Pet Product Marketing February 2023

Welcome!

Happy new year to you all!

Without treading the well-worn cliches of the fresh start a new year brings, it is great to be able to look forward and try to hit the ground running. That’s exactly what we’ve done in this issue. We’re not dwelling on Christmas or talking about how a new year can be an ideal time to set new goals (it’s always an ideal time to set goals and strive for them). We’ve got loads of great content to help you get off to a fast start in 2023.

When it comes to assessing your lines and what will be big sellers, we’ve got lots of inspiration. As well as the new products pages showing you what manufacturers are launching, we share the winners of the Your Dog and Your Cat Product Awards. Our sister titles ask consumers each year to vote for the best products on the market. Finding out the winning products is invaluable insight as it is the buyer giving them their seal of approval.

I am sure you’ll find something to add to your retail offering. Elsewhere, we’ve got our social media pages. We want PPM to be not just a magazine, but a resource. On page 15 we’ve got a host of winter care tips that you can copy and paste on to your social media. Don’t worry about copyright, if you’re an independent pet shop, you’re free to copy the content. There are also great tips on where to find brilliant, free use images too. We want to help make your social media even more engaging!

Of course, as usual, we’ve got a host of pet advice, business feature, and news and interviews from the trade. Pages packed full on useful information, resources, and inspiration to help you get 2023 off to a flyer!

Mike Hallam - Editor, PPM. michael.hallam@warnersgroup.co.uk

4 News

latest news from the pet industry.

Talking Trade

sit down with Karnlea founder Lara McCullough.

New products

latest products hitting the shelves.

Social media content Winter care tips you are free to use on your social media! 16 Here comes Crufts! We get you ready for the biggest dog show in the calendar! 18 10 amazing things you never knew about cats Incredible facts about our feline friends. 20 Your Dog and Your Cat Product Awards Find out what customers voted as the best products in the awards of our sister titles. 22 Small pet obesity: a growing problem How to ensure your small furries stay in good shape.

24 The challenges of launching brands in the pet channel Two experts look at the opportunities and pitfalls when launching products in the pet industry. 26 Your employment rights when you’re sick A look at the legal process of employee sickness.

Workplace temperature How to manage the temperature in a workplace.

Customer Q&As Pet advice you can share with your customers. 30 Breaktime read Meet the couple who had their cat part of their wedding day.

team Pet Product Marketing

Our email: editorial@petproductmarketing.co.uk

Our address: Pet Product Marketing, Warners Group

Publications, The Maltings, West Street, Bourne, Lincolnshire, PE10 9PH

Michael Hallam, editor (for news and product releases, contact Michael on michael.hallam@warnersgroup.co.uk)

For advertising queries please contact Stephen Tanner on 01778 392404

Laura Wright, features and web editor

Ellis O’Connell, marketing exec

With grateful thanks to Sarah Wright (editor, Your Dog), and Nathan Hill (editor, Practical Fishkeeping)

Nigel Fish, design and production manager

Natalie Reynolds, production controller Graham Warren, colour repro

Stephen Tanner, key account manager (advertising Pet Product Marketing/Practical Fishkeeping) Andrea Walters, key account manager (advertising Your Dog/Your Cat)

Kay Cotterill, classified sales (all titles)

Regular contributors: Adam Bernstein, Claire Hamblion and John Courteney-Smith

Printed by Warners Midlands plc James Buzzel, publisher

Subscriptions and back issues

Pet Product Marketing is available free to people who qualify for our controlled terms of circulation. If you’d like to register for a free subscription, please visit www.petproductmarketing.co.uk

Pet Product Marketing is published 10 times a year by Warners Group Publications. No part of the magazine may be reproduced in any form in whole or in part, without the prior permission of Warners Group Publications. All material published remains the copyright of Warners and we reserve the right to copy or edit any material submitted to the magazine without further consent. The submission of material (manuscripts or images etc) to Warners Group Publications whether unsolicited or requested, is taken as permission to publish that material in the magazine, on the associated website, any apps or social media pages affiliated to the magazine, and any editions of the magazine published by our licensees elsewhere in the world. By submitting any material to us you are confirming that the material is your own original work or that you have permission from the copyright owner to use the material and to authorise Warners Group Publications to use it as described in this paragraph. You also promise that you have permission from anyone featured or referred to in the submitted material to it being used by Warners Group Publications. If Warners Group Publications receives a claim from a copyright owner or a person featured in any material you have sent us, we will inform that person that you have granted us permission to use the relevant material and you will be responsible for paying any amounts due to the copyright owner. We cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, images, or materials lost or damaged in the post. While every reasonable care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher is not responsible for any errors or omissions, nor do we accept any liability for any loss or damage, however caused, resulting from the use of the magazine.

SCRAGGS by Richard Duszczak

The PIF Awards were a huge success, with over 20 categories of winners revealed at the gala black-tie ceremony held at Whittlebury Hall in Northamptonshire.

The 2022 PIF Awards are coveted awards in the pet industry, celebrating the inspirational success stories of the past 12 months.

Nigel Baker, CEO of the Pet Industry Federation, commented: “The PIF Awards just get bigger and better each year; the standard and volume of entries was phenomenal this year and we sold out of tickets to the Awards dinner over a month before the event so we can see how much winning a PIF Award means to businesses in the pet industry. It is truly inspirational to see the diversity and sheer hard work within our industry and at PIF we are honoured to be able to reward this with the PIF Awards. Look out for next year’s event for which we’re planning something extra special!”

The 2023 PIF Awards will celebrate PIF’s 75th anniversary and will take place on Thursday 16th November 2023, with entries opening after Easter. All updates will be posted on the PIF website www.petfederation.co.uk

The National Pet College launches course to encourage more businesses to become dog friendly

The National Pet College is targeting the hospitality industry with a new course highlighting the benefits of becoming dog friendly.

With 10.2 million dogs in the UK and 27% of UK adults now owning dogs, the potential for businesses that welcome dogs is considerable. This new course from The National Pet College, in association with www.dogfriendly.co.uk, gives a unique insight into how to maximise these opportunities while also equipping delegates on how to overcome the challenges, ensure welfare, undertake thorough risk assessments, and become up to date with the latest legislation.

Aimed at all businesses that can become dog friendly, such as hotels, restaurants, cafes, pubs, B&Bs, holiday cottages and holiday parks, Head of Education at The National Pet College, Vicky Skinner explains: “We know that those businesses that do welcome dogs have seen a considerable upturn both in new and repeat business so we wanted to encourage more premises in the hospitality industry to become dog friendly in a responsible way which ensures the welfare of any dogs on site.

“This new course gives delegates a thorough understanding of the responsibilities involved with doing this properly and equips businesses with the tools to really maximise the potential revenue streams from this.”

The Dogs In Hospitality course is available from www.nationalpetcollege.co.uk for individual delegates and can also be delivered in group scenarios on site at hospitality premises. On completion of the course, delegates receive a certificate to display at their premises, a digital logo for their website and social media, and their completion highlighted on the www.dogfriendly.co.uk listing. For more information please email info@ nationalpetcollege.co.uk

WildWash wins Pet Product Retailer of the Year award in the Corporate Livewire Global Awards

The WildWash Team is proud to announce that they won the title of Pet Product Retailer of the Year in the Corporate Livewire Global Awards 2022/2023.

The judging panel was impressed by the diverse range of grooming products and accessories the retailer offers, particularly aimed towards dogs, cats, and horses. From pin brushes, soft towels, and nail clippers, to silky shampoos, and eye cleansers, WildWash has everything a pet owner or professional groomer could need.

Each product had been created for a genuine purpose and goal in mind by owner’s Andrew and Jane. Its apothecary is recognised as one of the best 10 natural perfumers in the world, ensuring each cosmetic not only feels good but smells divine too.

Used by groomers, vets, and pet owners across the globe, its range is highlighted by its natural qualities – which protect pets and the environment. WildWash was the very first natural shampoo company to list all of its ingredients on the bottle, and it promises zero parabens, phthalates, sulphates, petrochemicals, palm oils, and PEGs in every product it develops.

For wholesale enquiries, contact their distributor Pet Revolution at info@petrevolution. co.uk

Pets & Friends launch their first refill station at Shrewsbury Store

Pets & Friends, part of Kennelpak Limited, have expanded their consumer offering with a brand-new refill station at their Shrewsbury store as part of their ongoing push for sustainable shopping.

Perfect for pockets, pets, and the planet, the new refill station is an ideal solution for pet parents who are more budget and planet-conscious, but don’t want to compromise on the quality of their pet’s well-being.

“It’s about convenience and value, customers can top up and only pay for what they need, minimising both packaging and food waste,” says Steve Collard, Head of Retail at Pets & Friends.

“We’ve had a fantastic response to the trial in Shrewsbury and can’t wait to expand, as we know this will also help customers who have tighter budgets and can’t always bulk buy.”

Customers can take their own containers to stock up or use a complimentary paper bag available in-store, helping to eliminate both product and packaging waste.

Right now, customers can refill their Collards dry dog food, Wellness CORE dry cat food, natural cat litter, and wild bird seed based on price per 100g.

With the Shrewsbury trial going well so far, the plan is to roll out the Refill Station concept across a number of Pets & Friend stores.

For more information, visit www.petsandfriends.co.uk

YuMOVE’s rebrand by Robot Food appeals to the ‘new breed of owners’

Strategic brand agency Robot Food has undertaken a global rebrand for pet care brand YuMOVE. Owned by parent company Lintbells, the specialist, highefficacy brand’s mission is ‘giving pets an active life for life.’

Internally, the Lintbells team was struggling with how to categorise its products. Previously, YuMOVE (the brand’s joint formula) sat next to a number of other variants such as YuDerm (skin and coat care) and YuCalm.

Since YuMOVE accounts for 70% of sales, Robot Food proposed a strategy that united all products under the singular YuMOVE name and masterbrand. But internally, Lintbells’ association with ‘YuMOVE’ as the ‘joints’ product name meant the teams had concerns around conventionalising the naming across the range.

“Our job was to rationalise the strategic direction and provide a clear approach that would help the business move forward in agreement and unify the team around a central idea,” says Emma Collingswood, Robot Food senior account manager. “We helped demonstrate to the client that YuMOVE aligned with their brand mission — it made sense commercially and to consumers. One URL, one brand for all of your dogs’ needs.”

Dorwest Herbs appoints new trade account manager

Herbal pet care experts Dorwest are delighted to announce the appointment of new Trade Account Manager Chloe Allaway to the award-winning team.

Chloe joins Dorwest from an established four years working on national and international accounts in the tool industry. Her passion and interest for herbal products, including emerging trends in the pet care industry, will ensure Dorwest stays the leader in its field and continues to expand trade activity and support.

Managing Director Jo Boughton-White comments: “The trade department at Dorwest is crucial in ensuring our stockists receive the best service possible. From product training to campaign assets, Chloe will continue to support accounts to ensure they are as enthusiastic about Dorwest products as we are!”

To find out more about Dorwest visit call 01308 897272, email info@dorwest.com or visit www.dorwest.com

The new brand architecture brings all products together under the YuMOVE name, with each clearly stating its individual benefits (such as dental, joints, and skin/coat care) on-pack.

Now, the proud, consistent YuMOVE name and masterbrand can flex across various propositions without losing any of the efficacy or trust of the former designs. It’s clearer, stronger, and primes YuMOVE for future growth. “Now, YuMOVE can play in its heartland of scientifically proven formulas and ingredients and also into more lifestyle and preventative categories,” says Collingswood.

The rebrand comes at a time when people’s relationship with their pets is changing dramatically. YuMOVE’s

core buyers have historically been more traditional dog owners, since larger breeds like Labradors are more prone to joint issues. Now, with the growth in ownership of smaller dogs and an increase in younger, more citybased pet owners, the designs needed to appeal to a broader audience.

“Pet owners have been replaced by ‘pet parents’, with a greater degree of emotional connection with their pets, and as a result the spend per animal has increased,” says Robot Food senior designer Julia Allan. “As with human wellness, the pet wellness category is in steep growth.

YuMOVE has an opportunity to lead the category and become the go-to, trusted brand for any pets’ condition or wellness needs.”

Robot Food needed to address the formerly cluttered pack fronts, which often repeated the same information. The agency instead looked to let the website and the back and side of packs do some of the work.

“We decluttered the packs as much as possible to help consumers shop both on and offline,” says Allan. “We had to simplify them and amplify what mattered — care for your pets.”

The new logo is a modernised version of the former to aid recognition, but with a more contemporary, impactful look. The overall design system is based around using visual segmentation to denote each product’s benefits through the use of shapes and colours, such as a purple lotus flower on the calming product and a blue polygon for dental care.

Design details inspired by the wider world of wellness brands — such as playful, freer layouts, and a more approachable colour palette — are used on the packs to create a friendlier look and feel that maintains the sense of efficacy.

“We’ve seen products with a medical need becoming increasingly accessible, and categories that once relied purely on scientific efficacy now employing more everyday lifestyle cues — pet care is not immune from this,” says Collingswood.

“Dynamic representation of dogs through photography helps bring the packs to life, and provides a singular clear look and feel throughout the whole brand world,” says Allan. She adds that the dynamism of these images relied on choosing fur colours that ‘pop’, and shots where the dog is looking into the camera as far as possible. “It was important to steer clear of breeds that are too obscure or trendy — it had to feel like an ‘everydog’,” she says.

Pet Product Marketing share your stories and new product launches for free! Simply email Michael.hallam@warnersgroup.co.uk

For all the latest news and new products, head to www.petproductmarketing.co.uk

Want to share your news? Got a story or new product?

New exhibitors join big-name brands at PATS Sandown 2023

PATS Sandown is the place for pet retailers to see a host of new exhibitors as well as the industry’s big-name brands, all of which will be showcasing their 2023 launches over two action-packed days on 26-27 March.

Exhibitors new to PATS Sandown include Bugalugs, Dog Space, Litter Genie, Loerie Trading, Mahi Naturals, The Smallest, Trinkety Paws, TRM Pet, and Swiss company curli. They’ll be joining regular exhibitors and big name brands from the industry.

PATS Sandown in March will be the best place for pet retailers and garden centres to see the whole pet industry and all the latest products under one roof.

A full list of the exhibitors can be found at www.patshow.co.uk where visitors can also register for free entry to the show.

As the excitement starts to build for the UK’s Spring pet industry exhibition, a selection of PATS Sandown newcomers share their thoughts.

Mahi Naturals Ltd is a distributor of natural care products and business manager Sue Harrison explained why the company has signed up to exhibit at PATS Sandown. “We are launching several brands at PATS and have chosen this show as it is considered the best exhibition for pet product retailers and buyers.”

Bugalugs Pet Care marketing executive Mollie Mckenna said: “Following our success at PATS Telford in September, we are excited to attend the Sandown show for the first time with the intention of showcasing our exciting new product ranges. Additionally, we look forward to increasing brand awareness and generating partnerships with other pet industry experts.”

Loerie Trading focusses on the pet travel sector and will be showcasing the popular Innopet and Ibiyaya brands at PATS Sandown. Director Branko Burazin commented: “We are excited to engage and collaborate with high-street retail pet stores owners and corporate companies, both for lead generation and brand exposure. Our range includes pet strollers, bike trailers, car ramps, and carriers for both cats and dogs of all shapes and sizes.”

International company curli is a specialist in dog harnesses based in the Swiss mountains and is excited to be showcasing its products at PATS Sandown.

Company founders Mark Zimmermann and Roland Primus are passionate mountain guides and outdoor experts, who know the value of professional equipment, reliable safety and the trust associated with it. curli successfully transfers this approach to carefully designed dog harnesses for small and large dogs, and its products are sold in over 38 countries.

Fish4Pets announce distribution partnership with Pedigree Wholesale

Fish4Pets Ltd. are delighted to announce the premium pet food brands Fish4Dogs® and Fish4Cats® will now be available through one of the leading UK pet food distributors, Pedigree Wholesale.

The move will enable 2,100 Pedigree Wholesale customers to have access to the increasingly popular, premium pet food brands Fish4Dogs and Fish4Cats, whose headquarters are based

Harringtons unveils brandnew design and enhanced recipes in major brand update

Yorkshire-based pet food brand Harringtons has announced significant brand updates to reflect the ever-changing needs of the modern-day shopper, including a new and improved recipe for their dry dog food.

Launched in 2008, Harringtons has gone from strength to strength, with close to two million buyers purchasing per year. The new and improved recipe now offers specialistgrade nutrition at more affordable and accessible price points, containing freshly prepared meat ingredients, salmon oil for healthier coats, skin, joints, and cardiovascular health. It has also added homemade chicken gravy on the inside and outside of the kibble to make it the brand’s tastiest kibble yet.

The enhanced range can now be purchased in smaller pack sizes to better suit the needs of urban pet owners. This will also help accommodate those owners with smaller breeds to whom bulk products are not suitable, to stay at the forefront of consumers’ minds as industry leaders.

The brand-new design, deployed across the entire brand, including Harringtons wet trays and cans, has been introduced to appeal to a wider audience of consumers, as it unites the full range with a more impactful, modern look and feel.

Speaking on the Harringtons rebrand and improvement, Will Bushell, Head of Dog Marketing at Inspired Pet Nutrition, commented:

“We believe it is important to keep up with the ever-changing needs of our consumers, and with the current cost of living crisis, it is now more important than ever to ensure quality nutrition is available at an affordable price. We take pride in the quality of nutrition we are offering at this price point which we believe adds real value to retailers’ ranges.”

To find out more about the Harringtons rebrand, visit: https://www.harringtonspetfood. com/

in Worcestershire.

All Fish4Pets products are made from minimal ingredients and formulated without any chicken, beef, pork, or lamb, perfect for dogs and cats with intolerances to certain proteins. All recipes are gluten free with natural ingredients and contain no added artificial colours or flavours.

Sarah Fowler, Sales Director at Fish4Pets, said: “We are delighted to be entering into a new partnership with Pedigree Wholesale and look forward to working with the team. We have always strived to support UK independent pet retailers and by partnering with Pedigree Wholesale enables even more retailers in the UK to stock our brands”.

Customers of Pedigree Wholesale will now be able to purchase the full range of Fish4Dogs Finest Complete food, Finest Wet Complementary products and the full range of treats, plus the Fish4Cats Complementary Wet range by logging into their account at pedigreeproducts. co.uk or by contacting their Relationship Manager.

Mr Bug offers unveils head-turning instore POS

Mr Bug has unveiled its colourful new counter display unit that will be heading out to independent pet stores from the beginning of February 2023

Pet stores will gain priority access to this all-singing shelf display by simply placing a minimum order of 10 units per flavour (40 units).

With significant numbers of leading dog treats still needlessly riddled with unwelcome calories, synthetic nasties, lazy fillers, Mr Bug was determined in 2022 to launch a sustainable offer of Devon-farmed mealworms baked with an array of beneficial nutritious ingredients including beetroot, parsnips, sweet potato honey, peanut butter, and vegan cheese.

Mr Bug’s epicurean-orientated dog treats made with nutritious mealworm powder offer an alluring nutty twang in conjunction with an array of highly prized nutritional benefits: more calcium than milk, more B12 than salmon, more iron than spinach and access to all 9 amino acids.

Mr Bug comes as a: Veggie One, A Fruity One, A Nutty One, and The Cheesy One.

To find out more about Mr Bug or their new counter display units please contact bugme@ mrbug.co.uk or visit their website Mrbug.co.uk

Southampton pet superstore wins prestigious business growth award

Aleading pet superstore has won the 2022 Business Growth Award at the New Forest Brilliance Awards.

Healthy Pet Store based in Hampshire was awarded the Business Growth accolade for its incredible sales growth since launching in 2014. The pet store was recognised for its expansion, just two years after moving into its current and newly refurbished store in Totton.

During 2021, the growing pet store reached its £1 million revenue target and has become one of the county’s leading independent pet retailers of frozen meals for dogs and cats and unique accessories.

Managing Director Deborah Burrows said: “Winning this award is a huge milestone for Healthy Pet Store. Since 2014, our vision has been to be the most approachable and most knowledgeable pet food and accessories retailer. We are very excited to continue building this vision.

“2023 is going to be a really exciting year for us and I can’t wait to grow our brand, the team and our variety of products.

For more information, visit www.healthypetstore.co.uk

PIF launches cost saving fuel card

The Pet Industry Federation (PIF) has announced a new partnership with Fuel Card Services to help PIF members save money on petrol and diesel.

Fuel Card Services offers a large range of fuel cards from leading brands such as BP, Shell, Esso and UK Fuels; PIF members will be able to decide which card best suits their business.

Fuel cards will help PIF members on a daily basis in terms of:

● Cutting fuel costs — saving up to 10p per litre

● Increased security — fuel cards are a safer alternative to carrying cash and eliminate fraud

● Streamline admin — HMRC compliant invoices, no receipts, one neat invoice and a dedicated account manager

● Tighter control of business expenses — transactions and reports available online 24/7

● Increased flexibility for refuelling across a huge network

PIF CEO, Nigel Baker, commented: “Here at PIF, we are always looking at new benefits for our members. We are extremely aware of how difficult the economic climate is at the moment, particularly with fuel costs at such a high level.

“Partnering with Fuel Card Services will enable PIF members to choose the best fuel card for their business and start saving money on a daily basis, whether they run one vehicle or a whole fleet.”

PIF members will be emailed details on how to apply for their fuel card. To join PIF today, visit www.petfederation.co.uk

PATS picks Animal Rescue and Care as chosen charity for Sandown show

PATS Sandown has chosen welfare group Animal Rescue and Care (ARC) as its chosen charity for 2023.

The UK’s spring pet industry exhibition takes place on 26 — 27 March 2023 when an impressive list of suppliers and manufacturers will take the opportunity to showcase hundreds of next products.

Once the show has finished, items from the Showcase will be donated to ARC.

ARC spokesperson Victoria Patterson said: “Animal Rescue and Care is delighted that PATS has chosen us as its exhibition’s charity again in 2023. “Given the current cost of living crisis, your support is more needed than ever.

“As in previous years, all the goods donated to us will be used by animals in our care or sold to raise money that goes directly to helping them. We would like to send a huge thank you to everyone involved.”

Launched in 2001, ARC has grown from small beginnings to a local charity that has helped over 8,000 animals. The charity’s priority is to rescue, foster and rehome animals in the Richmond upon Thames area.

Visitors can register online for free entry now at www.patshow.co.uk where there is also a full list of exhibitors and information on how to reach the venue. More about ARC can be found on the charity’s website www.animalrescueandcare.org. uk

Talking Trade… with Karnlea founder Lara McCullough

About Lara

Lara McCullough is the founder of Karnlea, the UK and Ireland’s first 100% natural, packed from fresh bone broth. Having established production, Karnlea’s first samples landed in September 2021, and a few months later its original beef variety, hit the shelves.

Lara has worked in the pet industry for more than 15 years and has a keen interest in animal health.

She previously owned a successful pet supplement business which was acquired in 2021, prompting her to start a new chapter with the launch of Karnlea.

“We’d been working on it for some time; researching the best way to bring the product to market as we had a very clear idea on what we wanted. After a lot of searching, we found a superb production partner and worked with them on getting the product exactly right, to ensure it contained the optimal levels of nutrients, collagen, and protein.

“We received our first packed product in September 2021 and undertook consumer testing and market research. Our bone broth is unique in the UK and Ireland as it’s the only ready to use, 100% natural broth that can be stored at room temperature. This means that it can be conveniently kept on a shelf until opened, freeing up valuable fridge or freezer space.

“It’s a groundbreaker within the market. The interest we have had has shown us that our vision of a 100% natural, convenient, versatile, and ready to use product was exactly right.”

“It’s been a bit of a whirlwind as the interest has been so high and we’ve been blown away by the response from both retailers and pet owners. The key is that the product is so convenient, is completely natural, with no additives or preservatives, and is high in collagen and nutrients. It’s also very versatile and suitable for cats and dogs of all sizes, breeds, and ages.

“Having a strong business plan but being prepared to adapt it when necessary has been key. Having run a very successful business previously taught me a lot. Having previously started from scratch, I learned how to scale up a business, which I sold in 2021. That was a steep learning curve which gave me valuable lessons that I’ve been able to implement with Karnlea. Rather than trying to do too many products too quickly and spreading ourselves too thin, we’ve concentrated on forming a core line of the highest quality

products and establishing those first. Moving forwards, we plan to add to our range and have several products and variations on which we have already started work, but we’ll take our time and make them available at suitable junctures.”

“It’s wonderful to see the rise of the independent pet shop again and the emergence of pet owners who are focused on the health, well-being, and longevity of their pets by feeding natural products. Customers are loving going back to the old way of doing things where they feel confident in approaching their local pet shop for good, sound, knowledgeable advice and quality products.

“While there’s no doubt that this is a tough time for everyone with the cost-of-living crisis, I still feel that so many consumers have moved on from low quality food and supplements that there will only be continued growth in the natural sector, even though it may slow slightly. It’s still a very exciting market, with so many amazing brands who produce fantastic innovative products. It allows customers to work to their own budgets and still be able to feed a good diet to their pets.”

There has been an upsurge of interest in raw and natural products. Could you tell us how Karnlea fits into this?

“The primary reason for feeding bone broth to pets is that it is a gentle and natural way of getting key vitamins and minerals into their diet. Traditionally, people have made bone broth at home with a few key ingredients, but the downside is that it is time consuming and smelly to make. We wanted to harness all this natural goodness but provide pet owners with the convenience of having bone broth on hand when it was needed. This meant maintaining and enhancing its natural credentials and finding a way of making it stable with no additives or preservatives, locking in the goodness and packing it from fresh.

“We achieved this by using aseptic packaging, which is heat sealed, allowing it to be conveniently stored at ambient temperatures and used straight from the carton. It was also important for us to use quality ingredients: locally sourced meat bones from animals reared on cooperative farms that were antibiotic and hormone free.

“We have found that this has struck a chord with pet owners, particularly those who are raw and natural feeders, who are informed and looking for products that meet their exacting standards. This is why we became a Gold Affiliate member of the Raw Feeding Veterinary Society, because although Karnlea is a cooked product, it fits with the ethos of holistic and natural feeding and can be used to support a range of diets.”

How is your relationship with independent pet shops?

“We have a great relationship with the independent pet shops that we supply. We are keen to work with them to make purchasing our products as easy and economical as possible.

“Independent retailers were always intended to play a key role as a route to market in of our sales and distribution plan. Karnlea Bone Broth was a new concept, so it was vital to have ambassadors on the ground who could explain the nature of the product, how it could be used, and convey its benefits. We are keen for retailers to recommend Karnlea as part of a holistic approach to helping customers tackle pet heath problems or maintain good pet health.

“I always make myself available to independent retailers to answer any questions, provide training on our products, and chat about how to feed our pets the very best way that we can. This has helped build strong relationships but also it is a two-way street. Independent retailers are our eyes and ears, they help us close the loop for our research and development and any comments, requests, and suggestions for new types of products that our customers would like are most definitely taken on board. Every day is a school day and it’s a pleasure to be able to converse on a day-to-day basis with such passionate and knowledgeable people.”

One of your core values is being eco-friendly. Tell us how you’ve made the product eco-friendly and why you think protecting the environment is so important to pet consumers.

“Being eco-friendly was always a massive priority for us. The obvious one is our recyclable packaging. It was specifically chosen as it’s 100% plastic free. Even the spout on our product is made from sugar cane. It’s fully recyclable and the paperboard is produced from sustainably managed forests.

“The product itself is a wonderful use of byproducts from the human grade food chain. Bones are so full of nutrients and goodness and we make sure that all of that is extracted out. The water that is used to make our bone broth is naturally filtered and drawn from the river outside our production plant, which is state-of-the-art, meaning that energy use can also be monitored so closely in the cooking process. The broth is packed directly from our cooking kettles, so there aren’t any other processes that the product has to go through.

“I think pet owners, being animal lovers, are acutely aware of how important it is to protect our environment, and we naturally want to do anything that we can to help. Being transparent as a company as to our green credentials helps consumers make an easy choice.”

What are your plans for 2023?

“We currently have three flavours of bone broth — beef, lamb, and chicken — and we are currently developing a fourth variety which we will introduce to market later this year.

“There are also plans to take Karnlea ‘on the road’ for the first time and we hope to be attending Crufts in March. We had a presence there last year through our distributors and it really proved popular, so we intend to extend our presence, particularly as Karnlea is great for sporting and show dogs, helping maintain their hydration levels and providing a valuable source of collagen which is essential for joint and coat health.

“We are also looking to attend another major event during the summer which is aimed at pet owners who are interested in holistic pet health. We feel that would be a great fit for what we do and help switch people on to the benefits Karnlea can bring. The beauty of Karnlea is its simplicity — it has just three ingredients: meat bones, water, and a little cider vinegar to extract the goodness. There are no nasties and customers don’t have to question what’s in it.

“We will also continue to work closely with our UK distributors, Pedigree Wholesale, which keenly promotes natural products. Independent retailers who are Pedigree customers can ‘dip a toe into the water’ and add Karnlea to their shelves by adding our range into existing orders, helping save money on delivery. Karnlea Bone Broth is packaged in brick-shaped cartons which means that it is easy to store and display — it’s a potentially big seller that takes very little shelf space.”

Karnlea hit the shelves in January 2022. Tell us about the product and how it was bringing it to market?

The business has grown really quickly. How have you managed the growth of the brand?

You’ve worked in the pet industry for many years. How do you feel the market is currently?

Souper Delicious

NO BONES ABOUT IT!

A RICH BONE BROTH POWDER THAT ADDS ESSENTIAL NUTRIENTS AND IRRESISTIBLE FLAVOUR TO YOUR DOGS DIET.

Anco Bone Broth is made from bones which are simmered slowly to extract highly bioavailable nutrients such as collagen, glucosamine and chondroitin. Naturally high in protein, low in fat and with no artificial additives, our bone broth is highly digestible and can be sprinkled dry as a food topper or made up with water into a delicious broth.

Life’s a beach

RESPONSIBLY SOURCED WITH FULL TRACEABILITY, OUR OCEANS+ SUPERFOODS RANGE ALLOWS YOUR DOG TO ENJOY ALL THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF OMEGA RICH FISH WITH THE ADDED BOOST OF NATURE’S SUPERFOODS. AVAILABLE IN STICKS, COINS, BUTTONS AND BARS.

New necessities&

Tangle Dog Lead

— made from recycled fishing nets

Newly-launched British brand Tangle is a sustainable brand for dogs on a mission to raise awareness around the issue of ghost nets being dumped in our oceans.

Born of the founders’ desire to make a real difference to ocean life preservation, Tangle’s range of premium dog accessories made from recycled fishing nets, prevents these nets from entering the marine ecosystem. Every Tangle product sold also supports Ghost Fishing UK, a charity dedicated to removing abandoned, lost, and discarded fishing gear from UK waters.

Tangle co-founder Sam Cartwright explains: “It’s estimated that 640,000 tonnes of commercial fishing nets are lost, abandoned, or discarded into the world’s oceans every year. These are responsible for entangling and killing millions of turtles, dolphins, whales, and other marine life. We’re all aware of the impact of plastic bottles and straws, but in reality, ghost

nets make up nearly half of all ocean plastics and they’re far more deadly.”

Co-founder Xavier Warburton adds: “By creating a process where fishers are incentivised to donate their old nets, we’re able to stop ghost nets at their source and recycle them into something useful and beautiful. Our first product, the Tangle Dog Lead, lets animal lovers save the ocean all with the help of man’s best friend.”

The Tangle Dog Lead — A strong, lightweight 4ft dog lead made from discarded fishing nets featuring a padded brown cork handle and label, chrome plated clip, and O-ring that allows for clipping the lead over your shoulder when your dog’s running free.

Originally designed for use on the high seas, the Tangle Dog Lead is durable, waterproof, chewproof, and rinseable under the tap.

For trade enquiries, email Hello@TangleMission.com

Give your reptile maximum room!

The all-new VivExotic Reptihome Arboreal range is specifically made for reptiles who love to climb. Being 30% bigger than standard Reptihome Vivariums and taller than the Reptihome Maxi range, this vivarium has plenty of space to decorate with climbing structures for your reptile to enjoy. Its deeper rails allow for deeper substrate and less obtrusive lighting installation, letting it become a window into an exotic, tropical world.

The EasyVent system makes installing and changing electrical equipment a piece of cake, letting you fit the plugs through the vent with little fuss. All glass sliding doors are pre-drilled and come with a plastic ‘Slidestopper’ door plug to prevent escapes, with the option of adding a (separately sold) stainless steel lock and key for added security.

VivExotic vivariums are made in the UK with 100% recycled or FSC sustainable timber, and designed with as few parts as possible for quick and easy assembly. Their solid back and toughened glass panels allow for a much stronger, durable and safer vivarium overall.

This vivarium comes in three colours: black, grey and oak, and can be fitted on top of a matching cabinet (sold separately).

Key features:

● Arboreal range lets you give your reptile maximum room

● 30% more floor space than standard ReptiHome

● Deeper rails allow deeper substrate and less obtrusive lighting installation

● Solid back and toughened glass allow for more safety and a longer product lifespan

● Designed with as few parts as possible for quick and easy assembly

● Features an innovative cable access system for ease of installation

● Pre-drilled sliding glass door and Slidestopper door plug help prevent escapes

● Classic oak colour will nicely frame a natural environment

● Dimensions (L x D x H): 86.2 x 49 x 91.5 cm

● Made entirely from recycled and FSC sustainable timber

● Manufactured in the UK

For trade enquiries, visit www.vivexotic.co.uk, contact your Hagen sales representative or call 01977 556622

MoveWellia® joint care for dogs

Award-winning experts in herbal pet care Dorwest have launched a new natural ingredient joint care supplement, MoveWellia®, to keep all dogs moving well.

Expertly formulated with vets, MoveWellia® has been specifically developed for advanced joint care to support dogs experiencing joint health challenges, including stiffness and ‘slowing-up’. The unique blend of natural active compounds with supportive properties include joint health super-star herbal extract Boswellia — the latest joint health herbal ingredient to burst on to the scene — derived from the resin of the Boswellia serrata tree with a long history of use for inflammatory joint conditions.

MoveWellia® contains Bowellia extract that is 90% boswellic acids, the primary active compounds which work to support natural anti-inflammatory pathways in the body, as well as ethical and sustainable ingredients: celery seed, glucosamine hydrochloride, chondroitin, vitamin C, zinc and hyaluronic acid.

Naturally easing stiff joints, MoveWellia® helps to maintain comfort and mobility with advanced formulation, natural herbal support, ethical and sustainable ingredients, expert formulation with vets, and easy administration, with tablets that can be crushed

Managing Director at Dorwest Jo Boughton-White explains: “All dogs, regardless of age or breed, will experience wear and tear on their joints throughout their lives. Dogs further down that journey, or those more prone to joint problems, need different and additional support. This is why MoveWellia® has been especially developed. It’s never too early (or late!) to start looking after your dog’s joints.’’

With over 70 years of knowledge and experience, quality is at the centre of Dorwest’s ethos, with MoveWellia® only using the finest, sustainably sourced ingredients and manufactured to the highest GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards.

For trade enquiries, call one of the friendly team on 01308 897272, email info@dorwest.com or visit trade.dorwest.com

Catit Vesper Treehouse

Catit have launched an exciting activity tree with thick scratching post.

The Catit Vesper Treehouse is a modern, natureinspired playground for adventurous cats and kittens. At the heart sits the sturdy tree trunk, a thick, natural scratching post, accessible on all sides from stable lounging platforms. The furniture’s elegant wooden poles make up the tree branches, suspending your cat’s comfy fabric hideaway and hammock perch. Dressing the branches with a variety of toys is a great way to enrich your cat’s playtime.

Elegant design with singular scratching post. Cat trees don’t have to take up your entire living room to be great. The Catit Vesper Treehouse doesn’t have any bulk to it, just a single scratching post supported by slim wooden branches in warm, natural hues.

For trade information, visit https://catit.co.uk, contact your Hagen sales representative or call 01977 556622.

Oh So Precious Pet Keepsakes

Oh So Precious is a new range of pet keepsakes and memorials commemorating and celebrating the lives of pets.

The trade-only brand features memory boxes, paw print kits, paw moulds, fur/hair bottles, plant markers and forget-me-not seeds, and hanging/seasonal decorations.

It meets a growing requirement among pet owners to celebrate the lives of their pets and treasure key milestones and cherished memories as they do with other family members.

The brand is the brainchild of Helen Davies, founder of The Lovely Gift Group, which has included other celebratory and memorial lines among her ranges over the past seven years. It was a pet loss that prompted her to create the Oh So Precious range.

“We identified a need for good quality, pet related items through our existing gift customers,” said Helen. “We learn a lot from them and they continually highlight requirements for themselves and as thoughtful gifts for friends who have lost pets. The unity among pet owners — that need to convey an understanding and appreciation for those suffering the pain of pet loss — is very real.”

Oh So Precious display stands and packaging are made using sustainable and recyclable materials. The freestanding display units measure H150cm x W60cm x D35cm. They are lightweight and can be moved easily. They include shelving and euro hooks for effective display of merchandise and are stocked with 11 items from the range accompanied by scan codes for easy reordering.

The smaller counter top display option measure H35.5cm x W28cm x D20cm. They too are lightweight and are stocked with the fur bottles and pawprint kits.

Each trade account is given access to trade only website for placing orders to replenish stock. Discount is available for bulk orders and the team is planning to launch personalised pet keepsakes this year.

For trade enquiries, visit: www.ohsoprecious.co.uk

Catit Go Natural! wood clumping cat litter

Hagen has launched new Catit high-performing cat litter made from recycled wood. This litter is completely biodegradable and made of FSC-certified wood from sustainably managed forests, using renewable energy sources. It is highly absorbent by nature and free of chemicals, which makes it kind to cats as well as kind to the planet!

It is made and packed using today’s most sustainable technologies. The Catit Go Natural wood litter’s entire production process is sustainable, from the contents to the packaging. How? By recycling raw materials and using energy-efficient and solar-powered technologies. Discover the eco-friendly product life cycle!

The range is available in three varieties: lavender scented, unscented, and pellets to appeal to all cats. Each packaging contains 7.5 kg (16.5 lbs) of litter, which will last a single-cat household 75 to 105 days on average. The new briefcase-style box packaging has a convenient carrying handle and pouring opening.

For trade information, visit https://catit.co.uk, contact your Hagen sales representative or call 01977 556622.

Fluval Siena Aquarium

The all-new Siena aquarium and cabinet sets deliver the perfect blend of contemporary styling, innovative technology, and modern convenience for a truly memorable fish keeping experience:

Fluval Siena 270 Aquarium and Cabinet set (in black, white, or Chicago concrete)

The 272L Siena aquarium and cabinet set is full of convenient features, ranging from high performance filtration thanks to Fluval’s Easy-Connect through-tank system with an included Fluval 307 canister filter, to customisable FluvalSmart app-controlled LED lighting with Plant 3.0 technology. This aquarium also includes a Premium Fluval M series heater, designed to blend in seamlessly with its surroundings.

Both maintenance and feeding time will be a breeze with the ergonomically-designed cabinet’s smart storage space, designed for quick and easy access to food and water care, with soft-close hinges and interior height adjustment. The cable management system attaches neatly to the back rim of the aquarium to keep electrical wires neatly organised, and the two-piece alubond canopy gives you easy access regardless of circumstance.

With its 3M™ decorative trim and its stunning black finish, the Fluval Siena range is perfect to bring a touch of living art to a modern, stylish interior.

Key features:

● 272L Capacity

● 2 Fluval LEDs with Plant 3.0 technology

● Premium heating with Fluval M series heater

● Easy-connect through-tank filter connection with Fluval 307 canister filter

● Full Set Dimensions: 90 L x 55 W x 128 H cm

● Glass thickness: 10 mm front and back, 8mm base and sides

● Convenient storage and utility space options

Fluval Siena 330 Aquarium and Cabinet set — (in black, white, or Chicago concrete)

The Fluval Siena 330 aquarium and cabinet set in black delivers the perfect blend of contemporary styling, innovative technology and modern convenience for a truly memorable fishkeeping experience.

The 332L Siena aquarium and cabinet set is full of convenient features, ranging from

Fluval FX Filtration range

Fluval has released a brand-new size in the popular FX Filtration range to cater to smaller aquariums.

The FX2, the new addition to this range measures at 34 x 34 x 42 cm and runs at 27W, for a pump output of 1800L/hour, Ideal for aquariums of up to 750L.

The Fluval FX2 Canister Filter is designed for hobbyists who want the trademark power of the FX series in a smaller, more affordable package. Featuring patented self-priming Smart Pump™ technology, this filter ensures that its owners will spend more time enjoying their aquarium, and less time maintaining it.

Multi-stage Filtration

As with all Fluval filters, water flows through each media stage in proper order to ensure thorough cleaning. This process is more efficient and effective than some competitive filters, which force water through all stages in one pass. The Fluval FX2 filter features 2 inset red baskets for greater media capacity and flexibility, for up to 5 stages of filtration.

Patented Fluval Smart Pump™ Technology

Smart Pump™ employs an electronic circuit board to continually monitor the pump. It will constantly measure impeller speed and force to optimise output, and automatically pause and allow trapped air to escape every 12 hours, critical to maintain maximum filtration efficiency. The impeller also has less mechanical joints, creating less noise.

Engineered for your convenience

From the Aquastop click-fit valves for a leak-free, fast assembly, to twin output nozzles for multi-directional, customised water currents, the FX2 filter comes with a plethora of features to make your life easier. Its versatile, telescopic anti-clog strainer allows for continuous water flow intake, and the rubber feet ensure a whisper-quiet operation.

Fluval FX2 Rippled Bio-Foam

Designed specifically for the smaller Fluval FX2 performance canister filters, Bio-Foam captures large particles and debris for effective mechanical filtration. While the FX2 BioFoam is thinner than traditional Bio-Foam, its rippled pattern offers more surface area to effectively trap large debris and increase biological activity, enhancing the biological filtration process.

high performance filtration thanks to Fluval’s Easy-Connect through-tank system with an included Fluval 407 canister filter, to customisable FluvalSmart appcontrolled LED lighting with Plant 3.0 technology. This aquarium also includes a Premium Fluval M series heater, designed to blend in seamlessly with its surroundings.

Both maintenance and feeding time will be a breeze with the ergonomically-designed cabinet’s smart storage space, designed for quick and easy access to food and water care, with soft-close hinges and interior height adjustment. The cable management system attaches neatly to the back rim of the aquarium to keep electrical wires neatly organised, and the two-piece alubond canopy gives you easy access regardless of circumstance.

With its 3M™ decorative trim and its stunning black finish, the Fluval Siena range is perfect to bring a touch of living art to a modern, stylish interior.

Key features:

● 332L Capacity

● 2 Fluval LEDs with Plant 3.0 technology

● Premium heating with Fluval M series heater

● Easy-connect through-tank filter connection with Fluval 407 canister filter

● Full Set Dimensions: 110 L x 55 W x 128 H cm

● Glass thickness: 10 mm front and back, 8mm base and sides

● Convenient storage and utility space options

For trade information, visit fluvalaquatics.com/uk, contact your Hagen sales representative or call 01977 556622

Key features:

● Multi-stage filter pumps out 1800L of water per hour

● Smart Pump™ microchip technology continuously monitors and optimises pump performance

● Self-starting, with trapped air auto-evacuated every 12 hours for maximum efficiency

● Up to 5 stages of filtration, with all filter media included

● Intelligently designed for easy maintenance

● FX2 Rippled Bio-Foam specifically created to fit the FX2 filter’s compact size

● 42 cm tall design – easily fits under most aquariums

● Suitable for freshwater and saltwater aquariums

For trade information, visit fluvalaquatics.com/uk, contact your Hagen sales representative or call 01977 556622

Winter pet care tips

For cats

Keep them away from antifreeze

Ethylene glycol, better known as antifreeze, is deadly to cats. While it is often used in cars to stop things freezing, if even a small amount is ingested by cats, it can be fatal. Worse still, it has a sweet smell that attracts cats to it. So take care to keep it away from your pets, clear up any leakages from your car, and never use it in ponds. If your cat does ingest antifreeze, take them to the vet immediately. Symptoms include seizures, breathing difficulties, appearing ‘drunk’, vomiting and lethargy.

Paws for thought

During the colder months, cats can accumulate grit and snow in their paws. You want to avoid cats ingesting the rock salt used to grit roads when they groom or ice compacting in between the toes. Check their paws regularly and to clean them wipe them gently with a damp cloth. Longhaired cats are particularly at risk.

Provide an outside shelter

Give your cat a cosy hideaway outside so they can enjoy the outdoors but are protected from the elements. This is particularly important if your cat is allowed out and doesn’t have access back inside when you’re not there, such as a cat flap.

Outdoor water

If your cat has an outdoor water source they drink from, check this hasn’t frozen over.

Tap on the bonnet

Cats will find warm spots to curl up into during the bracing weather, such as car engines and wheel arches. Avoid any tragedy by tapping your bonnet before you set off to alert any snoozing felines that you’re about to drive away.

Out the dark

It is safer to keep your cat in during the night. With the longer hours of darkness, there is an increase in the amount of cats unsuspectingly hit by cars.

Shutting sheds

Sheds and garages are also favourite places for cats to retreat to during the winter weather. Be careful to check before closing sheds and outbuildings that your cat (or anyone else’s!) hasn’t sneaked in.

Aching joints

Winter weather can aggravate arthritis in cats. If your cat suffers, provide extra warmth to keep them comfortable. Watch them more closely for any signs they are struggling, such as not being able to climb to reach their favourite places. Heated pet blankets are usually very appreciated!

Litter tray availability

Ensure your cat has somewhere indoor to toilet. Your pet might not want to venture outside to do their business and would appreciate the indoor option.

Playtime!

With spending less time outdoors, ensure your cat has lots of stimulation to keep the indoor environment exciting. You can give food in puzzle feeders, hide treats in toilet roll tubes for them to forage for, and schedule play sessions. Regularly rotate toys to ensure the novelty factor.

For dogs

STAYING WARM

● Rising heating bills mean that most people are turning the heating down rather than up. If you add an extra layer of clothing instead to keep warm, check your dog isn’t feeling chilly too.

● Place your dog’s bed out of draughts; smaller dogs may enjoy burrowing into cave or sleeping bag beds, which are perfect for keeping warm in. Don’t throw away your old duvet, donate it to your dog, who can then make a snuggly nest or tunnel under it if he prefers. Self-warming blankets and pads may also be appreciated.

● Don’t leave your dog sitting in the car for any length of time

— just as it turns into an oven in summer, it rapidly becomes fridge-like in winter once the engine is turned off.

● Don’t forget that a brisk breeze, especially when combined with any dampness from rain, snow, and fog, will make your dog feel much colder than the actual air temperature.

Did you know?>

Signs your dog is feeling cold include lethargy, shivering, crying, seeming anxious, huddling in a corner, or snuggling up close against you. Out on a walk, he may also slow down, stop, or keep holding up his paws.

STAYING DRY

● A warm and waterproof coat will help short-coated dogs cope with the winter weather outdoors, although if your dog’s running off-lead, check he doesn’t overheat. A lightweight waterproof coat can also be a godsend for shaggy coated dogs in wet weather, saving a lot of time drying off when you get home.

● If travelling in the car to a walking location, take a couple of towels with you so you can dry off the worst of a wet coat and paws before your dog gets back in.

● If the radiators are on at home, leave a towel draped over one to warm up, ready to dry your dog on your return from a walk. It’s not essential, but will be appreciated.

● Muddy paws may need washing to clean them properly. Leave a bowl of water by the door ready for your return. If your dog is happy about it, the brush-in-a-bottle paw cleaners can be handy to take along in your car when going for walks further afield.

● Fit covers to all your car seats to protect them from wet, muddy dog!

STAYING SAFE

● Some dogs will make a beeline for water and take a dip at any time of year, but it’s not a good idea to allow them. Don’t let your pet walk on frozen ponds or lakes either. If you can’t guarantee being able to keep your dog away, keep him on a lead.

● Avoid icy patches where possible — as well as falls, they can also cause sprains and strains for both of you. Teaching your dog to walk nicely on a loose lead will ensure that he doesn’t pull you over when the ground is slippery.

● Snow and ice balling up between paw pads makes it hard for your dog to balance as well as being uncomfortable. Trimming excess fur away may help, and paw waxes such as Musher’s Secret will also give some protection.

● Dull days, short daylight hours, foggy weather, and heavy rain can all affect visibility. Carry a torch so you can see where you are going, and kit out yourself and your dog with lights and high-visibility clothing so others can see you too. When visibility is very poor, keep your dog on a lead.

● Don’t feel you have to risk going for a walk in really adverse weather conditions; try some indoor entertainment instead. Getting your dog to engage his brain is said to be just as effective (sometimes more), in creating a relaxed dog ready for a nap, as a brisk half-hour walk.

STAYING HEALTHY

● Grit and salt on roads and pavements can irritate paws, so even if your dog’s feet aren’t muddy, wash them off when you return home. It also ensures any spills or leaks of car antifreeze, which he may have walked through, are removed; some types are highly toxic and may be ingested if he licks his paws.

● Carry drinking water, which you can offer your dog while out on walks; he can get just as thirsty running around and playing outdoors in winter as during the summer. Don’t let him quench his thirst drinking from puddles, which may have contaminants in them, or by eating snow, which may lower his core temperature.

● If your dog is getting less exercise during the winter months you might need to rethink his diet and feed a little less. For other dogs it can be the opposite, and they may burn off more calories than usual dashing around in the cold. Don’t just keep an eye on his figure, but weigh him regularly to check whether he’s gaining (or losing) weight. If he’s too big for you to comfortably pick up, pop into your vet’s surgery and use their scales.

● As we’ve all come to appreciate over the last few years, mental health is as important as physical health, and it’s as true for your dog as yourself. If he’s getting less exercise, he may be feeling bored and even depressed. Spend time

Free content for you to use!

On these pages, we want to give you content that you can use on your social media channels. Any independent pet shop is welcome (and encouraged!) to copy any of the information on this page. We want to create a useful resource for you to make posting on social media that bit easier!

indoors on brushing up on training, teaching new skills, playing games, and providing mental stimulation, and maybe leaving some safe interactive treats for him to find when you have to go out leaving him home alone.

● Dogs can be as vulnerable to carbon monoxide poisoning as humans. The most common causes of accidental exposure to this colourless, odourless, and deadly gas are from boilers, gas fires, central heating systems, water heaters, and open fires, all of which you may be making more use of in the winter months. Make sure household appliances are properly maintained and regularly serviced, that flues and chimneys aren’t blocked, and buy carbon monoxide detectors to place around the house to warn of leaks.

Did you know?>

Just like us, dogs can suffer from hypothermia, chilblains, and frostbite when temperatures drop.

For small pets

Shelter them from winter weather

It’s important to shelter our small furries from the bracing weather.

From keeping outdoor rabbit hutches out of the worst of the elements with hutch covers and perhaps changing their location, to keeping indoor small companions out of draughty spots in the house ensure your pets are not cold! Also check that outdoor pets have not got a frozen water supply!

Extra bedding

Adding extra bedding will help keep our pets extra snuggly and warm!

Monitor their food

Some small companions, such as outdoor rabbits, will need more calories as they spend more energy keeping warm. Other species may be less active and won’t need any extra food. Owners should always keep an eye on their pet’s weight, but during winter it is worth considering the impact of the weather.

Make sure they get regular exercise and stimulation

While the weather is cold and even us humans may feel the winter blues, we need to provide stimulation. Rabbits will still enjoy using their run and all small companions will benefit from opportunities to forage, play games, and use tunnels and toys.

Extra protection

If you have outdoors rabbits, outdoor predators can be even bolder during the winter as they are even hungrier than normal. Ensure your rabbit is protected and secure in their hutch.

Posting with a picture

Social media is very visual and posts with pictures usually receive far more engagement than without. There are websites where you can find free images you can use, even for commercial use. These include pixabay.com and unsplash.com Search for royalty free images online and check the terms do allow you to use them, and you will find some stunning photography!

HERE COMES CRUFTS!

The world’s greatest dog show is back in March, so be prepared and check how Crufts savvy you are with our fun quiz!

Bigger and better than ever before, Crufts is a glorious celebration of the roles that dogs play in our lives. As well as the showing classes, there are agility, flyball, obedience, and heelwork to music competitions; there are categories for junior as well as adult handlers, cross-breeds — and, of course, the amazing Hero Dog Awards.

But how much do you really know about the show to beat all shows? As the countdown to the big event begins, test your knowledge here!

5

Show founder Charles Cruft’s job provided the inspiration for the show. What was he employed as?

A Salesman for dog grooming equipment.

B Canine photographer.

C General manager for a dog biscuit manufacturer.

12

Which breed has won BIS at Crufts the most times?

6

Charles Cruft’s first dog show, billed as the ‘First Great Terrier Show’, was held in 1886. In which year did the first show to use his name — Cruft’s Greatest Dog Show — take place?

A 1887.

B 1889.

C 1891.

7

What did the show drop in 1974?

A An apostrophe.

B The championship rosettes.

A Golden Retriever. B Poodle. C Cocker Spaniel. 13

How many different breed categories are there? (and can you name them all?)

A 5. 7. 9.

14

Who was the first British monarch to enter dogs at Crufts?

Queen Victoria.

Queen Alexandra.

King George V.

1

Crufts has moved home several times: it’s currently located at the NEC in Birmingham, but was previously at Earls Court, and at Olympia before that — but where was the first Crufts show held?

A Royal Agricultural Hall, Islington.

B The Crystal Palace, Hyde Park.

C Alexandra Palace, Haringey.

2

The Best in Show award didn’t start until 1928. Which breed was the first winner?

A Yorkshire Terrier.

B Irish Setter.

C Greyhound. 3

In 2009 Crufts streamed online for the first time, becoming the most watched channel on YouTube in the UK, but in which year was it first televised?

A 1950.

B 1960.

C 1970.

C The Best in Show trophy. 8

Which breed will be getting its own class this year?

A Bucks Boar Hound.

B Bavarian Mountain Hound.

C Silken Windhound. 9Why was the 1954 show cancelled?

A Electricians’ strike.

B Postal strike.

C Train strike. 10

Crufts isn’t just about showing, but a celebration of all things canine. What popular feature was added to the show in 1994?

A Shopping stands.

B Discover Dogs.

15

Which popular competition for cross-breeds was introduced in 2000?

A Mutts‘n’pups. B Scruffts. C Pooches.

16

How much dog fur gets cleaned up after the show?

A Around 150kg (23 stones).

B Around 250kg (39 stones).

C Around 350kg (55 stones).

17

Broadcaster Clare Balding, who has been presenting TV coverage of Crufts since 2004, was the owner of a cherished Tibetan Terrier called Archie who sadly passed away in 2020. What was the link between Archie and the 2007 Best in Show winner?

4

At the first show, at which all breeds were invited to compete, there were nearly 2,500 entries, and around 2,000 dogs and 36 breeds attended. How many breeds nowadays compete for the ultimate accolade of Best in Show?

A Around 100.

B Around 200.

C Around 300.

20. A: Mr H.S. Lloyd won Best in Show six times with three Cocker Spaniels: Luckystar of Ware in 1930 and 1931, Exquisite Model of Ware in 1938 and 1939, and Tracey Witch of Ware in 1948 and 1950.

19. C: The winner doesn’t get to take the solid silver trophy home though, but receives a replica of it plus a small cash prize.

18. B: Vbos The Kentuckian (known to his friends as Jet) took the top prize on March 13, 2011, aged nine years,195 days.

C: The Cocker Spaniel has been awarded Best in Show seven times, followed by the Irish Setter, Poodle, and Welsh Terrier, which have each won on four occasions. 13. B: The seven different categories are Working, Utility, Toy, Pastoral, Terrier, Hound, and Gundog. 14. A: Queen Victoria won three classes, with a collie and two Pomeranians. 15. B: Cross-breeds compete for titles including Most Handsome Dog, Prettiest Bitch, and Golden Oldie. 16. C. 17. B: Archie was the grandson of BIS winner Araki Fabulous Willie.

C Canine makeover demonstrations. 11

A special new one-off competition is planned for this year’s show — what is it?

A The Kennel Club 150th Anniversary Celebration Stakes.

B Champion Trick Performance. C Top Groomers Award.

A Father. B Grandson. C Brother. 18

Which breed was the oldest dog to win the coveted Best in Show trophy?

A Bearded Collie.

B Flat Coated Retriever. C West Highland White Terrier.

What is the name of the trophy awarded to the Best in Show winner?

A The Charles Cruft Trophy. B The Crufts Cup. C The Keddell Memorial Trophy.

MORE

INFO:

Crufts 2023 takes place at the NEC, Birmingham from March 9 – 12. The breed competitions are scheduled as follows: Thursday, March 9, gundog; Friday, March 10, working and pastoral; Saturday, March 11, terrier and hound; Sunday, March 12, utility and toy.

● For more information and to book a ticket, visit www.crufts.org.uk/tickets

10 amazing things you never knew about cats

Did you know cats are evolutionary marvels with a body that is perfectly fit for purpose? Karen Bush explains.

No matter how long you’ve been a cat person, there’s always something new to discover! Modern technology has helped to reveal some of the mysteries that have puzzled owners for years, and there’s no doubt that our feline companions are amazing creatures.

1 THE CAT’S WHISKERS

The phrase ‘the cat’s whiskers’ really couldn’t be more appropriate because those long hairs on your cat’s face are quite brilliant. On average, cats have around 24 whiskers, 12 on each side of the face, in four horizontal rows. There are also usually three over each eye, a few shorter ones on their chins, plus sensory whiskers on the back of the front legs, called carpal vibrissae.

Each extra thick long hair is embedded three times more deeply into the skin than ordinary coat hairs and is surrounded by a network of nerve endings and as many as 100 — 200 sensory neurons that transmit information to the brain. Incredibly sensitive, as well as feeling solid objects, they can detect the tiniest of air currents, compensate for poor close-up vision, enable your cat to safely navigate his environment, and to determine whether he can fit into small spaces without getting stuck. They are even affected by gravity so your cat always knows which way is up and which way is down if he falls off something and needs to employ his righting reflex! Whiskers can also communicate how he is feeling: when hunting or excited they move forward; if anxious, feeling threatened, or unwell, they may be pinned back; while when content, they relax out to the sides.

2THE TIPS OF THE TONGUE

Your cat’s tongue is a marvel of design. As well as helping him to taste, eat, and drink, it is a grooming tool. The surface is covered with hundreds of tiny backward-facing spines called papillae and made of keratin — the same stuff as claws and fur are made of. These little spines are scoop-shaped with hollow tips which absorb saliva. When your cat grooms himself, not only do they act like a natural hairbrush, they distribute the saliva through the coat right down to the skin, helping to cleanse the fur and to reduce body temperature on warm days. Cats spend nearly a third of their waking time grooming. Although that isn’t quite as long as you might think, since on average they spend around 70 per cent of their lives sleeping.

3HOW CATS PURR

For many years, no-one knew how a cat purred. It’s only fairly recently that scientists have determined that the noise comes from the muscles within the larynx. As they move, they dilate, constricting the glottis (the part of the larynx surrounding the vocal chords) causing the air to vibrate each time the cat breathes in or out. But just as a dog wagging its tail is not always expressing friendliness, so a purring cat is not always a happy one. Athough it is most often to do with contentment, it can also be an indication of nervousness, fear, or stress.

But the really incredible thing about your cat’s purr is that it’s thought that it has a healing action. Purrs at a frequency of 25 — 100Hz correspond to healing frequencies used in therapeutic medicine for bone and soft tissues. And of course, the purring as you pet your cat has a wonderfully therapeutic effect for you too, significantly reducing stress levels. One study even found that cat owners had their risk of a stroke or heart attack reduced by 40 per cent.

Did you know?

Cats can suffer from ‘whisker fatigue’ caused by recurrent pressure and overstimulation.

It’s usually associated with food and water bowls that are too small or deep.

Did you know?

Like us, cats can detect salty, sour, bitter, and umami tastes but unlike humans, they can’t taste sweet things. They do, however, have an extra sense of taste which we lack, of adensine phosphate (ATP), a compound found in meat.

Did you know?

The record for the loudest purr is 67.8 decibels — that’s louder than a dishwasher and nearly as loud as a vacuum! Most cats purr at around 25dB.

A cat’s sense of smell is comparable with that of many dogs...

4MESSAGE SCENT

With smell being such an important sense for cats, it’s perhaps not surprising that they use scent as a way of marking territory — a kind of feline graffiti. But it’s not just all about laying claim to their own turf. Scent is also used to learn about unfamiliar cats, announce reproductive status, self-soothe, create familiarity, and can even be a bonding gesture.

Scent is deposited from glands on paw pads, cheeks, lips, forehead, and tail, as well as from two anal glands which mark stools as they pass through, and of course there’s the smell from urine. Scents released from your cat’s rear end, such as when spraying, are long-lasting and high-intensity, done under stressful or exciting circumstances. On the other hand, the scent glands around the face are friendly or low-intensity. When your cat rubs his cheeks against you, and objects in his home, it is often a comforting behaviour demonstrating his feelings of security and familiarity, as well as ownership.

5

SUPPLE SPINE

Cats have some of the most flexible spines in the animal kingdom. Comprising around 53 loosely fitting vertebrae (humans only have 33, some of which are fused), it allows them to curl up into tight balls, squeeze into tight spaces, and twist an astonishing 180 degrees in mid-air during the righting reflex (the ability to orient himself as he falls so he lands on his feet). This flexibility also enables them to dramatically arch their backs while running, allowing them to cover three times their body length with each stride.

6

PERFECT PAWS

Your cat’s soft velvety paw pads ensure that he can walk silently while stalking his prey. As he walks, his back paws step almost exactly into the same place as the front paws, which also helps keep noise down and limits any visible tracks he leaves. Also aiding stealth is his ability to retract his claws, only extending them when needed.

While his claws are an asset in helping him climb trees, when it comes to getting down again, it can be a different matter. If he tries to come down face first, those claws that helped him on the way up are now facing the wrong way and can’t help to anchor him. In order to descend safely, he has to come down backwards, tail end first. It’s not as easy as it sounds and often makes for a slow, anxious return to the ground. Some cats naturally seem to work it out, but not all do, or they may be afraid to try it, which is why some get stuck in trees and have to be rescued.

Three species of forest dwelling wildcats have, however, cracked the problem. Margay, Clouded leopards, and Marbled cats have evolved the ability to rotate their rear ankles 180 degrees so that like squirrels, coming down head first isn’t an issue.

7ANIMAL ATHLETES

Cats are supreme athletes! While the cheetah may hold the world record for being the fastest land animal, able to clock up speeds of up to 75mph (120kph), a domestic kitty is no slouch either. Of course, some are speedier than others. Athletic breeds such as the Bengal and Egyptian Mau are natural born sprinters and can achieve speeds of up to 30mph (48kph). And that’s not all, a cat can jump up to 5 — 6 times its own height in a single bound.

Did you know?

Your cat’s acuity of hearing is pretty good too. When staff in a Dutch embassy in Moscow noticed that the resident cats kept meowing and clawing at the walls, they assumed it was a mouse problem. But when they investigated, it turned out that the cats were hearing microphones hidden by spies being turned on.

8 UNIQUE NOSE

Your cat has a highly developed sense of smell and like his whiskers, he has possessed it since birth! Each kitten can not only distinguish the smell of their mother but can locate the nipple by scent. Most even have a preferred nipple to nurse on.

A cat’s sense of smell is comparable with that of many dogs, with around 200 million scent receptors in the nasal cavity, compared to a paltry five million for humans. Because cats don’t have many taste buds, it means that smell is more important than flavour when it comes to dinner time. What’s more, that cute little button nose is also completely unique to your kitty, with its own pattern of bumps and ridges; just like human fingerprints, no two are the same.

Did you know?

When a cat chases its prey, its head stays level, unlike a dog’s which bobs up and down.

9AMAZING EARS

While humans have a mere six ear muscles controlling the outer ear, your cat has an amazing 32 muscles which enable him to independently move his ears 180 degrees in opposite directions. This makes it possible for him to hear sounds all round his head without having to move it (very useful for a hunter), as well as to accurately pinpoint the location of a noise.

10

CATS EYES

As a nocturnal predator, your cat needs to make the most of all available light. One of the features of his eyes which helps to do this is the Tapetum lucidum, a specialised layer of cells which act like a mirror, reflecting light back on to the retina and increasing night vision.

You can see this if you take a photo of your cat using a flash, or catch him in a beam of torchlight at night — it almost appears as if his eyes are spookily glowing in the dark. It is this property which led to the invention in 1934 by Yorkshireman Percy Shaw of the reflective road studs often referred to as ‘cats eyes.’ His inspiration came while driving around a tight bend on an unlit road one night — his headlights were reflected back at him by the eyes of a cat sitting on a fence, which supposedly saved his life. If it hadn’t been there, he would have veered off the road and down a steep drop.

BEST

BEST GROOMING PRODUCT

WINNER: FURMINATOR

● www.furminator.net

BEST FLEA PRODUCT (FOR PET)

WINNER: FRONTLINE PLUS

BEST FLEA PRODUCT (FOR HOME)

WINNER: INDOREX DEFENCE HOUSEHOLD FLEA SPRAY

● www.virbac.co.uk

HIGHLY COMMENDED: ● Frontline HomeGard Household Flea Spray; www.uk.frontline.com

● Bob Martin Clear Plus Home Flea Fogger; www.bobmartin.co.uk

BEST

WORMING

PRODUCT

WINNER: DRONTAL TASTY BONE

● www.drontal.co.uk

HIGHLY COMMENDED: ● Bob Martin Clear 3-in-1

BEST

BEST SPECIALIST DIET

WINNER: BEAPHAR KIDNEY DIET

● www.beaphar.co.uk

HIGHLY

BEST DRY FOOD

BEST WET FOOD

● hilifepet.co.uk/collections/hilife-its-only-natural-cat-food

BEST TREAT

BEST HEALTH PRODUCT

● www.feliway.com/uk

BEST FLEA PRODUCT (FOR PET)

WINNER: FRONTLINE PLUS

● www.uk.frontline.com

HIGHLY COMMENDED: ● Bob Martin Clear Plus Spot-on; www.bobmartin.co.uk

● Itch Flea; www.itchpet.com

BEST FLEA PRODUCT (FOR THE HOME)

WINNER:

INDOREX DEFENCE

● virbac.co.uk

HIGHLY COMMENDED: ● Frontline Homegard; www.uk.frontline.com

● Bob Martin Clear Plus Home Flea Fogger; www.bobmartin.co.uk

BEST WORMING PRODUCT WINNER: DRONSPOT

● www.drontal.co.uk

HIGHLY COMMENDED: ● Bob Martin Clear Wormer Spot-On; www.bobmartin.co.uk

● Beaphar WORMclear Spot-On for Cats; www.beaphar.co,uk

BEST INSURANCE

WINNER:

Small pet obesity: a growing problem

Claire Hamblion Marketing

Director

at Supreme Pet Foods

As the trend to humanisation continues, there is no doubt that rabbits and other small pets are very much part of the family. In many ways, this is great news. Today’s pet parents are highly knowledgeable and prepared to spend a premium on the very best for their four-legged family members. But it is not all good…

More sedentary lifestyles and expanding waistlines are not just a human concern. As a global obesity pandemic affects the human population, pets are following close behind.

Key to preventing obesity and determining whether a pet gains or loses weight is the balance between calorie intake from food and energy expenditure. As the saying goes, it’s not rocket science. So why is pet obesity such a challenging problem to solve?

Lack of awareness

According to a UK Pet Food report, veterinary surgeons think that 29 per cent of small pets are obese or overweight, and this figure is likely to be rising. However, when pet owners were surveyed, only eight per cent thought that their four-legged friend needed to lose weight.

With a clear mismatch in perception of the problem, one of the biggest hurdles in tackling the rising tide of pet obesity is raising owner awareness and resetting the view that being overweight is ‘normal.’ After all, owners are unlikely to take action to help their pet if they have little appreciation that there is a problem in the first place.

Retailers can play an important role in helping educate owners, establishing themselves as a knowledgeable source of pet care advice, and in so doing help to improve small pet health and welfare.

Overweight or obese?

According to UK Pet Food, a pet is classed as overweight when it is 10 to 15 per cent over ideal body weight, and obese when it is 15 per cent or more over the ideal. For small pets like rabbits, this means that they do not need to gain a great deal of weight before it starts to impact their health.

Risk factors for obesity

Just as in the human population, some individuals are more at risk of weight gain than others. As yet, there are relatively few studies that focus on obesity in rabbits but knowledge is increasing all the time. Breed is likely to play a part, with large or giant breeds tending to be more predisposed to weight gain. Genetics may well be important here, but the reduced activity levels in these larger pets is also likely to be a key factor.

How about lifestyle? Keeping warm uses energy. House rabbits are less exposed to cold winter weather than their outdoor friends, so with less need to expend energy to stay snug, they may be more inclined to gain weight.

Another contributory factor is whether a rabbit has been neutered. There is lots of evidence that energy requirements decrease after neutering in cats and dogs, but this area of knowledge is less well established in rabbits. However, one study concluded that neutered rabbits are over five times more likely to be overweight.

Effects of obesity

Even carrying a small amount of extra weight can have far reaching implications for health, including:

● Arthritis

● Liver disease (hepatic lipidosis)

● Fly strike (due to impaired grooming)

● Sore feet (pododermatitis)

● Reduced caecotrophy

● Poor gut health

● Reduced life expectancy

regular weigh-ins will help keep track of a pet’s weight in the longer term.

Step three: Rabbits should be fed 25 grams of nuggets or muesli mix per kilogram of body weight per day, split into two meals, morning and evening. You may need to adjust this a little depending on body condition score.

Portion size calculation: 25 x rabbit weight in kg = daily total food ration in grams

While encouraging owners to bring their pets in store for body condition scoring and weight checks is useful, this must be balanced against the stress this may cause these prey animals. Why not ask owners to keep a written record at home as a good compromise?

Cutting calories

A complex problem

While weight management is a complex problem, one thing that is not in doubt is the importance of feeding a high quality, species-specific diet. Lack of dietary fibre, too many sugary treats, and lack of portion control will all increase the risk of obesity. Sounds familiar? As pets have become part of the family, so bad human habits have influenced small pet waistlines.

Here is a quick reminder of the key messages to emphasise about a healthy rabbit diet:

● High-fibre food is critical for maintaining a healthy weight as well as supporting the delicate rabbit digestive system and wearing down their continually growing teeth.

At Supreme, we have refined our manufacturing process to include higher levels of fibre in our diets, and our Science Selective Adult Rabbit has 25 per cent crude fibre — higher than any other comparable rabbit food.

● Excess sugar can lead to health problems including dental disease and obesity, so diets with no added sugars will be preferable to those that may include sugary ingredients such as molasses.

● Hay should make up at least 80 per cent of the diet and should be chosen for its palatability and nutritional content. Some of the best options for rabbits are Timothy hay, such as Science Selective Timothy Hay or Meadow hay like Russel Rabbit Tasty Hay.

● Feed a carefully measured portion of rabbit nuggets every morning and evening, together with a handful of leafy greens.

Dry rabbit food is much more energy dense than hay or grass, so when it comes to weight loss, reducing portion size a little is one option. Owners can also encourage their rabbit to work a bit harder for their nuggets. Scatter-feeding the daily portion among the hay is one way of doing this and it has the added benefit of providing enrichment and helping to keep rabbits entertained.

To ensure rabbits receive a balanced diet with all the essential nutrients they need, it is important that portion size is not reduced too far. So, for those rabbits that have a little more to lose, how about recommending a lower bulk density, higher fibre diet such as Science Naturals Fibafirst? With a crude fibre level of 30 per cent, Fibafirst has a nutritional profile similar to hay and is a good choice for all adult rabbits, but especially those that need to lose weight. Made with highly palatable natural ingredients, including high quality Timothy hay, the delicious taste and unique long chain fibre structure also encourages chewing for excellent dental and digestive health.

Treat time

What about treats? Feeding extras may seem counterintuitive when thinking about weight loss. Of course, it goes without saying that sugary treats should be avoided. However, treats help strengthen bonds and encourage foraging behaviour. Added to this, treating their pets can be a hard habit for many owners to break.

There is no reason to stop treats altogether but they should be offered in moderation as part of the daily

Quality and quantity

Of course, just like us, rabbits can have too much of a good thing, so when it comes to nuggets, portion control is important. If portions are too generous, not only will rabbits tend to gain weight, but they are also less likely to eat enough hay with a knock-on detrimental effect on dental and digestive health.

A guide that is often used is that in addition to unlimited hay, rabbits should have an egg-cup sized offering of dry food every day. While this may be true for some, it is far better to determine portion size on an individual basis, taking into account factors such as size, lifestyle, activity levels, and body condition score.

Portion size: a step-by-step guide

Step one: Start by assessing whether a rabbit is overweight, underweight, or just right, using tools such as the UK Pet Food’s Rabbit Size-O-Meter (https://www.ukpetfood.org/ resource/rabbit-size-o-meter.html)

Step two: Measuring a pet’s weight in kilograms (kg) is useful too. As well as helping determine portion size,

allowance. Treats that are high in fibre with no added sugar, such as Supreme’s Selective Naturals range are ideal; from Selective Naturals Orchard Loops with Timothy hay and apple, to Selective Naturals Garden Sticks with pea and mint, there is something to suit all tastes.

Broaching the issue of pet obesity with owners can be challenging. It is a subject that is fraught with feelings of guilt and can also be a sensitive topic given the prevalence of obesity in the human population. However, by approaching the issue in a sensitive manner, as well as providing practical tips and support, retailers can arm owners with the knowledge they need to change their pet’s life for the better.

The challenges of launching brands in the pet channel

So, you are thinking of launching a new brand into the pet channel? Where do you go for help? What challenges are you likely to face?

Sean Kelly is a consultant with decades of experience in supply chain and operations and Susan McKay runs a specialist PR and marketing agency for pet and vet. They discuss how suppliers can negotiate the difficult journey to market.

What events have formed the current trading environment?

When it comes to understanding what is needed now, it helps to understand formative events in the past. The market has been through a turbulent time since Covid-19 first reared its head back in March of 2020.

Pet product purchases, along with many other retail categories, saw the initial panic buy uplift as consumers invariably looked to make sure they were not left short. Pet foods disappeared off shelf very quickly, particularly the internationally recognised, staple entry-level brands. Owners were then faced with the dilemma of changing brand and upgrading, as the better-best category sales pull through, albeit strong, was nothing like the volumes the entry level ranges were struggling to keep up with.

Pet accessory and treat suppliers were also subjected to the same crazy spikes in demand, not only due to the same panic buying patterns but also due to the additional numbers of companion pets coming into the market. Consumers were working from home and/or furloughed and the benefits of pet companionship were never clearer. Pets were being treated more often, with higher quality treats, and owners were spending more time trawling the web in search of higher quality products.

Suppliers who were able to match the step up in demand were able to experience a strong trading period. Some suppliers though were left behind as the challenges of far eastern supply from the manufacturers, coupled with the limited availability and spiralling import container charges, put pressure on pricing, particularly on entry level price points and for bulk product.

As availability improved and demand settled in line with the increased pet levels, the world got back to some semblance of normality. Since then, some manufacturers/ brand owners have had real difficulty in forecasting ongoing demand and managing supply chain stock levels. Many manufacturers have reverted to 2019 sales numbers and built forecasted increase on what was the norm three years ago. Some have vasty over estimated and in some cases, there is still significant commitment to stock that will need to work through the chain.

What are the key challenges in the current market?

The pet product market is currently highly saturated across most categories. As a result, there is a general reluctance from the market to take on new products or new suppliers. Those stores who have performed strongly over the last two years may have what they feel is a very strong established offering across categories and ‘if it’s not broken, then why fix it?’ Those stores who did not trade particularly well are likely to be far more cautious due to turbulent trading and present financial uncertainty. That makes life very difficult for new entrants and brands trying to establish a retail foothold. The opportunity will also vary according to the product type and it’s important to ask an expert or gain some insights from market research as to where a product might most comfortably sit. A product with good gifting credentials will, for instance, be attractive to garden centres or high street independents in higher income areas where there is a demand for luxuries and indulgencies rather than

Starting small and independent

Independent pet stores perform at vastly different levels, driven by demographics, store space, understanding and selection of product mix, and quality of staff and staff engagement. At one end of the scale, there is a vast number of independent stores out there who rely on a loyal customer base who like to shop from a tiered offering across all categories. These stores have a base mix of products and as such are likely to be reserved and reluctant to take on

The buying patterns of the smaller stores is to purchase the majority of their range through a preferred wholesaler and where turnover allows, to have one or more additional wholesalers to help manage supply. If volume sales permit, there are of course opportunities to take product directly from brand owners/ manufacturers but credit terms, convenience, and minimum order quantities are likely to be key in the

If your brand model offers sufficient margin structure, there might be scope to sell through a wholesaler’s network or an e-commerce platform. There are a good number out there who can offer sales and marketing support to help get your brand established with the trade. This will generally cover cation, so the supplier will still have to plan the strategy and develop and produce brand collateral such as point of sale materials. Any trade

campaign will also need to be supported with consumer marketing to drive footfall into stores and improve retailer confidence.

Many brands entering the market however will be looking to manage their own sales, marketing, and distribution. For some, budgets will be tight because of the initial investment in product and this can be a false economy. Even the greatest product in existence can fall flat if no one knows about it.

A clear strategy on how to approach the smaller independents is essential. The time involved in looking to follow up contact and leads for such a large number of stores can be vastly disproportionate to the potential returns. Each pitch has to be compelling with a focus on return on investment and details of the marketing campaign supporting the launch. A blanket approach will result in many rejections.

The win comes from targeting exciting, engaging retailer stores who follow trends on feeding, natural treating, accessory, and pet interaction and so on. These stores have a good eye for the next strong product line and see the benefit of continually looking to strengthen their range offering. Size and profitability often offers them the freedom to take calculated risks on stocking untried products and they will also look to the data and a professional presentation detailing the opportunity to mitigate any risk. The difficulty here, as always, is identifying the right stores for the right product. There is no one ‘go-to’ database out there and those who have compiled the contact details are not going to part with this valuable data.

Scaling up with chains

The chains have evolved to have very similar, well performing, tried and tested, brands across key categories. The differences lie mainly in own label foods, treats, and accessories within the larger chains. The ‘second-tier’ 20 – 50 store chains support the same brands and have very similar store layout, flow, and brand blocking, and sell a strong mix of good, better, best across the main categories.

Pets Corner and Pets at Home differ further still as their own label offering commands a significantly higher percentage of their range offering than others.

The challenges here differ noticeably from other retailers. The larger chains will have multiple buyers responsible for set categories. They must work to clear structured schedules of which categories they will review and timelines for product introduction. If you miss the timing on a seasonal product range, you may have to wait for the following season. Stores are ranged/planogramed and merchandised precisely and there is very little opportunity for product introduction outside of the category reviews.

The key challenges here are to find the opportunity to connect with the right buyers, to have a product that is of interest and will add difference to established product portfolios, to gauge timing around seasonality and category reviews, have the margin and price structure that will fit the expectations of the retail chains and have the resource to support with brand merchandising and staff training, in store consumer awareness days, etc. There’s no doubt this is a significant investment and it’s important to make the most of the opportunity when it arises.

Marketing campaigns and support

If you are to launch your products into what has already been described as a saturated market, then how are you going to ensure that you get noticed? There are two hurdles to jump here, not only are you looking to convince your retail customers that they can improve their product ranging and increase their turnover by listing your brand, but you also need to be clear on how your brand will appeal to the end customer.

Advertising, digital campaigns, and influencer marketing can all quickly soak up the budget and have to be timed correctly so that there are outlets where customers can be directed to buy. Testing before scaling up is often forgotten in the midst of the excitement of a dynamic campaign but when budgets are stretched, it is imperative to maximise

return on investment. Digital offers lots of opportunity to get results quickly and to adapt the strategy. Local marketing campaigns can also be useful to support the retailers who are first to stock.

POS and in-store advertising can be expensive but can, if implemented well, be the difference between success and failure. Let us not forget, for example, that there are very few consumers out there who are able to recognise

more than a small handful of pet accessory brands. How are you planning to make sure that you make the POS and merchandising of the brand impactful, that the retailer is going to want the display in their stores, and that the consumer is going to be enticed to engage?

As a new brand, you might also need to invest in free standing or counter-top displays to enable conversations to take place away from current fixtures and to prove to the retailer that a product works for them before they remove another brand to make shelf space in a competitive category. Packaging needs to stand out and clearly communicate the unique selling points, especially in stores where there is little in the way of active selling from staff.

Predict to build on success

You are a start-up brand, so how are you going to forecast stock and ensure that you can guarantee supply?

Forecasting through a time of change is a real challenge as we’ve already seen. The internationally recognised accessory brands and big volume players reacted quickly to increase production during Covid–19, yet in some cases even they now have issues with overstocks within the supply chain. Many brand owners have reverted to 2019 sales figures as a base for their forecasting models. Covid-19 is still having a direct influence on supply, with China still challenged by the long-term impact of lockdown and political turmoil.

No matter how you look to forecast, you will need to be able to flex with demand while managing finances. The key is to manage expectations and look for a business model where you can flex with growth.

New brand checklist

● Understand your product’s point of difference and maximise its potential

● Where do you sit on good, better, best? (Are you competing on price, quality, performance?)

● Understand the direct competition within the category

● Decide on your target customers (wholesale, e-commerce,

independents, chains, online)

● Have a clear pricing structure for each channel

● Set a marketing budget and plan (POS, advertising, shows)

● Have a clear sales and marketing approach for each channel

Building brand success

Brand success is very likely to be reliant on winning listings across multiple customer sizes and you should therefore identify the best approach for getting your brand in front of each group.

The larger stores/chains stores should form part of your contact strategy and, outside of working with the wholesalers and ecommerce platforms, the best way to get product data in front of these target accounts is to look to exhibit at the recognised trade shows, appoint a good marketing team/partner, and to use pet industry publications.

Give thought also as to what is likely to happen to products within the good, better, best, and even super premium categories as we enter the uncertainty of recession. Will consumers be forced to reduce their frequency of treat and accessory purchases for example? Will they buy a cheaper treat/toy or the same brand less frequently? How will super premium be affected? Where does your brand sit?

Forecasting, reacting, and adapting plans is an important aspect of your launch and often relies on access to data insights from across the pet industry and experience and that can be difficult to do unless you are already well connected across the pet trade.

For those who get all of this right, the rewards are significant. We are operating in a dynamic and growing market sector that is, at least to some degree, ‘recessionproof.’ Forging ahead with confidence in the face of an economic downturn isn’t easy but it also means that there may be less competition while others hesitate and wait for better times. There is no time like the present.

Your employment rights when you’re sick

working days), you still consider yourself too unwell to work, you will be required to provide a ‘fit note’ from your doctor or another registered healthcare professional. This should start from your eighth day of sickness absence and will confirm how long your doctor or registered healthcare professional expects you to be off.

If you are not fit to return to work at the expiry of a fit note, you will need a further fit note to cover your ongoing absence.

have a set deadline, you must notify them within seven days.

● Supply evidence of incapacity (i.e. through self-certification or a fit note).

● Earn at least £123.00 (before tax) per week.

SSP is the minimum and employees may very well be entitled to higher payments during periods of sickness absence. Usually, an employee’s contract of employment will confirm what their sick pay entitlement is, whether statutory sick pay or what is generally known as ‘company sick pay’ — some employers offer over and above the statutory entitlement. If employees are entitled to company sick pay, this will be paid inclusive of statutory sick pay, not in addition.

Medical appointments

deemed reasonable. This allows employers to check in on the employee and get an update on how they are.

For more prolonged periods of absence resulting from a serious illness, continuing contact once a day is less likely to be seen as reasonable because there is unlikely to be a change in the employee’s condition in the timeframe. In these instances, once a week or less would be considered to be more reasonable.

In addition to the frequency of contact, the purpose of contact should also be considered reasonable. Employers have duty of care and should have some contact with an employee on sickness absence to ensure their ongoing welfare. Checking in on an employee in this way would be considered reasonable; repeatedly asking them nonurgent, work-related questions would be considered less so.

It’s also important to bear in mind the reason for the employee’s sickness. Repeatedly contacting a person who is off sick with work-related stress or anxiety, for example, may only exacerbate their condition. For such cases, it’s best to limit contact while still being mindful of the duty of care to the employee’s well-being.

As for working when on sick leave, it needs to be reasonable. For example, it would probably be considered reasonable to ask an employee who’s off sick with tonsilitis a quick question to ensure their work can be covered in their absence. However, excessive or repeated requests likely to have an impact on the employee’s recovery should be avoided, as these would be seen as unreasonable.

Discipline and sickness

It’s a simple fact of life that people can feel under the weather or sick from time to time. Thankfully, it is rarely serious and they soon recover. But for those employed, when they’re feeling ill, regardless of the reason, work is the last thing they want to think about. For them, it helps to understand their rights and obligations.

Every employer should have policies and procedures covering sickness absence to clarify employees’ rights and explain what employees must do to report any illness and throughout their absence. Policies are bespoke, but there are some general points to bear in mind.

Informing the employer

If you’re unwell, the first step is to notify your employer so they know you will not be working and can plan for your absence and arrange appropriate cover. You should try to do this as soon as possible, but no later than the start time of your working day. Your employment contract or the company’s policy on sickness absence will confirm a time by which you must report your absence.

You must report your absence for the first seven days of your illness. Known as ‘selfcertification,’ you effectively deem yourself unfit for work and inform your employer of the same with an estimation of when you expect to be able to return.

If after seven days (including non-

If you do not provide a fit note, your employer can withhold your sick pay on the basis that they are not satisfied you are unwell and cannot attend work. An employer may also have grounds to treat your absence as unauthorised, without contrary information, instigating its disciplinary procedure.

Sick pay

The minimum pay an employee is entitled to during sickness absence is statutory sick pay (SSP). The system in place for payment of statutory sick pay can appear complex, but in summary, it entitles eligible employees absent from work due to incapacity who meet qualifying conditions to receive a weekly statutory sick pay payment. SSP is limited to a maximum of 28 weeks. You can calculate your specific entitlement online at gov.uk — search for Calculate your employee’s statutory sick pay.

The qualifying conditions, which are set out in sections 151 —154 of the Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992, state that you must:

● Have four or more consecutive days of sickness, including weekends and holidays, where you are incapable of carrying out work (i.e. the first three days do not qualify for statutory sick pay and are generally dubbed ‘waiting days’)

● Notify your employer of your sickness absence within their set deadlines (i.e. as per your contract of employment or internal policies). If your employer does not

Your employer is not legally required to give you time off for a medical appointment (paid or unpaid) unless you need to attend such appointments in connection with a disability. That being said, if it is confirmed within your contract of employment that you will be entitled to time off work to attend a medical appointment, your employer is obliged to let you do so and pay you in accordance with this clause; they would be in breach of contract otherwise.

Despite no legal requirement for these situations, most employers allow employees time off for these appointments as a gesture of goodwill. Sometimes, employers will allow attendance during work hours on the provision this time off work is made up for elsewhere by the employee. Alternatively, employers can insist the appointment is moved to outside working hours or, if the appointment needs to be during working hours, the employee takes this time off as annual leave.

It is also important to note that a medical appointment, including emergency treatment, can sometimes be classed as a sickness absence. Moreover, antenatal and adoption appointments are given their own set of rules, with a statutory right for the time off work to attend such appointments and accompany those attending.

Employer contact

An employer should ensure to keep their contact with any employee who is off work sick to reasonable level. This means that there is no specific frequency of contact the employer should maintain and the level of contact will often vary depending on how long the employee has been off sick and the reason for their absence.

For example, when an employee is first off sick, depending on their reason for absence, contact once a day is likely to be

If an employee is deemed unfit to work, this does not consequently make them unfit to participate in an internal HR procedure. If an employee is ill, an employer should act reasonably and see whether they could postpone the process until their return or, where this is not possible, explore alternatives other than attending a meeting in person such as through written submissions.

Ultimately, an employer cannot delay a disciplinary procedure indefinitely therefore, the process can continue while an employee is absent from work due to illness. However, such conduct by an employer would be deemed more reasonable following the exhaustion of other, more accommodating options.

And if you work more than one job, it is possible to be deemed unfit for work in one role and not the other. In this instance, it would be best to explain to your employer why you can carry out alternative work or if you have a fit note, request it explains this.

Holiday and sickness

Employers cannot force employees to take a holiday when someone is sick. But if you have started a period of annual leave and fall ill, you can amend your holiday to sickness absence for the period you are sick. Therefore, if you are on holiday when you become ill, you can effectively switch from annual leave to sickness absence and reclaim your holiday.

But to do this, you must ensure you comply with the reporting requirements for a period of sickness absence so that your employer can action this change of circumstance on their records. Otherwise, even if you are unwell on a period of annual leave, this could reasonably remain recorded as taking part of your holiday entitlement. You will continue to accrue holiday while on sickness absence.

Sickness happens, that’s a fact. However, while employees have rights, so they have duties to their employer. Ignoring these duties will not serve an employee’s or employer’s best interests.

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“ The minimum pay an employee is entitled to during sickness absence is statutory sick pay (SSP).

Adam Bernstein Writer/researcher for independent businesses.

Workplace temperature

Adam Bernstein Writer/researcher for independent businesses.

While employment law and health and safety requirements require separate and specific attention, there are times when these two specialist areas cross over. Workplace temperatures are one of these areas. Interestingly, it’s a topic lawyers are commonly asked about in the summer months when heat waves result in people feeling too hot to work. However, as we move through the winter and into spring, especially with the fuel crisis affecting the UK, this topic will come across lawyers desks more than usual.

Perhaps surprisingly, there is no law for minimum or maximum working temperatures in the UK.

From a health and safety perspective, employers are required to ensure that temperatures in all workplaces inside buildings are reasonable (www.legislation. gov.uk/uksi/1992/3004/regulation/7/made) Guidance published by the Health and Safety Executive (https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/ priced/l24.pdf) advises that temperatures in a workplace should normally be at least 16 degrees Celsius or at least 13 degrees Celsius where work involves rigorous physical effort. However, there is currently no guidance on the upper end of the scale. In the summer of 2022, we saw unions and a number of MPs call on the Government to set a maximum workplace temperature. We have seen similar calls previously, such as in 2013, but, to date, there doesn’t appear to be any formal move towards the introduction of a maximum temperature.

People usually work best at temperatures between 16°C and 24°C, although this varies depending on the type of work being carried out. For example, strenuous work is better performed at slightly lower temperatures than office work. The Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers recommends the following temperatures: heavy work in factories: 13°C; light work in factories: 16°C; hospital wards and shops: 18°C; offices and in dining rooms: 20°C.

Temperatures that vary too much from this can become a health and safety issue. Workers who get too hot could experience dizziness, fainting, or even heat cramps. In very hot conditions, a person’s blood temperature rises — if it exceeds 39°C, there’s a risk of heat stroke or collapse. Delirium or confusion may occur above 41°C and blood temperatures at this level can prove fatal.

But even on the lower end of hot temperatures, heat leads to a loss of concentration and increased tiredness, which means workers are more likely to put themselves and others at risk. Working in the sun also increases the risk of skin cancer. Therefore, employers have a duty of care to ensure no one works in unsafe or unhealthy conditions, including cold weather.

Workplace temperature is just one consideration when an employer undertakes a risk assessment. From time to time, if the employer identifies some particular hazards with the temperature, for example, an upcoming heatwave or cold spell, they should consider how this can best be managed in the workplace. They should discuss proposals with their employees, such as a temporary relaxation of dress code which is a common way to manage a heatwave.

If employees feel that the temperature at work is not reasonable, they should raise it with their employer. This may be due to general concerns about the temperature or an individual issue. The temperature may be a bigger issue for an employee with a medical condition. For example, employees experiencing menopause symptoms will often report having hot flushes and may look to their employer for support. Alternatively, an employee with a chronic chest condition may struggle when temperatures drop and they feel too cold. If aware of an employee’s medical condition, an employer should carry out risk assessments to identify and address any specific risks to their health. This may result in physical adjustments being put in place, such as temperature control or providing an electric fan.

If an employee doesn’t feel appropriately supported in the workplace, there are a number of potential claims that could be brought in an employment tribunal, including a claim for constructive unfair dismissal. This occurs when the employee resigns in response to conduct by their employer that they believe amounts to a repudiatory breach of contract. Or they could bring a claim due to a failure to make reasonable adjustments to support a disabled person in the workplace.

Furthermore, a failure by the employer to adequately address the risks presented by workplace temperature and which results in an injury, may lead to a claim for compensation owing to the employer’s failure to fulfil its duty of care. Accordingly, the employer must take extra precautions to keep the employee safe from harm and these responsibilities cover where and when the work is carried out, the clothes and equipment provided to the employee, and the training given in advance.

The temperature can also be an issue before employees even get to work. As a result of climate change, we are seeing more extreme weather in the UK. This may lead to employees feeling unable (or possibly even unwilling) to attend work. The advice to employers is to have an adverse weather and travel disruption policy that sets out what should happen if an employee cannot make it into work because of extreme weather. This should include other reasons for nonattendance such as public transport strikes.

The starting position is that employees should make reasonable efforts to get into work, failing which they may be subject to disciplinary action. Where this isn’t possible, alternative working arrangements may need to be considered. So, employers should ensure that the policy details options such as working from home and changes to working patterns. The policy should also cover whether staff who are absent will be entitled to be paid. While this policy would sit within a wider employee handbook, employers should then remind colleagues and republicise this when they become aware of an imminent situation that may be applicable, such as a storm alert or weather warning being issued.

Like it or not, our climate is changing. Regardless though, it’s a fact that employees work best and are more productive when comfortable. Maintaining the right temperatures is not an expense — it’s an investment.

Q A& Customer solutions

Intruder alert!

Getting it right

How do I toilet train a puppy?

Tony says: Puppies have tiny bladders, so of course, they are going to empty them regularly, no matter where they are. However, don’t panic too much. Their urine is pretty harmless and doesn’t have the odour that an adult dog’s has. Puppies also haven’t learned to control their bowels yet, so pooing can occur randomly.

If your puppy makes a mistake, never scold him. You can end up with a fearful puppy who wees and poos when you are not around or hides and does it anyway (behind the sofa, for example).

The best method is to be there when your puppy gets it right and reward him; this means regular garden trips. Allow him into the garden every hour; be calm and wait. If he wees or poos, give him calm praise during the act and a treat directly after. You must be out there with him to deliver this praise and reward. This reinforces the correct behaviour meaning he is more likely to get it right next time. At night, his toilet habits won’t be quite as frequent. However, you can leave a puppy pad near his sleeping area should he wake up and need to go.

Give your puppy a huge window of opportunity to get it right and to be rewarded for doing so. As he gets older, the hourly trip can become a two-hourly garden visit and then a three-hourly trip.

Never punish him, just as you wouldn’t punish a baby for messing a nappy. If he does mess in the house, calmly take him into the garden, and if he continues out there, give calm praise and reward.

Many owners have significant problems with other people’s cats. Nearly a decade ago, Your Cat (our sister title) ran a survey and found that a third of owners whose cats have freedom to come and go have issues with their neighbours’ pets, in particular with cat fights, intimidation, and entering their homes.

Cats are curious by nature and some extroverts simply enjoy visiting neighbours. A lucky few are welcomed and cause no problem. Others cause a nuisance, stealing food, spray marking, and fighting. Worse, they can intimidate the resident cat making them scared to leave the house and raising their anxiety levels.

Prevention is better than cure, so it is a good idea to not interact with cats that come into your garden. Even if they’re friendly, it’s best not to encourage them and certainly do not offer food as otherwise they’ll return and potentially cause problems for your own cat.

● Move food away from the cat flap so cats are not tempted in by the sight of a food bowl.

● Be wary of allowing your cat access to your home via an open window as other cats will follow suit.

● Upgrade your cat flap — quick and crafty cats have even been known to ‘tailgate’ following a cat into his home via an ordinary cat flap. A microchip flap will only let your cat in.

Owners who use a secure cat flap have significantly fewer problems with cats entering the home to steal food. Cats are very persistent and can be hard to discourage once they have started invading. Of course, a further benefit to a good cat flap is that it can be set to limit access at certain times of day, enabling any keen hunters to be kept in when birds are most active in the garden at dawn and dusk.

If a cat has already started to invade, it’s definitely worth speaking to the owner of the other cat if you can. You may be able to organise a time share of when your cats are allowed out. You can help build your cat’s confidence by heading outside with them, playing games with them indoors, and ensuring they are comfortable accessing all their indoor resources.

Vegan diets for cats

Can I feed my cat a vegan diet?

Whether for ethical, health, or environmental reasons, people are choosing to eat less meat. Demand for vegetarian and vegan food has increased by 350 per cent in the UK over the last 10 years, according to the Vegan Society, and popularity is growing. But, while there are genuine benefits for humans to consume more vegetables and less animal-based products, the same cannot be said for cats. We cannot force a vegan diet on our felines.

All cats are naturally carnivores. But, unlike dogs, which have been domesticated for so long that their physiology has changed from their wild wolf ancestors, cats are still obligate carnivores. This means they evolved to eat meat by necessity.

You only have to look inside a cat’s mouth to see the evidence that our furry friends are designed to hunt and catch their own prey. Their teeth are perfect for ripping and biting; they don’t have flat molars for chewing, like humans. Their sharp teeth are there to cope with flesh and bones. Given the chance, a cat will hunt and eat small mammals, amphibians, birds, and reptiles, even insects.

In fact, all of our pet cat’s biology shows their evolutionary history as a predator. Their retractable claws used to grasp prey, highly tuned sense of smell and hearing to seek out small animals, and excellent night vision adapted for detecting movement.

Meat is essential for cats because it contains the nutrients they need to stay healthy. The main ones are taurine, fatty acids, and vitamins A and B12. The consequences of not getting these nutrients from meat can be serious, with cats getting very ill. In 2013, a kitten in Australia was rushed for emergency veterinary care. It was extremely weak and collapsed when it came in. The vet discovered the vegan owners fed their kitten only potatoes, rice, and pasta. After being told to feed their kitten meat, it recovered quickly.

TONY CRUSE is a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers.

We have a cat that invades our house! What can we do?

Cat behaviour

A feline intruder can make your cat miserable.

Dog training

To begin with, take your dog out into the garden every hour. Cat nutrition

Fighting fleas

Yes! In the UK, fleas can be a year-round problem for both indoor and outdoor cats. We as humans can carry fleas (adults, larvae and eggs) from the outdoor environment and deposit them within the home environment.

For effective control, adult fleas on the cat must be killed and re-infestation from the environment prevented with regular application of veterinary prescription-strength treatments and environmental control (frequent vacuuming and flea sprays).

An ‘on-off’ approach to flea control (treating intermittently) is not recommended as this may provide ideal conditions for the development of flea allergic skin disease in susceptible animals and is an ineffective approach to establishing control over the flea population.

Puppy vaccinations

Can you explain my new puppy’s vaccination schedule; what diseases will he be vaccinated against and how many vaccinations will he have? When will these be given?

Vicky says: There are several dog vaccines licensed for use in the UK and these have slightly different schedules for when each part is given. I will explain the protocol that my practice uses, but it may not be exactly the same as the one your local vet uses.

We usually start puppy vaccines at eight weeks when the puppy is in their new home. The first vaccination covers leptospirosis (I use a fourstrain vaccine, L4, as we are in a high-risk area, but in some areas a two-strain vaccine, L2, might be sufficient) and distemper, hepatitis, and parvovirus (DHP). After two weeks, and when the puppy is at least 10 weeks old, we give the second DHP vaccine and one for Kennel Cough. Because it is so important that puppies get to experience the world at an early age, we advise owners they can take their puppies to training and for short walks a week after their second vaccination but to avoid water, parks, and other high leptospirosis risk areas (places with rats). Two weeks later (four weeks after the first injection) the puppy has their second leptospirosis vaccination and can go anywhere after another week. If puppies are over 10 weeks when they first come in for vaccination they only need one vaccine for DHP and two

Introduction to ferrets

Woodgreen say:

Ferrets are fast becoming a popular pet with families who are looking for a fun, mischievous, and affectionate pet.

Ferrets may not be for first time pet owners, but they certainly suit many families if cared for properly. You will have hours of fun and be rewarded with lots of cuddles from these cheeky little creatures. There are many things to consider when taking on ferrets, these fast facts will provide you with some basic information to help you decide if mischievous ferrets are for you.

Companionship

Ferrets should live in a minimum of a neutered pair or in neutered small groups. They are predators so should not be housed alongside small pets such as rodents or rabbits.

Life expectancy

Ferrets can live up to 10 years.

Accommodation

Ferrets need lots of space to keep them fit, healthy, and happy. They can live indoors or outdoors, each comes with its different requirements. The ideal size accommodation is: Outdoors — a 8ft long by 8ft wide by 6ft high (243cm by 243cm by 182cm) aviary/ run with an insulated sleep area.

Indoors — an XL explorer cage (maximum of two ferrets) with access to a ferret–safe playroom for daily free-range time.

Diet

Ferrets are carnivores; they require a good quality dry complete biscuit with a few healthy treats for variety.

Increase in cases of Lyme disease

How common is Lyme disease in dogs and what are the symptoms? How easy is it to diagnose this disease?

Vicky says: Lyme disease is not common in the UK overall, but it does occur more frequently in hot-spots including The New Forest, Exmoor, The South Downs, The Lake District, North York Moors, and Scottish Highlands and Islands. Rising tick numbers due to changes in the weather are leading to more cases of Lyme disease in dogs and people. Lyme can have vague symptoms including a shifting lameness, fevers, and lethargy. Symptoms can occur some time after a bite from an infected tick. If your vet suspects Lyme they will do blood tests but may start antibiotic treatment while waiting for the results. A vaccine is available against Lyme disease, but using a fast-acting tick control product and removing ticks as soon as they are found is the best way to prevent disease.

VICKY PAYNE, BVetMed, MRCVS is a holistic vet based in East Sussex.

Health

Ferrets require a yearly vaccination against canine distemper. They also should be given preventative flea treatment every three months. Ferrets’ nails can grow very sharp and will require clipping every 6 — 12 weeks.

Ferrets are family friendly Ferrets can make very affectionate and loyal pets; however, they may not suit first time pet owners or families with young children due to their very playful nature which can result in a few small nips when playing with toys.

against leptospirosis four weeks apart (two weeks for some brands).

If there is a high local risk of parvovirus, or in breeds where antibodies from Mum last longer and can stop the vaccination being effective, an extra DHP vaccination might be suggested at 16 weeks.

If your puppy has had a vaccination with their breeder make sure you have a copy of the record when booking with your vet so the vet knows what other injections your puppy needs and when.

The best advice I can give is to contact your local practice who can give you information on the schedule they recommend, as well as local risks, to help you balance protection against disease with training and socialisation opportunities.

Did you know?

Ticks are small, spider-like creatures which feed on the blood of birds and mammals. Ranging in size from 1mm to 1cm long, they have eight legs (they are parasitic arachnids) and their bodies become larger and darker when filled with blood.

Do I need to treat my indoor cat for fleas?

VICKY PAYNE, BVetMed, MRCVS is a holistic vet based in East Sussex.

Indoor cats can get fleas.

Puppy vaccines are usually given from the age of eight weeks.

Dog Health

Ticks are on the increase.

Woodgreen Pets Charity helps pets and people at every step of the way. As well as being a safe haven for vulnerable pets in need of urgent care and a loving new home, Woodgreen provides expert advice and hands-on support to petowners in need of a guiding hand. With almost 100 years’ experience in rehabilitating and rehoming pets, the charity is committed to making sure that pets have the best lives possible. This vital work is only possible thanks to the generosity of supporters. Find out how you can make a difference to pets in need at woodgreen.org.uk

Ferret advice

Ferrets need company.

Shivam Patel and Ashmi Hindocha first met when they were both studying at Bristol University 12 years ago. They got together two years later and celebrated their tenth anniversary in August. When they decided to start living together, there was no

question that they would bring home a pet as they were both big animal lovers.

Shivam said: “Neither of us were allowed to have pets when we were younger and when we moved in together, we both wanted to fill that void that a pet left because we love all animals.”

The couple started looking around at options and at first considered a rabbit, but, as Shivam explained: “Nothing we saw had nity with us, then we considered a dog but we thought that would be a lot more maintenance.”

Fitting right in

As the couple are both dentists, they realised they needed a pet that would fit in better with their lifestyles. And then one of Shivam’s dental nurses said that she had a kitten who was part of a litter and wondered if they would be interested.

Shivam said: “I sent a picture of him to Ashmi and we both fell in love with him straight away.”

And that is how Royston the Ragdoll kitten came to live with the couple in 2019.

They named him after the area of Hertfordshire where they live and now, he

is called Roy for short.

“He fitted in straight away and he was a very good boy right from the beginning. He knew how to use his litter tray and we even let him outside for a bit. He’s not very good at jumping but he is good at climbing, but we know that he won’t try and escape, and we do trust him.”

The couple got engaged in January 2020, but very shortly afterwards, the COVID-19 pandemic hit and they agreed that they wouldn’t do any proper wedding planning until things calmed down a bit. They started wedding planning in earnest in 2021 and had a traditional Hindu ceremony in Tenerife in July, which of course meant that they couldn’t have Roy with them.

Shivam said: “We had our legal ceremony here in the UK so we chose The Old Marylebone Town Hall as it’s one of the best venues that you can get and it was lovely.”

A wedding like no other The couple wrote an impassioned email to the Town Hall committee asking for permission for Roy to join them on their wedding day, which at first was denied. But then after assurances that Roy would be well behaved and that he has his own little backpack to sit in and would not cause any trouble, they relented.

Roy was transported to the ceremony with much pomp and ceremony, in a little clear backpack on wheels so he could be kept safe and secure at the key moments but also free to watch his human parents get married — and he was soon surrounded by staff members wanting to take his photo.

“

is rather unusual for registry office type venues as many official buildings don’t allow dogs apart from assistance dogs, but a cat was a novel request.

Naturally on your wedding day, the focus is supposed to be on the bride and groom but the couple didn’t mind that cheeky Roy was stealing focus from the happy couple as the Town Hall staff and crew were all desperate to see the furriest member of the wedding party.

Shivam said: “We were so pleased to be able to have him as part of a special day and he was such a good boy. We gave him a little ring bearer costume with the rings attached and he played his part very well. Although he was a bit cheeky as he kept trying to hide in the fireplaces and we were worried that he’d go in and get stuck!”

This was a first for Marylebone Town Hall, as they have had dogs accompanying their owners’ weddings, but never a cat before. Westminster Registration Services Sessional Registrar Alison Cathcart explained that The Old Marylebone Town Hall is a dog friendly venue, which in itself

She said: “When we were approached with a request for a cat to be part of a ceremony, we couldn’t resist. Obviously with a cat, they are rather more wilful than dogs so we had to ensure that Royston was

looked after and held in a cat carrier for most of the time.

“However, he was allowed to roam a bit during the ceremony and at one point had to be refrained from climbing up the chimney in the room!”

Alison said that Roy was “hugely popular” with the staff, partly due to his nifty cat carrier and of course because he is so gorgeous. “Shivam and Ashmi’s wedding, and their fluffy ring-bearer, proved to be such a hit with everyone there. When we posted about them on our Instagram account, the post soon became one of the most popular posts on the account.”

MORE INFO:

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We gave him a little ring bearer costume

The guard of honour for the trio.

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