for both humans and dogs.

The Pooch & Mutt events team will be found at every upcoming Innovation Sports race, including at locations such as Victoria Park, Clapham Common, Battersea Park and Wimbledon Common. The team will be on hand to deliver free nutritional advice, provide healthy samples to dogs and chat about the importance of proper nutrition.

Guy Blaskey, founder of Pooch & Mutt, says: “Partnering with Innovation Sports is perfect for Pooch & Mutt, as it allows us to collaborate with a similar minded company who share our quest for healthy lifestyles for humans and dogs alike."

If you would like to enter an upcoming event or have any questions, email samantha@poochandmutt.com for further information.

 
Get your own copy of Pet Trade Xtra
direct to your e-mail inbox...
direct to your e-mail inbox...

The best news service every week.

Subscribe for free by clicking here

 
Pet store forced to close after two decades
Tough trading conditions have forced the closure of Pet’s Paradise in Dumfries...


Tough trading conditions have forced the closure of a Dumfries pet store.

Pet’s Paradise is bringing the shutters down for a final time on Friday after 21 years in Friars Vennel.

And owner Kerri-Anne Atkinson, who has managed the shop for 13 years, fears other independent traders will find themselves in the same position.

The 35-year-old told the Daily Record newspaper: “There’s just no footfall any more.

“We used to get a lot of passing trade when the coaches used to stop in the town at the Whitesands. That doesn’t happen any more and we can’t afford to keep it going.”

The shop opened in 1995 and was run by Kerri-Anne’s dad Eric Mallinson and sister Yvonne Atkinson.

Kerri-Anne worked Saturday shifts at the shop at when she was a teenager and has helped sell hundreds of birds, fish, hamsters and mice to pet lovers over the years.

She said: “It was great seeing kids coming in and picking the pet they wanted. I’ll miss that. It’s going to be a massive change.

“It’s the way the rest of the high street is going. I feel the town is lacking in family-run businesses which is a real shame.

“It’s always the big man stomping on the little man. The town’s going to be left with only charity shops, betting shops and hairdressers.

“Tearing up roads and putting down new granite doesn’t bring customers to the door.”

Kerri-Anne thanked her customers for their support over the years. She added: “It will be a sad day when it closes. I’ve got a few of the older customers numbers and I’ll meet up with them when I’m back in Dumfries.”

A council spokesman said: “Factors contributing to a retail business failure often include low footfall and sales, tight margins and the need to meet business overheads including stock and loan repayments rather than the level of rent and rates.

“In the case of a business failure, we would continue to support clients as they liquidate their business, assisting them in preventing the accumulation of debt."
 
Beaphar UK appoints Marketing Communications Executive
Beaphar UK has appointed Vicky Le Fanu as Marketing Communications Executive...
Beaphar UK has appointed Vicky Le Fanu as Marketing Communications Executive. Based at Haverhill, Suffolk. Vicky will be responsible for internal and external communications through promotion of the company’s cat, dog, small animal, bird and fish products.

"Beaphar UK are innovative and forward-thinking and I am thrilled to be joining the team," said Vicky.

"I’ve always had pets and they’ve been an integral part of my life, so it is great that I can combine my passion for pets with my marketing and design expertise.

"Beaphar UK have excellent company values and a strong vision. Having previously worked for a farming cooperative, I understand how important these are to maintain a strong work ethic and to enable sustainable growth. I am very much looking forward to an exciting first year with Beaphar UK."

Vicky joins Beaphar UK with a BSc Equine Studies degree from Writtle Agricultural College, Essex and eight years’ marketing expertise under her belt, along with strong design and creative skills.

Sue Huggett, Beaphar Business Manager for the UK, commented: “Vicky brings great creative flair to the Beaphar Marketing Team and is already very involved in generating our 2016 trade and consumer campaigns. We are delighted to welcome her on-board and know she will excel in her new role.”

For information on the Beaphar product range contact your Local Area Sales Executive, call the Customer Care Team on 0333 0066236 or visit www.beaphar.co.uk.

Perth pet shop owners reunited with animals stolen in raid
A bearded dragon, three copper snakes and a spider stolen in a raid on a Perth pet shop have been recovered by police...
A bearded dragon, three copper snakes and a spider stolen in a raid on a Perth pet shop have been recovered by police.

The animals were taken, along with heat lamps and money, from Perth Pet Centre in St Catherine's Retail Park on 18 February.

The reptiles and tarantula are understood to have been recovered from an address in Perth.

The shop's owners had offered a reward for their safe return.

A post on the shop's Facebook page said: "The snakes and spider are all in good condition but Edgar the beardie was very cold and doesn't appear to have been looked after properly.

"However the main thing is they are alive and back where they can be looked after.

"Unfortunately our money wasn't recovered and only some of our other stolen property was found by the police, but the main thing is the safety of the animals and they are safe."

Police have confirme that a 20-year-old man has been charged in connection with the incident at Perth Pet Centre.
 
Benyfit Natural set to expand retail operations
With the popularity of the BARF Diet in the UK growing rapidly, Benyfit Natural has appointed Alex Light as a Sales Account Manager...
With the popularity of the BARF Diet in the UK growing rapidly, Benyfit Natural has appointed Alex Light as a Sales Account Manager.

He will be responsible for looking after the needs of Benyfit’s retailers and stockists and will also be helping to further expand their presence in the retail sector. 

Alex brings to his role a wealth of experience having already held senior sales positions with both Cambrian Petfoods Limited and Mars Petcare Ltd where he was responsible for selling a range of well known brands to retailers and other stockists.

As one of the newest but fastest growing BARF Diet brands in the UK, the team at Benyfit Natural believe that they can offer retailers an outstanding range of products at exceptional prices. With sales already soaring with existing retailers (one in particular noticing a 55% increase in sales since last summer), Benyfit Natural believes that now is a good time for retailers to come on board with this brand.

All the products in the range are 100% natural. That means no artificial colourings, preservatives or fillers - all the things that have been associated with causing health issues in some dogs.

The recipes are also veterinary approved and are available in Puppy, Adult and Senior life stages using a variety of human grade and ethically produced meats such as chicken, turkey, rabbit, venison and beef together with tripe, all from British Defra approved farms.

The complete diets also contain ground bones, carrot, broccoli, swede, offal, flaxseed oil, kelp and herbs as well as raw eggs all of which offer a natural combination of vitamins, minerals, omega oils and amino acids to produce a healthy skin, coat, joints, thyroid and cell production as well as helping to support the immune system.

The adult food is coarsely minced to provide the texture that dogs like and the new Premium Blend range contains a combination of venison, rabbit and turkey which is ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs. All varieties are designed to help maintain a healthy weight whatever the life stage of a dog and are available in 1kg and 500g packs.

Benyfit Natural offer retailers branded freezer deals packed full of their best sellers together with good margins, a straight to your door delivery service, training for shop staff on the BARF Diet and excellent customer care

Commenting on the new appointment at Benyfit Natural, Ben Van Praagh the company’s founder said: “We are absoultely delighted to have Alex Light on board. These are exciting times for Benyfit Natural as we are currently embarking on a new brand image for the company and are looking to expand our range by bringing out new products this year. We are looking forward to introducing Alex to our customers both exisiting and new.”

For further information on becoming a stockist, visit the website: www.benyfitnatural.co.uk call 01892 770 188 or email info@benyfitnatural.co.uk

See Benyfit Natural at Crufts Hall 4 Stand 28 10th-13th March 2016 on the Finer by Nature Stand.

 
Animal charities warn of potential cat-astrophe

A population explosion could result in millions of unwanted kittens, claims nine animal welfare charities which make up the Cat Population Control Group...




Animal charities have revealed that more than 850,000 cats in the UK have had unplanned litters, leaving many owners unprepared for the cost and commitment of raising kittens and struggling to find them suitable homes.   

The charities are warning owners not having their cats neutered could lead to a population explosion as these unplanned litters could add up to as many as 4.3 million potentially unwanted kittens.

The nine animal welfare charities which make up the Cat Population Control Group (CPCG) are urging cat owners to get their animals neutered to avoid more unwanted felines ending up on the streets or in rescue centres that are already struggling to cope.

Research from vet charity PDSA has revealed that just 15% of cat owners whose animals had kittens had planned for the litters.

These high numbers of unplanned and potentially unwanted kittens continue to cause strain on animal charities and rescue centres. There are already over 11 million cats in the UK and thousands of these end up abandoned in rescue centres across the country every year.

To tackle the issue, the CPCG today launched its annual World Spay Day campaign to encourage more owners to get their cats neutered.

Nicola Martin, Head of Pet Health & Welfare at PDSA, said: “Our research has shown that unprepared cat owners are putting themselves in an unnecessary and potentially challenging position by not getting their cats neutered.

“The impact of this can be both costly and stressful if a cat becomes pregnant as it can be very difficult to find loving new homes for large numbers of kittens. As a result, we know that sadly many cats end up in rehoming and rescue centres.”

According to PDSA’s Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report, which was produced in conjunction with YouGov, nearly a quarter of cat owners (24%) whose cat has not been neutered said their felines had not been neutered because they “hadn’t thought about it”. Other top reasons for not getting the procedure done included simply not getting around to it (13%) and that it was too expensive (8%).

Nicola added: “Neutering has numerous health benefits for your cat and is, in fact not as expensive as many people think. By getting your cat neutered, not only will you be avoiding the risk of an unwanted or unplanned pregnancy but you will be reducing their risk of contracting diseases such as cancer or FIV – the feline equivalent of HIV.

“Many pet owners also believe that neutering should take place when their cat is around six-months-old but our advice is that for maximum health and welfare benefits, it should take place from four months of age.”

Thanks to funding from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, PDSA will be educating more owners about the benefits of neutering, through a team of Pet Wellbeing Champions in PDSA’s Pet Hospitals. The CPCG is using World Spay Day to encourage owners of unneutered cats to speak to their vet about neutering. For more information please visit www.pdsa.org.uk/worldspayday

 
DogBuddy aims to solidify its position as Europe’s best dog sitting service
DogBuddy.com, Europe’s leading online dog sitting and home dog boarding community, is poised for the launch of its popular website and apps in Sweden during spring 2016...
DogBuddy.com, Europe’s leading online dog sitting and home dog boarding community, is poised for the launch of its popular website and apps in Sweden during spring 2016.

Following a strategic investment from the founders of King Digital Entertainment via its new fund Sweet Capital, DogBuddy aims to see the Nordics become one of its strongest regions over the next eighteen months. DogBuddy has now raised more investment than any of its competitors in Europe, with just over €4m raised to date.

With more than 200,000 dog lovers already registered, and 20,000 approved dog sitters using the service in less than three years, the business has seen revenues grow at over 360% YoY since launching in 2013, and plans to continue to lead this sector in both existing and new markets.

With an estimated 40k dogs in Stockholm alone, the “Airbnb for dogs” is set to capitalise on the trend for humanising dogs, the increasing number of households with dogs[2], and the growing demand for experienced and trusted dog sitters in Sweden.

King’s founders join some of Sweden’s most prominent business figures, including Claes Dahlbäck, Vigo Carlund, Fredrik Palmstierna, Anders Böös and Gerard De Geer, as investors in DogBuddy.

Richard Setterwall, CEO and Founder of DogBuddy, comments: "We’re really excited about launching in Sweden – it’s a natural fit for us, especially with the growing demand for dog care services. We strive to be the best community for all dog lovers, providing safe and trusted dog boarding, and this latest round of investment from Sweet Capital puts us in a great position to bring DogBuddy to more dog owners across Europe."

Christian Dörffer, Co-Founder and CEO of Sweet Capital, says: "DogBuddy has seen incredible growth to date and their entrance into Sweden is an evolution of the business’ tried and tested model in a market where demand for dog care services is ever-increasing. We’re thrilled to be supporting DogBuddy in its journey to become Europe’s number one trusted dog brand."

 
PDSA issues booster reminder after confirmed case of leptospirosis
Vet charity PDSA is advising owners to make sure their pets’ vaccinations are up to date following a confirmed case of leptospirosis – a highly contagious and potentially fatal infection...
Vet charity PDSA is advising owners to make sure their pets’ vaccinations are up to date following a confirmed case of leptospirosis – a highly contagious and potentially fatal infection.

Senior Vet at Aberdeen PDSA Pet Hospital, Fiona Gregge, explained: “Leptospirosis is quite rare; the bacteria are spread through the urine of an infected animal, often rats. But flooding can increase the risk of contracting the disease, which causes symptoms including vomiting, jaundice, lethargy, fever and organ failure – even with treatment it is often fatal.”

The dog that had contracted leptospirosis received intensive treatment, but sadly died despite the best efforts of the vets and nurses at Aberdeen PDSA. Leptospirosis is also zoonotic, which means it can be passed from animals to humans, although the chances of this happening are very small.

Fiona continued: “It’s incredibly sad to see a pet suffering like that, especially when a quick vaccination or booster could have prevented this. I’d advise all owners to make sure their pets’ vaccinations are up to date, but particularly those in areas that have experienced flooding in recent months. Leptospirosis usually requires an annual booster, but check with your vet if you’re not sure.”

Vaccinations can also protect against a range of easily spread diseases, such as parvovirus and distemper in dogs, feline influenza and leukaemia in cats, and myxomatosis and viral haemorrhagic disease in rabbits. Further information about vaccinations is available on PDSA’s website www.pdsa.org.uk/pethealth.

Thanks to support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, PDSA will deliver 60,000 vaccinations to pets in 12 months. PDSA says around 20% of the cases it sees could be prevented, and funding from players has enabled the charity to set up a team of dedicated Pet Wellbeing Champions – one at each of its 51 pet hospitals. These veterinary staff are able to identify vulnerable pets in need of preventive healthcare and educate more owners about the benefits of vaccinations, neutering and flea and worming treatments.

Aberdeen PDSA Pet Hospital provides free veterinary treatment to the sick and injured pets of people in need. The dedicated team can see as many as 80 pets a day, providing more than 23,000 treatments a year.

PDSA is the UK’s leading veterinary charity, treating more than 470,000 pets annually across its 51 Pet Hospitals. It receives no Government funding, yet the charity strives to improve all pets’ lives through education, preventive care and emergency treatment. For more information visit www.pdsa.org.uk.
Email Software by Newsweaver