In This Issue
Impulse buying causing misery for pets and owners
92% of UK owners have microchipped their dog
Pooch & Mutt's spoof video gets half-a-million views
Pet shop not for sale despite confusion over property ad
Pet food factory creates dog-friendly office
Lintbells joins the Sunday Times Virgin Fast Track 100
EzyDog launches crash-tested dog car harness
Naturediet’s Christmas charity campaign is a big hit
Why Christmas dinner could prove fatal for Fido
McAdams produces the ideal Christmas dinner for pets
Pet firm receives ethical stamp of approval
Devon’s ethical dog treats swap Barking for Knightsbridge
Get your own copy of Pet Trade Xtra
Ancol work with dogs home to produce helpful videos for dog lovers
Aylesbury pet store is Pooch & Mutt’s Stockist of the Month
Alpha Feeds launches new Training Treats
Karen Green joins Agria’s growing Rehoming Channel
New appointment at pet insurance firm
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Impulse buying causing misery for pets and owners
Research reveals startling lack of pet planning, says PDSA


The latest PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report reveals that over five million UK pet owners (24%) undertake no research at all before taking on a new pet. This means that many do not know enough about what’s needed to ensure their pet’s health and welfare...

Impulse buying is putting the health and welfare of millions of pets at risk, according to new research from the UK’s leading vet charity.

The latest PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report reveals that over five million UK pet owners (24%) undertake no research at all before taking on a new pet. This means that many do not know enough about what’s needed to ensure their pet’s health and welfare.

Sean Wensley, PDSA senior vet, said: “The vast majority of owners undoubtedly love their pets. But buying pets on impulse is a big problem that isn’t showing any sign of improving. Lack of research before getting a pet means many owners have an incomplete understanding of what their pets need for a healthy, happy life. This is leading to serious pet welfare problems.”

One common misconception is the amount of time and effort that goes into keeping a pet.

The PAW Report reveals that 4.8 million owners (22%) found their pets harder work than expected. This can result in animals being rehomed or abandoned when owners find themselves unable to cope.

Many also underestimate the cost of ownership, with around 2.6 million owners (12%) believing their pet would only cost up to £500 over their entire lifetime. In fact, a dog typically costs between £21-33,000 over their lifetime, a cat £17-24,000 and a rabbit £10-15,000.

Sean Wensley says the problems can start even before a pet is acquired, with many being raised in unsuitable places and bought from online adverts.

“Buying pets from unsuitable sources can lead to big problems. For example, a puppy bought from a puppy farm won’t have been socialised and would rarely have received the preventive healthcare they need, such as vaccinations and worming. These problems lead to new owners being left with puppies that often become very unwell and can go on to develop problem behaviour, such as aggression, in later life.”

#PawsFirst campaign seeks to improve pet wellbeing

With the right research and planning, owning a pet can be a fantastic experience for the whole family, including the pet. So, in response to this worrying impulse-buying trend, PDSA is asking the public to stop and think before making the decision to take on a new pet. The charity’s #PawsFirst online tool, available at pdsa.org.uk/getpetwise, aims to help owners decide whether taking on a pet is right for them and their lifestyle.

“Potential owners should look at what’s involved in owning a pet before making a decision,” adds Sean. “Caring for a pet can be very demanding, so be sure that your chosen pet is right for you and your lifestyle. You need to consider how you would meet their five welfare needs - for example, if you have time to walk a dog every day - and find out about related costs; including pet insurance, pet food, and veterinary care, including unexpected bills if your pet becomes ill or injured.

“Veterinary practices are an excellent source of reliable advice on all of these questions, with some now offering dedicated consultations for people looking to get a pet. A visit to your local vet practice will help you avoid the common pitfalls that vets and vet nurses see the consequences of every day.”

For more information visit pdsa.org.uk/getpetwise.
92% of UK owners have microchipped their dog
The percentage of owners who have had their dog microchipped has increased since 2015, from 83% to 92%, most likely due to microchipping becoming a legal requirement, says the PAW Report.
The percentage of owners who have had their dog microchipped has increased since 2015, from 83% to 92%, most likely due to microchipping becoming a legal requirement, says the PAW Report.
  • Over 5.2 million owners (24%) did no research at all before choosing their pet.
  • Over half of rabbits (52%) still live alone – equating to around 780,000 lonely rabbits in the UK - despite needing the company of another compatible rabbit.
  • Around 2.3 million cats (21%) are living in households with another cat or cats that they don’t get along with, which is one of the most common causes of stress and stress-related disease, such as bladder disease in cats.
Pooch & Mutt's spoof video gets half-a-million views


Pooch & Mutt has produced a spoof Christmas video – its version of the John Lewis TV advert – and already it has received nearly half-a-million views on Facebook...



Christmas ad campaigns are big business, with all the big retailers and big brands fighting it out to make the best ad to get the public’s attention.

With Pooch & Mutt launching their first Christmas range, they looked to continue their role as a disruptive challenger brand with the release of a playful behind-the-scenes video of the biggest Christmas ad this year.

The ‘Reveal-All’ documentary portrays the four-legged star of the festive season as a diva who is far more interested in delicious grain-free treats than a late-night bouncing session on a trampoline.

The star is repeatedly late to the set, and we watch a production assistant painstakingly count out varying quantities of Pooch & Mutt food ‘otherwise he gets really mad’.

Pooch & Mutt’s Calming Crunchies feature as the key rider to save the trampoline scene from disaster and the video ends with the line ‘This Christmas save the trampoline for the kids, and get your dog what they really want’.

Already hitting nearly half-a-million views on Facebook in the first few days of its release on facebook, and with coverage in national publications, Pooch & Mutt really do seem to have taken the nation by storm.

Guy Blaskey, founder of Pooch and Mutt explains: “Although it’s great that the animals have taken centre stage in the department store’s Christmas advert, we know that dogs don’t want trampolines – girls do!

"In our playful behind-the-scenes take, the girl gets the gift of her dreams but the dog also gets what he really wants - high quality grain free treats. It’s a truly happy ending!”

The video can be viewed on Facebook (click here) or YouTube (click here).
Pet shop not for sale despite confusion over property ad


A leading pet industry figure has admitted that he's pleased to hear that one of his favourite pet shops is not closing down. Keith Aldis, chairman of the Pet Industry Federation, said: "Pets Boutique in Penzance is a shop I use often when holidaying down in Cornwall. Excellent service and great staff."



A leading pet industry figure has admitted that he's pleased to hear that one of his favourite pet shops is not closing down.

Keith Aldis, chairman of the Pet Industry Federation, said: "Pets Boutique in Penzance is a shop I use often when holidaying down in Cornwall. Excellent service and great staff."

Keith, pictured outside the shop, added he liked the news that the owners of Pets Boutique had informed customers their shop would continue to trade as normal despite the building being advertised for sale.

Kevin Plumley, who runs the pet shop with his wife Nina, said the couple have set their sights on continuing their long period of trading in Market Jew Street.

"Sadly a misunderstanding occurred when the whole building appeared in The Cornishman's property section, but it is the building that is for sale and this will not affect our business - the shop is not for sale,” said Kevin.

"We love it here in Penzance and have many loyal customers. We feel we must tell everybody that our pet shop is not going anywhere.”

More than 50 customers asked whether they were leaving town since seeing the advert and have urged them not to leave.

Kevin added that he and his family were looking forward to many more years in Penzance.

"We are definitely here to stay, long-term," he said. "It's not just the selling of the pet products it's loving the pets and watching them grow, giving their owners a good service and good advice throughout their pet's life."
 
Pet food factory creates dog-friendly office
A pet food factory in Suffolk has allowed its 220 staff to take their dogs to work. The Pets at Work scheme has been introduced at Nestlé Purina's Sudbury site...


A pet food factory in Suffolk has allowed its 220 staff to take their dogs to work. The Pets at Work scheme has been introduced at Nestlé Purina's Sudbury site.

The administration block at the factiory has been made into a dog-friendly office space, where employees and their pets can work together in a happy and safe environment.

The scheme will enable workers to take their dogs to work, following a successful behavioural assessment to ensure their pets are socialised and will feel settled when in the building.

Factory manager Kevin Shrimpton said: “As we know, modern life can mean we spend more and more time at work and have less social time. Having pets at work is one of the ways in which we can enjoy the companionship of pets and reap the benefits, we cannot recommend it enough and look forward to seeing the ‘Pawgramme’ grow,” he said.

According to a survey by the company, one in two Britons would happily take their dog to work if allowed.

Crystal Butler, safety health and environment manager at Sudbury, said the launch was “a fantastic achievement."

“We believe that people and pets are better together and what better way to ignite this belief than to invite our pets in."

The Pets at Work scheme has been an established practice at Purina for more than 12 years and was rolled out as a wider Nestlé UK business policy at its headquarters in Gatwick last year.

The scheme supports Nestlé’s wider health and wellness strategy and its aim to achieve a better work-life-balance.
Lintbells joins the Sunday Times Virgin Fast Track 100


In the 20th anniversary edition of the Sunday Times Virgin Fast Track 100 list out now, Lintbells, maker of high quality natural pet supplements, has come in at number 61...



In the 20th anniversary edition of the Sunday Times Virgin Fast Track 100 list out now, Lintbells, maker of high quality natural pet supplements, has come in at number 61.

Flagged as ‘one to watch’ last year, it’s a tremendous achievement for the company and tops a fantastic year that also saw it win a Queens Award for Innovation, while retailer Pets at Home awarded it the accolade of ‘Best Multi-Channel Supplier’.

Based in the countryside near the village of Weston, just outside Hitchin, Lintbells expanded its team during 2016, making key appointments in sales, marketing and customer support. The company now has a vibrant and committed work force of over 50 people, all of whom are dedicated to making pets’ lives better.

Thanks to its partnerships with UK universities that allow the natural pet supplements to be validated by veterinarians and a strong focus on innovation, Lintbells’ sales have grown by an average of 62% per year.

Co-founder John Howie says it’s all down to the team, the support of partners in veterinary practice, the pet trade and online retailers and pet owners who have all been vocal in their support for the company’s products.

“We’re grateful to everyone who has taken the time to give us an amazing review, who has made the decision to stock, or recommended us to someone else.”

His fellow co-founder John Davies commented: “It’s been just ten years since we realised that we had an idea that could help pets with their health and wellbeing.

"Being able to show that the product we developed helped my dog, Charlie was a great moment. Being able to help hundreds of thousands of pets and work with an amazing team of committed people is even better.”

The range is supported by a ‘See the Difference' guarantee and includes some of the best-selling joint and skin supplements in the UK under the YuMOVE and YuMEGA brands. This year YuCalm – a premium, natural calming supplement was added to the company’s portfolio.

For more information about Lintbells and the product range of natural pet supplements visit www.lintbells.com.

Pictured: Co-founders John Davies and John Howie.

 
EzyDog launches crash-tested dog car harness
The new Drive Harness from EzyDog is a car safety harness that has been crash-tested to the highest standards...


The new Drive Harness from EzyDog is a car safety harness that has been crash-tested to the highest standards.

It conforms to and has passed all relevant requirements for the following standards: Australia (ADR69/00), Europe (ECE Regulation 16), USA (FMVSS 213).

As well as being crash-tested the harness is easy to use. Simply feed the seat belt through both webbing handles on the top of the harness, click the buckle into the seat belt of your car and you're ready for the Drive.

You only have to fit the harness to your dog once. From then on, the harness can be taken on/off very quickly using the Mag-Lok Instant Fit closure system.

An EzyDog spokesperson said: “We have used only the strongest and highest quality materials in this product. The Tri-Glides are made from Aluminium Alloy, so are light, durable and incredibly strong.

“All webbing is made from vehicle-tested seat belt webbing and the Crosslink technology ensures the harness is of utmost strength.

"The Chest Plate section is padded and contoured to mould to the shape of your dog for a comfortable and custom fit.”

Features:  

  • Crash tested, passed and certified
  • Quick, one-time fit
  • Double D-Rings for lead attachment
  • Mag-Lok(tm) Instant Fit closure system
  • Ergonomic, moulded chest plate

For more information visit www.ezydog.co.uk

Naturediet’s Christmas charity campaign is a big hit


Award-winning Naturediet Pet Foods Ltd has donated 70 tons of pet food to animal charities around the country during the run up to Christmas…and it’s proving to be a big hit with welfare shelters and their residents...



Award-winning Naturediet Pet Foods Ltd has donated 70 tons of pet food to animal charities around the country during the run up to Christmas…and it’s proving to be a big hit with welfare shelters and their residents.

Carol Orrow, CEO of Naturediet, said: “There are so many charities in the UK looking after abandoned dogs, many of them small local charities who unlike the large well known charities only have limited funds available. Therefore, we decided to help these charities specifically who do such a great job.”

Naturediet already sponsors two wildlife charities and a local dog charity on an annual basis, but this month has also donated more food across the country.

You can read some of responses from grateful animal charities on Naturediet’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/NDpetfoodsLtd/
Why Christmas dinner could prove fatal for Fido
Over half of dog owners (56%) claim to understand the dangers of feeding their beloved pooch human food, reveals research by Devon-based manufacturers of natural dog food, Forthglade. Yet despite this knowledge, shockingly over two thirds plan to dish up Christmas dinner leftovers to their canine friend this December...



The news story was run across a number of radio plus the Daily Express. Gerard Lovell (above right), joint managing director at Forthglade, and Nick Jones (left), Alpha Dog Behaviour, are pictured in the studio.



Over half of dog owners (56%) claim to understand the dangers of feeding their beloved pooch human food, reveals research by Devon-based manufacturers of natural dog food, Forthglade. Yet despite this knowledge, shockingly over two thirds plan to dish up Christmas dinner leftovers to their canine friend this December. This is despite 15% of respondents admitting that they have had to seek veterinary advice on Boxing Day after feeding their dog festive tit-bits.

Forthglade – purveyors of junk-free pet food – is warning dog owners on the very real, and sometimes life threatening, dangers of serving your pooch a turkey dinner with all the trimmings. The survey, of 2,000 UK dog owners, found that the most popular human foods served to our beloved pooches were turkey, gravy and stuffing.

Gerard Lovell, joint managing director at Forthglade, comments: “While, for the most part, owners are sharing their Christmas dinners as a sign of love for their dog, it is worrying that most are still in the dark about the harm they could be causing. It is essential that all owners understand that this misguided act of kindness can be potentially fatal.”

Forthglade has compiled a list of the top five festive food dangers for your dog this Christmas:
  1. Onion: found in stuffing and gravy can attack the dog’s red blood cells and cause life threatening anemia
  2. Gravy: often contains high levels of salt, which can cause kidney damage
  3. Grapes, raisins and sultanas: commonly used in Christmas desserts are toxic to dogs and in severe cases cause renal failure.
  4. Chocolate: contains theobromine, a toxic stimulant that can cause sickness, diarrhea and can even be fatal.
  5. Turkey: leftover turkey may seem like the safe option, but splinters from poultry bones can get stuck in the dog’s throat or piece intestinal tracts

To ensure that you can safely celebrate your festive mealtime with your four-legged friends, Forthglade is launching a new grain-free 100% natural Christmas dinner for dogs.

Free from junk and fillers, the doggie Turkey Christmas Dinner includes a minimum meat content of 75%, teamed with vitamin rich cranberries and parsnips, and is slow cooked to lock in goodness.  The complete recipes include omega-3, minerals, linseed oil, seaweed, prebiotics, chamomile, parsley, rosemary and nettle, plus glucosamine and chondroitin which can promote healthy joints.

Lovell continues: “We have created this product as a way for the whole family to share the special occasion of Christmas – even dogs. They no longer need to beg for the scraps from your plate, this new complete recipe provides a nutritious, balanced and delicious meal for them.”

Forthglade’s complete Turkey Christmas Dinner meals are £1.29 for 395g, served in a convenient tray for ease or £8.75 for a case of 7 trays. Available at forthglade.com and selected independent pet retailers.

If owners are looking to treat their dogs this Christmas, why not try and make your own Turkey and Cranberry Christmas Stars following this Forthglade recipe….

The news story was run across a number of radio plus the Daily Express. Gerard Lovell (above right), joint managing director at Forthglade, and Nick Jones (left), Alpha Dog Behaviour, are pictured in the studio.

 
McAdams produces the ideal Christmas dinner for pets
McAdams Pet Foods' selection of whole British free range chicken dry dog food is specifically tailored to suit the needs of small, medium and large breeds of dogs...


McAdams Pet Foods' selection of whole British free range chicken dry dog food is specifically tailored to suit the needs of small, medium and large breeds of dogs.

The food is slow roasted, oven baked and warm air dried to make a highly palatable biscuit, which is unique in the pet food world.

Available in a range of sizes (2kg, 5kg boxes and 10 kg bags depending on the size of your dog), each variety contains a blend of the best ingredients creating a complete food that is rich in high quality proteins, amino acids, vitamins and minerals as well as omega oils.

Unlike other diets on the market, McAdams is the only dried food to use whole British ethically sourced free range chicken from DEFRA approved farms. No stripped carcasses, grain free and no meat processed meal has been used in any of the products - just whole free range chickens and natural products. McAdams is also free from colourings and artificial preservatives of any kind.

McAdams uses New Zealand, Green Lipped Mussels which are rich in glucosamine, chondroitin and marine lipids, proven to help keep joints healthy and promote healthy skin and a glossy coat.

The food is grain free and all the fruit and vegetables used are chosen for their health and nutritional benefits and include sweet potatoes seaweed, lentils, yucca, spinach, tomatoes, carrots chamomile flowers, lavender, rosemary and cranberries.

For further information please telephone: 07976 742346, email: info@mcadamspetfoods.com or visit the website: www.mcadamspetfoods.com

Pet firm receives ethical stamp of approval


Edgard & Cooper has been awarded prestigious accreditation from The Ethical Company Organisation. The company, inspired by two dogs Edgard and Cooper, receives a high-ranking Ethical Company Index of 86, placing them in the Top Ethical Companies section in The Good Shopping Guide...



Edgard & Cooper has been awarded accreditation from The Ethical Company Organisation. The company, inspired by two dogs Edgard and Cooper, receives a high-ranking Ethical Company Index of 86, placing them in the Top Ethical Companies section in The Good Shopping Guide.

Edgard & Cooper developed the world’s first kibble for dogs using 100% fresh meat and no nasty meat meals. Since launching the company they have been conscious of their mark on the planet and keep a low ecological footprint.

Louis Chalabi, one of the founders of the company, says: "This accreditation means so much to us as it is a testament to our holistic approach to pet food.

"We took three years to develop the product range to make sure every aspect is transparent to our customers – take a look at the back of our packs to see our honest, fresh and no-nonsense ingredients!’

To gain the accreditation, Edgard & Cooper have the following values at the heart of its business:

  • Environmentally friendly: locally sourced fresh meat means fewer food miles and a lower carbon footprint
  • 100% biodegradable, compostable packaging using water based inks reduces our overall impact on the environment
  • Organic farming ensures a higher standard of living for livestock, improves the soil and encourages an abundance of wildlife
  • Doing it for the dogs! 10% of all profits are donated to animal charities, to help dogs less fortunate
  • Nutritious and natural recipes filled with holistic ingredients to keep dogs healthy from nose to tail!
Devon’s ethical dog treats swap Barking for Knightsbridge


The Dog Treat Company’s Bark The Herald, God Save The Corgi and Original flavours can be found sitting resplendently on the best stocked pet shelves of Fortnum & Mason in London...



Piccadilly’s most luxurious department store knows all about backing great ideas having created a fair few itself over the years.

After all, it was William Fortnum who created the Scotch egg as the first on-the-go offering to help rumbling tummies on long distance journeys, who ensured Wellington’s troops yomped to Waterloo on full stomachs of dried fruit and nuts, gave Mr Heinz his 1st UK baked beans break in 1886 and ensured that the rucksacks on the 1922 expedition of Everest were packed with such essential rations as quail in foie gras and champagne.

With Xmas celebrations already well under way, the best stocked pet department in Knightsbridge came to the conclusion that there was still something missing from its first class dog treats selection for well-heeled hounds, so put out an SOS out to Totnes Devon.

Help came and from today The Dog Treat Company’s Bark The Herald, God Save The Corgi and Original flavours can be found sitting resplendently on the best stocked pet shelves of London, providing the very finest blends of free-range liver and ‘GMO free’ beneficial herbs (and without a sniff of any added salt, sugar, or artificial nasties )

According to Joe Halliwell (DTC founder): "I remember reading some years ago about Fortnum & Mason underpinning its commitment to the wider environment by placing four urban bee hives on its roof, a small yet sincere example of a forward-thinking business with a robust ethical agenda.  This is exactly the sort of socially responsible operation that we want to be aligned with."
 
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Ancol work with dogs home to produce helpful videos for dog lovers
Ancol and Birmingham Dog’s Home have collaborated to produce videos full of advice and tips to help dog lovers get the most out of their Ancol products...
Ancol and Birmingham Dog’s Home have collaborated to produce videos full of advice and tips to help dog lovers get the most out of their Ancol products.

As Ancol have a wide range of quality pet products, the videos range from fitting a dog collar and harness correctly to grooming and bathing tools, which can help owners bond with their dogs if used in the right way.

Filmed at Birmingham Dog’s Home, the videos are presented by Rachel Frost, Birmingham Dog’s Home’s Community Fundraiser, who shares her valuable knowledge about dog care and her enthusiasm for the products.

She said: "I had a wonderful time filming the videos in partnership with Ancol. Having the use of exceptional products to explain basic and technical aspects of dog care has made it much easier to plan and film instructional videos.

"The dogs have loved being the centre of attention and, as the Canine Carers are often asked about fitting a collar or choosing the right brush these videos will be a really useful reference for us."

The dogs featured in the videos are all friends of Ancol and Birmingham Dog’s Home Staff. Starring in several videos are Chief and Reeva who are Rachel's own Bullmastiffs. 

Reeva, a previous resident of Birmingham Dog’s Home was part of a litter born at the home when her mother was found abandoned. Her vitality and on-going health are a credit to the hard work the charity does on a daily basis.

During the day’s filming Ancol Director Sarah Lane was introduced to current resident Cammie.

Sarah said: "It was heart-warming to meet Cammie, who came into the home and has recently been bred from. She is an example of the care the home’s passionate staff gives to every dog they look after. Cammie is a lovely friendly girl and we can’t wait for her to find that forever home that she truly deserves."

If you can offer Cammie a new home please call 0121 643 5211 for more details.

The new videos will be added to Ancol’s current collection of helpful product videos on YouTube, which has amassed thousands of views and been shared by other channels.
 
Aylesbury pet store is Pooch & Mutt’s Stockist of the Month
McGrumpy & Snuffles Canine Emporium in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, has been voted Pooch & Mutt’s December's Stockist of the Month...


McGrumpy & Snuffles Canine Emporium in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, has been voted Pooch & Mutt’s December's Stockist of the Month.

"We stock Pooch & Mutt because they make their product to the highest standards here in the UK using yummy ingredients to make tasty functional treats and foods which are affordable for every dog owner,” said a spokesperson for McGrumpy & Snuffles.

“We are excited to stock the Christmas Dinner treats, as they make great stocking fillers for any size of dog."

McGrumpy & Snuffles stock a selection of Pooch & Mutt's hand-baked tube treats.
 
Alpha Feeds launches new Training Treats
Alpha Feeds has launched new Training Treats which are hypo-allergenic and wheat gluten free...
Alpha Feeds has launched new Training Treats which are hypo-allergenic and wheat gluten free.

The Alpha Training Treats include chicken liver and they are suitable for all dogs over eight weeks old.

These healthy bites are free from artificial additives and are a tasty treat for dogs that deserve a reward whether on a puppy training routine, as encouragement for good behaviour or when working, sporting dogs are learning a new activity.

RRP £1.00 for 150g.

For further information contact Alpha Feeds on 0844 800 2234 or visit www.alphafeeds.com
 
Karen Green joins Agria’s growing Rehoming Channel
Agria Pet Insurance has announced that Karen Green has joined the business as Rehoming Partner Manager...
Agria Pet Insurance has announced that Karen Green has joined the business as Rehoming Partner Manager.

Karen comes to the team with over 20 years’ experience of working with animal welfare sector, and her new role will see her as a key contact for rehoming organisations across the UK partnering with Agria.

In her previous role as Key Account Manager at CEVA Animal Health, Karen worked closely with animal charities and organisations to support the well-being of animals in care – something she was keen to continue.

Karen says: “I’m very excited by my new role at Agria as I’m incredibly passionate about the difference tangible support can make to animal charities. I can’t wait to help even more organisations across the UK give the animals in their care a brighter future with access to insurance – and not just the cute young ones, but elderly animals too.”

Now in its second year, Agria’s Rehoming Scheme was created to offer long term support to both rehoming organisations and the animals they rehome.

Help provided by Agria under the scheme is twofold; giving partner organisations access to 5 Weeks Free policies for the animals they rehome, and enabling new owners to continue this cover with a full ‘Lifetime’ policy, no matter how old the pet.

Additionally, Agria Partner rehoming organisations are eligible for commission whenever a free Agria policy is continued, as well as at future renewals.

Lorraine Tannatt Nash, who heads up Agria’s Rehoming and Charity Channel says: “We’re thrilled that Karen’s joined the Rehoming Team. The unique support we give to our rehoming partners is underpinned by the personal relationships we build with them and our understanding of the sector.

"Karen’s wealth of experience and passion for animal welfare make her – and her three gorgeous rescue dogs – the most perfect fit for the team.”

To find out more about Agria’s Rehoming Scheme, visit www.agriapet.co.uk/rehoming-centres-and-charities
 
New appointment at pet insurance firm
Bringing expertise into a business is vitally important and Agria Pet Insurance has done just that with the appointment of Alan Bray to the post of Breeder Channel Manager...
Bringing expertise into a business is vitally important and Agria Pet Insurance has done just that with the appointment of Alan Bray to the post of Breeder Channel Manager.

Not only is Alan a Chartered Marketer and a Fellow of the Direct and Digital Institute of Marketing but he’s also a highly qualified agility dog handler, trainer and judge.

Alan’s accolades are too numerous to mention but include judging at the highest Championship level both for the Kennel Club and Internationally under FCI rules and at the Crufts Championship Finals 2014.

He has also been appointed as the Judge for all the Crufts 2017 agility finals. In 2008 he was voted Top Agility Handler of all time by fellow Agility Club handlers, judges and officials and he has represented England and Team GB in the European and World Dog Agility Championships.

Alan made the move to Agria after being impressed by the team’s passion for providing excellent insurance policies for animals.

“Agria is a young, fresh and exciting company with a great product portfolio and I really feel confident that it offers owners and breeders great value for money and policies to suit their particular needs. It seems that Agria always keeps what’s best for the animal in mind.

"I know that Agria is really going to attract breeders particularly because of its professional approach and understanding of the support dog and cat owners need to ensure their pets can access the high quality healthcare they deserve.”

Simon Wheeler, Agria’s Managing Director says Alan’s expertise in both marketing and pet care makes him a great addition to the management team, “Alan’s knowledge is invaluable and he is already sharing some great insights with us regarding the needs of pets and pet owners at all levels.”

As he spends all of his time outside work with animals, including 10 family dogs, Alan describes his new job as his ‘dream role’. “I get to combine my twin passions for marketing excellence and the love of animals. It really doesn’t get much better than that when it comes to the ideal career.”

To find out more about how Agria supports breeders visit http://www.agriapet.co.uk/breeder/.
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