Pet Product Marketing November 2022

Welcome!

I’ve been the editor of Pet Product Marketing (PPM) Magazine for a while now and the highlight of my time in the role came at the recent PATS Telford show. While on the stand, we had so many people come up and say how useful and enjoyable they find the magazine. It doesn’t matter who you are, being told you’re doing a good job, by the people who really count, is one of the most powerful things ever.

I was delighted as we want PPM to be a trade publication that has a positive impact on all the businesses it reaches. On hearing so many positive comments, I felt re-energised! So, thank you to all of you who came to the stand, and in particular for your kind comments!

At the heart of PPM is providing you with a range of business news — predominantly new pet products, of course. In this issue, you’ll find 3 pages of new products and also 3 pages of new products that won awards at PATS, so well worth checking out as some of these could be bestsellers for you!

As I chatted to quite a few of you about at the show, we want to provide

Contents

4 News

The latest news from the pet industry.

8 New products

The latest products hitting the market.

12 Fighting fi reworks

The products and tips that can help owners keep pets calm during fi reworks season.

14 Behind the brand

We hear the unique story of Dogsee.

16 Best in show!

A showcase of the products that won New Product Awards at PATS Telford.

20 10 best things to make for your cat

How to get crafty to make resources for your feline friend.

22 Dog advice

How pain can often be the root cause of behaviour problems.

24 A retailer’s guide to young guinea pigs

Everything you need to know about guinea pig pups!

a range of content. People who get into the pet industry do so because they love pets, so we provide pet advice for you to enjoy and to share with your customers so you can be a trusted source of advice. Where we can, we try to help by providing resources too. You’ll find in this issue’s feature on fighting the fear of fireworks a note to say feel free to use the content verbatim on your social media. Hopefully, it’s a useful resource for you to share and generate engagement with your shop.

The mag also has business advice and it was great to hear some people say they had found this really beneficial too. We are really trying to cater for all the areas you might encounter as independent pet shop owners!

If you ever have feedback on the magazine, feel free to drop me an email at Michael.hallam@warnersgroup.co.uk

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

25 The mini budget…

…what does it mean? What you need to know about the latest fi scal controls.

26 It’s not just window dressing How to make the most of your shop front

28 Customer Q&As

Dog advice to share with your customers.

30 Breaktime read “I adopted a cat with CKD”

Y

Your 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

Park Life experience excellent results since launching two-in-one dog product

Park Life Pet Limited have reported excellent results since launching Fris-Bix, a new dog treat and toy in one product.

Fris-Bix are the world’s first frisbee shaped dog biscuits, ideal for throwing, catching, and playful snacking. They’ve been designed with aerodynamic grooves to help them fly up to 40ft!

The unique grain-free recipe is ideal for puppies and adult dogs with sensitive tummies and is so good even humans can munch them!

The product is available in a range of delicious flavours, including Original Super Seeds, Chicken & Veg, and Peanut Butter. With Fris-Bix, users can have a unique experience with their furry friends enabling throwing, catching, and guaranteed fun!

Park Life ensure all ingredients are 100% natural and grain free, and the company says that the quality of the ingredients means these biscuits have great nutritional value, resulting in just guilt free dog treats.

You can order direct via email info@parklife.dog or from their exclusive wholesale partner, Pedigree Wholesale.

JR Pet Products recovers after fire

Becky, Jon, and Stephen from JR Pet Products provided a heartfelt statement regarding the tragic fire at one of their facilities last month.

The statement read: “Sadly, in the early hours of Sunday morning [September 17th] a significant fire destroyed two of our storage warehouses and packing facility in Llandovery. Multiple fire crews have been working round the clock to get the fire under control. I’m pleased to say that nobody has been injured and the fire crew have now left the scene after many days of burning. We anticipate the loss of stock alone to be well in excess of £1million and over 900 pallets of finished goods.

“Naturally, this will have an impact on our operations but our disaster recovery plan is fully underway and we are ‘business as normal’ in less than 48hrs from the start of the fire — or as close to as possible! Our HQ in Brecon and other sites in Llandovery were not affected, we have stock in other locations and predict minimal out of stocks and little to no disruption in our turnaround times.

“We have an amazing team of people and the surrounding community has been hugely supportive. The fire crews are TRULY INCREDIBLE and we simply can’t thank them enough. They have been with us since 6am Sunday and have not long left. A particular thank you to the brave firefighter who moved our new 18 tonne lorry whilst the cab was melting from the heat. His bravery was immense and we are truly grateful. The local community has been incredibly supportive, we have had some wonderful offers of help and many have given up their own time to help in any way they can — thank you!

“Apologies to the residents of Llandovery for covering them in thick smoke and ash.

“We would like to publicly reassure our 50+ colleagues that there is no risk of any job losses due to the fire and the business remains in a strong trading position. We cannot thank our team enough for the ‘we will not be defeated attitude’ in dealing with the fall out of the fire, we are blessed to be working with them.

“Thank you so much to all of you who have sent such wonderful and supportive messages to us, it means so much.

Becky, Jon & Stephen”

Editor’s note: we wish everyone at JR Pet Products the best and most importantly no-one was hurt. It’s been reported that business is back to normal for JR Pet Products which is great news.

Accapi and Ruffwear invest in new central distribution centre in Europe

Accapi Group, the exclusive European Distributor of Ruffwear, has made further investment in supply chain and service level operations by opening a new European warehouse based in Germany.

The new third-party logistics facility based in Münster now services all wholesale distribution across 30 European countries.

Andrew Geere, CEO of Accapi said: “The new distribution centre will support our growth across Europe and provide shorter order fulfilment times. This investment comes at the right time for our business as the number of retailers stocking Ruffwear continues to grow and it ensures we can continue to offer Ruffwear customers world-class service and the best performance dog products.”

Retail partners do not need to make any changes in the ordering process and all UK retail accounts and consumer orders will still be serviced from Accapi’s existing UK-based operation.

Burns teams up with Admiral Pet Insurance

Burns Pet Nutrition has announced a new partnership with Financial Services company Admiral, which has just launched Admiral Pet Insurance.

The strategic partnership between the two Welsh brands will look to encourage responsible pet ownership by offering natural and nourishing food and treats to those having just welcomed a new dog into their homes.

Admiral Pet Insurance will offer their customers a discount code for Burns pet food. The partnership aims to promote happy and healthy pets by ensuring puppies are introduced to a natural and healthy diet from the onset, something Burns Pet Nutrition prides itself on.

The first few months of feeding is crucial for new owners to ensure their dog is being fed the right amount of nutrients and goodness within their diet.

As a further part of the partnership, Burns hampers will be sent to the first 1,000 Admiral dog insurance customers.

The Burns hampers will include both the Originals Dry and Wet Food products in a variety of flavours, alongside a bag of treats, a Burns bandana, a measuring cup, a puppy guide, and a postcard for customers to sign up for pupdates and get a discount code off products via the Burns website.

Prestigious Nourish Awards recognises Mr Bug and Tiana Halal Cat Food

Brands Mr Bug and Tiana recently earned top commendations at the annual Nourish awards, which celebrates the nutritional prowess and ingredient integrity of up-and-coming food and drinks brands.

Mr Bug is an ambitious Devon-based project that celebrates not only the well-rounded ‘superfood’ prowess of the humble mealworm but the sustainable benefits of an entovegan lifestyle. Insect protein has already made significant headway within the fast-moving pet food arena, however, it is a space historically dominated by the bitter-tasting black soldier fly, a high saturated fat mainstay of cattle feed.

Tiana Halal cat food meanwhile has identified the void in halal-friendly cat food, which has historically prompted large numbers of Muslim cat owners to spend inordinate amounts of time producing homemade alternatives. Pankaj and his team offer an array of freeze-dried and wet recipes made with human-grade ingredients that meet the distinct needs of this small yet significant market niche.

“The pet food industry is certainly at an exciting crossroads,” concludes Mr Bug founder Conal Cunningham. “With growing numbers of specialist pet food providers identifying and accommodating a variety of key ‘food minority’ pet owner concerns that mainstream pet food manufacturers have neither the time, tools, or inclination to accommodate, being recognised by an esteemed awards body like Nourish provides brands like Mr Bug and Tiana with invaluable credence and acceptance at pivotal moments in their unique brand journeys.”

For more information, visit Mrbug.co.uk and tianahalalpetfood.com

Beaphar website gets a fresh new look

Pet healthcare company Beaphar have announced the launch of their new website: www.beaphar.com.

This new site provides additional functionality, a new look and a simple-touse search to help pet owners find the right product, and support, to help them care for their pets.

Clare Fuller, UK Marketing Manager said: “We are delighted with our new-look website.

Not only will visitors be presented with a fresh and updated look from the Beaphar brand, but they will also find a rich source of content. Other highlights include an intelligent search function, enhanced listings, and advice for pet owners. Further developments will be announced soon.”

In the coming weeks, the new beaphar.com will also help retailers access a variety of promotional and educational tools.

For more information on stocking Beaphar products, please contact your Beaphar Sales Executive, or the customer service team, who can be contacted on 0333 006 6236

Of the new partnership with Admiral Pet Insurance, Burns

Burns commented: “As Burns continues to grow, we’re thrilled to be supporting the launch of this new pet insurance brand and partnering with them in what we hope will be the start of a fruitful relationship. We’re keen to ensure new pet owners are cared for as they bring a new family member into their home and we look forward to introducing them to our natural, healthy, and hypoallergenic pet food options.”

Pritpal Powar, Head of Admiral Pet, said: “We’re really excited to be partnering with Burns who make healthy and nutritious food options for dogs, and will be a great provider for many of our customers. As we welcome more pet owners to our product, it’s great to be able to offer benefits beyond the insurance itself through partnerships like this, allowing us to continue giving only the very best to our customers.”

Hagen UK Celebrates 40 Years of Success!

October 2022 marks 40 years since Hagen opened its UK operation in 1982. Hagen was founded in Montreal, Canada, in 1955 by German immigrant Rolf C. Hagen and quickly became a leader in the pet industry, expanding its operations to the USA, Germany, and the UK, along with several other global markets. Hagen UK began its journey in Kirkstall, Leeds, but quickly outgrew its modest office and warehousing space, moving to its current HQ in Castleford, West Yorkshire in 1988.

To mark the occasion, Hagen UK held an 80’s themed lunchtime event for its staff, many of whom donned 80’s fancy dress for the festivities!

Adrian Burgess, Hagen UK’s Managing Director, said: “It was fantastic to see so many of our staff getting in the spirit and a great time was had by all! The Hagen company, despite being a global pet brand powerhouse, is still family owned and family run and we see our staff as very much part of the extended Hagen family. Many of our staff have been with us since the 80’s and 90’s and we like to extend the family feeling to everything we do, from staff gatherings to the relationships with our amazing customers. Here’s to another 40 successful years!”

To find out how Hagen can help your business flourish, visit uk.hagen.com or call 01977 556622

Dorwest Herbs wins Best Multichannel Marketing Campaign at the Ecommerce Awards

Herbal pet care brand Dorwest Herbs has won a prestigious ecommerce award for its 2021 campaign to “naturally dial down your pet’s firework fear.”

Launched in 2007 to recognise excellence in the world of ecommerce, the Ecommerce Awards celebrate the most innovative and market leading initiatives and products in the online retail space. Taking place annually, they bring together some of the best industry minds, with the shortlisted category including some incredible brands such as: Adobe, Denby Pottery, Doves Farm, and Evri. Ecommerce Awards judges noted the fantastic content themes running across all channels, stating the Dorwest campaign was: “a truly multichannel targeted campaign to raise awareness, and drive sales and engagement for a worthy product.”

The campaign to “naturally dial down your pet’s firework fear” ran from September to November 2021, and annually conveys ways to keep pets calm and stress-free during fireworks season. With pet owners up over +60% since the start of the pandemic, the campaign, although directly promoting key natural calming products: Scullcap & Valerian Tablets and Valerian Compound, also highlighted different ways owners can prepare pets before and during fireworks season featuring advice from external behaviourist and veterinary experts. Surpassing forecast goals, stand-out marketing material targeted both Trade and Retail customers through digital and traditional touchpoints to improve brand awareness, promote calming products, and explain product benefits.

The campaign saw net revenue increase +51% year on year during the September to November period, with brand searches for “Dorwest Herbs” increasing by over 100% year on year and overall outstanding customer feedback highlighting the expert knowledge of staff and willingness to go above and beyond to help pets.

Managing Director Jo Boughton-White says: “We’re so incredibly proud to have won this award. The annual calming campaign is fundamental in our marketing calendar in the buildup to November to support pets and their owners in easing anxiety for loud noises. We’re delighted to be recognised among household names and to continue to make a difference to pets’ lives!”

This year’s calming campaign launched on 26th September encouraging owners to “prepare for calm” this fireworks season. For more information, visit www.dorwest.com, call 01308 897272 or email info@dorwest.com

Admiral Pet Insurance is the 4th insurance product to be underwritten by Admiral alongside Motor, Home, and Travel Insurance.

founder John

From the Pet Quip Awards

Entrepreneur Tracey marks 25 years in the pet industry winning hat-trick of PetQuip Honours

Pet trade trailblazer Tracey Voss, founder of manufacturer Tailor-Grace, Huskaloo cat litter, and Oggi’s World home-bake mixes for dogs, was “super proud” after being honoured three times at the PetQuip Awards.

As she celebrated 25 years in the pet trade, Tracey was named winner of the prestigious Theresa Swann Exporter of the Year 2022 Award.

PetQuip Director General Amanda Sizer Barrett MBE praised Tailor-Grace and founder Tracey: “The Gold award goes to a small team whose founder believes in prioritising strong backup and support to overseas distributors and including incentives such as offering a percentage rebate on every sale, funds which can then be used to support their marketing

Furr Boost wins Gold at the PetQuip Awards

activities, thereby giving a ‘win-win’ for both distributor and manufacturer,” she said.

“We are privileged to have worked with this firm for a long time too and so I am proud to announce that our Gold winner is Tailor-Grace.”

After collecting her Exporter award, Tracey said: “I am so proud to win the Gold, which is amazing. It means such a lot because it represents everybody’s efforts, not just mine and the product. I feel very proud for everybody.

“Theresa Swann was a beautiful, wonderful lady who was taken too soon and we all miss her. It makes this personal for me. This award will be gold dust for the export team, as it will open many more doors, particularly in the States.”

To complete their hat-trick, Tailor-Grace and Tracey also won two Silver Awards, the first for Product of the Year Food and Treats for the Oggi’s World Birthday Gift Box. The second was in the Celebrating Green and Organic category for Huskaloo.

Zoomark was the prize at PetQuip Awards

Apet treat start-up business, Furr Boost, based in Shropshire, has reached the lofty heights of winning Best Pet Product of the Year at the PetQuip Awards with their range of smoothie drinks.

The products were created by a former technical manager to the food industry with over 20 years’ experience, Louise Toal, and the success of the brand also meant that they were finalists in three other categories as well: Green and Organic, Sustainability, and Supplier of the Year.

Louise’s Beagle, Phoebe, at the age of 18 months became unwell with bladder problems which after investigations with her vet, were linked to the dog’s food. Using her technical background, Louise then started experimenting with protein shakes to help flush out Phoebe’s system and to provide her with the hydration that she needed when she was refusing to drink enough water in the summer months. This led to the creation of the Furr Boost range of smoothies.

Louise says: “There is no one else making a product like ours. Yes, there are drinks on the market that are botanical, broth based, and electrolyte based, but none that are like a natural smoothie. Each of our recipes contains a meat, fruit and vegetables, along with added oils and vitamins, so it’s more than a hydration drink, it supports the dog’s well-being in areas such as digestion, skin, and coat, anxiety, metabolism, and immunity.”

Furr Boost can be used in a variety of ways. Served frozen, it can be placed in a Kong Toy or lick mat for dog training or as a distraction, or simply given to a dog as a tasty icy treat. Unfrozen, it can be added as a topper to meals or on hot days, simply pour into a bowl for instant hydration. In the winter, it provides a comforting nutritious drink for dogs and is particularly good for senior dogs when they need help with their digestion and diet.

Furr Boost is available in three tasty varieties which all use the best quality 100% natural human grade ingredients: Chicken, Butternut Squash & Cranberry, Pork, Apple & Sweet Potato and Beef, Broccoli & Blueberry. Other added ingredients include flaxseed, coconut and salmon oils, dried sea kelp, chicory root extract, yeast beta glucan, vitamins B&C and water.

Furr Boost is also a sustainable product using packaging materials which are recyclable, avoiding single use plastic as each smoothie is available in a Tetra Pak Carton.

Since launching, Furr Boost has seen its customer base grow online with a healthy presence on e-commerce websites but it is also now looking to expand its retail operation. Louise is also currently in talks with wholesalers to find a wider distribution for Furr Boost.

Pat Flynn at PetQuip said: “The judges really loved the product and thought it was so totally innovative that it had to win!”

For further information visit: www.furrboost.com or for trade enquiries contact Louise Toal on 01746 785 410 or email: customerservices@furrboost.com or visit the wholesale page: www.furrboost.com/ wholesale

Doggy Doggy Yum Yum is Highly Commended at the Pet Quip Awards

Pet industry entrepreneur Katy Rehm and Pawfume Shop founder will get a chance to enjoy ‘la dolce vita’ having won an all expenses paid trip to Italy to attend Europe’s top international trade show.

She will visit Zoomark 2023, in Bologna, next May and promote her business to obtain potential export opportunities. The prize includes flights, accommodation, and attendance at the show.

Katy won the competition which was drawn from a group of attendees at the PetQuip Awards, which was held at Telford International Centre last month.

The former veterinary nurse, who also runs a successful dog grooming business, Groomers, in Formby, near Liverpool, was astonished when her name was called out to be presented with the prize by Zoomark’s Pascale Sonvico.

She said: “I was completely shocked. I wasn’t aware of the competition prior to attending the event and did a complete double take when they called out my name. Of course, I am delighted. It will provide me with a great opportunity to further develop export opportunities and meet distributors across Europe for The Pawfume Shop range.”

The Pawfume Shop has developed a growing reputation since it was founded in 2015. Initially created as an offshoot to Katy’s grooming business, it has become hugely successful in its own right, selling its products to both trade and dog owners. It currently boasts 20 fragrances which give a nod to their human designer perfume namesakes along with shampoos and conditioners.

Pascale Sonvico, Zoomark Show Office Manager, said that she was thrilled to offer the prize and to be working again with PetQuip which hosts a British Pavilion at the show to support UK business entering European markets.

“We look forward to welcoming Katy to Zoomark 2023 and involving her in the show. We hope that she enjoys everything it has to offer and will support The Pawfume Shop as a supplier to European customers,” she said.

Rawgeous Pet Food is recognised for its sustainability at the PetQuip Awards

Rawgeous Pet Food that made the finals in four categories of the PetQuip Awards were recognised for their Sustainability at the recent finals by winning a Silver Award.

Rawgeous, together with their nutritionists, have developed a range of tasty recipes to help keep your dog fit and healthy during the winter months. The team believes that it is vitally important to exercise your dog in the colder months and to feed a good diet to improve your dog’s immune system and to protect the joints, coat and skin.

Doggy Doggy Yum Yum, which was launched in 2020 by Dorset-based

ice cream maker Baboo Gelato, and was awarded Best New Product of the Year 2021 by Pedigree Wholesale Ltd, was recognised at the PetQuip Awards.

The brand was a finalist in four categories and won Highly Commended in the Celebrating Green and Organic category.

Sam and Annie Hanbury, the husband and wife team behind multi-award winning Baboo ice cream, found that lots of their customers were buying ice cream for their dogs. Realising that lactose is bad for dogs’ tummies, they saw a gap in the market for the first fully organic, dairy free, premium frozen treat for dogs, and so Doggy Doggy Yum Yum was born.

Annie, who trained as a professional gelatiere in Bologna, has brought the same care to the formulation of Doggy Doggy Yum Yum as she brings to her ice cream, so it uses the very best organic ingredients. Made with peanut butter and bananas which dogs find hard to resist, this frozen treat uses coconut milk instead of dairy so it is kinder to dogs’ tummies. The ice cream is 100% organic, natural and contains probiotics which come from the live yoghurt, vitamins C and B, iron, magnesium, copper and potassium from the coconut and bananas.

If given as an occasional treat after a long walk in the countryside, the park or on the beach, this tasty treat is perfect way to reward your dog. The peanut butter is pure and so does not contain sugar, xylitol or palm oil. Doggy Doggy contains no artificial flavourings, colours or refined sugars.

The product is now in 200 stockists nationwide. The hot summer saw sales soar by a further 40% this year and new recipes are set to be launched in 2023.

Doggy Doggy Yum Yum is distributed to the pet trade through Pedigree Wholesale. For further information please visit: www.doggydoggyyumyum.com

Lorraine Sweeney, co-founder of Rawgeous Pet Food alongside business partner, Eoin Sweeny says: “We believe that one of the best ways to feed your dog is on a raw diet because not only are you feeding it what it would have eaten in the wild, avoiding any intolerances and allergies that processed and commercial foods can sometimes bring, but you are also controlling the protein content and portion size.”

Rawgeous raw dog food recipes include only the highest quality human grade, cuts of tasty Irish prime meat together with the freshest veggies, seaweed, an organic Kefir probiotic which works to maintain a healthy gut and 6 different omega oils.

Choose from a wide variety of meat and fish complete meals or boxes of 12 sausages in a 41g size which makes feeding the raw diet easier and helps to maintain portion size. This is particularly important if you are feeding a small dog and want to avoid any wastage.

“At Rawgeous, we are proud of our environmental credentials. Our packaging is sustainable and 100% plastic free and we use Woolcool; an incredible insulating material made from 100% wool; a natural ‘smart fibre’. We also have a nextday returns service of the Woolcool packaging which is also collected straight from your door free of charge. Our new Enshield Kraft boxes are grease and leak resistant, allowing them to be kept safely in the fridge (and freezer) and planet friendly thanks to their biodegradable material. It is nice to know that by feeding your dogs Rawgeous you are not just feeding them the best raw diet but also helping the planet at the same time,” concludes Lorraine.

For further information visit: www.rawgeouspetfood.com

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New necessities&

Pooch & Mutt Pumpkin Spice Meaty treats

Pooch & Mutt has released a new limited-edition Pumpkin Spice Meaty Treats.

Festive fragrances from Herbal Dog Co

Festive fragrances from Herbal Dog Co evoke the memories of days gone by with their combination of autumn and winter spices.

The Herbal Dog Co, which is based in the North East of England and provides an entirely animal-centric range of lotions and potions for any size or breed of dog, has recently launched their winter festive fragrances in time for the Christmas season. These new fragrance options, which are available to buy as shampoos, dry shampoos, and fragrance sprays, evoke all the nostalgic autumn and winter spices to make any dog smell wonderful throughout the festivities.

Pumpkin Spice is one of Herbal Dog Co’s autumnal fragrances. This iconic spice blend is a mix of nutmeg, cinnamon, allspice, and ginger, and will leave you and any dog both feeling warm and enveloped in pumpkin sweetness and spice.

The new seasonal Candy Cane fragrance is the scent that will take you down memory lane during the festive season. Sugary mint and vanilla will have any pooch smelling fresh and warm. Naughty but nice is the best way to describe Herbal Dog Co’s Christmas fragrance. This seasonal fragrance will envelop any dog with its spicy notes. It’s literally Christmas in a bottle.

Gingerbread, which is an old timey fragrance, hits all the right notes with its roasted biscuit and warm spicy scent. Gingerbread is sure to be an autumnal aroma both dog and owner will just want to sink into.

Each product from Herbal Dog Co has been lovingly created in the UK using natural ingredients and contains no harsh chemicals or Palm Oil. The range is designed to cater for a variety of skin conditions and provides grooming solutions for different types of coat while the herbal powders and tonics are designed to cater for a wide range of common ailments and well-being issues. All the packaging is sustainable, compostable, reusable and recyclable. There is great variety of dry shampoos, shampoos (available in salon size), and fragrance sprays in the range so check out the website.

Autumn is here, which means fallen leaves, cosy sweaters and, of course, Pumpkin Spice. Now your pooch can get involved with the flavour of the season with Pooch & Mutt’s new limited-edition Pumpkin Spice Meaty Treats.

Packed with nutrient-rich pumpkin to support a healthy immune system, seasonal cinnamon with anti-inflammatory properties, collagen for the formation of healthy skin, melon extract containing powerful antioxidants, and probiotics to help maintain a healthy digestive system.

The treats are suitable for all breeds and ages from 12 weeks old, contain natural ingredients, and are grain-free.

For more information, visit www.poochandmutt.co.uk or for trade enquiries visit www.poochandmutt.co.uk/pages/trade

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For further information on Herbal Dog Co’s products visit www.herbaldogco.com or for trade enquiries call 0191 286 0774.

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Frontline Wormer

Worm

Cat and dog owners can now choose FRONTLINE® to take care of intestinal worms too with the introduction of new FRONTLINE® WORMER. It’s the latest addition to the brand’s range of flea and tick treatments.

i addition to the brand

FRONTLINE® WORMER is a tasty worming tablet that gives pet parents an easy way to worm their cats and dogs. It helps protect pets against all types of intestinal worms commonly found in the UK in one product, killing roundworms and tapeworms in cats and dogs, and also hookworms and whipworms in dogs, so there’s no need for separate worming treatments to kill different types of intestinal worms. And because it’s a flavoured tablet, FRONTLINE® WORMER can be given as a treat without food or mixed with food, making it easier to give to pets.

Geoffrey Guyot, Brand Manager at FRONTLINE®, explains: “Cats and dogs can easily pick up worms from infected soil, or while grooming and hunting, and gaps in treatment give a worm problem a chance to build and spread. Worms can affect humans too, causing ill health and even blindness, so regular treatment with FRONTLINE® WORMER is important to help keep pets and the rest of the family healthy. It’s part of our commitment to bringing pet parents effective parasite protection that they can conveniently access and choose with confidence.”

New FRONTLINE® WORMER is available in packs of two tablets for three pet sizes: for small and medium dogs, medium and large dogs, and for cats. As an AVM-GSL-licensed product, it can be sold off the shelf.

Retailers can order it now from their usual wholesalers.

TRIXIE’s Insect Sticks and Hearts

TRIXIE’s Insect Sticks and Hearts are rich in unsaturated fatty acids and are especially well tolerated. The protein source is insect protein gained from mealworms that has been enriched with high quality carbohydrate sources such as potatoes, as well as carrots as vitamin source. On top of that, the treats are unprocessed and free of any additives. That makes them suitable for four-legged allergy sufferers. The easily digestible snacks in 80g bags have a solid appeal. RRP £3.49 for Insect Sticks with Mealworms.

Visit www.trixie.de/en for more information on TRIXIE products or for trade enquiries email sales@trixieuk.uk or visit www.trixie.de/en/become-areseller

TRIXIE Indoor Ramp

The time with your senior pet is precious. As age progresses, a new phase of life begins that is often accompanied by a change in needs. Convenient aids and useful accessories from TRIXIE can support your pet companion in this phase.

The Indoor Ramp for four-legged friends with grey snouts up to 70 kg is easy on joints and back, such as when climbing on a bed or sofa. The large steps fold out to provide more safety for older dogs. Foldable and space-saving storage (44 x 46 x 106 cm). RRP £159.90.

Visit www.trixie.de/en for more information on TRIXIE products or for trade enquiries email sales@trixieuk.uk or visit www.trixie.de/en/become-a-reseller

Cave Harvey with Steps

For all of you who want to have their favourite pet close to you at night, the Cave Harvey with Steps is ideal as an additional bed. The two-piece home accessory made of long-haired plush and velvet (polyester) is easy to join together thanks to a wide strip of hook and loop fastener. The steps that fold open make it easy for your four-legged friend (up to 15 kg) to reach the cuddly bed. At the same time, the steps offer ample storage space inside. Easy care, foldable, and space-saving storage. Measurements: 119 x 47 x 50 cm. RRP £139.90 for the Cave Harvey with Steps.

Visit www.trixie.de/en for more information on TRIXIE products or for trade enquiries email sales@trixieuk.uk or visit www.trixie.de/en/become-a-reseller

TRIXIE Slow Feeding Mat

Slow Feeding prevents pets from gulping down the food, slows down the food intake, and makes it more interesting for velvet paws. At the same time, Slow Feeding can counteract many health problems, such as acidification, flatulence, and cramps. Along with numerous feeding mats, TRIXIE has introduced plastic (non-slip) and ceramic bowls that are suitable for all types of food and come in various shapes and colours. The non-gulping-down-the-food items offer variety and are dishwasher suitable.

Visit www.trixie.de/en for more information on TRIXIE products or for trade enquiries email sales@trixieuk.uk or visit www.trixie.de/en/become-a-reseller

Pooch & Mutt dog advent calendar

Extra Select Cat Toy

Does your pooch feel left out in the lead up to Christmas? Well, let us introduce you to the 2022 Pooch & Mutt dog advent calendar, now available.

Earlier this year, Pooch & Mutt held a Kid’s Design Competition to create their 2022 Advent Calendar. Eliza Cook, aged 15, won with a colourful design inspired by her Schnauzer, Peggy, and her design has since been brought to life by the pet wellness brand.

Behind every door of the festive dog-friendly advent calendar, you’ll find two tasty Turkey & Cranberry Meaty Treats packed with added goodness like collagen for healthy skin & coat and probiotics for healthy digestion, as well as a sprinkling of seasonal cinnamon for some added festive cheer. Suitable for all breeds and ages from 12 weeks old.

This year’s advent calendar will not only get your pooch in the festive spirit, but it will also get you on Santa’s nice list as for every calendar sold, Pooch & Mutt will donate a special Christmas dinner to a pooch in need at Woodgreen Pets Charity!

&

For more information, visit www.poochandmutt.co.uk or for trade enquiries visit www.poochandmutt.co.uk/pages/trade

Doggy Styling shampoo and sprays

The Somerset Toiletry Company is proud to introduce a new luxury pet care collection: Doggy Styling. The range contains four products suitable for all breeds of dogs.

Made in the UK, the mild PH balanced formulations cater for canine sensitive skin and the range is crueltyfree and vegan-friendly. To nourish and maintain a healthy coat, each 250ml shampoo or spray contains nourishing ingredients such as Pro vitamin B5, Aloe Vera, and Vitamin E.

● Conditioning Dog Shampoo (RRP £6.95)

A mild and gentle formula for effective all over cleaning. Olive and Walnut scented dog shampoo has deodorising and conditioning properties suitable for all coat and skin types. Use regularly to keeping your dog’s coat clean and smelling fresh.

● Conditioning Puppy Shampoo (RRP £6.95)

This puppy shampoo offers a mild formulation suitable for dogs’ delicate skin (over 6 weeks old). This Baby Powder scented shampoo is ideal for cleaning, deodorising, and conditioning, and the easy rinse formula helps to reduce washing time.

● Rinse Free Deodorising Dog Spray (RRP £6.95)

A vitamin enriched deodorising dog spray helps to reduce odour without the fuss. The Tutti Frutti scent will keep your dog’s coat fresh, clean, and healthy inbetween washes.

● Rinse Free Dog Shampoo RRP (£6.95)

Infused with Aloe Vera, this vitamin and conditioner enriched no-rinse dog shampoo spray removes dirt and odour on the go. The mild and pH balanced formulation is suitable for all dog breeds, simply spray it on your dog’s coat and groom it through.

For more information visit thesomersettoiletryco.co.uk or for trade enquiries email uk@tstcglobal.com information visit or for trade email uk@

The popular brand Extra Select have added the first cat toy to an evergrowing selection of quality and competitively priced products. The cute mouse is available in two colours (grey, yellow) and is packed full of 100% American catnip — the most potent variety! This cat toy is made in the UK and comes complete on a hanging card straight from the 90’s!

Available in 6 pack at RRP £4.99 with a 35% margin. Plus, you can save 15% until the end of November!

For trade enquiries, contact Su-Bridge Pets Supplies on 01953 882485 or info@su-bridge.co.uk e Pets .co.uk

Max Glow range from Chuckit!

Introducing the brand-new Max Glow lines from Chuckit!, the Max Glow Ultra Squeaker and the Max Glow Ultra Fetch Stick.

Following the success of their current Chuckit! Max Glow lines, Pedigree Wholesale is now stocking two new Chuckit! Max Glow products, perfect for extending playtime into the darker late nights and early mornings. Chuckit! Max Glow dog toys have been developed to create more ways to play during the colder months; fetch time doesn’t have to stop just because it is darker for longer! The Chuckit! Max Glow range is exclusively available to the specialist pet trade via Pedigree Wholesale.

The brand-new Chuckit! Max Glow Ultra Squeaker and the Max Glow Ultra Fetch Stick are made from the same highquality, durable materials as the popular Chuckit! Ultra range — with a difference! Made from a safe, photoluminescent material, both fetch toys glow in the dark and can be recharged under a bright light source for as little as five minutes to give around 30 minutes of playtime! The Max Glow Ultra Squeaker contains a patented squeaker to keep dogs engaged in play. The two brand-new toys retail from £10.99 to £14.99.

The exciting Chuckit! Max Glow range is the perfect addition to stores during the colder months and is available for order now, exclusively to the Specialist Pet Trade through Pedigree Wholesale. Make Fetch Happen® day or night!

For trade enquiries, contact your Pedigree Wholesale representative or visit www.petproducts.co.uk

Fighting fireworks!

How to help your customers care for their pets who hate the crashes and bangs at this time of year.

It is a time of the year that many pet owners dread. November brings with it Bonfire Night and fireworks season. Some animals find the

● Bring your pet in before dark— you don’t want to expose your animals to the full extent of the flashes and bangs, and give them chance to bolt. Brings cats in before dark and shut the cat flap. While dog walks can be done before dusk or it won’t even do any harm to miss the odd walk at this time of year. For small furries, it can be a good idea to move their hutches somewhere inside away from windows, if possible, or at least cover their enclosure.

● Provide hiding places — your pets may want to hide away in a space where they feel safer. Dogs often find a den, with their crate, lots of comfy blankets, and toys, a space where they can relax more. Using a crate is a good idea, but leave the door open so he can come and go as he pleases. Cats will naturally gravitate to their favourite hiding spots in the house so ensure that these are accessible. Small animals will appreciate tunnels and places they can burrow in to hide too. Don’t try to get your pet out of hiding, it’s their way of feeling safe.

bangs and crashes tough to cope with. Here, we have top tips you can share with your customers online and in store…

● Keep calm and carry on — as tempting as it is, try not to cuddle your pets more. Any change in your usual behaviour could add to their anxiety as they believe there is something to worry about. The calmer you are, the more likely your pets are to relax.

● Mask the noise — closing the curtains, playing music, or turning up the TV can all help to mask the sudden sounds of fireworks.

● Distractions — favourite treats, chew toys, and play sessions (if your pet feels comfortable enough to engage), can all help to distract your pet from the fireworks outside.

● Toileting — try to organise it so that your cat or dog doesn’t need to go outside to toilet while the bangs are happening. Take dogs out earlier in the night to toilet and leave the last toilet trip of the night until after fireworks. With your canine’s heightened anxiety, it can be a good idea to take your dog out on a lead just in case. For cats, even if you don’t usually, it can be a good idea to provide a litter tray in a quiet part of the house.

● Diffusers — plug in a pheromone-releasing diffuser in the room your pet spends most of their time in 48 hours before the event to help them feel more relaxed.

● Herbal remedies — there are herbal options available that are designed to help keep animals calm. Just ensure you know what you’re buying and shop with a trusted manufacturer.

● Microchipping — frightened animals can easily bolt, become confused, and lost. Making sure your cat or dog is microchipped and your details are up to date will increase your pet’s chances of being returned home safely should the worst happen and he runs away.

● Stay home — if possible, stay home with your pets.

● Don’t shut your dog or cat in a confined area— let them have freedom to roam the house. If confined, they may injure themselves trying to escape if they panic.

● Sparklers — if your family enjoy sparklers, never light them inside and always make sure they are extinguished and disposed of properly so no paws can be injured by standing on them the next day.

● Routine — don’t just suddenly alter your pet’s routine when the fireworks start. It is a good idea to begin doing the above tips a few weeks before Bonfire Night so your pets get used to it.

Useful resource!

Use these tips on your social media channels! While as publisher we retain the copyright, we grant permission to all independent pet shops to copy any of the content to use on their social media channels to help you connect with customers.

● Desensitisation — if you don’t want your pet to suffer every year, some dogs and cats can be trained to cope better with fireworks. This needs to be done gradually over a period of time and it can be a good idea to get the help of a professional behaviourist.

● Speak to a vet — if you are worried that your pet is taking a long time to recover from the firework festivities, speak to your vet. Your vet may also wish to refer you to an accredited behaviourist.

Useful resource!

If you want to help spread the message about how to help cats cope with fireworks, we’ve got this brilliant poster which you can share on social media or even print off.

Visit www.yourcat.co.uk/cat-advice/the-best-ways-to-helpyour-cat-cope-with-fireworks/

The Dogsee Story:

Bringing the best of natural pet care to the UK

Dogsee is emerging as a big player in the pet food and treats market. Synonymous for sourcing their products from the Himalayas in true spirit of their motto ‘Feed Healthy, feed natural!’, since the launch of the brand, it has become a hit with over 50 million customers worldwide.

The brand has a unique story that stirs together Indian culture, yak milk, nature, and fresh ingredients, all with a love of dogs. Here we hear about how Dogsee wants to do the best by our canine companions and become a regular fixture in UK pet shops.

How it all started

It all began when Sneh and Bhupi, founders of Dogsee and organic food entrepreneurs from India, embarked upon a journey to the lush lands of the Himalayas. There was a moment of sheer joy in the lap of the mountains when observing local gaddi dogs steal Churpi that became a spark of inspirationv and Dogsee was born with a promise to provide sustainably sourced Himalayan cheese treats to all dogs.

When on a trek to Ilam, Nepal, Bhupi found stray dogs feeding on leftover Churpi which is a soft or hard cheese. Churpi is an ancient Himalayan recipe, usually consumed by humans. Because of the Churpi that these dogs were getting from the houses, they looked extremely healthy, full of energy, and had shiny coats. This made Bhupi realise that Churpi was both nutritious and tasty, making them the perfect treats for dogs. He decided to make these cow and yak chews into gluten-free dog treats available to dogs across the globe.

Brand values

Evoking the environment in which the idea for Dogsee was born, the brand places natural ingredients at the heart of its values. None of their products are processed, but are made using natural methods with the best that nature has to provide. They stay away from all harmful ingredients such as additives, preservatives, and chemicals. Ingredients that may cause stomach problems, such as grain and gluten, are also a strict no-no.

Dogsee believes in owners knowing exactly what they are feeding their pets. Their ingredients are sourced from the Himalayas and they work closely with the farmers to provide a product that is sustainable to those who work the land and the brand. Dogsee provides direct and indirect employment to a community of over 20,000 villagers from 150 villages in Nepal, Sikkim, and Darjeeling.

The Dogsee Chew recipe sees the raw ingredients smoked and sun-dried to lock in flavour, and of course the company looks to protect nature during the manufacturing process. Their packaging is done in a carbon-negative Dogsee facility to reduce the impact on the environment.

Treats

As the Dogsee Chew became popular, many pet parents sought more from nature to treat their dogs. Instantly, Dogsee thought of fruits and vegetables. The simple answer was freeze-dried dog treats! With this, Dogsee Crunch came into existence. Fresh, tasty, and crunchy treats without any additives or preservatives. Freeze drying aims to lock in the nutrients and as the only ingredient is the fruit or vegetable, dog owners can take the natural benefits of these food groups and feed them to their pet in a convenient and mess-free way.

Dogsee is driven by doing the best by dogs. The brand has made forays into other areas, such as dog play and shampoos, and doesn’t intend to stop creating products and opportunities that will benefit the lives of canine companions.

Best in show!

See the products that won awards at the UK’s biggest pet trade show!

PATS is the biggest trade show in the UK pet industry. The recent show at Telford was an absolute smash hit with the show breaking previous records. As well as a great chance to network with brands and get your hands on the latest products, each PATS show (there is two each year) includes the New Product Showcase. This is a special display of the latest offerings to the pet market and all of these are judged in the New Product Showcase Awards with winners in eight different categories.

Judged by industry experts, winning an award is often a sign of a product that will be a big seller and popular with consumers. Here we reveal the eight winners from PATS Telford 2022…

Cat Food and Products

Winner: Naturea Grain Free Cat Wet Food

Complete diet range with ten different and tasty flavours, developed for cats’ daily needs, with 98% fresh ingredients and 0% grain. The Real Grain Free Wet food for Cats gives a healthy and balanced life to furry friends. For a richer feed experience Naturea suggest to change between the different fish and meat recipes.

Judges said: “Good price point, good choice of flavours, and it is nice to see good quality cat food with a high meat content.”

igh meat content.”

Dog Food Products

Winner: Naturaw Forage

● To find out more visit www.natureapetfoods.com and for trade enquiries, visit www.natureapetfoods. com/contact-us

ore etfoods.com quiries, reapetfoods.

Crafted from the finest whole food ingredients to be nutritionally complete to FEDIAR guidelines, containing everything your dog needs for a balanced raw diet. Judges said: “Attractive packaging, well thought-out ingredients, great price point, and compostable packaging.”

To find out more, visit www.naturaw.co.uk and for trade enquiries, visit www.naturaw.co.uk/become-a-stockist

Dog Treat Products

Winner: Odourless Braided and Straight Bull Pizzle d the g

The New Odourless Pizzle is an improvement on a classic! All the nutritional benefits and qualities of the Traditional Pizzle but without the smell. Still incredibly irresistible to dogs, the uniquely Air Dried Odourless Pizzle is now irresistible to pet pawrents too.

Judges said: “Great option for tough chewers without the smell. An amazing long-lasting chew.”

● To find out more, visit www.jrpetproducts.com and for trade enquiries, visit www.jrpetproducts.com and click ‘Trade Login.’

PATS in

2023

PATS Sandown 2023: 26 and 27 March | PATS Telford 2023: 1 and 2 October

For the latest information on the shows, visit www.patshow.co.uk

Dog Accessories and Toys

Small Animal and Bird Products

A Complementary Feed for happy, healthy, small furries. HayPigs!® curated blends of 100% natural treats will have small furries leaping with joy! Each bag and jar contains a complementary forage feed that will provide them with added enrichment and nourishment, and encourage foraging.

HayPigs!® innovative, paper based, Eco Refill Bags, are 100% recyclable and 100% naturally biodegradable. Customers can simply put their used bags in a paper recycle bin once they are empty.

While these bags can be bought on their own, customers also have the option to purchase one of HayPigs!® stylish Pig ‘n’ Mix™ Collectors Jars. These jars can be used over and over again and provide a decorative and practical place for customers to store their treats. When ready, customers can order additional Eco Refill Bags to keep them topped up!

All elements of the Pig ‘n’ Mix™ range are UK sourced and manufactured.

Judges said: “A sweet shop of goodies for guinea pigs that support health and well-being in a fun way.”

100% recycled chew and play dog toys.

dld

Judges said: “This product uses renewable materials at a good price point. It also has lovely packaging.”

● To find out more, visit www.jamesandsteel.com and for trade enquiries, visit sales@jamesandsteel.com or call 01594 827755.

Dog Harnesses, Leads and Dog Wear

Winner: Adventure Lead With Close Control from Twiggy Tags

The adventure leads are both durable and comfortable. Fully lined with super soft neoprene to prevent any rubbing if your pooch is a puller. The leads have all been through rigorous strength-testing to withstand any dog. Twiggy Tags has designed their very own safety carabiner clasp with a locking option for added security.

Judges said: “Great to see an adaptable lead with a locking clip, at a good price point.”

● To find out more, visit www.twiggytags.co.uk or for trade enquiries, email trade@twiggytags.co.uk

Winner: Sotnos Earth Aware Natural Rubber Dog Toys

Winner: Pig ‘n’ Mix Treats range from HayPigs!

Pet Care Products

DIRTY LITTLE PAWS know only too well how uncomfortable and scary the dreaded ‘cone of shame’ can be for some dogs, Their own dog Lucy Liu can testify to this. Not satisfied with the status quo and wanting to make Lucy happier, they decided to bring out their own unique doughnut designed recovery collars.

Judges said: “This recovery support is a great innovation for pets and softer to use than a traditional cone.”

● To find out more, visit www.dirtylittlepaws.com and for trade enquiries, email mail@dirtylittlepaws.com

Record-breaking attendance at PATS Telford

Grooming Products

Winner: TropiClean Enticers dental care products

TropiClean Enticers products are curated to make dental care undeniably irresistible for pets and enticingly easy for pet parents. Now, teeth cleaning time can be just as enjoyable as mealtime!

Judges said: “These easy-to-use dental products will help to remove plaque and bacteria.”

● To find out more, visit www.petproducts.co.uk and search for TropiClean Enticers. For trade enquiries, contact your Pedigree Wholesale representative or visit www.petproducts.co.uk/contentpage/ new-account-application

PATS broke all records with the two-day show at Telford in Shropshire recording its highest ever attendance figures since the event was launched in 2009.

A total of 2,185 retailers and buyers came through the doors of The Telford International Centre, which was 6% higher than PATS Telford last year. It beats the previous record attendance of 2,148 recorded in 2017.

The largest-ever PATS show, staged in three halls for the first time, closed with visitors and exhibitors agreeing it had been a huge success, with the event delivering an unrivalled platform for the launch of hundreds of exciting new pet product innovations.

Organiser Gordon Thomas said many of the companies exhibiting at PATS Telford were eager to point out the quality of people visiting their stands had been of the highest standard.

He said: “Exhibitors told us they met with the key decision makers and buyers, and that was good to hear because we put in place measures that ensured the right people attended.

“Overall, the response to PATS Telford has been excellent and positive, and proves that the pet industry is firmly behind this show.”

Rob Newsome, director of sales and operations at Danish Design, said: “We’ve attended every exhibition and this year’s event was the busiest ever. It was also the biggest with lots more exhibitors spreading through to three halls, which was great to see in these challenging times. We had a super busy two days and saw so many people looking to place orders and seeking out new products. We look forward to many more shows like this one.”

Assisi Pet Care was exhibiting at PATS Telford for the first time and was delighted with the outcome. Product manager Suzy Broughton said: “It was a great opportunity to showcase the natural brands that make up our UK portfolio. To talk directly to and listen to the wide variety of businesses that make up our industry under one roof made for a great two days of interaction.”

Benebone exhibited in the New Starter Zone, and the company’s international and marketing manager Victoria Lowe said: “We had a great time at PATS Telford — it was our first time exhibiting and it didn’t disappoint. We were really pleased with the level of interest in our brand.”

Winner: Doughnut Recovery Collar from Dirty Little Paws

A trip to PATS is always worthwhile as it enables us to see the new trends and new

at first hand. I’ve seen some great ranges which we’ll be stocking in the next few months.

Bishop, Manager, Willowbrook Pet

Somerset This is our one-stop place for buying

for our garden centre. It’s the best place for picking up new supplies.

Carol

Chris

10 best things TO MAKE FOR YOUR CAT

Did you know?

There are around 250 known species of catnip, but Nepeta cataria is

cataria is the preferred choice of felines both large and felinesbothlargeand small.

Money is tight for many of us these days, but that doesn’t mean your cat has to go without. There are all sorts of things that you can make yourself for your cat, which cost either very little or nothing at all, so they can still be a pampered puss! Here are 10 of the best ideas for you to try…

1POMPOM BALL

Stalking, chasing after, and pouncing on toys are a brilliant way to allow your cat to express his hunting skills; they’ll also help prevent problems such as boredom and will encourage him to take more exercise. As well as being an enriching activity for him, using toys to play with him can be a bonding activity. Making a pompom ball is a great way of using up any leftover wool oddments, is cheap and easy to make, and will provide hours of fun. You can use a pompom maker if you have one, but if not, you can use a piece of card instead.

1. Draw two identical circles on the card — how big depends on how large you want your pompom to be.

2. Cut them out, then draw two smaller circles in the centre of each. Cut out these two small inner circles, so you are left with two cardboard rings.

3. Sandwich the two cardboard rings together, then taking your wool, thread it through the centre and start wrapping it all round the rings until they are completely covered. Add at least five more layers of wool; it doesn’t matter if it’s not all the same colour.

4. When you’ve finished wrapping the two rings, take a sharp pair of scissors and cut the wool between the two rings along the outside edge.

5. Cut all the way along, then use another piece of wool to tightly tie around the centre, between the two rings, so it stays together. Pull the wool round to the other side and knot tightly again, to make it as secure as possible. You can then slide off your two pieces of cardboard and your pompom is almost finished. Fluff it into shape and either trim the wool used to tie it together so it’s the same length as the rest, or leave it long so you can dangle it and make it dance about for your cat to play with. Always supervise play with this toy and replace with a new one if pieces of yarn start to come loose.

Top tips!

Safety first! Always supervise your cat while he’s playing with toys. Check regularly for any signs of wear and tear and remove any if he’s likely to chew and ingest bits from them.

There are lots of videos of how to make a pompom on YouTube if a more visual demonstration would help you.

2CATNIP MOUSE

This does require a bit of sewing, but you don’t need to be an expert sewer, and if you don’t have a sewing machine, it’s fine to hand stitch instead.

You can buy kits online, but it’s more fun to make your own and a great way of using up leftover pieces of fabric or recycling old pillow slips, shirts, or other garments. They can also make great gifts to give to other cat-owning friends and are often all the more appreciated than a purchased present because time, thought, and effort has been put into it.

Make a paper template of a simple mouse shape; pin it to a piece of fabric and cut round it. Repeat with a second piece of material, then pin both pieces of fabric together, with the ‘right’ sides facing

3GROW YOUR OWN

Create a salad bar! Bring the outdoors indoors by growing a pot of grass for your kitty to nibble on. If you have an outdoor catio, it will also make a great addition to the area, and you could add further sensory interest by adding deliciously fragrant herbs such as Sage (Salvia officinalis), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), and Basil (Ocimum basilicum).

Catnip is another great favourite and you can save money by growing it from seed rather than buying it. Growing to around 80 — 90cm, it’s a hardy perennial, so will keep on giving, year after year. Leave it in the garden for your kitty to enjoy, or harvest and dry the flowers to stuff toys with. If you don’t have a garden, you can grow it in a container instead. Make sure you buy from a reputable supplier, such as Sutton’s Seeds: www.suttons.co.uk

towards each other. Stitch securely around the edges, but leaving a gap of approximately 4cm along one side. This will allow you to turn it inside out, so the ‘right’ side of the fabric is now on the outside. You will also be able to use the hole to stuff your mouse with dried catnip; you may find this easiest to do if you roll a piece of paper to make a funnel which you can pour it through.

Once stuffed, turn the edges of the fabric where the hole is inwards, and sew securely to keep the filling in place. Don’t be tempted to add cute ears and a tail in case your cat chews them off and swallows them.

It’s a great toy for playing with your cat.

4FISHY FISHING ROD

Most cats love this game, which is a variation on the catnip mouse, but which you can join in too. This time make a stylised fish shape instead of a mouse, again stuffed with catnip to add extra appeal. Attach your fish to one end of a piece of string or cord, and tie the other end on to a piece of wooden dowel — and then go cat fishing!

● Always put your fishing rod toy away, safely out of reach of your kitty when you aren’t playing together, so there’s no danger of him getting tangled in the cord.

Get crafty and rustle up something for your feline friend!

5OLD SOCK TOY

This is possibly the quickest, easiest make ever, requiring absolutely no crafting skills whatsoever! All you need is a clean old sock. Loosely stuff the toe end with a bit of packing paper — you could add a little dried catnip too if it’s something your cat enjoys. Knot it tightly at the heel to keep the stuffing in, trim off the excess length of sock and voila — a toy that makes exciting crackling, scrunchy noises when pounced on.

Top tip!

Size is important. Make (or buy) toys your cat is able to pick up in his mouth, but that are too big to swallow.

Recycle your old socks!

This is an easy to make toy.

8TOILET ROLL TREAT HOLDER

The cheapest games can often provide just as much entertainment as the most expensive toys. Save the cardboard centre of a toilet roll for your cat. Some will enjoy just playing with that, but you can add a little extra amusement by popping a yummy treat inside. Squish each end down so it doesn’t fall out, and then let your cat have fun getting it out.

9TASTY TUNA DELIGHTS

What better way of saying ‘I love you’ and impressing your cat with your culinary skills than by baking him some delicious homemade treats? With just three ingredients, these scrummy tuna treats are quick and easy even for a non-cook to whip up. You’ll need: ● 1 tin of tuna in spring water (undrained) ● 1 egg, whisked ● 210g plain flour

1. Tip the tuna, including the liquid, into a mixing bowl together with the beaten egg. Use a hand blender to mix it until smooth, then stir in the flour to form a dough.

2. Divide into four equal balls; put three of them in the freezer to use another day. Roll out the fourth ball on a lightly floured surface to around 1cm thick.

3. Cut into small cubes or diamond shapes with a sharp knife and transfer them on to a lined baking tray.

4. Bake in a pre-heated oven at 180C (Gas Mk 4) for 20 — 25 minutes. Once crunchy and golden brown, remove from the oven and cool completely before allowing your cat to sample them. They’ll stay fresh in a sealed container for up to a week.

6FLIPPY FLAPPY KNOT

Don’t throw out old t-shirts and fleeces! They may not be good enough to drop off at your local charity shop, but you can still recycle them to make great playthings for your cat. This is another easy project which is simplicity itself to make.

Cut them into strips — how long and how wide depends on the thickness of the fabric, as well as the size of your kitty and his preferences, so you might like to experiment. Take a handful and tightly knot them together in the middle, so it forms a central ball with flappy ends on either side which will wiggle enticingly.

You can also take six or nine strips (again depending on fabric thickness) and knot them together at one end. Plait bunches of two or three strips together to form a long snake, knotting them all together at the other end, leaving a tail of flappy strips to add more movement.

Did you know?

A study by scientists at the University of Utrecht showed that providing cardboard boxes for cats in shelters reduced signs of stress and helped them to adapt more quickly to their surroundings.

CARDBOARD KITTY CASTLE

What is the huge appeal of cardboard boxes for cats?

Well, they can make a great hideaway if they’re feeling a bit overwhelmed, or be a perfect place from which to wait and watch before emerging and pouncing! Best of all, because cardboard is a good insulator, they can be cosy places to take

If you’re feeling lazy, all you have to do is leave out a cardboard box, having first removed any staples or loose packing tape — but with a little extra effort you can easily create a kitty castle or palace by joining several boxes together. You can really let your imagination go to town and add castellations to the top, and use the cardboard centres of kitchen and toilet rolls to create turrets, or maybe to add Georgian-style columns to a stylish kitty palace. Or perhaps take your inspiration from more ancient times and make a Greek or Roman temple. You’ll find plenty of ideas online to get your creative juices flowing.

If you can find a big enough box, you could also use it to create a litter tray cover; many cats like a bit of privacy when toileting. But remember to cut a doorhole in the side for easy access!

There’s

10 MAKE TIME!

Possibly the most valuable gift you can give your cat is attention, so remember to make time for him each day, even if you’re tired after a busy day at work.

You’ll find that it can be as enriching and rewarding for you as for him, and a much better way to unwind than slumping in front of the TV. You might play a game with him, spend some time grooming, or teach him a trick — whatever you both feel in the mood for.

Doing some Tellington TTouch body work can be a lovely way of spending quality time together, leaving you both feeling really relaxed, as well as improving your observational skills and monitoring your kitty’s physical well-being. It’s easy to learn — find out more at www.ttouchtraining.co.uk and on Facebook at Tellington TTouch Club

Extra knots can make it more durable.

Seal up the toilet roll holder at the ends.

OUCH, that hurts!

Every day I see dogs I suspect are in pain, and that discomfort is often the root cause of their behaviour issues. I’m not a vet and cannot diagnose a health issue, but I can support and signpost dog carers towards getting a diagnosis.

Research by Lincoln University in 2020 revealed that up to 82 per cent of behaviour cases studied were found to be pain-related or exacerbated by pain. But the problem

What does pain look like?

There are many signs that tell us all is not right with our dogs. Trained professionals can pick up on subtle signs like how a dog weight bears, stands, and moves, but you may have also noticed he dislikes being groomed, runs away when you get the harness out, or snaps at you if you touch him in a certain area.

Other signs might include hyperactivity — lots of people can’t sit still if they are in pain — while some dogs may withdraw, become depressed, or sleep more. You may notice your dog is stiff after sleep or exercise, and he may stretch excessively. I stretch my limbs a lot when they hurt.

Noise sensitivity is another sign of pain in the body. Your dog may have become progressively more worried about fireworks in later life, or for no apparent reason have started to react to noises around him.

Then there are eating habits. Has your dog gone off his food or become noticeably hyperactive, mouthy, or grumpy after feeding? Digestive issues can also cause unseen pain in dogs and some dog foods only help dogs to survive, not thrive.

There are so many health reasons linked to behaviour issues; this list is only a fraction of the signs I’ve seen in the cases I work with.

Vet check

When working with a behaviourist, it should be standard practice for them to ask you to contact your vet for a full health check. From the examples already mentioned, you can start to see why that vet visit is a crucial part of any behaviour plan, but how easy is it to find the source of pain in our dogs? The short answer is it’s sometimes very difficult. Your dog can’t tell you in plain English: “Ouch, that hurts”; instead he’ll growl, snap, or avoid.

dden cause

is that a dog can’t tell you when it hurts. And you might struggle to believe your dog is in discomfort, particularly when he’s running around chasing his ball and there is no obvious sign of lameness or injury.

But take 10 people walking down the street, and if you asked them, probably eight would tell you that they have pain somewhere in their bodies. They just don’t show it, so why should dogs be any different?

As a qualified behaviourist and Tellington TTouch instructor, who is trained to notice the little things, I send my clients to the vet with a letter listing my observations. I also ask the carer to take video along of their dog in walk, trot, run, and stand; walking up and down steps is also useful.

And mfort, all and there is no street, ou that have ust don’t show ton TTouch le my their in walk, n is also

fill in the f bhi

Along with the video footage, I suggest they fi Canine Arthritis Management suspicion of chronic pain form, which suggests four areas to consider: behaviour changes, posture and physical appearance changes, capability changes, and gait (movement) changes. Let’s say a dog has an issue with his back, a completed form might read like this:

BEHAVIOUR CHANGES:

● Snapping when touched on the neck or shoulders.

● Running away from the harness, rolling on his back, or freezing when it is put on.

● Gets grumpy at night.

POSTURE AND PHYSICAL CHANGES:

● The hair over the shoulders and lower neck has a new flick and is dull in comparison to the rest of the body.

● He arches his back when the harness is on and takes shorter strides.

● His neck feels tight and there is a hot area over his shoulders.

C APABILITY

CAPABILITY CHANGES:

He finds it hard to jump in the car, and on to the sofa.

● Refuses to jump down from both.

● Reluctant to lower his head to drink or eat.

● He finds it hard to transition from stand to down.

● Stopped chasing his ball.

GAIT CHANGES:

● He seems to be walking with shorter strides and stiff forelegs.

● You can hear his nails scuffing the floor as he walks and the nails on his front feet are wearing down.

● When walking he is crabbing to the right.

When you put all these clues together, you can start to see all is not well. The more information you can give your vet the better. They aren’t psychic, so if you turn up saying I think my dog is in pain, you need to give them as much evidence as you can. Even then, it can be tricky to track the cause or even find the area of pain.

Your vet may manipulate your dog’s limbs, press on his spine, and watch him walk. They may suggest x-rays, scans, or even blood tests. These may or may not find the root cause.

TOP TIP!

Take note if your dog’s behaviour suddenly changes. This can often be linked to a pain issue.

Animal behaviourist Toni Shelbourne explains how pain is often the hidden cause behind behaviour problems.

Some dogs become depressed or lethargic when in discomfort.

A growl should never be punished. It is simply a communication. Ask yourself why your dog has had to use this level of communication. What have you missed?

Does your dog appear uneasy when you approach him, cowering and licking his lips?

Did you know?

Don’t misunderstand a dog’s intention if he rolls on his back every time you interact with him. It could be he is steering you away from touching an area that is sore, or going into a passive submission. Either way, back off and encourage him to move out of this stance before re-engaging with him.

Next step

Vets look for the big causes: hip and elbow dysplasia, arthritis, disc problems, and so on. So, what happens if they don’t find anything? A vet who is progressive in pain management may suggest a painkiller trial, or you can request one. There are many types of painkiller and if a source of discomfort isn’t obvious, the right painkiller may not be prescribed. The latest guidance from top vets is to have a 12-week course and track any changes, be that behaviour, capability, gait, or posture. Now you can see why it is also important to start with as much information as you can so you can track any progress. It may be necessary, after the initial course of pain relief, to trial another type. You should be open to this, as pain relief depends very much on the condition/injury it is targeting.

Still having behaviour problems?

TOP TIP!

Don’t be scared to ask your vet for a referral to a physio or chiropractor. Vets are like GPs; they can’t be expected to be experts in all fields.

TOP TIP!

Pain and pain management is still not fully understood or appreciated as a cause of behaviour problems. Don’t be afraid to question and push for more investigations or for pain relief to see if it helps.

If after tests and pain relief your vet can still find nothing wrong with your dog, but the behaviour plan you are following isn’t seeing much progress, it may be time to dig deeper. Who do you turn to then? When liaising with vets, I always broach the subject of a referral to a veterinary physiotherapist, McTimoney chiropractor, or canine osteopath. In my experience, they may be able to track down the muscular issue, slight misalignment, or give the vets a clearer idea of where to look; just because your dog looks wrong in one region, doesn’t mean that is the area where it hurts.

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Don’t dismiss discomfort

Case Study

Fern showed hyperactivity and issues around being touched, especially on the left-hand side of her lower back, hindquarters, and tail. She could also be very mouthy and resource guarded items and food, as well as having a history of biting.

Initially, behavioural work went well, and a first vet examination showed nothing remarkable. Fern did however have difficulty when asked to give her left paw, became distressed at the sight of her harness, and continued to be wary and reactive to touch.

Work was started on muzzle training so a further vet check or chiropractic visit could be safely conducted.

Fern’s resource guarding reduced but her behaviour towards family members was still an issue and she nipped/ bit a few more times. X-rays showed no issues, but a drug that is both a pain relief and a behavioural drug was prescribed. Fern’s behaviour almost immediately started to improve, she slept more, was calmer, and seemed willing to progress in her consent-based training for handling, nail clipping, and grooming.

An appointment was arranged with a highly qualified McTimoney chiropractor who picked up on the problem

MORE INFO:

●

immediately. Fern, in layperson’s terms, had a rotation of her pelvis and a lot of muscle tension in the left-hand side of her body.

Fern’s behaviour improved after she received medication and treatment.

The difference after treatment was amazing, both in Fern’s behaviour and physically; even her coat changed from dramatic flicks to lying down flat. A few treatments later, and Fern had improved enough to be taken off the pain relief and to be signed off by me on the behaviour side.

The ‘take home’ from this is don’t give up and don’t dismiss discomfort when working through your dog’s behaviour issues. We all present with pain in different ways. We sometimes only hurt when performing a certain movement or after an activity, so why should our dogs be any different?

Behaviour & Training Charter logo.

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How does your dog cope with being groomed? This dog is uncomfortable and is giving the groomer whale eye (showing the whites of the eye).

A retailer’s guide to young guinea pigs

The pandemic saw a boom in pet numbers across the board and the popularity of guinea pigs is showing no signs of abating. The current UK guinea pig population stands at an estimated 0.9 million, second only to rabbits in the small pet popularity stakes. The good news for guinea pigs is that gone are the days when they were thought of as a ‘starter’ pet and they are now recognised as highly specialised herbivores with unique needs.

If these unique needs are not met, health and well-being will soon start to suffer. In fact, poor husbandry is one of the leading causes of illness and mortality in guinea pigs and young guinea pigs are particularly vulnerable. Lack of knowledge is a major factor in inadequate care and retailers are well placed to educate owners and in so doing improve the welfare of the UK guinea pig population.

Many new owners will be looking to buy young guinea pigs. So how can retailers help? By providing owners with the information they need to care for their piggie pal, right from the word go, getting them off to the best start in life….

Pregnancy, piglets, and pups

While it is not a good idea to actively encourage pet owners to breed, especially when those owners are inexperienced, being armed with a bit of background knowledge helps set retailers up as a trusted source of advice.

● Baby guinea pigs are called pups not piglets… ● …but adults follow pig names, with sow (female) and boar (male).

● Pregnancy lasts 60 to 70 days (long compared to other small pets).

● A long pregnancy means the young are born well developed and can walk soon after birth.

● The pelvic canal of female guinea pigs is fully fused by eight months old, which means that if they have a first litter after eight months old, they are likely to have problems giving birth as the birth canal is unable to stretch.

Starting life

Newborn guinea pigs start life with hair, open eyes and ears, and teeth that are already present, and they are able to walk within a short time of birth. They nibble on solid food from as early as two days old and will usually be fully weaned at three weeks. As prey animals, being born well developed has obvious advantages, making them less vulnerable to threats such as predation.

Diet for growing guinea pigs

As solid food forms a part of their diet as early as two days after birth, feeding an appropriate diet, tailored for growth is right at the top of the ‘must-haves’. As well as relatively early weaning, young guinea pigs grow rapidly, from as little as 60 grams at birth to adult size within a matter of weeks.

Science Selective Junior Guinea Pig provides optimum nutrition and a tasty balanced diet for guinea pigs up to

20 weeks of age. Extra protein supports growth, and the single component extruded nuggets are also high in fibre to promote dental and digestive health. Full of delicious natural ingredients, including dandelion and fennel, Science Selective Junior Guinea pig is highly palatable without the need for added sugar. Enhanced vitamin C, reflecting the unique need of these small pets for this important nutrient, ensures the best start in life.

The importance of vitamin C

Like humans, guinea pigs lack the enzyme necessary for making their own vitamin C. This means they have an essential need for vitamin C in their diet and is one reason why good quality food, formulated specifically for guinea pigs should be recommended. Vitamin C is used to make collagen, the building block for lots of different types of body tissues, so is particularly important in diets for young guinea pigs. In fact, vitamin C requirements increase in young growing guinea pigs as well as during pregnancy, lactation, and illness. Science Selective Junior Guinea Pig contains enhanced vitamin C levels to ensure that these needs are met.

However, vitamin C is relatively unstable and tends to degrade over time, especially if it is exposed to light, heat, and moisture. Therefore, owners should follow the manufacturer’s storage and ‘use by’ instructions. Some diets, including all of Supreme’s guinea pig diets, contain vitamin C in a stabilised form to prevent it from degrading.

Neophobia

Neophobia is defined as a fear of anything new. Guinea pigs can become neophobic with age, with youngsters more willing to sample novel foods than adults. Offering small amounts of a variety of food, such as a daily handful of leafy greens, is one way to counteract this innate tendency. Foods like kale, parsley, spinach, salad peppers, and broccoli florets have the added benefit of being particularly high in vitamin C.

Two’s company

Guinea pigs are social creatures and should be housed in pairs or groups. Single sex groups often work best, although a neutered male with a female can work well. Males may have a tendency to fight but this is less likely to happen if they are brought up together from a young age.

In larger groups, females tend to get on well, but uncastrated males may fight, especially if there are females around. Besides which, keeping uncastrated males and females together is not wise because of breeding. Castration reduces the risk of

fighting but does not eliminate it, so it is often best to have only one castrated male in mixed sex groups.

Young guinea pigs, especially those from the same litter, are the easiest to bond but with time and patience, bonds can be formed between older guinea pigs and those from different litters.

Building trust: the pet-owner bond

Building that all important bond between pet and owner takes time. Calm, gentle handling is key and having some tasty treats at the ready to help build trust is also helpful.

Selective Naturals Woodland Loops are rich in natural ingredients with no artificial colours or added sugar, and are suitable for all ages. They are also high in fibre, ensuring that treat time is healthy as well as delicious. They should be fed in moderation, with a maximum of two to four treats per day, depending on the size of the guinea pig.

Education, education, education…

When it comes to education, there are the obvious benefits of feeding an appropriate diet or providing the right kind of bedding, but sometimes the less obvious advice is just as important. For example, telling an owner that a guinea pig that is well cared for can live for over five years, may encourage them to invest more both emotionally and financially in their pet.

And finally….sexing

Are you confident sexing guinea pigs? Left to their own devices, it is not long before youngsters start breeding.

Guinea pigs normally reach sexual maturity at around two to four months old, but this is just a guide and there is some individual variation, with females being known to reach sexual maturity as early as four to six weeks.

Sexing guinea pigs can be tricky. However, you and your staff will have a much better chance of determining the sex of these animals if you know what you’re looking for. While guinea pigs can be sexed as soon as soon as they are born, waiting until one to two weeks is advisable, as sex differentiation tends to become clearer over time.

How to sex guinea pigs:

Expose the genitalia

● Support the guinea pig on its back resting on a towel.

● Make sure you don’t restrain a guinea pig in this position for too long as they will become distressed due to their natural prey survival instincts.

Examine the shape of the genital opening

● A male guinea pig (boar) will have a circular opening in their penis or penis-sheath.

● Females (sows) have a vertical slit in their vulva which is their vaginal opening.

Examine the distance between the genitals and the anus

● Boars have a larger gap between the anus and penis.

● Sows have hardly any space between their anus and vulva.

Examine the shape between the anus and vulva/penis sheath

● Sows have a distinctive ‘Y’ shape between their vulva and anus.

● Boars do not have this ‘Y’ shape and instead the space between penis and anus appears as an ‘I’ shape.

Look for a bulge in the area of the genitals and anus

● Boars have a large bulge where their testicles are held under the skin. Unlike most animals, guinea-pig testicles are too large to be held in the scrotal sacs which hang outside of the body. Their presence under the skin makes it appear as if the genitals bulge outwards.

● The genitalia of sows appear flat and do not bulge.

Claire Hamblion Marketing Director at Supreme Pet Foods

The ‘mini budget’ —

what does it mean?

Writer/researcher

Energy

So, to the mini-budget and starting with the ‘pre-announcements’ a few days before the event, the chancellor reiterated that households would see their energy bills capped at £2,500 for an average household. On top of that, there would be £400 given in instalments over a six-month period from October. Those off the gas grid — for example, on oil or LPG — would be given £100 on top of that sum. The Government reckons that the average householder will be ‘better off’ by £2,200. That’s a relative term, however, considering the marked increase in the cost of energy this year.

There is assistance for businesses too as many ordinarily viable firms faced going to the wall. So, the Government’s announcement that they will also be able to benefit from the same cap per unit of energy as will apply to households was welcomed. However, it will only apply for six months, not two years. On current prices, the help will take an estimated 45% off bills.

Other business-related changes are the creation of new investment zones that will be granted lower tax rates and easier planning rules; an expansion of the Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) to help start-ups raise finance; and an expansion of the Company Share Option Plan (CSOP) scheme which allows companies to taxefficiently grant shares to full-time directors.

For individuals, the chancellor brought forward from 2024 to 2023 a 1p cut in income tax, down from 20p to 19p in the pound. While the cut applies to those currently earning between £12,571 to £50,270, surprisingly, the chancellor moved to help high-rate taxpayers and abolished the 45% highest tax band for those on more than £150,000. Again, the thinking is that it encourages enterprise and growth and should help to keep the economy spinning, giving the wealthy more to spend. However, barely 10 days after the mini budget, the chancellor was forced to recant this last particular cut. It caused much outrage and was politically unacceptable.

The scrapping of some of the IR35 rules will be welcomed by firms who will no longer have the burden of checking the employment status of staff where they employ the ‘self-employed’. However, that problem will be passed back to contractors who will either ignore the rule or be tied up in knots having to defend their status.

Many will decry the removal of the cap on bankers’ bonuses which has the potential to appear obscene. But the idea is to have more of those well-paid bankers earning and paying tax in the UK rather than overseas. Again, it is hoped that their conspicuous spending will benefit the wider economy.

Other help

Individuals and organisations alike have sought urgent help as the economy has been battered by the effects of Covid and the civilised world’s attempts to curtail Russia’s Ukrainian ambitions. In particular, fuel, energy, food, and many other goods have witnessed inflationary pressures not seen for decades as a result of a broken global economy following the post-Covid restart, the weaponisation of gas and oil, and the effective closing of Ukraine’s ports.

But a series of lifelines may well have been provided by the new chancellor, Kwasi Kwarteng, in what was termed by many as a ‘mini-budget’ but by the Government as ‘The Growth Plan 2022.’ The tools deployed by Kwarteng were in stark contrast to those used by previous chancellors who latterly wound the tax burden up to its highest level since the 1940s. And the use of those tools has created much disquiet and a u-turn.

Sky’s economics and data editor Ed Conway commented that the Treasury and Bank of England are “desperately concerned… over the market reaction to the chancellor’s economic plan.” He added that “I’ve been reporting on budgets for 20 years now and I can’t remember another budget — Labour, coalition, Conservatives — that has had anything like this reaction.”

Notably, many are wondering what the Bank of England does next. On the one hand, the Government says it’s not changing course — a point driven home the weekend after the mini-budget when the chancellor said that he intends to cut more taxes. But as a country we’ve committed to borrowing hundreds of billions more pounds and the rate has got much more expensive and this will put pressure on the Bank of England potentially to raise interest rates and very soon too.

The chancellor noted that “the consensus amongst independent forecasters is that the Government’s energy plan will reduce peak inflation by around five percentage points.” If that is the case then individuals, businesses, and the Government will be mightily relieved. However, the six-month initial period is a worry; it’s not going to help businesses plan for anything but the short-term.

National Insurance and Dividends Tax

Next came the announcement that the previous Government’s increase in National Insurance by 1.25% is to be reversed from November. The move will benefit both employees and employers and should save the former on average £330 a year while businesses should save £10,000 a year.

And for business owners, shareholders specifically, the chancellor said that the 1.25% increase on income tax on dividends announced at the same time as the same rise in National Insurance from April 2022, will be reversed from April 2023. This is expected to save taxpayers an average of £345 a year.

The money from both measures was earmarked for health and social care but that will now be funded from general taxation.

Corporation and Income Tax

Moving to those measures actually announced in the mini budget, with an eye to encouraging as many overseas firms as possible to base themselves in the UK, the planned rise in Corporation Tax from 19 to 25% in April 2023 has been shelved. The argument used is that while individual firms may pay less tax, that deficit will be made up through a greater number of corporate taxpayers liable to pay tax.

Corporates — large and small — seeking to invest in plant and equipment will also be pleased that the Annual Investment Allowance threshold has been permanently set at £1 million, rather than reverting to £200,000 from April 2023. This is a 100% capital allowance for qualifying expenditure.

Those buying homes will have more left in their pockets through an immediate cut in Stamp Duty for transactions in England and Northern Ireland. In detail, the chancellor raised the threshold before Stamp Duty is paid to £250,000 from £125,000 and gave more assistance to first-time buyers. They formerly paid nothing on purchases below £300,000 but will benefit from an increase in the threshold to £425,000. Even better, that help now applies to homes valued up to £625,000 rather than £500,000 previously.

And for those fond of a drink at the end of the working day, there is succour in knowing that the planned increases in the duty rates for beer, cider, wine, and spirits have all been cancelled. Similarly, there’s an 18-month transitional process for wine duty and an extension of draught relief on smaller kegs of 20 litres and above to help smaller breweries.

SummarySo, why all of the tax cuts and why now? Very simply, the economy is heading for a recession, if it’s not in one now and the Government — backed by reams of statistics — wants to minimise the fallout from this and instead, grow GDP by 2.5% a year. The chancellor is firmly of the view that tax cuts will “turn the vicious cycle of stagnation into a virtuous cycle of growth.”

However, others think that interest rates could rise to 5% or more next year as inflation may be exacerbated by the changes. And the foreign exchange markets weren’t convinced either — sterling dropped as investors worried about the level of debt that the Government is about to take on at a time when the Bank of England was to sell off some of the Government debt it holds. It’s perfectly arguable that all of the chancellor’s giveaways will be negated — by some margin — through increases in both the cost of borrowing as the Bank of England moves to support the pound and the cost of imports as sterling flounders.

Ultimately, the Truss administration believes in individuals keeping as much of their money as possible — especially the wealthy who will benefit proportionately more from the tax cuts. It wants the public and businesses to spend more so that it trickles down through the economy.

But Samuel Mather-Holgate of Swindonbased advisory firm, Mather & Murray Financial said that “the markets clearly don’t think [the chancellor’s] budget is credible, so some of his policies need to be re-thought and then retracted… This country is being run by a confederacy of dunces.”

Similarly, Rob Gill, managing director at mortgage broker Altura Mortgage Finance, commented that “a currency in freefall, the soaring cost of borrowing and a Government and central bank pulling in opposite directions is the stuff of a banana republic.”

With more gravitas, President Biden recently spoke about the concept of trickle-down economics. Both he and the money markets reckon that the tax cuts are ultimately destined to fail. Maybe they will, but only time will tell.

Editor’s note

All information in this article was correct at the time of publishing. We wanted to break down the mini budget for our readers but are aware some things may have changed since this was published.

Adam Bernstein

for independent businesses.

Kwasi Kwarteng.

It’s Not Just Window Dressing

The lead-up to Christmas can be a magical time. The promise of a celebration which punctuates the winter gloom. Of course, shopping features heavily in the lead-up to the big day, with retail sales increasing by an average of 18 per cent during the last 12 weeks of the year.

Retailer preparations start well in advance: purchasing, promotions, and stock management all feature alongside an alignment of opening hours to accommodate late-night shopping and town centre seasonal events which maximise opportunities for sales.

An appreciation of a pet as a family member has naturally extended opportunities for pet product sales to soar at this time of year, including pets as the givers and receivers of seasonal gifts: treats, toys, and accessories are now very much part of the public psyche, as is the approach to stock-up on essentials to avoid having to break the holiday verve by the need to head out to the shops.

For many bricks and mortar outlets, conveying the Christmas spirit involves shop decoration. Your business set-up and available floor space may limit how much you can apply to the retail space but the shop window is another matter. This gives you a distinct advantage against online counterparts. It sets the scene, extends an ‘invitation to treat’ and psychologically bridges a connection between you and prospective customers which can tempt them to walk across the threshold.

Of course, shop windows come in all shapes and sizes, but the trick is to make the most of what you have.

In the main, they fall into these types: ● open — has no back board, allowing the rest of the shop to be seen behind the display

● closed — incorporates a backboard which closes off a view into the shop ● semi–closed — an area with a partial back board and an enticing view of the store behind

● island display — a display area sited within the shop but visible from the window, often using lighting to spotlight key products

● arcade style — the type of windows that extend beyond the door, determined by wider architectural aspects.

It’s natural to want to use this key area to showcase new and seasonal products but resist the urge to throw everything at it. It is easy for small spaces to look overcrowded and in doing so risk it looking messy and confused…a bit like adding those extra baubles or strands of tinsel to the tree.

However, you don’t have to be a big retail brand with extensive budget to make a statement. More and more towns are encouraging retailers to put on a show in order to boost the viability of the High Street. Town centre partnerships, business improvement districts, and membership organisations up and down the country are challenging retailers to do things differently. These include themed shopping days, events and entertainment, and an occasional challenge to encourage a competitive edge.

In places like Harrogate, Bournemouth, and Uttoxeter, shop window display competitions have upped the ante and raised public awareness. The results have been stunning with ever-more elaborate designs drawing customers from a much wider catchment area. Successful retailers who have won such competitions also benefit from the kudos and publicity around the event.

Having a clear concept, story, or theme can help you achieve this, around which every element must fit. Here are some approaches that you might want to include:

● colour — the obvious choice in the runup to Christmas are seasonal reds, greens, and golds and these can be effective if used in a traditional setting but will other retailers be using the same palette? For standout, consider using limited colours with a contrast colour as a motif to grab attention.

● shape — adding geometrical components to create a bigger picture can be extremely effective. Think about repeating shaped display items together on which products can be displayed, for example, rectangular display stands, shelves, or boxing.

● lighting — the twinkle of lights is synonymous with Christmas, often multicoloured or time sequenced. However, more subtle lighting arrangements can work too, helping illuminate a display, spotlight key products, or convey a mood to support an over-arching concept.

● brand or product grouping — brand blocking can be effective, conveying the extent of range backed by packaging colour and categorisation. Alternatively, group similar products together across brands to demonstrate versatility and choice. This can include breed specific products.

● utilise seasonal products with ‘must have’ appeal (for example, pet treat advent calendars have become enormously popular) or consider creating your own gift boxes, suitably packaged and decorated, helping to sell the gifting concept to pet owners.

● add a sense of drama — think of your shop window as a frame, now create the picture. Can you introduce a sense of perspective? Window decals, hanging decorations, use of display stands of different levels, natural materials and backdrops can all become part of the creation.

Retailers with an online presence (including those that are primarily e-commerce) should also consider their virtual shop window. Scheduling banner changes to reflect seasonality and tap into reasons why people buy, their motivation, and buying habits can resonate with customers and actively encourage sales transition.

Also the use of visuals to promote bundles and Christmas gift categorisation. Click throughs to related product pages can generate cross-selling recommendations which may encourage greater levels of purchase.

Instead, attempt to make a bold statement: consider what it is you want to convey, decide on a theme, set the scene and apply the detail – in most cases, less is more. How often do we walk past a shop and find the display stops us in our tracks? That wow factor may speak to you on an emotional level. Triggering such a response engages a prospective customer on a subliminal level; encoding a message which they de-code and can act upon.

The emotional trigger is especially relevant to the Christmas season. It’s tied up in what Christmas means to us personally; memories, tradition, celebration, family. That’s why story telling can be an effective approach to window displays, setting the scene into which we can place desirable products for sale.

Department stores do this extremely well. For example, last year Liberty’s of London used a ‘Sending Joy’ theme complete with stage set backdrops to evoke the traditions of Christmas greetings cards, while Fortnum and Mason positioned itself as the ‘home of Christmas’ utilising animal shapes within its windows featuring key products. Some are so stage set that they have a feel of Christmas grotto about them: conveying a story, setting the scene, and pulling us into a little of the magic.

“So, what are the magic ingredients to window dressing? The truth is there’s no one answer. It is essentially a piece of transient artwork, a frame into which you can place a picture to engage the public and invite them in to buy.

Before you know it, Christmas will be upon us — a chance for retailers to enjoy a couple of days off…and put in place preparations for New Year’s sales, spring offers, and the summer season. Enjoy…and Merry Christmas!

“The emotional trigger is especially relevant to the Christmas season.

Q A& Customer solutions

Dog special!

Tackling ticks

Are ticks more prevalent at this time of year? How can I protect my dog from these parasites and what should I do if I find a tick on him?

Can I watch?

Will a groomer allow you to stay and watch them grooming your dog when you first go to the grooming salon?

The answer to this is usually no. This is primarily because a dog tends to behave better for the groomer without the owner present to distract him. If you are concerned about your dog’s first visit, then perhaps a visit to the salon without a groom would be a good idea initially.

Signs of study

Peak tick seasons are March to June and August to November, but they are a risk year-round, including in mild winters. There are several tick prevention options available from your vet, including collars, spot-ons, and tablets. Your choice will depend on your dog’s risk level and lifestyle.

If a tick does attach to your dog, remove it as soon as possible using a tick removal tool: then wrap the tick in paper and flush down the toilet. Never smother, burn, or squeeze a tick which is on your dog as this increases the risk of the tick passing on diseases such as Lyme’s disease. A lump at the bite site is quite common and harmless, but if your dog seems unwell after a tick bite contact your vet for advice.

What qualifications should I expect my groomer to have?

At present the grooming industry is not regulated and therefore, unfortunately, anyone can set up as a groomer qualified or not! There are a range of recognised grooming qualifications that all ensure your groomer has studied their craft and learned about working safely to care for your pet. You should be looking for an Ofqual regulated qualification of which City & Guilds is probably the best known. The Level 2 qualification is an assistant qualification and a Level 3 Diploma is the full qualification. It would also be very useful if your groomer held an animal first aid qualification.

How will I know when my elderly dog begins to lose his hearing?

Hearing loss is hard to evaluate in dogs, and a dog may be quite deaf before his owner notices. Often, it is only spotted when a dog snaps when touched, because he didn’t hear someone approaching, or stops coming back when called on his walks. Be prepared for this; some dogs can still hear you, but do not know where you are calling from, and so run off and get lost. No matter how good your dog’s recall is, having him on a long line when you are walking will ensure you don’t lose him.

How does acupuncture aid healing in my dog?

Acupuncture is said to encourage healing by correcting energy imbalances in the body. It also enhances blood circulation, nervous system stimulation, and the release of anti-inflammmatory and pain-relieving hormones.

My dog and I are moving in with my boyfriend and his cat. Any advice on how to do this successfully?

Introducing dogs and cats can be tricky, and much will depend on their previous experiences. It’s really important that both dog and cat feel safe. To ensure the first meeting goes well, you may have to make some changes around the house beforehand, like adding cat flaps to internal doors, providing shelves for the cat so he can stay out of reach, or using a dog gate. Having safe places to sleep, rest, eat, drink, and toilet is a must. Initial meetings should be short and under control with choices available should either cat or dog feel the need to escape. Enlisting the help of an appropriately qualified local behaviourist might be a good idea.

Which puppy should I choose — dog or bitch?

There isn’t really a right or wrong option. Many people will make a choice due to personal preference or because of the genders of existing dogs in the house.

How well are our dogs coping with modern life?

While we spend a lot of time pondering on behaviour problems in dogs, we maybe need to turn the focus on ourselves. We rarely take time to recognise that we are taking a totally different species into our homes — and one that doesn’t speak our language. Our expectations of dogs are often utterly unrealistic; no wonder so many dogs don’t live up to them. To have the dog of our dreams we have to understand and celebrate the dogginess of our dogs; teach them with empathy and kindness how to fit into our lives, and the life skills they need. In the vast majority of cases, dogs really want to get it right, but often we are not clear, consistent, and reliably trustworthy in the education and handling of our dogs. We also forget that they learn from us every minute of every day — not just in the five minutes we put aside as ‘training time’. So, be mindful — all of the time.

Is there any way to keep a white coat white?

Discoloration of a dog’s coat can occur for many reasons: dietary, skin problems, urine stains, and genetics to name a few. If your dog is relatively young and healthy, look at diet and shampoos. A raw or low-protein diet is excellent to maintain a healthy skin and coat. Try contacting your breeder for advice, who may be able to recommend one of the many whitening shampoos available.

Some groomers find the dogs behave better when their owners aren’t around.

He’s ruining our sofa!

Why does my dog scrape up the cushions and covers on the sofa before settling down for a snooze. He’s destroying them!

While it can be a very frustrating behaviour for us humans, many dogs will scratch and dig, or circle round before settling down to rest or sleep. This can be a very normal behaviour, where they are making their bed area more comfortable and warm, and transferring their scent through the glands on their paws, on to the bedding. Digging is also a very natural behaviour for dogs, so it may be that your dog particularly enjoys digging in soft furnishings, or has hidden his treats or toys in there earlier and is now investigating them. If it’s a very intense dig or scrape, lasts some time, and seems to cause your dog more stress rather than relaxation, it could be anxiety related, so do keep an eye on exactly when the behaviour happens and whether it’s worse on some days than others. If it is, seek further veterinary and behavioural support if necessary. If it’s not causing your dog any concern, minimise the damage to your sofa by providing your dog with an alternative, super-comfy dog bed, either on the floor or on the sofa that he can dig and rest in safely. Also, try giving him lots of other appropriate things he can dig in, such as a sandbox, old blankets, or cardboard boxes filled with shredded newspaper and toys (if safe for your dog), to help meet these needs as much as possible.

Walk this way!

How do you teach a dog to heel? It’s not something I want to do all the time, but I think it will be useful if I can call my dog to heel in potentially tricky situations. He’s a Border Collie and can be a bit reactive sometimes.

Walking to heel means the dog walks nicely by your side. It is so-called because the dog would walk near the handler’s heels in times past. To have a dog next to you on a slack lead means you can both enjoy the walk, you have complete control if needed, and there is no tension on the dog’s collar or harness.

Firstly, decide which side you want your dog to be walking on. Be consistent to begin with. The left side is traditional but it could be the right side. You then know where your dog should be and he also learns consistency. If you vary it, then the dog can become confused and can trip you up. Ensure anyone who walks him sticks with that left or right side. You can play a training game called ‘Red light/green light’. With your dog on your chosen side, it’s very simple. When the lead is slack, it’s green light — go! Walk your dog as usual. If the lead is tight, it’s red light—stop! Calmly wait for the lead to become loose again and continue walking. Let your dog work it out. He should return to your side so he can progress the walk with a loose lead.

If this is a struggle, you can boost the training by rewarding him with treats. You can use some of his dinner kibble or small pieces of chicken.

When your dog is walking nicely by your chosen side, praise him and pop a treat in his mouth. It takes a little practice but you need to do this on the move without stopping. You can randomly reward when the lead is slack. Feed your dog with the hand nearest him and have the treats in a pocket or treat bag on the same side as you walk your dog on. It’s consistency and rewards that pay off. The consequence for pulling is your dog stops moving forward. A smart collie soon establishes that walking nicely pays off.

Building a speedy recall

Playtime problems

My dog is a large, two-yearold black Labrador, who loves to play with other dogs. The problem is that he plays quite roughly, and while that may be OK with dogs of a similar size and temperament, it often isn’t with small, elderly, or timid dogs. I try to pre-empt any problems by putting him on a lead if I see such dogs approaching, but it isn’t always possible, and he does get very frustrated, lunging and jumping around, which makes the oncoming dog even more anxious.

The other problem is that when he’s off the lead and in playing mode, he really doesn’t listen to me, so I find it difficult to get him away from the other dog.

My dog’s recall is OK. He knows what it means and will come —It just takes quite a long time, and he gets easily distracted by an interesting scent along the way! How can I speed up his recall and what should I do if he comes but takes a long time to get to me? I’m very aware of not making it a negative experience so I always treat him when he comes. Is this the right thing to do?

The answer depends on whether you want a fast recall or are simply grateful that your dog returns at all!

Often, a sluggish recall is because the dog is not sufficiently motivated, and there are competing elements in the environment (other dogs, scents), which trump your reward. Consider changing the reward. Have you tried a favourite toy? Have a special ‘recall toy’ that he absolutely loves. It depends on your dog, but it could be a tennis ball, a squeaky toy, or a tuggy toy, which he only sees after returning. The game becomes the reward.

Play can create an energetic return. If he is not into toys or you can’t build that craving, then perhaps raise the value of the food rewards. You want your dog to absolutely desire the treat and run back to you in order to get it. Dogs have a hierarchy of rewards. Usually, the softer, moister treats are their most valuable, so you can change your rewards to low-fat cheese, chicken, hotdogs or — the best for many dogs— liver cake (the recipe can be found on the internet).

Another tip is to perform multiple recalls in the park. If you only do one and then go home, your dog knows his fun will end with a recall. Call him back, reward him, and let him return to where you called him away from. Of course, after one of the recalls you will need to clip on the lead and leave, but keep him guessing as to which one it will be.

If you want to advance his recall performance overall and make it faster, you can start being smarter with the treats or toy and reward for performance. If he returns within so many seconds, he gains the reward (food or toy). If the return is slower, praise him and release him with no game or treat. This technique means the treats (or toy) aren’t quite as predictable as they are in a fixed, continuous reward schedule, and he may keep trying harder... and faster.

Dogs have individual play styles and enjoy different types of games with other dogs, so it can be difficult to find suitable play partners who recognise another dog’s playful intentions and are comfortable joining in.

Popping your dog on-lead and/or calling him away from dogs who don’t wish to play is responsible and sensible. However, being on-lead when you want to play is frustrating. Move away from other dogs and redirect his attention into a fun, engaging activity with you instead, such as an exciting game with his favourite toy, or scatter treats he can search for. He’ll learn being on-lead doesn’t end his fun at all and, although he might not always be able to play with other dogs, you’re always there for

him and providing alternative fun! Call him regularly when he’s off-lead, whether there are dogs around or not, and always reward him, but mix the rewards up to keep him guessing and interested in coming to you — sometimes a game, sometimes a treat, and sometimes a fuss. Make sure the rewards are things he really likes. Occasionally, pop him on the lead for a game or scatter some treats, before letting him off again. This will help him learn that coming when called always works out well for him, and being popped on-lead doesn’t end but starts a different kind of fun. An accredited trainer will be able to help you practise calling him away from exciting distractions.

Scratching and digging behaviour to make a comfy bed is quite normal in dogs.

Going for a walk is more enjoyable when your dog walks by your side on a loose lead.

Not all dogs enjoy rough play.

Pick your rewards carefully — moist, soft treats usually score highly.

“I adopted a cat with

In April 2021, the RSPCA in Birmingham put out an appeal for a very special person to adopt Jermaine. The lovely kitty was rescued by RSPCA inspectors living in a house of 40 cats, all of whom were suffering from cat flu. He also had dental disease. The poorly cat was treated for both of these but the staff at the centre noticed that he was drinking more than normal and urinating frequently, and tests revealed he had stage 3 chronic kidney disease (CKD). Nobody knew how long Jermaine had left but they wanted him to find a loving home as soon as possible where he could live out the rest of his days.

The appeal happened to appear in Heather Ferns’ news feed, and she could not help but fall in love with him looking dapper in his little bow tie and giving endless head nudges. She wanted to make

a difference to his life no matter how long he had left and being a qualified veterinary nurse, she had plenty of experience in nursing cats with CKD. You could say Heather was the ‘purrfect’ person to adopt Jermaine.

Heather said: “I felt privileged to be chosen to look after him as it comes with a certain level of responsibility, and I felt lucky that the RSPCA trusted me with his care. It makes me happy to think I can make a difference to a cat’s life no matter how long that may be.”

She added: “Being a qualified veterinary nurse, I was totally prepared for what his treatment would entail and what it would cost. I have been supported by brilliant vets who have formulated a plan to keep him healthy and this is mainly ensuring he has plenty of water available and is fed

on a special renal diet (wet and dry food) that limits the level of protein and contains restricted amounts of phosphorus. He has regular blood and urine tests, as well as his blood pressure checked. I do believe that any conscientious cat owner could do what I have done as long as they have the support of their vet.”

Despite the fact there would be exclusions on the policy, Heather even decided she would take out an insurance policy for him just in case.

blood sampling, otherwise serum creatinine levels will be raised. In Gruff’s case, his dental disease would have reduced his appetite and thirst, and so he was likely sub-clinically dehydrated. In addition, it is possible there was also a degree of acute kidney disease present, which can be reversible. So, having high kidney values on a blood test doesn’t necessarily mean permanent damage, and we can do a lot to support any remaining functional renal tissue; special renal diets make a significant

Feline friends

There was a very slow introduction to Heather’s two other cats Sprout and Tux. Gruff chirruped away and after some initial reservations, they all got on famously. Tux, who is the eldest at 14, was rather relieved that Sprout now had another cat to play with and chase around the house, and that left him to snuggle up on his favourite cushion. Gruff and Sprout play, groom, and sleep together.

Due to Gruff having CKD, he drinks a lot of water so Heather has large bowls of water placed in different areas of the house.

Just as Gruff was settling in nicely, he developed watery, bloody diarrhoea. Heather immediately took him to the veterinary practice where she works. Blood tests revealed a very high white cell count indicative of infection, and he was diagnosed with haemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE). He was started on a course of intravenous antibiotics and put on fluids. Due to Heather’s training, she took him home and kept him in the spare room. He was in a large dog crate and she was able to nurse him through the night and keep him hydrated on IV fluids. Thankfully, he made a full recovery. It was only when Sprout and Tux started showing the same symptoms, albeit it milder, that Heather realised that it was likely they had contracted the condition outside as all three cats like to play in the garden.

Gruff has certainly landed on his paws with Heather. He clearly adores her and frequently bring her presents. While a lot of cats may bring in a mouse or small bird, not Gruff, his token of appreciation was in the form of a magpie which he proudly brought through the cat flap much to the family’s horror. Heather said: “It was like a comedy sketch trying to get the live magpie out of Gruff’s mouth and safely back outside again — he has no fear.”

Heather monitors Gruff closely. Gruff’s vet Nadine Smith said: “Gruff was rehomed by Heather with a diagnosis of CKD stage 3, now he is classified as stage 1. CKD staging is based on serum creatinine levels, a by-product of normal muscle metabolism that is filtered and excreted by the kidneys. Gruff’s creatinine levels have dramatically reduced since he was rehomed, which is unexpected, but fantastic!

“The key to staging CKD is to make sure the cat is well-hydrated at the time of

difference to life expectancy, as does regular monitoring of urine protein levels and blood pressure.”

Heather said: “All you really need to rescue a cat with renal problems is a big heart, an awareness of the costs involved, and to take a leap of faith.

“Gruff is already giving me back more than I am giving him.”

NEW NAME, NEW START

The family renamed him Gruff after the character in ‘Tinker Bell and the legend of the NeverBeast’ because he is a big softie with a heart of gold, which describes Gruff to a T. He is an adorable and friendly cat who always wants to give cuddles and head nudges to the family and loves sitting on Heather’s lap and being cradled. Heather said: “Gruff settled in so quickly and it feels like we have had him years. He is so affectionate and follows me everywhere.”

As Gruff settled in, Heather noticed that whenever the food was placed in front of him, he would eat at a rate of knots, wolfing it down, not chewing and often inhaling, then within seconds he would start vomiting.

Heather bought him a slow feeder to try to counteract his feeding behaviour and it began to work with Gruff actually realising that he would get fed on a regular basis and that he no longer had to fight for his food. Over time, Heather found that he no longer needed the slow feeder as he began to eat normally again. Not only that but he gained weight and is now at his optimum size.

With his bow tie.

Heather

Best friends.