Last week we revealed that Pets at Home had launched its ‘store of the future’ concept in the retail chain’s Stockport and Chesterfield centres. This week we take you inside the new store with our photo tour.

The new concept includes revamped veterinary practices and groom rooms, while the retail sectors have been transformed into what Pets at Home describes as pet villages with dog washing stations, selfie spots and pet care classes.

The stores also have special event areas where customers can learn about dog grooming through live demonstrations, participate in monthly breed socials, or see how fast their dog is on an agility course. Customers will also be able to book free food consultations with a nutrition adviser and conduct weight checks for their pets.

Pets at Home group chief executive Peter Pritchard said: “I am delighted to announce the launch of our new store of the future format in Stockport and Chesterfield. We’ve always known that our stores are much more than just a convenience shop for pets and now we’re providing them with the million-pound makeover they deserve.” 

He added: “The store of the future is a destination for all pet lovers to shop, learn and pamper. The retail industry is constantly evolving, and many retailers are only targeting resources towards online platforms. We believe that this competitive landscape requires a combined online/offline offer to ensure the ultimate in convenience and personal service for our customers.

“Our store of the future boosts our offering for pet owners – with people, personality and most importantly – pets – at the centre of our business.”

Children are also well catered for in the new stores with interactive tunnels for them to crawl through and a range of child-friendly events including the chance to host birthday parties.

Working in partnership with the RSPCA, the stores will also see the launch of Pets at Home’s first cat adoption lounge. 

A fourth pet product – the Mookie massage brush – has become a winner on the popular BBC1 daytime TV programme 'The Customer is Always Right', following in the footsteps of the Car Seat Carpet from Pet Rebellion, the Noodle Glove Dog Drying Towel from Henry Wag, and the Rollabowl from Easypets...

In each show some of Britain’s best entrepreneurs are seen putting their precious products to the customer test. Customers unbox, test and score the products to find a winner of each show.

If you missed the episode featuring the Mookie it can be viewed on iplayer.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0004wc7/the-customer-is-always-right-series-1-episode-14

Inspired Pet Nutrition has been judged Branded Pet Food Supplier of the Year for the second consecutive year as part of the annual Grocer Gold awards organised by the Grocer magazine.

Managing Director Richard Page (pictured above) said: “This award is very important for us as it is voted for by our direct buying customers. 

"These buyers represent leading supermarkets, discounters, symbol groups, buying groups and wholesalers. They were asked to rate suppliers in terms of five key criteria. 

"After assessing 318 suppliers in 37 categories, this list was then cut back to 12 super-categories.  IPN was judged Branded Pet food Supplier for 2019.”

This latest award follows on from IPN winning both the branded and own label categories in The Grocer’s 2018 supplier survey awards – while the Harringtons brand was also shortlisted in the brand of the year category at The Grocer’s 2018 Gold Awards. 

More recently, Harringtons Wet Food and Wagg Peanut Butter Cookies won the dog food and pet treats categories respectively at the 2019 Product of the Year awards - the world’s largest consumer voted survey which each year identifies Britain’s best-loved products.

“These awards add up to a very powerful endorsement from our customers for our strong growth, healthy brands and commitment to customer service,” added Richard.  

“We have invested some £60 million at our three production sites over recent years including new facilities in Wales which has enabled us to bring quality wet food production for Harringtons and Wagg in-house.”

IPN will continue to invest in its popular and fast-growing brands.  On the back of a significantly increased media spend, Harringtons is currently the biggest value growth contributor to the pet food category driving over £6 million of growth¹. 

There are several more innovative new products under the Harringtons brand scheduled for launch during the year.

 ¹Source: Nielsen MAT March 2019

The Cambridgeshire-based business behind the world’s most innovative automatic chicken coop door openers, is to be given the highest honour possible by the Queen for International Trade for Outstanding Short-Term Growth in overseas sales over the last three years.

ChickenGuard, which started trading in 2013, and as of last week achieved a milestone of selling its 100,000^th unit, has seen exponential growth after expanding sales to 48 countries worldwide. With over one million chicken owning homes in the UK alone, and 60 million globally, ChickenGuard is well placed to receive the Queen’s Award for International Trade for Outstanding Short-Term Growth 2019.

Founder of ChickenGuard Ben Braithwaite, comments: “This is an absolutely fantastic honour. Never in a million years did I think my mother’s donation of her flock over a decade ago would have led to this type of recognition.

The team and I are delighted to be recognised for our successes here and overseas by the most prestigious award in the UK. It’s a huge boost for us and goes to show that even the smallest businesses based here in Fulbourn can grow to have the biggest impact!”

The idea behind ChickenGuard came ten years ago, when founder Ben was given a flock of chickens by his mother. Unfortunately, lack of experience led to a few hens going to chicken heaven thanks to a cunning fox. Determined to find a better solution to keep his hens safely tucked away at night and let out in the morning, Ben created his first automated chicken coop door opener.

In the last three years, overseas sales have grown by 140% and the proportion of sales exported has increased to 80% of total sales. This is thanks to their focus on markets such as France, Belgium, United Kingdom and the USA which have a high proportion of chicken owners, good market size and affluence. The business wishes to continue growing with Western Europe, Scandinavia, North America and Australasia being key areas of focus.

First established in 1966, the Queen’s Award for Enterprise recognise and encourage the outstanding achievements of UK businesses in the fields of innovation, international trade, sustainable development and promoting opportunity (through social mobility). Whether a small business with a great innovative product or service, or a larger company running an impressive social mobility programme, this award is a prestigious way to recognise a business’s contribution to enterprise.

Ben concludes: “We are proud to be flying the flag for Cambridge on an international scale. We’re excited to continue growing our global presence and find innovative ways to outfox all predators, no matter how cunning and support chicken owners in getting a couple of hours extra sleep.”

All ChickenGuard units are made in the UK, at the company’s headquarter in Cambridge. This enables the business to maintain stringent quality standards, reliable shipping methods and a high level of customer service.

For more information about ChickenGuard visit www.chickenguard.co.uk

Premium dog food brand Billy + Margot sponsored DogFest’s Fun Dog Show at Knebworth House over the weekend, and celebrity Clare Balding took time out from her other activities at the show to visit the company’s busy stand.

Helen Ellwood, Head of Commercial Sales and Marketing, UK, said: “We had a great weekend at Dogfest. We loved meeting all our customers, and the giant deckchairs on our show stand proved particularly popular with our furry friends who wanted take five from the fun, and cool down with a Billy + Margot iced treat.

"We can’t wait to do it all again at DogFest Tatton Park in June.”

Connie Goodwin (6) joins her dog Dilys in an ice cream at Dogfest - Knebworth.

Premium raw dog food brand Benyfit Natural has announced it will be partnering with the Canine and Feline Behaviour Association (CFBA), along with its education department, The Cambridge Institute of Dog Behaviour & Training, to educate their members and trainers on the holistic benefits of raw-feeding for the behaviour and health of dogs.

The Canine and Feline Behaviour Association, who position themselves at the forefront of new developments in training and share knowledge concerning the care, training and behaviour of dogs, believe that the benefits of natural raw food are infinite. They cite not only the physical benefits of a glossy coat, less 'doggy' smell, tiny faeces, clean teeth, fresh breath, less shedding, but also the emotional and psychological benefits of eating an appropriate diet – recognising the benefits of gnawing on a bone for a couple of hours and eating a diet that is far more than just "palatable", but normal, natural, varied and enjoyable.

Ross McCarthy MA, a Fellow of the Canine & Feline Behaviour Association and Principal of The Cambridge Institute of Dog Behaviour and Training, said: “Appropriate, natural feeding for physiological and psychological health is at the core of what we do as Canine Behaviour Practitioners and Dog Trainers.

"We take a holistic approach to canine behaviour reformation and training and a clean natural diet is the foundation from which we work. We know that from a physical health and longevity point of view that natural raw food can greatly enhance and improve a dog’s quality of life.

“We are passionate about customer service, thinking outside the box and forging working relationships for the benefit of dogs and their owners and so Benyfit Natural is a perfect fit for our members, our clients and our students.” 

From first-hand experience over decades of working with dogs, members of the CFBA are fully aware  that when dogs have been subjected to food which contain additives and colourants used to make it look like ‘food’ (orange for carrots, green for peas, brown for meat etc), the effect within a week or so of switching to a natural diet is one of general calmness; dogs achieve a natural balance; their own equilibrium, which is not only essential for psychological health, but also for learning and contentment, happiness, the ability to work, to listen and to relax and their overall well-being.

Greg Van Praagh, Lead UK Operations & Frozen R&D, Benyfit Natural, added: “As a brand we are very aware of the impact food can have on the behaviour of dogs. Partnering with the Canine and Feline Behaviour Association who deal with behavioural issues daily is a great fit. We’re now able to impart knowledge in collaboration with them and their members, and promote the incredible benefits of a natural raw food diet for our dogs.”

Benyfit Natural and the Canine and Feline Behaviour Association along with The Cambridge Institute of Dog Behaviour and Training will be working in collaboration to share knowledge, experience, and support training courses and activities with its members and educating future Canine Behaviourists and Trainers.

Dorwest Herbs, the leading British supplier of herbal products for dogs and cats, has gone balmy! Continuing to produce exceptional natural products to keep dogs and cats in perfect health, the company has now extended its topical offering by launching two new beautiful balms.

“We often get asked for products for pets cracked paws & noses, and something soothing to put on sore skin<' said the company. "So, we’ve listened to our customers and produced a Paw & Nose Balm and reformulated our Skin Balm (previously called Comfrey & Calendula Skin Balm). We especially enjoyed trying out the recipes on ourselves and our dogs in the office, so they are definitely tried and tested!”

UK grown herbs are gently steeped in beneficial sunflower and jojoba oils in small batches and combined with beeswax and nourishing shea butter to produce these very high-quality balms. The Paw & Nose Balm features softening Calendula, calming Chickweed and protective Marshmallow. The reformulated Skin Balm contains moisturising Comfrey, softening Calendula and calming Chamomile, along with oils of lavender, rose geranium and mandarin.

These pots of natural shea goodness are lick-safe and will soothe and nurture problem areas and are perfect for sensitive skin. These beautiful balms are a real treat for both owner and pet, and with so many uses it will be hard to remember what you did before you had them!

Available in handy 50ml tins with an RRP of £9.95 each.

For more information visit www.dorwest.com/beautiful-balms

The Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association has launched its new Invasive Non-Native Species and Biosecurity training module to coincide with Invasive Species Week’s Freshwater Day, organised to raise awareness about non-native flora and fauna.

The new training module is aimed at retailers, pond & aquarium consultants, as well as fishkeepers and pond owners, to equip them with what they need to know to help identify invasive species, know what to do with them and take the right biosecurity measures to stop them spreading. It will also help those working in the industry to inspire confidence in their customers when they talk about choosing plants and fish for their ponds and aquariums.

“Our industry trades in a large number of non-native species so we have a responsibility to ensure our staff and customers are familiar with the issues surrounding the proper care and disposal of species that do not originate in the UK,” explained Assistant Chief Executive Dr Tracey King, who wrote the new course.

“Although only a minority of non-native species cause harm and become invasive, nevertheless it is important to be aware of why we should never allow ornamental fish and aquatic plants to escape beyond our ponds and aquariums. So we’re very pleased to launch this new course during Invasive Species Week to help play our part in raising awareness about this important issue.”

The course will examine what invasive species are, the serious problems they cause, how they affect our industry/keepers/owners, what actions can facilitate their spread and preventative measures OATA advises people to adopt. It will also look at basic fish and plant anatomy to help people identify banned species that might be mislabelled, to ensure they are not inadvertently offered for sale.

“It will offer additional professional development to anyone who wants to improve their knowledge to help in their everyday work both in retail and around pond maintenance. The course will also be useful for dedicated fishkeepers who want to widen their knowledge about the species they keep and understand the issues facing their hobby,” added Tracey.

The Invasive Non-Native Species & Biosecurity module will be delivered online, using a E-Learning platform and should take no more than three months, or less, to complete. There is a written assessment to pass before the Certificate of Attendance can be awarded. It is priced at £40 for OATA member businesses and £45 for non-members and can be ordered at www.ornamentalfish.org/training

The new module is the first in a series of ‘bolt-on’ courses on a range of key issues facing the industry that OATA plans to launch over the coming years, to supplement its City & Guilds accredited Foundation and Advanced Training Programmes. Future modules being planned by OATA include:  packaging and transport, marine species, fish behaviour and fish illness and diseases.

Invasive Species Week is organised by the GB Non-Native Species Secretariat and runs from 13 to 17 May. It brings together a wide range of organisations to raise awareness about a range of invasive species in a variety of different habitats, from freshwater and marine, to small islands, bogs and urban waterways.

To mark Mental Health Awareness Week, raw dog food manufacturer, Poppy’s Picnic is making a donation to UK-based charity Dogs For Good. Since 1988, Dogs for Good has been making life-changing differences for people with disabilities.

The charity supports people with a range of needs including physical disabilities, autism, dementia and learning disabilities. Enabling them to lead more independent lives through the help of trained dogs can, in turn, improve mental health.

Poppy’s Picnic is a keen supporter of Mental Health initiatives having hosted a tea party for local care homes last year where elderly residents could come and enjoy lap cuddles with dogs provided by Therapy Dogs Nationwide, and share memories of their own family pets. This Mother’s Day the raw dog food aficionados also donated to eating disorder charity, SEED, set up by their celebrity ambassador, actress Gemma Oaten, and her family.

Poppy’s Picnic Founder, Dylan Watkins says, “From bullying throughout childhood, to my own self doubts as an entrepreneur, mental health is something I'm acutely aware of and passionate about improving. My life changed for the better when Poppy, my miniature schnauzer and inspiration behind the business came into my life. The love and support she and our other pups provide me with daily is something truly special. I want as many people as possible to experience the therapeutic power of dogs, and that’s why we’ve chosen to support Dogs for Good. I am overjoyed to see the difference they are making to the lives of people with physical disabilities and conditions that benefit so greatly from having dogs as a support system.”

Lucy Vincent, Director of Marketing at Dogs for Good says, “As a charity, Dogs for Good relies entirely on the money raised through donations, fundraising and volunteers to continue our pioneering work. Therefore, donations such as this from Poppy’s Picnic are always very welcome and will help us to continue making life-changing differences to people with disabilities.”

Poppy’s Picnic’s Ambassador and soap star, Gemma Oaten, who introduced Poppy’s Picnic to the charity says,“Mental health comes in all shapes and sizes. For people with disabilities, or those that need extra care and support, a dog can be a life changing and liberating thing. The work that Dogs For Good is doing to train, support and help them to get the most out of their relationship with their dog is invaluable and will in turn have an impact on their mental health by providing relief and companionship.”

She continues, “As someone that battled with anorexia as a girl for 13 years, my dogs Candy and Cindy were my rocks in those dark times. And now I am well and living my life to its fullest, I have my own dog Ruby Tuesday, and she provides love, support and a distraction that makes an incredible difference to my everyday life when I have my struggles with anxiety. As an ambassador, I’m proud to be associated with Poppy’s Picnic who are supporting Dogs for Good with a donation this Mental Health Awareness Week.”

For those that would like to know more about Dogs for Good and to make a donation, click here.

For more information on Poppy’s Picnic fresh raw dog food, click here.

Tetra has expanded its popular Holiday food range with a new ‘Menu’ format, offering protein-rich pellets and tasty krill to all ornamental fish for an even more diverse diet during holiday periods.

The gel food block with BioActive formula also contains daphnia together with the essential vitamins, trace elements and minerals that fish need to stay healthy. Tetra’s Holiday Menu is also 100% edible, providing fish with a balanced diet for up to two weeks without clouding or contaminating waters, unlike many other holiday foods that are sold as calcium blocks.

Tetra’s new Holiday Menu also includes new and improved packaging with clear descriptions, appealing visuals and simple icons to highlight key features and a summary of benefits.

Ashleigh Foster, Aquatics Marketing Manager at Tetra, said: “We’re excited to expand our holiday range with the new Tetra Holiday Menu giving fishkeepers another easy option for feeding while they are away.

"Not only is a diverse and high-quality diet hugely important for fish health and growth, but it’s also crucial that foods do not negatively affect water parameters and that’s why Tetra Holiday Menu makes the perfect solution.”

Tetra Holiday Menu will be available to order from June.

For more information about Tetra, visit www.tetra-fish.co.uk or join in the conversation with Tetra UK on Facebook.

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Hedgehog Awareness Week is organised each year by the British Hedgehog Preservation Society (BHPS) and aims to increase awareness about how the public can help hedgehogs in their gardens. It ran this year from May 5-11.

Brambles Pet and Wildlife got behind this by offering a mixture of prizes for the public and Wildlife Rescues with daily Facebook giveaways. These giveaways included Brambles Hedgehog Food and other related prizes with a retail value of over £700!

Brambles sales manager, David Tracey commented: “We teamed up with some big brands like BBC Wildlife Magazine, The Woodland Trust, Esbilac (milk replacement powder), Seedball (wildflower seeds), and many others for prizes. It turned out to be our best ever social media campaign with these amazing results during the week:

Organic Reach: Almost 300k

Engagement: Over 43k

(‘reach’ is the number of people who saw our posts and ‘engagement’ is the amount of like’s/comments/shares the posts got)

"We’re delighted with these results and they help to increase awareness for hedgehogs and how to help them in the wild.”

Brambles Wildlife foods are available from pet wholesalers, Rosewood Pet Products, Decco, and, we’re proud to be suppliers to the RSPB and Woodland Trust.

www.bramblespaw.co.uk

www.facebook.com/BramblesPAW

twitter.com/BramblesPawLtd

www.instagram.com/bramblespaw

hello@bramblespaw.co.uk

The owners of a pet food supply business near Dundee in Scotland have received retrospective planning permission for a shipping container to store products in their back garden.

Craig and Alison Smith have been using the wooden clad container for the past year, storing pet food before delivering to their online customers.

But some neighbours raised concerns that a container full of pet food could attract rats and mice plus a possible increase in passing traffic.

Alison Smith told councillors they had placed traps beneath the container but had found no evidence of mice and rats. “It is a second hand container and it has been in place for a year. We have had absolutely no problems with pest control at all,” she said.

Angus Council’s Development Standards Committee voted on Tuesday to approve the plan after planners recommended a conditional approval.

To read a full report click here

A new law, which campaigners hope will put an end to puppy and kitten farming in England, was presented to Parliament on Tuesday. The legislation, known as Lucy’s Law, is set to come into force in April 2020 and will ban pet shops or third party dealers selling young animals.

The law is named after Lucy, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel who died in 2016 after being subjected to terrible conditions on a Welsh puppy farm. Dogs like Lucy are often kept by breeders to produce multiple litters of puppies, which are taken from their mothers at just a few weeks’ old and advertised online or sold in pet shops.

This practice causes lifelong socialisation issues for the puppy or kitten, as well as a number of preventable diseases. Today’s legislation will ensure that puppies and kittens are born and reared in a safe environment, with their mother, and sold from their place of birth.

The ban will also deter puppy smugglers who abuse the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) by bringing underage puppies into the UK which are then sold on for financial gain.

Environment Secretary Michael Gove said: "This is about giving our animals the best possible start in life and making sure that no other animal suffers the same fate as Lucy. It will put an end to the early separation of puppies and kittens from their mothers, as well as the terrible conditions in which some of these animals are bred.

"I would like to thank the tireless campaigners and animal lovers who have helped to bring about this positive change.

"This is all part of our plan to make this country the best place in the world for the protection and care of animals"

Animal Welfare Minister, David Rutley said: "The legislation laid in Parliament today is the next crucial step in stamping out the appalling trade of farmed puppies and kittens.

"As well as protecting and improving the lives of animals, it’s also about protecting the public from being tricked by unscrupulous sellers. Our ban on third party sales means that people can see first-hand that their new pet is healthy and has come from a responsible breeder."

Marc Abraham, Lucy’s Law campaigner and founder of Pup Aid said: "I’m absolutely thrilled that Lucy’s Law is now being laid in Parliament and will come into effect from April 2020. For years irresponsible breeders in the UK and abroad, so-called puppy farmers, have depended on commercial third party sellers – e.g. dealers and pet shops – to keep their breeding dogs and puppies in horrific conditions hidden from the public.

"Lucy’s Law is named after one of the sweetest, bravest dogs I’ve ever known, and is a fitting tribute to all the victims of the cruel third party puppy trade, both past and present.

"On behalf of my fellow grassroots campaigners I’d like to thank Mr Gove, Defra officials, and every single supporter, parliamentarian, celebrities, and ethical animal welfare organisation that has proudly helped make Lucy’s Law a reality."

Peter Egan, Downton Abbey actor, animal welfare campaigner, and Patron of the All-Party Parliamentary Dog Advisory Welfare Group (APDAWG) in Westminster said:

"Lucy’s Law is the most exciting change in animal welfare legislation for years. Commercial third party sellers enable and encourage irresponsible and exploitative breeding and selling practices e.g. impulse purchases and smuggled puppies, leading to widespread cruelty, sick breeding dogs and their pups, and heartache for new owners.

"Lucy’s Law will help make all breeders transparent and therefore accountable. This historic change in legislation is the first major step in tackling puppy farm cruelty and illegal puppy smuggling, whilst also providing greater public protection."

As the proud owner of five rescue dogs I’m extremely proud to support Lucy’s Law as it will help protect the future health and welfare of this country’s dogs and cats.

RSPCA chief executive Chris Sherwood said: "We’re absolutely thrilled with today’s announcement which, if properly enforced, will help protect thousands of puppies and their mothers who are the victims of this horrific trade. We believe all puppies and kittens should be born and reared in a suitable environment, with their mother, where their welfare will be the primary concern.

"Every year, the RSPCA’s officers see first-hand the devastating impact that the unscrupulous puppy trade has on dogs and their owners. Last year (2018) was the busiest year yet for our inspectors who received 4,397 complaints about the puppy trade in England alone - a 162% increase on five years ago.

"We hope this ban - alongside the tougher licensing regulations that were introduced in October - will help to stamp out the underground trade that exploits these wonderful animals simply to make a quick buck."

The decision to ban commercial third party sales was announced in December 2018 and follows years of high-profile campaigning by animal welfare organisations. It was taken following a public consultation, from which there was over 95 per cent support for a ban. Last week the Animal Welfare Minister visited the Mayhew Animal Home in North London, a charity that rehomes puppies and kittens and which supports Lucy’s Law.

The legislation will come into force on 6 April 2020, giving industry and consumers time to prepare for the change.

Fish4Dogs hosted a special afternoon tea to help launch the Great Birmingham Bark Off event in aid of Birmingham Dogs Home – raising £120 and showcasing an array of tasty bakes for humans and their four-legged friends.

The rescue centre is encouraging supporters to stage their own ‘Bark Off’ events at work, home or through social activities, in order to help thousands of stray dogs in need.

Fish4Dogs, an ongoing sponsor of the charity, helped kicked things off with their own event, at its head office in Rushock, Worcestershire.

Staff were joined by Birmingham Dogs Home Digital Marketing Officer and Community Fundraiser Rachel Frost and CEO Giles Webber along with special guest and dogs home resident Lola, the rescued Akita, who has been sponsored for life by Fish4Dogs.

Rachel and Giles judged the cakes for human consumption while Lola decided on which of the doggy cakes took the top spot. These included a ‘Stargazy Delight’ and a ‘Finest Mousse Cake’ which was Lola’s clear favourite. Doggy cake recipie videos can be found on Fish4Dogs’ social media channels including www.facebook.com/Fish4DogsUK

Fish4Dogs CEO Graham Smith said: “We have a wonderful relationship with Birmingham Dogs Home and it’s one of mutual respect because animal welfare is at the heart of what we both do.

“It’s an association that works really well. The charity frequently receive dogs in very poor conditon and our donations, helpto achieve a visible improvement in the condition of those dogs which can then be rehomed and enjoy long and happy lives in their new homes.”

Said Rachel Frost, DMO for Birmingham Dogs home: “We would like to thank Graham and the whole team from Fish4Dogs, including their four-legged work colleagues, for holding their very own ‘Bark Off’ at their head office and for raising this amazing amount for our homeless dogs.

“It was great to see the enthusiasim of everyone involved and you could tell so much work had been put into each creation. Their support enables us to help so many unfortunate dogs across the West Midlands, just like Lola, so every ‘Bark Off’ that takes place helps us get that little bit closer to finding all our dogs happier tomorrows. Fish4Dogs’ continued support means the world to thousands of dogs that come through our doors, and for that we can’t thank them enough.”

Following the huge success of Supreme Selective Naturals treats, new products have been added to extend the range, guaranteeing more nutritious and tasty treats for tiny taste buds.

Rabbits, guinea pigs and chinchillas can now enjoy Country Loops, containing traditional carrot blended with Timothy Hay.

For hamsters, gerbils, rats and mice, there’s now an opportunity to nibble on Harvest Loops – with apple, linseed and peanut. Both new products are full of natural ingredients, sourced from UK suppliers and producers, and are ideal for hand feeding, interaction and bonding.

Carrot remains the most popular treat flavour for rabbits so the new variety is sure to prove a popular addition.

The range also includes:

• Timothy Hay & Thyme Meadow Loops
• Dandelion & Rosehip Woodland Loops
• Blackberry & Chamomile Forest Sticks
• Pea & Mint Garden Sticks

In the new Harvest Loops treat, added linseed aids healthy skin and a shiny coat.

There are no added sugars, syrups or molasses in Selective treats. 

Research carried out by Supreme has demonstrated that 97% of small pet owners want to feed natural and this has been reflected in the growth of Supreme’s existing Selective Naturals range which has continued to enjoy growth since its launch in 2016, with sales up by 44% in the last year alone.

Marketing Manager Claire Hamblion said: “Small pet owners are committed to the highest level of care, providing good quality, natural foods. We believe new Country and Harvest Loops offer a fantastic addition to a successful and much-loved range of treats.

"Pet owners enjoy introducing their pets to new flavours, shapes and textures and it’s a great time for us to build on the credentials of the Selective Naturals range.”

Retailers who want to find out more about stocking Supreme Selective Naturals can visit www.supremepetfoods.com or telephone 01473 823296.

Pets at Home has unveiled its new ‘store of the future’ concept in the retail chain’s Stockport and Chesterfield centres with the aim of offering customers a “fully immersive experience”.

The stores include revamped veterinary practices and groom rooms, while the retail sectors have been transformed into what Pets at Home describes as pet villages with dog washing stations, selfie spots and pet care classes.

The stores also have special event areas where customers can learn about dog grooming through live demonstrations, participate in monthly breed socials, or see how fast their dog is on an agility course. Customers will also be able to book free food consultations with a nutrition adviser and conduct weight checks for their pets.

Pets at Home group chief executive Peter Pritchard said: “I am delighted to announce the launch of our new store of the future format in Stockport and Chesterfield. We’ve always known that our stores are much more than just a convenience shop for pets and now we’re providing them with the million-pound makeover they deserve.” 

He added: “The store of the future is a destination for all pet lovers to shop, learn and pamper. The retail industry is constantly evolving, and many retailers are only targeting resources towards online platforms. We believe that this competitive landscape requires a combined online/offline offer to ensure the ultimate in convenience and personal service for our customers.

“Our store of the future boosts our offering for pet owners – with people, personality and most importantly – pets – at the centre of our business.”

Children are also well catered for in the new stores with interactive tunnels for them to crawl through and a range of child-friendly events including the chance to host birthday parties.

Working in partnership with the RSPCA, the stores will also see the launch of Pets at Home’s first cat adoption lounge. 

Innovative UK pet products from Pet Rebellion and Henry Wag have been judged winners on a new day-time BBC1 TV series called ‘The Customer Is Always Right’...

The show, presented by Lucy Alexander of 'Houses Under The Hammer' fame, has featured several pet products, including the Car Seat Carpet from Pet Rebellion and the Noodle Glove Dog Drying Towel from Henry Wag.

In each show some of Britain’s best entrepreneurs are seen putting their precious products to the customer test. Customers unbox, test and score the products to find a winner of each show.

Pet Rebellion sales director Tommy Weedon said: “We filmed here at our HQ in Pewsey and I then flew up to Glasgow to film in the studios. It’s a great new series with a Gogglebox/Dragons Den theme on innovative products.”

Tommy and the company’s Car Seat Carpet was featured in the show’s 11^th episode, which was aired on BBC 1 on Bank Holiday Monday.

Meanwhile, the Henry Wag Noodle Glove Dog Drying Towel was presented by Grant Rogers, managing director of 3P Enterprise  last Friday.

The Henry Wag Noodle Dog Towel was created by Grant, to overcome the wet and dirt which is a feature of rural dog ownership. The highly absorbent microfibre towel features gloved ends for greater control of the dog and the towel during drying.

During the TV show, the product was tested for use on dogs and humans, in a range of real life scenarios, and judged for price, innovation, design and usability.

During the making of the show the TV film crew visited Grant at his home in the beautiful Wye Valley to understand the story behind the creation of the product.

“Living in the country presents its own challenges for dog owners. Dirt and water are a fact of life and can be a barrier to regular exercise,” commented Grant.“ I set out to create a range of products to remove these barriers so enabling regular exercise for dogs and owners and the building of closer relationships.”

If you missed the programmes you can now view both of them on BBC iplayer.

Pet Rebellion's Car Seat Carpet:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0004w20/the-customer-is-always-right-series-1-episode-11

Henry Wag's Noodle Glove Dog Drying Towel 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0004pp6/the-customer-is-always-right-series-1-episode-10

Dogs with sensitive stomachs, special dietary requirements or those who are simply fussy eaters can be difficult to satisfy. Owners often struggle to find the right food to meet their pet’s needs.

At Different Dog, we’re committed to changing dogs’ lives through real food. Every recipe is designed by our vet and nutritionist and then carefully hand-prepared using fresh, natural, locally sourced ingredients. We have even created special recipes that specifically cater for dogs who are feling under the weather. These include:

• Comforting Chicken – a restorative complete dog food that’s is gentle on the stomach and packed with superfoods and vitamins and minerals
• Bone Broth – A complementary nourishing drink that be served as tasty nutrition boost

One of the most satisfying aspects of running Different Dog is hearing about the transformation in a pet’s health after being introduced to our food, here’s a small selection of comments from happy customers... because when your dog is out of sorts it is distressing for you, the owner too:

• My Standard poodle loves the food! He has suffered with stomach upsets with regular visits to the vet, the Comforting Chicken seems to have sorted him out.
• Unfortunately, we have a dog with food allergies, food has become a real trial with her eating the bare minimum to survive. Since having Different Dog she scarfs down 95% of her meals, which is amazing! 
• This is a Company that really cares about the dogs (and worried owners!) My old Rottie lady is on palliative care and was refusing her regular raw diet. From the first mouthful she has loved every recipe. I recommend this food to anyone. Wholesome, nutritious, and balanced.
• My dog experienced kidney problems when she was on kibble. I tried many well-known brands both raw and cooked but she hated all. The only brand she loved is Different Dog.
• Dog likes it enormously and it clearly does her good (bowel function much improved!)
  

We exist to make our dogs, family and planet healthy and happy. Find out more from our friendly team. Contact 01743 384 562 or feedme@differentdog.com

Help us to change the world, one dog at a time.