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PET GAZETTE
AUGUST 2011
www.petgazette.biz
ISSN 2046-7303
Safety in
numbers
Selling to multi-pet
households
Calm before
the storm
Pet phobias and anxieties
DEVELOP YOUR OWN CUSTOMER RETENTION STRATEGY AND FIND WAYS TO ENCOURAGE LOYALTY
A bird in the hand
Asset management
From the novice pet owner
to the experienced bird
exhibitor, budgerigars
have popular appeal
Maintaining healthy fish
stocks is vital to the
commercial success of
the aquatic retailer
CELEBRATING
Special deals
exclusive to the specialist
pet trade and we'll help
drive footfall to
your store.
National Mall
Sampling Campaign
Mall Sampling in Birm
in
gham
Reaching over
a million potenhalf
NEW customertial
s
Bringing new customers to Royal Canin and your
store! Plus 40,000 cards to distribute to new potential
customers during the sampling campaign.
National Consumer Photo Competition
Noggy relaxing in
the Sunshine
Find the next star of Royal Canin. Get your customers
involved and advertise the competition in your store!
ww.summerofthecat.co.uk
National Instore & Window
Display Competition
Take part in the National instore
and window display competition
with 3 great prizes of holiday
vouchers to be won!
Ask your business manager for details about the
exclusive deals available to you and get involved NOW!
Crown Pet Foods Limited, Royal Canin, Oak Tree Meadow, Blackworthy Road, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7PH
UK: 0845 300 5011
ROI: +44 (0)845 3005011
www.royalcanin.co.uk www.royalcanin.ie
Registered in England ~ No. 2744493
This month
Editor’s
letter
August 2011
Contents
Roundup 4
Three minute interview 5
Petucation 8
The latest news from the industry
Suzanne Rothman, Pet Munchies
In this month’s issue, Michael Bellingham considers the importance
of educating and informing customers about their pets’ needs
through the provision of books and leaflets and online resources
Taking stock 12
Loyal to the core 18
Dealing with degenerative joint disease 22
The latest products for the pet trade
Repeat custom is crucial for retailers and Sue Corfield looks at the
importance of developing a successful customer retention strategy
Registered veterinary nurse Claire King looks at
DJD in dogs, cats and rabbits and explores the
range of treatments available to pet owners
O
A bird in the hand 28
Asset management 32
Calm before the storm 36
Focus on... Petindex 40
Long in the tooth 44
Safety in numbers 48
New appointments 52
ne of the biggest stories to hit the
headlines in the pet sector this
month, has been the news that
an employee won record damages
after reportedly contracting a rare disease while
working in a pet shop. The 22-year-old woman
from Limerick claims she contracted chlamydia
psittacosis – an airborne infection that can be
transferred from birds to humans – while looking
after the birds sold in the store.
The case highlighted the failings of the company
that allegedly did not provide any health and safety
training, or the necessary protective equipment
such as gloves and a mask to clean out the cages.
Admittedly, instances of chlamydia psittacosis or
parrot fever, as it is more commonly known, are
rare. Figures from the Health Protection Agency
(HPA) show there were about 500 cases in the
UK in the mid 1990s, decreasing to about 100
annually in recent years.
However, this does serve as a timely reminder
about the importance of health and safety
procedures in the workplace. There are always risks
when working with animals and it is vital that pet
shop employees know how to work safely without
damaging their health. Clearly, the mistake the
pet shop in Limerick made was to think it could
never happen to them. Had they been more aware
of the dangers there would not have been such
a catastrophic outcome for the company and its
employee.
Events 54
Sam Guiry
sam@petgazette.biz
Voice on the highstreet 58
The most popular domesticated bird in the world, the
budgerigar has great appeal from the novice pet owner to
the avid bird enthusiast regularly exhibiting at shows
The correct management of fish stocks is vital from a commercial
point of view and for the welfare of the fish, as Tim Hayes
discovers when he offers advice on keeping stocks healthy
Many pets are agitated by the loud noises that bonfire
night inevitably brings. Heather Giles explores some herbal
remedies used to combat nervousness and stress in animals
Jon Chapple looks ahead to September’s Petindex show and
gets a sneak preview of some of the innovative new products
that will be making headlines at this key trade event
Kelly Clark discovers more about Pet Smile Month and
the range of products that can improve oral hygiene
David Chamberlain looks at how retailers can
capitalise on owners of multiple pet households
Pastures new for professionals in the pet trade
Upcoming shows, forums and meetings in the world of pets
Paul Chesworth, Clipsley Pets & Aquatics, St Helens, Merseyside
3
4
Roundup
PET GAZETTE
Established 2008
Managing Editor
Louise Hoffman
louise@petgazette.biz
Editor
Sam Guiry
sam@petgazette.biz
Editorial Assistant
Jon Chapple
jon@petgazette.biz
Production Assistant
Lewis Bowes
copy@petgazette.biz
Group Advertisement Manager
Kelly Smith
kelly@petgazette.biz
Advertisement Manager
Julie-Ann Kwok
julie@petgazette.biz
Accounts
Maureen Scrivener
accounts@petgazette.biz
Customer Services
01206 767 797
customers@mulberrypublications.co.uk
Contributing writers
Michael Bellingham,
David Chamberlain, Kelly Clark,
Sue Corfield, Heather Giles,
Tim Hayes, Claire King
Design
Arthouse Publishing Solutions Ltd
01394 410 490
contact@arthousepublishing.co.uk
Retail Trust helps redundant workers
Industry charity Retail Trust has announced the creation of a new scheme designed to assist unemployed retail
workers in dealing with redundancy and with finding new work. The charity has reported seeing a worrying
40 per cent year-on-year increase in calls to its free redundancy helpline (0808 801 0808) during June.
The ReWork programme, which Retail Trust says is worth over £1,000, includes a free downloadable
‘resolving redundancy’ guide and monthly workshops in London, free personal career coaching and links to
retailers with current vacancies.
“These are very difficult times for people in retail,” commented Nigel J L Rothband, chief executive officer
of Retail Trust,” and, as our tagline states, Retail Trust is here to look after everyone in retail, so that’s exactly
what we’ll do. I would urge anyone worried about redundancy, debt, stress or anything else at all to get in
touch with our team, who are here to support them when they need us the most.”
Your Pets Daily Life: a new social networking site for pets
A passionate animal lover has created a brand new social networking site purely for pets.
www.yourpetsdailylife.com, the brainchild of David Evans, is a family-orientated social network that
involves pet owners from around the globe “talking for their pets” – telling other users the animals’ stories,
daily routines and happenings and “fun things they could be thinking”; with no human content allowed.
David stresses the importance of keeping Your Pets Daily Life (YPDL) family-friendly, as he was inspired to
build the website after being shocked by comments posted on another well-known social network site. “Our
pets do not swear, nor ask for personal details about the owner of a pet,” he said.
The website also allows pet
businesses and animal charities and
trusts to advertise on its pages –
the latter free-of-charge – and will
soon be launching a membership
card, which, when supported by
advertisers, will offer members a
small discount for buying their
products online via YPDL.
“Our aim is to create a friendly
social network used by all the family,
encouraging the imagination and
entering the relaxing world of our
pets,” David added. “It is quite nice
not reading about the human news
we hear everyday.”
New rules for pet travel are in the pipeline for 2012
ISSN 2046-7303
Pet Gazette
is published monthly by:
Mulberry Publications Ltd,
Wellington House, Butt Road,
Colchester CO3 3DA
Tel: 01206 767 797
Fax: 01206 767 532
www.petgazette.biz
The editor and publishers do not guarantee the
accuracy of statements made by contributors
or advertisers, or accept responsibility for any
statement that they express in this publication. The
opinion of the contributors may not necessarily
be the opinion of the publishers. Articles are
considered for publication on the basis that they
are the author’s original work. No part of this
publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval
system, or transmitted in any form or by any means,
electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise,
without the permission of the publishers.
Legislation affecting pet travel will be overhauled as of 1 January 2012, under new rules drawn up by the
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). The changes will mean that the rules on
rabies vaccination for entry into the UK will be in-line with the rest of Europe.
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) and British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA)
have said they are informing their members of the new rules so the right advice can be given to pet owners
planning to travel abroad with their animals.
Dogs, cats and pet ferrets entering the UK
from an EU or ‘listed’ third country from
1 January must be micro-chipped;
vaccinated against rabies; have waited 21
days after vaccination before entering;
and have an EU Pet Passport. The current
requirement to carry out a blood test
followed by a six-month wait before entry
into the UK will no longer be required.
Andrew Ash, president of the BSAVA,
commented: “The Pet Travel Scheme has
been highly successful in keeping the UK
free of rabies. BVA and BSAVA have been
working closely with Defra to ensure that
any changes to the pet travel rules do not
threaten our disease-free status.”
Roundup
HMRC VAT disclosure scheme
Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has announced that it is working with
interested parties to design a campaign that targets businesses that are trading above the
current VAT threshold but have not yet registered for VAT.
The VAT Initiative, launched on 5 July, provides an opportunity for businesses that
ought to be registered for VAT to come forward and “put the record straight on the
best available terms.” The initiative will also apply to companies that should have been
registered in the past.
Businesses wishing to take part in the initiative will have until 30 September to
notify HMRC via a dedicated helpline – 0845 600 5217 – or through its website,
www.hmrc.gov.uk/ris/vat
“HMRC encourages anyone who has unpaid tax to come forward and make a voluntary
disclosure. It will always be less expensive if customers come to us voluntarily, rather than
waiting until we catch up with them,” HMRC added.
Spaniel Scout revealed as Next Dog Model victor
Mikki has revealed the winners of its Britain’s Next Dog Model 2011 competition, as first
reported in June’s Pet Gazette.
The contest, which was co-ordinated by Mikki and PetPlanet.co.uk, ran from 23 April to
24 June and saw Scout, a four-year-old King Charles spaniel from
Buckinghamshire, beat 400 other contestants to take away
the top prize. Scout will now become the face of Mikki
advertising for a year and the dog and his owner will
also be treated to an exclusive pet and owner photoshoot session.
Scout was chosen from three finalists by a panel
of judges that included award-winning groomer
Alison Rogers, Mikki brand manager Anh Nguyen,
representatives from the Blue Cross and competition
sponsor PetPlanet.co.uk. All entries were co-ordinated
via Mikki’s Facebook page.
“It’s been an exciting competition and the level of
passion and enthusiasm shown by owners for their
dogs has been amazing,” Nguyen commented.
Impressive attendance for first London Pet Show
Thousands of animal lovers poured into West Kensington’s Olympia National Hall for the
first ever London Pet Show on 7 and 8 May.
A total of 13,460 visitors came along to the two-day event for plenty of animal fun,
entertainment and shopping. “Pet lovers queued down Hammersmith Road, eager to buy
tickets and the hall was literally bursting with exhibitors, visitors and animals from start to
finish each day,” organiser QD Events Ltd commented.
The London Pet Show gave consumers the chance to see, touch and learn about a
number of different breeds of pet, including dogs, cats, owls and lizards, and purchase the
latest products from the array of exhibitors in each of the show zones. Each day consisted
of full programmes of exciting animal action displays, demonstrations and talks, such as
heelwork; music for dogs; rabbit
show-jumping; cat agility; and
grooming demonstrations.
Nicole Cooper, the show’s
director, commented: “We
were completely overwhelmed
by the response from the
public to our first event in
London. Next year the event
will be bigger, and will include
even more animals, larger and
better feature areas and more
viewing space.”
2012’s event will take place
from 12 to 13 May.
Three minute interview
Suzanne Rothman, founder and
chief executive, Pet Munchies
Describe yourself in three words.
Passionate, creative and spontaneous.
What is your earliest memory?
Playing with a puppy in the snow in Canada.
When you were at school, what
did you want to be and why?
A film director or producer – I loved the
thought of being behind the scenes and being
a part of creating a film or television advert.
What was the first music
album you bought?
A Bay City Rollers album – sad but true!
If you could have dinner
with one person, who would
you choose and why?
Cesar Millan, from The Dog Whisperer, to
hopefully get some good tips about my
dog, Marley.
What is the best advice
you have been given?
Believe in yourself.
What is your next goal in life?
To take Pet Munchies to the next level and
help create our first TV advertisement.
You know what they say about working
with animals!
If you could visit anywhere in the world,
where would you choose and why?
South America – warm-spirited people,
fabulous food and amazing cultures that I
would like to experience first-hand.
What is your favourite quote or saying?
“Who says a dog is not supposed to do that?”
What is the most important thing
that your job has taught you?
Follow your dream and you can turn it into
a reality.
5
6
Roundup
and briefly
Snake breeder dies from cobra bite
The owner of a Nottinghamshire snake sanctuary has
died after being bitten by one of his own animals.
Renowned snake breeder Luke Yeomans, 47, who
was due to open the King Cobra Sanctuary in
Eastwood on the weekend of 2 and 3 July, sustained
a fatal injury from one of his 24 highly-venomous
king cobras – the first death of its kind in the UK
for over 150 years. A statement from the Federation
of British Herpetologists paid tribute to Yeomans,
stating: “Luke pushed boundaries and paid the
ultimate price for his work. His death follows many
in the fields of sport and human endeavour who
have gone before him.”
Dorwest “delighted” with award
Dorwest Herbs has said it is delighted to have been
selected as a finalist for the Pet Supplier of the Year
category at this year’s Pet Industry Awards. “We are
thrilled to have been chosen as a finalist,” stated Roly
Boughton, Dorwest’s marketing manager. “The credit
must go to everyone in our team, all of whom play
an important part in the development, production
and marketing of our specialist range of herbal
products for the pet market.” The winners will be
announced at the awards dinner taking place at the
Hilton Birmingham Metropole Hotel in September.
TRIXIE UK falls into administration
TRIXIE UK, the independently-owned British
distributor of German pet product supplier TRIXIE
Heimtierbedarf GmbH, has entered administration.
TRIXIE Germany MD Volker Haak expressed sadness
at the news, but confirmed it will ship products
directly from Germany until a new distribution
partner can be found.
First Independents’ Day a success
Skillsmart Retail and the National Skills Academy for
Retail teamed up with independent retailers and trade
associations from around the country on 4 July
to celebrate ‘Independents’ Day’ – an event that
encouraged the public to buy at least one item from
their local independent and champion the diversity of
retailers on the high street. Independents throughout
the UK displayed ‘Your high street needs you!’
posters, and many also hosted special events including
a vintage bus at the Barrow Carnival and Americanthemed fancy dress.
Vet receives welfare award
Ray Butcher, a partner in the Wylie Veterinary Centre in Upminster and past
president of both the British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) and
Federation of European Companion Animal Veterinary Associations (FECAVA), has
been awarded with the Phyllis Mayer Argus Award by Dogs Trust.
The dog welfare charity said
it wanted to recognise Ray’s
achievements as a “global ambassador
for animals.” In more than 30 years
of service to the industry, Ray has
helped improve standards in animal
welfare in 48 countries across the
globe by advising vets and welfare
workers. His support has varied from
hands-on practical teaching to helping
to rebuild and stabilise communities
following natural disasters.
The award is the highest honour
Dogs Trust can give, and has only
been presented eight times since its
introduction in 1978.
Sales fall flat as customers feel the pinch
The volume of high street sales was flat in June compared to a year earlier,
disappointing retailers’ expectations of growth, according to the Confederation of
British Industry (CBI).
The CBI’s latest Distributive Trades Survey revealed that 33 per cent of retailers saw
sales volumes increase on a year ago, compared to 34 per cent reporting a fall, meaning
the resulting rounded balance of −2 per cent is the first time in a year that sales have
not grown. Looking ahead, retailers expect sales to likewise remain flat during July.
Judith McKenna, chair of the CBI Distributive Trades Panel and ASDA chief
financial officer, explained: “After a year of growth, high street sales volumes fizzled
out in June. Consumers are really feeling the pinch, as disposable incomes continue
to be squeezed by rising prices and weak earnings growth.”
iPhone apps help owners to find lost pets
A Hampshire vet and author has developed two innovative, complementary iPhone
applications for cat and dog owners that he says provide an “all-in-one management
tool” for users to care for the health and well-being of their pets. Developed by
Chris Queen, MRCVS and launched as part of National Microchipping Month in
June, the apps – entitled ‘Purrfect Paws’ and ‘Mucky Pup’, respectively – feature the
ability to organise, manage, access and share
key pet information with chosen contacts
and friends. It also has an innovative ‘lost pet’
button, which promises to help pet owners
whose animals have gone missing by spreading
the word with a detailed alert to other app
users. Both Purrfect Paws and Mucky Pup are
available free from the Kennel Club’s website.
8
Education for the pet sector
Petucation
Michael Bellingham, chief
executive of the
Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association (PFMA),
looks at how we can improve the accessibility
of educational materials for pet owners
How little we know
Pets are increasingly treated as one of the family and recent research
confirmed that 55 per cent of people rate looking after a pet as a
source of pleasure. However, we also know that pet owners can struggle
to obtain all the necessary advice on looking after their loved ones.
Eight out of 10 dog, cat and rabbit owners incorrectly believe their pet
is just the right weight. Unfortunately, when asked which of a series
of pictures most closely resembled their pet, only 33 per cent of dog
owners and 23 per cent of cat owners chose the ‘normal weight.’
In light of these statistics, I have some tips for pet retailers and pet
owners on sourcing the information necessary to make caring for a
pet much easier.
Topics of interest
From choosing a pet to caring for it, there are numerous topics a pet
owner will want to research. The main areas include:
• What type of pet suits a household
• Where to go for a particular breed
• How to help re-home an animal
• How to prepare the home for the arrival of a pet
• What to feed a pet
• How to maintain good health
• How to manage health problems
• How to train a pet
• How to discipline a pet and correct behavioural problems
• What insurance would be useful.
In-store advice
The majority of pet owners will shop at their local pet retailers and it
is important that members of staff are knowledgeable on a range of
subjects related to the products sold in-store. Stock up with as many
relevant leaflets as possible and ensure they are neatly displayed at
point of sale. If some subject areas are not covered then look online
for downloadable materials or ask your suppliers to provide you with
flyers. Pet food manufacturer representatives and their websites are
a useful first stop. Also, remember to check pet food packaging for
‘carelines’, which give good advice on feeding and the right product
for breed or lifestyle as well as general care.
If leaflets are not available, then ensure you can point customers
in the right direction – for example to the local veterinary surgery
for health advice or behavioural tips. You can also support your
community by linking up with your local vet, trainer or walker and
allowing them to promote their services in your window or at the
counter with business cards. Investigate what opportunities there
are for customers to visit local pet homes or receive visits from pet
organisations and promote where possible.
Online advice
The PFMA’s own website (www.pfma.org.uk) offers comprehensive
up-to-date information for pet owners on health and nutrition. The
site is split into ‘Pets’ and ‘Pet Food’ so you should be able to find
generic advice, in addition to food and nutrition. One extremely
useful tool is the Pet Size-O-Meter, which all retailers should
download and make available to pet owners to check their pets’
weight. It is currently supplied to most re-homing centres for new
pet owners.
In the ‘Ask the Pet Food Expert Section’ there is advice on
everything food-related, from what to feed your puppy and frequency
of feeding to diabetes and how to stop your puppy begging. If your
query is not answered on this page, you can send your question to our
team of veterinary experts.
The PFMA website also links to all manufacturer sites and other
relevant pet organisations so it’s a good place to start your search!
Other websites worth viewing are www.pethealthinfo.org.uk and
www.pethealthcouncil.co.uk
National Pet Month offers a fantastic opportunity for retailers
to increase trade by running an event and this can incorporate
promoting educational material. Local schools are great supporters of
this charity and it provides an opportunity for the whole community
to get together. A number of companies have developed pet-related
Apps, which may also be worth investigating.
The future
The PFMA is keen to continue to support the education of pet
owners. Its collaborative work with numerous pet charities and trade
bodies is ongoing and another education symposium is scheduled
in the autumn with the objective of improving the accessibility
of educational material to the general public. If readers have any
thoughts on how materials can be made more readily available please
email info@pfma.org.uk
About the PFMA
The Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association is the principal trade
body representing the UK pet food industry; a key focus of
activity is to promote animal welfare and responsible pet
ownership. Its 60 members account for over 90 per cent of the
market and produce a wide range of products for cats, dogs,
rabbits and other pet animals. To find out more or download
some useful information sheets for you and your customers,
please visit: www.pfma.org.uk
Simons Rodents
So much more than just rodents
• Wenowstockblisterpackssuchasartemia,
bloodworm,tubifexandmanymore
• Largechoiceoffrozenandlivefoods
• Wehavetemperaturecontrolledvanssoallfrozen
andlivefoodwillarriveinthebestconditionpossible
For more information or to order, please contact:
Tel: 01767 651832 Fax: 01767 652919
Email: sales@simonsrodents.co.uk
Website: www.simonsrodents.co.uk
SimonsRodentsApril11.indd 1
3/14/2011 10:21:29 AM
bestpets have Christmas all wrapped up
We have an extensive Christmas
selection ranging from cat and dog,
to small animal, with promotions
from key suppliers including Mars,
Armitage, Caldex and Hatchwell
bestpets Delivered customers need
to place their order by 5th August.
Cash and Carry customers can
purchase the Christmas range
in depot from September
Visit us now at www.best-pets.co.uk
Remember... Best Value... Best Quality... Best Profits... Best Pets!
Keeping it simple! We support the Independent Pet Trade!
For more information contact your
local Regional Sales Development
Team who are always on hand
to help...
Billy Milburn National Pet Sales Manager
Mobile: 07775 924984
Email: billy.milburn@batleys.co.uk
Area Covered - Scotland
Emma Frake
Mobile: 07584 341065
Email: emma.frake@batleys.co.uk
Areas Covered - Bristol & Exeter
Donald Payne
Mobile: 07584 341074
Email: donald.payne@batleys.co.uk
Areas Covered - Luton, Gillingham
& Southampton
Ashley Rabone
Mobile: 07584 341488
Email: ashley.rabone@batleys.co.uk
Areas covered - Coventry, Nottingham,
Birmingham & Cardiff
Michael Brown
Mobile: 07584 341073
Email: michael.brown@batleys.co.uk
Areas covered - Manchester, Liverpool,
Preston, Doncaster & Bradford
Tony Powell
Mobile: 07584 341071
Email: tony.powell@batleys.co.uk
Areas covered - Newcastle, Cleveland & Leeds
Laurence Ward
Mobile: 07786 546892
Email: laurence.ward@batleys.co.uk
Areas covered - Glasgow
12
Taking stock
hh
Mirage Pet Products
Mirage says that Glamour Bits,
the newest craze in the United
States, is ready to cross the
pond to Britain. “Beautiful
matching jewellery for pets
and their owners, these high
quality crystals are stunning
and offer a very nice markup!” the company comments.
The Company of Animals
The Company of Animals has
added an all-natural variety
of dog training treats to its
best-selling brand. Coachies
Naturals are bite-sized treats
designed to motivate dogs
in training or reward good
behaviour. Developed in
response to dog owners’
demands for a natural and
healthy approach to feeding,
Coachies Naturals combine
palatability and are low in
carbohydrates so they won’t
encourage weight gain.
Information:
www.miragepetproducts.com
Information: 01932 566 696 or
www.companyofanimals.co.uk
ii
gg
Petplan
Petplan, the pet insurance specialist, has introduced dog
and cat groomers’ insurance under its Petplan Sanctuary
brand. Petplan policies are flexible and can include
essential employers’ and public liability covers. Benefits
also include property damage, including business
equipment, and care, custody and control. “Cover can
be tailored to suit any groomer, from the larger salon to
mobile groomers, as we recognise that each business has
individual requirements,” comments Geraldine West,
brand manager for Petplan Sanctuary. Petplan Sanctuary
has teamed up with Mutneys to offer new customers an
exclusive 12 per cent discount off the Mutneys range.
Information: 0800 980 7328 or www.petplansanctuary.co.uk
hh
ProDenPlaqueOff Animal
ProDenPlaqueOff Animal is a completely
natural patented food supplement for the
reduction and control of plaque, calculus
and bad breath in cats and dogs. PlaqueOff
Animal is produced from specially selected
Norwegian seaweed (D1070) and is simply
added to wet or dry food once daily, with results
usually seen in between three and eight weeks.
ProDenPlaqueOff Animal is available in 60g,
180g or 420g tubs, with added brewers’ yeast for
the more fussy felines.
Information: 01934 710 022, info@molarltd.co.uk
or www.molarltd.co.uk
gg
The Hutch Company
British manufacturer the Hutch Company says that when it released its new
range of poultry housing, its Starter Chicken Coop went straight to the top
as a best-seller. The coop is manufactured using European redwood and
incorporates housing, nesting and a run all under one roof. The company
says its ability “to manufacture affordable products in its home market
guarantees a consistent quality of build and supply of larger-size rabbit
hutches, runs, kennels, poultry and aviary and wild bird products to the UK
and European pet and garden centre trades.”
Information:01227 470 470 or www.hutchcompany.co.uk
Taking stock
hh
RJ Leigh Pet Products
RJ Leigh Ltd carries a wide range of wooden chicken housing, of which
the most popular model is the CH-1676AT. It is 198cm in length by 75cm
in diameter by 103cm high and includes an undercover run area, shelter
with perches and nest box. The shelter can be shut from outside of the
run, with a handy pop-hole closer to safely shut the chickens away at night,
and also has an easy-clean pull-out plastic tray. RJ Leigh also offers a
larger CHL-1676AT, which measures 235cm width by 85cm in diameter by
130cm high. Both sizes have been popular for keeping guinea pigs, rabbits
and ferrets.
Information: 029 2079 5112 or www.canineproducts.co.uk
hh
ii
U-MARQ
U-MARQ has been sourcing engraveable
pet tags from around the world – including
unique designs manufactured from its own
moulds – for a number of years. The range
now consists of over 150 sizes and styles in
many different colours, with most available
ex stock. U-MARQ now offers one of the
biggest selections in the world, with one of
the smallest buy quantities available from any
supplier, at the best prices. All its aluminium
tags are manufactured to the highest quality
with all-round anodising for no bare edges.
U-MARQ only supplies to the trade and does
not engrave tags, leaving that to its customers.
Mars Petcare
Pedigree Joint CareTM+, the functional care
treat designed to help ease joint stiffness
in dogs, is re-launching this summer, with
reduced and renewed packaging and a fresh
new look and lower price for consumers.
One in three dogs experience joint stiffness
and Pedigree says Joint CareTM+ can have
a significant impact on dogs’ wellbeing.
However, only 10 per cent of dogs with
joint stiffness are being fed the product,
highlighting huge growth potential in the
category. Eye-catching display materials and
secondary siting units will be available to
further support the re-launch.
Information: 0800 738 800 or www.mars.com/uk
Information: 01480 216 598 or www.u-marq.com
jj
Glowcroft
“The fact that we can celebrate being in business this long, having survived a major
fire in 2008 and growing during some difficult economic times, is down to our valuable
and loyal customers and our willingness to embrace changes,” says contract packer
Glowcroft, which celebrates its 21st birthday this year. “Our flexible approach ensures
we offer the best possible contract packing service to all our customers, offering
innovative ideas and practical solutions.”
Information: 01449 723 330, 07815 209 318 or www.glowcroft.co.uk
gg
BARF Pet Foods
Kent-based BARF Pet Foods is
introducing the Canina range of
puppy-milk products to the UK pet
market. Canina is an award-winning
German range of feed supplements
and care products currently available
in over 30 countries worldwide and
BARF Pet Foods will be supplying
a selected range of remedies and
supplements for both cats and dogs
as the brand’s sole distributor in the
UK. Canina Puppy Milk is a dried
milk packed full of goodness, with all
the vitamins and minerals needed
to support a puppy’s growth; while
Mushy Puppy Feed is a supplement
feed that can be used from the third
week of life to support healthy growth.
Information: 0808 197 2702,
andreas@barfpetfoods.co.uk or
www.barfpetfoods.co.uk
13
14
Taking stock
hh
Dorwest Herbs
Dorwest Herbs is again supporting the trade with a
vibrant campaign that highlights the stress caused by
fireworks to pets suffering from noise phobias. For
2011 it has even more comprehensive information for
owners, underlining the importance of planning ahead.
“By using practical techniques combined with Dorwest’s
two natural herbal products, fear can be overcome and
pets helped to cope more effectively,” the company says.
“Recent surveys show that over 90 per cent of customers
would buy Dorwest’s calming products again and also
recommend them.” Its firework campaign this year
is entitled ‘Dorwest Say Relax’ and includes colourful
information leaflets, posters, shelf wobblers, stickers
and a limited number of firework survival packs for
competitions and promotions.
Information: 01308 897 272 or trade@dorwest.com
gg
RabbitShack
RabbitShack has introduced some innovative new design
features to its range of quality wooden rabbit housing. Sizes
range from single hutches to double hutches, hutches with
under-runs and large rabbit enclosures, and it also has a range
of matching RabbitShack covers to protect the hutches from the
elements. New features include hay racks, rubber feet and easy
clean plastic trays. RabbitShack also has a range of weathertreated chicken coops and runs in various designs and sizes,
which feature detachable nesting boxes and removable floors
for easy cleaning. RabbitShack is currently offering attractive
introductory discounts to new trade customers.
Information: 01422 839 944, sales@rabbitshack.com and
www.rabbitshack.com
gg
Wonderdog
Phil Judson, managing director
at Sneyds Wonderfeeds, predicts
that its new product, Wonderdog
Special with chrondriotin and
glucosamine, will soon be its
best-selling, “not only because of
the health benefits for dogs, but
because a product of this quality
with a RRP of under £20 per bag
that still gives the retailer a high
margin can only be a winner.”
He adds: “Sneyd’s has built up a
good reputation over the years
for producing high quality dog
food and small animal feeds
at prices that are suiting these
difficult times. Soon to move into
much larger premises, Sneyd’s
Wonderfeeds is a company
moving forward.”
Bow Wow Meow
Bow Wow Meow has a wide range of
tags, engraved using the latest laserengraving technology that’s guaranteed
not to fade. The company says that its
unique new tag-ordering and online
account management system will give
customers an even greater choice of
tags, save staff valuable time on tag
orders, eradicate errors and provide
the retailer with an easy-to-use system
to manage orders and accounts. Orders
are dispatched by first class post within
24 hours
www.wonderdog.co.uk
marina@bowwowint.co.uk
ii
16
Taking stock
gg
Thundershirt
Petlife International Ltd is the UK distributor of Thundershirt – a drug-free, cost-effective
solution for dog anxiety and training. Thundershirt applies constant gentle pressure to
the dog’s torso, which has a calming effect similar to swaddling a baby. Thundershirt has
no side-effects, and requires little time commitment, making it a hit for busy dog owners.
Use during thunderstorms and fireworks displays. “Even in that short time there was a
noticeable difference in his demeanour,” says RSPCA Leeds and Wakefield.
Information: 01284 761 131 or www.petlifeonline.co.uk
hh
gg
Harringtons
This August, dog food
brand Harringtons will
be launching its first TV
advertising campaign with a
view to further adding to its
success “as a premium dog
food at an affordable price
point.” Since its launch in
2008, Harringtons says the
brand has struck a chord with
dog owners and has grown at
an impressive rate, with the
brand now worth £6 million
according to annualised sales
figures. The TV campaign
will run for four weeks
across ITV1, Channel 4 and
Channel 5.
Phytoforce
Looking for more than just valerian
or skullcap? Relax is a highly effective
blend of six herbs formulated by
veterinary surgeon and herbal
medicine specialist Ray O’Mahony
MVB MRCVS CVH. As with the
entire Phytoforce range the company
says that this premium quality tonic
was developed treating patients in
veterinary clinics throughout the
UK, providing for unrivalled efficacy.
Experience the clinically-developed
herbal formula with a special offer for
August of 5+1 or 12+3.
sales@phytoforce.ie
info@harringtonsdogfood.co.uk
jj
DAP and Feliway
Pet behaviour products DAP (soon to be known as ADAPTIL) and Feliway will be
back on TV in October. Featuring the popular Dap the Dog and That Purple Cat
characters, the advertisement will highlight firework fears in dogs and cats and
how DAP and Feliway can help. Ceva says that DAP and Feliway are scientificallyproven to help dogs and cats cope with stressful situations like fireworks and loud
noises. A POS pack is available for retailers to help raise awareness of the products.
Information: 01494 781 510 or www.secrettohappypets.com
gg
Burgess Supacat
The Burgess Supacat Adult
and Mature range is a
competitively-priced everyday
dental diet for cats, exclusive
to the specialist pet trade.
These products are specially
formulated with STAY-Clean,
which helps reduce plaque and
tartar build-up on teeth. Each
recipe is a delicious crunchy
meal that Burgess says cats
will adore, and contains all the
protein, vitamins, minerals
and taurine to help keep
Supacats happy and healthy.
Call today to see how to
benefit from a full POS kit.
www.burgesspetcare.co.uk
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18
Customer retention
Loyal to the core
Keeping customers can
make or break a business
and Sue Corfield
looks at some of the
ways retailers can keep
pet owners coming
back to their stores
T
he pet sector has remained
relatively buoyant throughout
these times of economic
hardship. However, it doesn’t do
to rest on one’s laurels. Customers are fickle
and may suddenly start shopping elsewhere
for little or no good reason. So what can you
do to retain your customers’ loyalty?
There are, of course, the obligatory
loyalty schemes. Many of these can be time
consuming and expensive to implement –
especially if they involve cards, mailshots and
point of sale material – and they don’t always
work for independent retailers.
Alternatively, you could look at more costeffective methods of keeping your customers
interested in your store. First, consider what
you can do to deliver real relevance and
perceived benefit to your customers. Here are
some key questions to ask before setting out
on any loyalty programme:
• Which customers are your most
profitable?
• Do they buy other pet-related items
elsewhere?
• Are there opportunities to increase their
profit levels with you?
With a broad spread of customers,
individual motivations will vary hugely.
You need to concentrate on the relevance
of your offer to the consumer. Not
everyone will be motivated by price, so you
should also consider convenience, added
value and expertise.
Take the busy working pet owner with a
relatively high level of disposable income. Is
he or she truly motivated by £1 off a weekly
pet food bill, or would they prefer to phone
through their order and have it delivered?
Preferential car parking is possibly a favourite
too. Perhaps they would like to have a few
samples of a new, top-end luxury pet food
to try.
For customers who ‘do lunch’, an
invitation to take part, with their pet, in a
new pet food tasting session or a trial of an
upmarket dog grooming product selection
may go down well. Why not encourage
pensioners to shop during quiet periods in
exchange for a discount voucher? This would
reward them for their consideration and free
up space and baskets during busier times.
Look at complementary products and
services based close by. Could you involve
Customer retention
your vet in a local promotion of pet dental
care products during Pet Smile Month?
Would the vet or a re-homing charity do a
talk for you at little cost? It doesn’t have to be
on your premises – you could look at hiring
a local hall and bringing in manufacturers or
suppliers to provide raffle prizes in aid of the
re-homing charity.
You should also make sure anything you
do is interesting, informative and relevant
to your customers. Make it convenient
for them and get them to ‘buy-in’ to your
planned event. A workshop with dog trainers
or behaviourists may work well, especially if
your customers are experiencing problems
with their pets. Again, product suppliers may
be able to help with experts in these areas.
Trevor Lewis, marketing manager of
Jollyes pet stores found a more creative
approach worked for them: “We recently
ran an awareness campaign which piggy
backed National Pet Month. All of our 49
stores were involved in store activities such
as microchipping, dog behaviourists, animal
displays, agility trainers, face painting and
raffles, which went down brilliantly with
our customers.
“We are currently running incentive
campaigns that use local press with a 10 per
cent off voucher contained within the advert
to entice both existing and potential new
customers into store.”
Give top customers a priority introduction
to any new products coming to market. Don’t
be afraid to ask your suppliers for samples
to pass on to your customers. It is in their
interests, as well as yours, for pet owners to
buy these products. Encourage dialogue and
feedback from customers on your service and
product selection. They will feel involved in
your business and feel valued if you take any
of their suggestions on board. Also, ask them
about themselves and their pets and keep
notes. Pet owners are always pleased when
their pets’ names are remembered. It is also
important to know your pet care subjects so
you can give the best advice. If you can’t help
with a problem, put the customer in touch
with someone who can.
You should also look after your elderly
customers and make life easy for them.
Again, delivering their orders may be helpful.
If they have dogs that are pulling them
around, put them in touch with local dog
trainers and make them aware of any special
offers on headcollars and how these products
work. For example, in October, Halti is
running a four week challenge to stop dogs
from pulling.
If any customers fall ill and, as a result, are
struggling to care for their pet, provide them
or their relatives with details of organisations
that can help. The Cinnamon Trust is the
only national charity to provide elderly and
terminally ill people with pet care support
when they are struggling to cope as a result
of illness or disability. It has a network of
around 15,000 volunteers who “hold hands”
with owners to provide vital, loving care for
their pets. For example, they will walk a dog
every day for a housebound owner, foster
pets when owners need hospital care or even
clean out the bird cage.
If elderly customers are considering going
into a care home, be aware that some of the
larger residential care home chains do now
allow pets. Again, Cinnamon Trust publishes
a guide to pet friendly care homes, which
you can display inside your store. This may
enable you to maintain your relationship
with your customer and continue to supply
their pet care needs. The guide is available
for £3.50 from the Trust and shortlists the
UK’s top 500 residential care homes and
retirement housing organisations that allow
pets, awarding them an appropriate star
rating from one to five – five being the best
and one the worst.
Remember, encouraging customers to
use you as their supplier of preference –
even going out of their way to choose you
over your competitors – is fundamental to
protecting your business. Ensuring service
excellence and relevance of your offer not
only encourages customers to remain loyal
but gives your margins room for growth.
19
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22
Joint aid
Dealing with degenerative joint disease
Registered veterinary nurse Claire King looks at the problem of
degenerative joint disease in dogs, cats and rabbits and some of the
treatments available to owners to help deal with the condition
D
egenerative joint disease
(DJD) is the broad term
used to describe degenerative
disease of joints. Often DJD
will be referred to as osteoarthritis and is
characterised by the degeneration of the
articular cartilage (the smooth, white tissue
that covers the ends of bones where they
come together to form joints), changes in
the joints or synovial membranes (the inner
membrane of tissue that lines a joint), and
the formation of new bone at the margins of
the bone ends.
This occurs in humans and all animals,
but this feature focuses on the treatments
offered for the three most commonly kept
pets in the UK – dogs, cats and rabbits.
immune responses (rheumatoid arthritis) or
bacterial infections (septic arthritis). These
require different treatments to osteoarthritis
and are not discussed in this feature.
Is osteoarthritis the
same as arthritis?
Incidences of osteoarthritis
in dogs, cats and rabbits
The two terms are often used to describe
the same condition, but are in fact not the
same. While osteoarthritis is degeneration
of the joints, arthritis actually refers to
inflammation of the joint which can have
numerous causes, including trauma, auto-
Dogs are frequently presented at veterinary
surgeries for incidences of DJD, with certain
breeds more prone to problems. These include
labradors, retrievers, German Shepherds
and golden retrievers, but any breed can be
affected especially as the animal ages.
Joint aid
Cats are also presented for problems
associated to DJD and, less frequently,
rabbits. It may not be that cats and rabbits
suffer less from DJD, but simply that owners
are less vigilant for symptoms and so notice
problems only when they become advanced.
Symptoms of DJD
Owners often think the animal is simply
slowing down with age, since incidences
increase dramatically as the animal gets older.
However, it is estimated that up to 20 per
cent of dogs from the age of just one year
suffer with DJD to some degree.
Symptoms vary in severity from animal
to animal, and location of the problem,
but generally animals suffering from
osteoarthritis will show some or all of the
following symptoms:
• Difficulty getting up and down, running,
jumping and a reduced level of activity as
swollen joints that are painful or sensitive
cause restricted movement;
• The animal may be lame or have stiffness
in the affected joint/s;
• Cold weather may make the symptoms
worse;
• If the animal is in a lot of discomfort it
may become aggressive, which may be
totally out of character.
Treatments for
osteoarthritis
Treatments for osteoarthritis are a massive
and ever-increasing market within veterinary
practices and also the pet trade.
Weight control
The vast number of animals with DJD
are overweight and simply reducing their
weight can help reduce the pain. Many
prescription and light diets are available
for cats, dogs and rabbits from veterinary
surgeries and pet stores.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs have been a mainstay of
medical management for the treatment
of osteoarthritis for many years and can
help the majority of animals. They work
by reducing the pain within the joint and
reducing the formation of cytokines resulting
from ongoing cartilage damage.
Commonly used NSAIDs in dogs, cats
and rabbits include meloxicam (liquid form)
and carprofen (tablets), which trade under
several names by various companies.
Mavacoxib (trocoxil) is another NSAID,
but for dogs only. This requires once
monthly tablet administration after an initial
two week repeated dose, but cannot be given
to dogs under 12 months of age or those
with other potential contra-indications.
All NSAIDs are POM-V medications that
are only available from veterinary practices
to animals under their care, and normally
require life-long treatment once commenced.
Before starting treatment, full blood work
is advised to assess the animal’s kidney and
liver function values, as the use of NSAIDs
is not advised in animals suffering renal/liver
impairment or gastro-intestinal problems.
Nutraceuticals
This is the term combining the words
‘nutrition’ with ‘pharmaceutical’. A
nutraceutical product is one that has been
shown to provide medical benefits from a
food product/supplement. Nutraceuticals
useful in the medical management of
osteoarthritis are those which contain
glucosamine (a glycosaminoglycan) and
chondroitin sulphate.
These help to rebuild cartilage and provide
anti-inflammatory properties, but do not
have any analgesic (pain relief ) properties,
so are often used alongside NSAID for
maximum benefit, again for the rest of the
animals’ life.
Synoquin, cosequin and seraquin are all
marketed for dogs and cats and come in
a mixture of tablet and capsule form. The
products can be purchased from veterinary
surgeries and online stores.
Glucosamine supplements purchased
from health food shops can be given and
are often popular with owners who can’t
afford the veterinary nutraceutical products
on the market. While they may have some
effect, and are certainly a lot cheaper,
they are unlikely to have the full benefit
that the specially formulated veterinary
products have. This is because each main
ingredient serves a unique purpose and
it is the synergistic effect of these and
other ingredients performing together,
concurrently, that makes them effective.
Glucosamine supplementation on its own
will not have the same effect.
Pet shop supplements
There are also numerous other products
available from pet stores that are designed to
aid osteoarthritic dogs, including:
High strength flexible joint
tablets by Vetzyme
These tablets contain glucosamine, fish
oils and vitamin B and are aimed at senior
and large breed dogs. The tablets come in
chicken flavour.
Mobile Bones Concentrate
by Pooch and Mutt
This is a powdered joint and bone
supplement which aims to promote joint
comfort and mobility and aid development
of bones. Containing glucosamine, omega
3 and 6, selenium, vitamins C and B and
many other ingredients, it just needs to be
added to the dog’s meals.

23
24
Joint aid
Alstoe’s VetPet Diet with
glucosamine for rabbits
VetPet Rabbit Diet with glucosamine,
contains the important ‘naturally
occurring’ material glucosamine, that aids
renewal of joint cartilage and mobility.
It is designed to be fed alongside ad-lib
amounts of hay, fresh vegetables and water,
to offer a complete diet for rabbits. It
can be fed to rabbits of any age, whether
or not they suffer from osteoarthritis
problems, and is available in 2kg and 10kg
bags from veterinary practices and online
veterinary stores.
Pedigree Jointcare+
Cartrophen Vet
This is a ‘disease modifying osteoarthritis
drug’. It comes in injection form for dogs,
and is given to treat lameness and pain of
DJD in the skeletally mature dog. It is given
via subcutaneous injection every five to seven
days for a four week period. As a POM-V
medication, it must be administered by, and
under the direct care of a veterinary surgeon.
Containing Pentosan polysulfate, dogs on
NSAIDs cannot be given this treatment
without first coming off the NSAID
medication, and no more than three courses
of four injections should be given in any
12 month period.
Cartrophen Vet provides relief by acting
on the pathway within the joint that
causes pain. It also protects and supports
the recovery of the joint cartilage that is
damaged by the osteoarthritic process.
Dogs therefore don’t require the constant
need for NSAIDs or glucosamine and
chondroitin supplements.
Hills canine and feline J/D
prescription diet
This is the leading prescription dog and
cat food for the assistance of management
of osteoarthritis. It should not be fed to
puppies/kittens, pregnant or lactating
bitches/queens.
The dog variety comes in tins, a dried food
and also in a low calorie version since many
dogs with osteoarthritis are overweight. The cat
version comes in a dried food and tins but is
currently not available in a low calorie version.
The food contains high levels of
glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate and
has been clinically proven to help dogs
with stiff joints walk and run more easily
within 21 days and cats within 28 days. By
feeding it, owners can also help to reduce the
NSAID dose that there pet is on by up to 25
per cent, and in some cases, remove the need
for them altogether.
It should act as an alternative to glucosamine and ghondroitin supplementation and can therefore work out cheaper
for the owner. As a prescription diet, it is
only available from veterinary practice to
dogs and cats under the care of a veterinary surgeon.
Pedigree’s Jointcare+ chewy sticks contain
glucosamine and omega 3 for healthy joints.
Coming in three different sizes for under
10kg dogs, 10 to 25kg and over 25kg dogs,
with the medium and large packs available in
two flavours. The owner should feed the dog
one of the sticks per day for six weeks to see
if any improvement occurs.
Osteoarthritis is a massive market and a
common problem for the UK’s top three
domestic pets. Owners are often bombarded
with choices available to them and with no
two animals suffering the same, no two will
respond to the treatment identically.
Owners are often led by the availability
and price of treatments, and often opt to
try ‘over-the-counter’ remedies first, before
consulting a veterinary surgeon if those fail
to make a difference.
It stands to reason that those products
purchased at pet stores are likely to work
out the cheapest and those requiring
veterinary prescriptions and supervision
will work out the most expensive. However,
owners whose animals have pet insurance
will, under most circumstances, be able to
claim back the cost of treatments prescribed
by a vet on their policy, and if they have a
lifetime policy, this will cover the cost for
the rest of the animal’s life.
Supplier Listing
Arden Grange: www.ardengrange.com
Dorwest Herbs: www.dorwest.com
Doggy Things: www.doggythings.co.uk
Eukanuba: www.eukanuba.co.uk
Hills Pet Nutrition: www.hillspet.co.uk
Hilton Herbs: www.hiltonherbs.com
Mars Petcare: www.mars.com/uk
Natural Pet Products: www.naturalpetproductsltd.com
Pooch and Mutt: www.poochandmutt.com
Pinetree Pet Products: www.wonderdog.co.uk
Phytoforce: www.phytoforce.ie
Roger Skinner Ltd: www.skinnerspetfood.co.uk
The Paws: www.thepaws.co.uk
Wagg: www.waggfoods.co.uk
T urke y & Rice
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SRP: £31.99 for 15kg
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Pet Gazette (August 2011)_Half page advert 08/07/2011 15:09 Page 1
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FOR NATuRAl RePleNIShmeNT
For more information and to make sure you’re included on our stockists database,
please contact us quoting Pet Gaz ette
Tel: 01379 384247
Fax: 01379 388143
email: info@skinnerspetfoods.co.uk
www.skinnerspetfoods.co.uk
Roger Skinner Ltd, The Mills, Stradbroke, Eye, Suffolk IP21 5HL
we respect
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introducing a complete diet
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www.ardengrange.com
t: 01273 833390
e: enquiries@ardengrange.com
51628 AG Senior Dog AD 134x184_v3indd.indd 1
20/8/10 15:53:32
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TV in
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Co
Hand baked,
wholesome treats.
The recipe for a
happier dog.
Hand baked in the UK, Harringtons Treats deliver premium
ingredients, without the premium price. Traditional baking
methods ensure all the flavour of the ingredients are retained.
There’s no added wheat, no added sugar and no artificial
colours or flavours. That makes it a recipe for a healthy dog
and a rather healthy business too.
www.harringtonsdogfood.co.uk
The Natural Choice
Budgerigars
A bird
in the
hand
Whether you are
catering for the
novice owner looking
for their first pet or
experienced exhibitors,
budgerigars can provide
you with a profitable
revenue stream
Images: Simon’s Rodents
28
Budgerigars
A
ccording to UK champion
budgerigar breeders Cliff and
Darren Jones, “this popular
bird is the most domesticated
in the world.” Not only does it make an ideal
pet for all ages, “many top breeders started
off by having a pet budgie when they were
younger and the amount of colours and
varieties available means it is possible to find
quite a unique bird.”
Darren believes that the fundamentals
of keeping a pet budgie are as strong now
as they ever have been – relatively cheap to
buy, minimal ongoing expenses and suitable
for all age groups. He says: “We have seen
demand for pet budgies outstripping supply
for the last few years and there is a sense that
pet shops are also more keen than ever to
obtain birds from breeders. It’s rare to hear a
breeder saying that they are having difficulty
selling their surplus stock birds.”
For those new to keeping birds, the
essential equipment and accessories a retailer
can offer will be the cage, toys and feeds.
Cliff and Darren Jones add: “Young birds
always make better pets as they are still
developing and will adjust to their new
environment more easily. Between eight
weeks and three months is ideal.”
They also say there is a common
misconception that people should opt for
cock birds because hens don’t talk, but this
is not the case. However, “hens can peck
much harder than cocks, hence making
them more difficult to hand train and more
patience is required.”
The Budgerigar Society advises the pet
owner to purchase “the biggest cage they
can afford or have room for, as the bird
must have room to stretch its wings,
fly from perch to perch and climb
and play.”
Budgies are intelligent creatures
and if the bird is kept on its own
in a cage, it will need a range of
accessories to prevent boredom.
JW Pet Company has become
renowned for its range of
accessories that have been
developed in conjunction
with bird behaviourists
to engage the animal’s
interest and provide hours
of fun and activity. Tilt
mirrors, preening ropes
and bells have all been
manufactured with the
aim of exercising the bird’s
body and mind.
According to Provet,
small cage birds such as
budgerigars have a very
high metabolic rate and it
is important to ensure they have a constant
supply of food. There are plenty of good
quality, commercial feeds currently on
the market and these complete pellets can
provide the right amount of nutrients. The
PDSA cautions against a solely seed-based
diet as this “is often associated with obesity.
Millet sprays are often given to budgies,
but these are also very high in fat so should
only be offered very occasionally.” Budgies
can also benefit from small amounts of
green foods such as dandelions, lettuce and
watercress and fruits such as apples, grapes,
pears and plums.
The cage should also be equipped with
good quality perches of various sizes and
placed at various heights. The PDSA says
“the best perches are natural branches of
approximately one centimetre diameter. The
uneven surface of a natural branch promotes
good foot circulation and stripping the bark
is important natural behaviour for budgies.”
Darren Jones also suggests that the pet
sector can capitalise on the new found
interest in budgerigars and says: “It would
be a good idea if retailers could have a nicely
packaged starter pack for consumers to get
them up and running with a new budgie,
without the worry of them not having
everything their pet may need. This could
consist of the basics of seed and grit, and also
include some millet sprays, cuttlefish bone,
mineral nibbles and treats.”
One key advantage for retailers is that
the amateur budgie enthusiast may go on to
develop a lifelong interest in the hobby. Cliff
and Darren have been breeding budgerigars
for over 30 years and have won best in show
with one of the rarer colour varieties
of bird – the recessive pied – which
they believe has never been
achieved in England since the
Budgerigar Society was formed.
Darren says: “I think a
lot of people start to keep
budgies in an aviary in their
garden because of the huge
array of colours and
varieties available. The
more interested they
become and the more
people they meet, they
become drawn into the
exhibition world.”
During the 1950s
the keeping and
showing of budgies
reached its peak with
the Budgerigar Society
boasting a 20,000-strong
membership and a yearly
club show that resonated
with the shrill chirruping
of 6,000 birds. Although the numbers have
dropped since those heady days, the Society
maintains that it remains one of the most
popular small livestock fancies in the UK
with between 5,000 to 8,000 members
currently signed up to the organisation.
For those planning on breeding birds
and keeping livestock, then more specialist
equipment will be required including suitable
housing that includes an outhouse, shed or
spare room with natural and artificial light; at
least three pairs of birds, with spare hens; and
breeding cages. The Budgerigar Society also
advises equipping the cages with a nest box,
seed dispenser, soft food dish, drinker and an
iodine-impregnated calcium block to provide
essential minerals for the hens.
Darren Jones adds: “There is a whole new
learning curve in how to appreciate what
makes a top exhibition budgie and how to
breed one. Generally speaking, by selling
surplus birds for pets it is then possible to
re-invest that money in better quality show
stock. If managed correctly it doesn’t have
to be an expensive hobby, although there
are always stories around of top birds and
studs changing hands for many thousands
of pounds.”
He believes the appeal of the budgerigar
lies in its friendly, cheerful nature and its
suitability for all age groups and it can also
be ideal for flats and other situations where
a larger pet may not be practicable. He
concludes: “People are usually divided on the
rights and wrongs of keeping birds in cages,
but cared for properly, captive birds can have
a much longer life span and a great deal less
stress than their wild counterparts.”
Supplier Listing
Lillico Attlee: www.lillico.co.uk
Northern Pet Trade:
www.northernpettrade.com
Simon’s Rodents:
www.simonsrodents.co.uk
Sky Pet Products:
www.skypetproducts.com
Vetark: www.vetark.co.uk
29
32
Managing fish stocks
Asset
management
The successful management of fish stocks is
essential for any aquatic retailer and Tim Hayes
offers advice on keeping fish healthy
C
orrect management of fish is
of vital importance both in
terms of animal welfare and
commercial success. From a
commercial point of view, managing your
fish stocks in accordance with a set of ‘best
practices’ such as those of the Sustainable
Aquarium Industry Association (SAIA),
will result in healthier stock, fewer fish
losses for yourself and your customer and
ensure that you are in adherence to the
Animal Welfare Act.
Animal Welfare Act
Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006,
owners of pets, including ornamental fish,
in England and Wales, have a duty to ensure
that any animals they are responsible for
remain healthy and happy. In broad terms,
the act makes owners and keepers responsible
for ensuring the welfare needs of their
animals are met. These include the need:
• for a suitable environment;
• for a suitable diet;
• to exhibit normal behaviour patterns;
• to be housed with, or apart from,
other animals;
• to be protected from pain, injury, suffering
and disease.
Fish system
A fish system should consist of a number
of individual tanks that can be isolated
from each other in the event of an outbreak
of disease. UV and/or ozone sterilisation
should be included for disease control.
Tanks comprising the system should be
proportional in size to the species being
held so the larger the fish, the greater the
swimming space required. Similarly, shoaling
species should also be given more room to
accommodate their natural behaviour. Some
cover should be included to provide hiding
places and reduce stress and try to keep tanks
uncluttered to make catching fish easier.
Ensuring compatibility is something
that needs to be learnt through hands-on
experience. Common sense guidelines
such as not housing smaller species with
predators and not mixing nervous species
with boisterous ones, can be used as a
starting point. High levels of lighting are
not required, but lighting should be chosen
to bring out the colours of the fish and be
controlled by a timer that comes on and
goes off at a regular time. Ancillary low-level
lighting can prevent nervous fishes getting
spooked when the main lights go off.
Water is constantly being removed from a
sales system, so ensure there is an adequate
reserve of water to prevent the need for a
water top-up during the working day. The
inclusion of cover glasses is recommended to
prevent jumpers and to limit evaporation.
System maintenance
Adhere to an acceptable standard of water
quality parameters and regularly monitor
them. Keep tanks clean and disease-free
Managing fish stocks
• Fish requiring a specialised habitat, which
is difficult to simulate;
• Fish with large territories in the wild, which
are unsuitable for community aquariums;
• Fish which will grow too large for home
aquariums and require 4,000 litres or more;
• Species that are sensitive and stress easily
– they do not transport well and are
susceptible to parasites and disease;
• Species that only seem to survive in an
aquarium when kept in large shoals;
• Fish with limited distribution in the wild,
that may be an indicator of rarity.
exhibiting signs of disease. Before sale, a
careful visual examination of fish should be
carried out, with any abnormalities noted
and the fish removed for treatment. Any
specimen with obvious abnormality(s),
which could affect its quality of life, should
not be offered for sale. Fish should be caught
in a manner to reduce stress and avoid
physical damage. Instructions for proper
acclimation for the fish upon arrival at its
new home should be given to the customer,
along with information sheets detailing
captive care of the animal purchased.
Introduction and
acclimation of newlypurchased animals
Catching and packing fish
Always accept responsibility for any
livestock ordered, even if delayed. After
hours contact numbers should be made
available to suppliers. Before arrival, prepare
for acclimation. On arrival unpack fish
promptly, in dim light, and avoid touching
organisms with bare hands and excessive
exposure to air. Separate incompatible
organisms during acclimation. You should
rest fish for a minimum of 48 hours or until
normal behaviour and feeding resumes,
preferably in a quarantine area away from
the public eye. Hold newly-arrived fish
separately from existing stock. Adjust all
new fish to appropriate hobby foods before
putting them on sale. Finally, dispose of used
packing materials properly and/or disinfect
used materials if they are to be re-used.
Care and handling
in the shop
and ensure equipment needed to maintain
water quality functions reliably. An adequate
quarantine system for new arrivals should
be kept in good order, with separate hospital
systems for fish undergoing treatment.
Keeping records detailing the number of
animals coming into the shop, along with
associated mortalities, can help identify
problems of disease associated with shippers
or system malfunction.
Choice of fish
Offer and promote captive-raised specimens
at every opportunity, rather than selling
wild stock. Discourage the keeping of
oversized animals destined to either die
in unsuitable tanks or be offered on to a
reluctant public aquarium industry. You
should avoid stocking species considered
beyond the capabilities of the average
aquarist, and this includes:
• Fish requiring a specialised diet, which is
difficult to duplicate in captivity;
The key to successful fish maintenance
is a combination of environment and
observation. Consider the physical and
behavioural needs of each fish and provide
cover or decoration for fishes to reduce
stress while on display. Maintain suitable
water conditions overall, while providing
appropriate lighting and water flow to
suit individual species. Separate aggressive
individuals or species and keep social or
shoaling fish in appropriate sized groups to
ensure natural behaviour.
Carefully monitor your stock, paying
attention to feeding, and watch for
abnormal behaviour, which is often an
indicator of disease.
Fish should not be caught or bagged
until the customer has decided on all the
animals to be purchased that day. Once the
customer has made their choice, start by
catching the animals least affected by the
process, finishing with those most likely to
become stressed.
Once caught, fish should be transferred
to a bag large enough for the fish to turn
around in, with sufficient oxygen and water.
Seal bags with knots or elastic bands and
place bag in another opaque bag or other
suitable container that excludes light. Some
species, notably those with spines that
could get tangled up in a net, should be
caught using a rigid receptacle such as a jug.
For those fish capable of puncturing bags,
double bagging and lining is recommended.
Attention should be paid to the length
of transport time and packing adjusted
accordingly and, if necessary, use insulation
to protect against temperature variations.
Acclimation
The transport water new fish arrive in has
a different temperature, pH and salinity
parameters than your aquarium system
water. Fish are sensitive to changes in
these parameters and proper acclimation is
important to ensure successful relocation
and animal health. Fish wastes pollute
water in transport bags, dropping pH to
unnatural levels over time, resulting in a
high concentration of ammonium. At a
higher pH, ammonium is converted to
highly toxic ammonia making it extremely
important to slowly acclimate the fish,
which stops the pH from rising rapidly and
risking ammonia poisoning.
Sales
Ensure the customer purchases fish that
are suitable for their aquarium. Keep a
full range of reference books to hand for
staff and customers and have senior staff
available for consultation.
Customers and staff should be informed
of risks associated with venomous or harmful
species, including first aid measures.
All fish should be in good health, eagerly
eating, swimming normally and not
For further information go to
www.saia-online.eu
Supplier Listing
JMC Aquatics: www.jmc-aquatics.co.uk
Midland Reefs: www.midlandreefs.co.uk
Vetark: www.vetark.co.uk
33
“A well
organised and
enjoyable
event.”
“Was a great
show, thoroughly
enjoyed it as well as
being extremely
useful for us.”
“Attended
by everyone
who’s anyone in
the aquatics
industry.”
“…an extremely
professional show,
good buzz and nice
little perks that no
other UK trade
show offers.”
REGISTRATION
NOW OPEN
“I was very
impressed with
both the show
and the buffet
evening.”
To register for FREE entry
to AQUA 2011 visit
www.aquatelford.co.uk
or call
01892 862 848
AQUA 2011 THE UK’s THE WATER GARDENING,
AQUATICS AND REPTILES TRADE EVENT.
AOUA
2 011
TELFORD INTERNATIONAL CENTRE
Wednesday 5th October 9.00am - 5.30pm
Thursday 6th October 9.00am - 5.00pm
in association with
The whole trade under one roof and at one time.
See the latest launches; take part in the retailer focused seminars
and meet with the trade at the AQUA International Buffet.
Companies exhibiting include:
Natures Grub
Reef-One Ltd
AB Aqua Medic
ALF Ltd
Anglo Aquarium Plant
Aqua One
Aquadip
Arcadia Products Ltd
BCUK Aquatics Ltd
Be Plant Wise
Bermuda
Berry Ring
CASCO Europe Ltd
Cloverleaf
Easitill
Eco Pond Ltd
Eheim
Elite Aquariums Ltd
Fadulla
Visit
Ferplast ((UK) Ltd
Gordon Low
Grange
Hertford Shelving Ltd
Hozelock
Hydor SRL
Intelligent Retail
J & K Aquatics
JBL
JMC Aquatics
John Allan Aquariums
Juwel Aquarium UK Ltd
King British - Beaphar
Kusuri
Mars Fishcare
Midland Reefs
MP
Neil Hardy
Neptune’s Acrylic Tank
Manufacturers Inc
Nishikoi
NT Laboratories
OASE (UK) Ltd
Oasis Atlantis Lotus Group
OATA
PAWS Ltd
PBW News
Pedigree Aquatic Wholesale
Pet Mate
Peter Golding
Petra Aqua
Pettex Ltd
Pikstik UK
Red Sea
TRY
FREE EN
KING
R
A
P
FREE
RY
E
IM NTA
COMPL CH AND
LUN MENTS
H
REFRES
SIBO BV
Sicce
SKS Wholesale Ltd
Starline Aquatics
Sterner Aquatech UK
Sublime Acquario
TAP
Tetra
Tropica
Tropical Marine Centre
Tunze UK
UK Pond Products
Unipac
United Aquatics
Vardells Ltd
Velda BV
Zoological International Ltd
or call 01892 862 848
36
Phobias and stress
Calm
before
the storm
People may love the fun and festivities of fireworks night, but many
pets have phobias about loud noises. Sales and marketing manager
of Hilton Herbs, Heather Giles offers advice on treating nervous
pets and looks at the wide range of calming remedies available
Phobias and stress
A
s a child I remember
November 5th, Guy Fawkes
Night, Bonfire Night, or
whatever you called it, being
fun. Whether it was a few fireworks in the
back garden or a trip to the local recreation
ground for an organised display, it was
something we all looked forward to. As
children we had pets – dogs, cats, and small
furries – but I don’t remember worrying
about how our companion animals were
going to cope with the event.
Nowadays, it seems we are more conscious
of our pets’ emotional needs and the fireworks
season seems to go on for longer. Fireworks
are also now used to celebrate all manner of
things from birthdays to weddings. Luckily
there are plenty of products out there which
pet shop owners and pet professionals can
offer their customers to help their pets cope
with fireworks, whether it’s for one night or
a week.
There is a wide range of calmers on the
market and they come in many forms so, as
a retailer, it’s worth selecting a small range
and sourcing them direct from a supplier
or manufacturer who can provide you with
educational point-of-sale material and who
has expertise in this field. Do some research
on the products you stock, as this will enable
you to talk with authority.
Some natural products, such as Bach
Flower remedies and homeopathy may
require your customers to make a leap of
faith. Prepare some information sheets
and stock a couple of books on these
subjects for reference. All the products
mentioned in this article can be used not
just for fireworks, but for other occasions
or stressful events, so, as such, they are a
worthwhile year-round investment.
Natural products to help keep pets cool,
calm and collected during the fireworks
season include herbal supplements, Bach
Flower remedies, homeopathic remedies, as
well as external calming products such as
pheromone diffusers, or the relatively new
concept of the Thundershirt.
The primary ingredient in most herbal
calmers is likely to be valerian, which
is a powerful natural tranquiliser, often
combined with skullcap, which is used for
hysteria and over-excitement. Other herbs
used are vervain and chamomile, wellknown for their calmative properties and
widely used in human herbal medicine in
tea form. These are often used together with
marshmallow root and meadowsweet to
help tackle the digestive problems that often
follow on from anxiety and stress in pets.
Herbal supplements are available as
powder, liquid or tablets and are usually very
palatable. They are designed to be added
to a pet’s normal food or can be syringed
into the mouth. Some herbal products
claim to act within a few hours, however
even with products in liquid or ‘tincture’
form, which are generally absorbed more
rapidly than powder or tablets, several days’
supplementation is needed for the herbs to
get into the animal’s system. This requires a
bit of forward planning on the pet owner’s
part, not always easy given the busy lives we
all lead!
Another product which can work well
with dogs and cats is a pheromone-based
diffuser or collar – tradename ADAPTIL.
Using a system called DAPP (dog appeasing
pheromone producer) these products give off
a scent, undetectable by humans, similar to
that of the mother dog or cat and the idea is
to make the pet feel secure. A DAPP product
will take about a week to produce an effect.
Dr Edward Bach’s flower remedies are
essences that try to change negative emotions
or patterns of behaviour into positive ones.
There are 38 individual remedies in
10 millilitre dropper bottles, each of which
has an indication for use and a positive
outcome. This concept can a bit daunting to
the uninitiated, so suggest to your customer
they start by trying one of the combination
remedies such as Recovery Remedy or Bach
Recovery Plus.
Most people have heard of these products
as they are freely available and many
people have used them for phobia-fears like
going to the dentist or for exam nerves. A
suggested dosage is four to six drops in the
pet’s drinking water, on their normal food,
given on a treat or even added to a waterbased mister and sprayed into the pet’s
environment. This dosage can be repeated
up to four times a day, or on fireworks night
itself, and can be repeated every 20 minutes
until an improvement is seen.
Homeopathy is often confused with
herbal medicine but it is a complete and
separate system of medicine, and most of
what we know as modern-day homeopathy
stems from the work of the 19th century
German doctor, Samuel Hahnemann. It
is best to view homeopathy as a form of
medicine which treats ‘like with like’ and the
clue to successful homeopathic treatment is
in selecting the correct remedy based on all
the animal’s symptoms.
Homeopathic remedies most commonly
come in tiny pill form and dosage is the same
regardless of the type or size of pet. Remedies
suggested by Tim Couzens MRCVS,
principal of the Holistic Veterinary Medicine
Centre, include phosphorus, belladonna,
gelsemium, ignatia and nux vomica, in 30c
potency (strength). Your supplier should be
able to provide you with advisory material
but if in doubt suggest your customer
contacts a homeopathic vet. Check out
www.BAHVS.com
Thundershirt is a fascinating product,
new to the UK, which was originally devised
to help solve behavioural problems in dogs
in the United States. It is designed to help
nervous or anxious dogs and, when correctly
fitted, works by exerting gentle and constant
pressure over the body which, for many
dogs, can have a dramatic calming effect. It
is thought that pressure has a calming effect
on the nervous system, relieves anxiety and
has been common practice for years. People
with autism use pressure to relieve their
persistent anxiety and pressure shirts are
used for children with certain behavioural
problems. Just as increasing numbers of
people are turning to herbal remedies – sales
in the last 10 years have doubled – so it
appears this trend is spreading to pet owners
seeking a natural and effective alternative to
pharmaceutical-based products.
Established over 20 years ago Hilton
Herbs specialises in the manufacture of
herbal and natural products for animals
to customers in the UK and in over 30
countries worldwide. All the products
are manufactured under an EU
accreditation scheme, to ensure safety
and traceability of product ingredients
and are formulated by a qualified
medical herbalist.
Supplier Listing
Ceva Animal Health: www.ceva.com
Collarways: www.collarways.co.uk
Natural Pet Products: www.naturalpetproductsltd.com
Petlife International: www.petlifeonline.co.uk
37
Roast Dinner Toothpaste
With Sage Oil
ü
ü
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Effectivly removes tartar
Keeps gums healthy
Freshens the breath
Natural Healthcare
for Dogs and Cats
He
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Hel
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• The Thundershirt
TM
For further information on these products and our full range
Call: 01308 897272
Dorwest Herbs Ltd, Bridport, Dorset DT6 4LP info@dorwest.com www.dorwest.com
We can offer you good margins, free Helpline advice, comprehensive
point-of-sale material, and online ordering for additional discount.
Contact us for details: Tel: 01460 270701
Email: tradesales@hiltonherbs.com www.hiltonherbs.com
Natural
Stand 5F80-G81
Pet Products Ltd
01926 311514 trade@naturalpetproductsltd.com
www.naturalpetproductsltd.com
See our range of natural, holistic and
eco-friendly products at Glee 2011
Show offers available!
Barking Heads
Inascent
Burns
Masterpet
Collards
Molar
Healthy Paws
Natural
Way
Becothings
Nurtured
Pets
Bettacare
Pet Munchies
Betty Miller
Petzlife
Dorwest Herbs
Dr Chew
Pooch & Mutt
Easidri
Phytoforce
Friendship Estate
ROK Straps
Grizzly Salmon Oil
40
Petindex preview
Focus On:
Petindex
products
With September’s Petindex show fast
approaching, Jon Chapple looks at
what’s on offer at the NEC this year
2
011’s Glee garden, pet and leisure trade fair, incorporating
specialist pet show Petindex, is to take place from 19 to
21 September at Birmingham’s NEC and will once again
provide access to two huge, complementary buying sectors
at one show – something the organisers say “no other pet trade show
can manage.”
With just over a month to go until doors open, Petindex will be
home to an extensive range of companies, from big-name brands to
specialist suppliers. Current exhibitors confirmed for the event cover a
wide range of products and topics, with each set to showcase the latest
in product innovation from across the pet care industry.
Pet food, by far the largest segment of the UK pet market, will
be well represented, with extensive ranges from a list of confirmed
exhibitors that includes Royal Canin, James Wellbeloved, GA
Pet Products, Natural Pet Products and Bartholomews Agri Food
Limited. Pet accessories will also be out in force with appearances
from Eden.H Limited, Hemmo & Co, Baggee, HL Cooper
International Ltd, Liberta and Pet Mate Ltd, among others.
Product innovation within the pet industry will be celebrated
with the Petindex New Product Awards and the Innovators’ Zone
– a dedicated area designed to help nurture grass-root product
development and one-off design. Returning for a third year, it
welcomes a wide range of entrepreneurs and small-scale manufacturers
who will be taking their first steps into the pet industry.
Another must-see is the seminar programme, which the organisers
hope will “inspire, inform and educate.” Topics for discussion over the
two days will range from market trends and merchandising ideas to
pet nutrition and bio-security in the pet workplace.
“Petindex is the hub of the UK pet industry and this year it will
once again provide the networking opportunities, innovations and
business advice that retailers and suppliers alike have come to expect
throughout the show’s 36-year run,” comments event director Nick
Davison. “We will continue to offer a wide selection of suppliers,
exceptional networking opportunities and educational knowledge for
an even more profitable year ahead.”
Free online registration for the show, which includes a free show
catalogue and parking, is now live at www.petindex.co.uk
Bell and Barker
Following six years of solely producing its own original
product – the Leashpod – Bell and Barker Ltd is thrilled to
announce Glee as the platform to showcase a range of new
products. Bowldog is described by the company as “the most
compact, practicable, re-useable travel bowl on the market,”
while the Meltdown eco-bowl range is the first product in the
UK made entirely from waste bottle-tops and will be offered
in a wide range of sizes and colours. Being a proud Kruuse
stockist, Bell and Barker will also be displaying a selection of
Kruuse’s latest products.
Information: 01325 240 560 or info@bellandbarker.com
Stand: Hall 5, G70
James Wellbeloved
James Wellbeloved Large Breed Dog Food in junior and
adult formats has been developed to meet the needs of
bigger dogs naturally. The hypo-allergenic, single-source
protein-based, large-breed formulation combines large-sized
kibble to slow down eating – which the company says may
help prevent bloat – JW+ complex to help support healthy
joints and antioxidants to support the immune function. The
Large Breed range is available in four variants: duck and
rice, lamb and rice, turkey and rice and fish and rice; each in
two sizes: four-kilogramme and 15-kilogramme.
Information: 0800 717 800 or www.crownpetfoods.co.uk
Stand: Hall 5, G90–H91
Petindex preview
Petz Podz
Coming late 2011, PetzPodz
is a multi-purpose bespoke
pet home that will be
available in three sizes to
house anything from toy
chihuahuas, cats, micro
pigs, medium-sized dogs
and chickens. With ease
of maintenance, flexibility
and toughness owing to its
high-quality UV-stabilised
plastic, the company says
that together with the range
of “appz available to suit
your companions,” PetzPodz
ensures “convenience,
comfort and happy petz”
Appz available include
the Smartscreen Heatmat
low-voltage touch-screen
heater, ‘No Chance’ 100 per
cent-predator-proof cage
and ‘PetzBedz’ colour-coordinated, easy-clean beds.
The Dog’s Apron
Hemmo and Co Ltd
The Hunters is a patented training aid
that enhances the natural retrieving
instincts of a dog. Designed to look and
feel like real game fowl, the strong, biteproof EVA foam body is not only soft on
the dog’s teeth, but enables the product
to float. Plush detailing gives the body
a realistic look, and the head and feet –
made from strong TPR rubber – give the
product the weight of a real bird. Available
in 18” mallard and Canada goose and
20” pheasant models.
www.hemandboo.co.uk
Stand: Hall 5, H80
Information: 01277 366 002
or www.petzpodz.com
With the technique used in a professional
dog grooming salon, the Dog’s Apron gently
secures the user’s dog on their lap, allowing
them to brush, blow-dry, clip nails or give
medicine with ease.
Information: 028 9448 5340, 07710 985 495 or
www.thedogsapron.com
Stand: Hall 5, F83
Doggee
The Doggee is a flexible hollow ball on a
keychain that can accommodate over 15 dog
refuse bags, designed to help the forgetful
canine owner with dog waste management.
It comes in six colours, with a spring-lever
key ring that can attach to keys or a dog’s
lead so bags are always with you. Made in
the UK from BSI-compliant, medical-grade
recyclable material.
Information: 0208 616 2297 or www.baggee.com
Stand: Hall 5, J80–K81
Stand: Hall 5, J93
Eden.H Limited
Eden.H Limited is a UK wholesaler of
economically-designed pet products. “Our
fabulous products are made with 100
per cent guaranteed quality as absolutely
reliable utilities,” the company says. “You
are now welcome to order these products
with no minimum amount required, offered
with free shipping service. Never miss out
on our great deals and never hesitate to
contact us. Your full-satisfaction is our fullencouragement, so we are always here for
you with our best supplies!”
Dog Rocks
Dog Rocks is a 100 per cent
natural, hassle-free solution
to pet urine burn patches on
lawns and shrubs. It makes
no change to the pH balance
of a dog’s drinking water
or urine and is safe for all
household pets. Proven and
endorsed by vets worldwide.
Information: 01628 822 243
or www.dogrocks.co.uk
Stand: Hall 5, H92
EzyDog
The Checkmate collar is a limited-slip collar
that provides just enough ‘check’ when
necessary. A super-strong buckle closer makes
slipping over the head obsolete, while there
are reflective trims throughout for nighttime visibility. As with all EzyDog collars, it is
finished with a stainless steel D-ring.
sales@edenh.co.uk
info@ezydoguk.co.uk
Stand: Hall 5, E74
Stand: Hall 5, G81
Natural Way
Natural Way Apple & Cinnamon Biscuit is a healthy and tasty hypo-allergenic
reward treat. The long traditional bake Natural Way uses, produces a hard
biscuit and enhances the aromas and natural flavours. The ingredients in this
biscuit have been carefully chosen from ethical sources to provide a range
of natural nutrients to promote good health and vitality. There is no added
sugar or salt, the fat and naturally-occurring sugar content is low and the
biscuits have no added preservatives, additives or artificial colouring.
Information: 01926 311 514 or sales@naturalpetproductsltd.com
Stand: Hall 5, F80–G81
41
Who says there’s never
anything good on TV?
Since its launch in 2008 Harringtons has struck a real
chord with dog owners looking for premium nutrition
at a price they can afford. Demand has been growing at
a phenomenal rate and current annualised sales show
that Harringtons is already a £6m brand!
As a reflection of the brand’s success, we are investing
over £500,000 in a TV campaign that will run across the
UK for four weeks on ITV1 from mid-August.
Stock up now and be part of this runaway success story.
For more information, please call 01845 576 227 or
e-mail info@harringtonsdogfood.co.uk
www.harringtonsdogfood.co.uk
The Natural Choice
44
Dental care
Long in
the tooth
Smile and the world smiles with
you. Unless, of course, you have
bad breath and rotting teeth.
Kelly Clark discovers how
important pet oral hygiene is
J
ust like us, animals will develop nasty
dental problems if their mouths are
not given regular, tender loving care.
Pet Smile Month, held this September,
was launched by veterinary surgeon Bob
Partridge to promote the need for taking
good care of the mouths of our pets. It sees
more than 1,500 practices providing free
dental assessments over the four weeks.
Priory Veterinary Group in East Yorkshire
is just one of those surgeries taking part and
encouraging pet owners to take responsibility
for their pets’ dental hygiene. Claire Sutton,
who is also giving away free toothpaste for
Pet Smile Month, says: “Teeth are something
you only get one set of. If animals get lots of
disease or plaque it can cause premature tooth
loss. Something simple like using some of the
products on the market to reduce tartar in the
first place or doing home brushing, increases
the length of time they keep their teeth.
“Owners either clean their pets’ teeth
regularly or they don’t do it at all. That can
be because they are unsure how to do it
or because animals can be badly behaved
when having their teeth cleaned, so they’re
reluctant to do it.
“We have taken part in Pet Smile Month
for the past four or five years. We try to do
as much preventative health care as possible
and dentistry is one thing owners can do at
home to prevent problems.”
While keeping regular veterinary
appointments to have an animal’s mouth
checked out, it is strongly recommended
that owners do their bit every day at home
to keep their pets healthy. Oral hygiene
supplier Molar, based in Somerset, has
seen a huge rise in the demand for natural
products preventing and tackling dental
issues. John Leonard, UK product manager,
says: “Oral hygiene in animals is as
important as human oral hygiene. But pets
can’t tell us when they are in pain, so being
observant about their oral health is key to
their general health.
“More and more pet owners are becoming
aware they do need to keep their pets’ oral
hygiene in check and are looking for cures
and treatments. Pet owners are also turning
to self-diagnosis, looking on the internet
for products which work and will prevent
them having to lay out hefty vet bills. The
economy is having an effect on people
Dental care
gum disease, tartar and tooth decay. If it
is left untreated, it can lead to pain and
unnecessary or premature tooth loss. Once
formed, tartar is very difficult to remove and
usually requires a veterinary procedure. So,
prevention is always better than cure.”
Bern Pet Foods supplies a range of natural
pet foods to benefit dogs in several ways.
Its ZiwiPeak deer hoofer oral healthcare
chew offers dogs a workout for their teeth
and gums. Colin Rodger says: “At Bern Pet
Foods, we want to make the experience of
buying wholesome, high quality pet food
as easy as possible, so we offer a range of
options to suit everyone.
“There are many questions about what,
and what not, to feed our dogs and cats to
keep them healthy. The Bern Pet Foods team
has researched what’s out there.”
At Natural Pet Products in Leamington
Spa, the focus is on the highest quality,
naturally nutritious and beneficial products
for cats and dogs. The 100 per cent natural
range of treats, chews and supplements tackle
a pet’s health and wellbeing holistically.
Molar also offers a Vet Communicator
Case, containing a range of products
and tools to assist in demonstrating oral
hygiene routines and care for pets. Brushing
techniques, oral hygiene tools and correct
positioning can all be shown on the
anatomically correct jaw models. It allows
pet owners to confirm and modify oral
hygiene techniques before trying them in the
animal’s mouth. The teaching aid contains
articulated jaws, toothbrush, finger brush,
jaw diagram and a range of treatments.
John Leonard concludes: “In terms of the
oral care category in retail, it is a growing
area for retailers to latch on to. Since I have
been working with these products, I have
seen the range of oral care products coming
onto the market balloon, so it is a category
for the retailers which is growing.”
looking for products which actually work
and are of value to them.”
One product Molar promotes is ProDen
PlaqueOff Animal, which can help with
the control of dental plaque, tartar and bad
breath if used daily. It is a special type of
seaweed which has been found to have specific
beneficial effects for oral care. It comes in
a granulated form, which is easily added to
food every day, is rich in natural iodine and
contains important vitamins and minerals.
John says: “Until now, the only way to
keep your pets’ teeth clean was by daily
brushing. PlaqueOff is a new and easy way
to improve your pets’ oral hygiene. As in
humans, plaque bacteria constantly forms
in the mouth and can accumulate on teeth,
gums and the tongue resulting in bad breath,
Top treats for teeth
PetzLife Oral Care Spray
and Gel – removes plaque
and tartar on dogs and cats. Can
reverse oral disease, promote
healthy gums, brighten teeth and
kill the bacteria that cause bad
breath. The ingredients mix with
the animal’s saliva, completely
coating teeth and mouth, so no
need for a toothbrush.
Dr Chew – 100 per cent
sweet potato dog treat cooked,
sliced and air-dried. Its unique
chewing texture promotes healthy
teeth and fresh breath. Sweet
potato is a rich source of betacarotene which promotes teeth
development.
Paragon – natural vegetablebased range of dog chews in fun
shapes which are great for helping
to clean dogs’ teeth.
Supplier Listing
ALF Ltd: www.alfltd.co.uk
Bern Pet Foods: www.bernpetfoods.co.uk
Burgess Pet Care:
www.burgesspetcare.co.uk
Collarways: www.collarways.co.uk
Hills Pet Nutrition: www.hillspet.co.uk
Mars Pet Care: www.mars.com
Molar: www.molarltd.co.uk
Natural Pet Products:
www.naturalpetproductsltd.com
Petzlife: www.petzlife.co.uk
Priory Veterinary Group:
www.driffieldvets.co.uk
45
POA_PetGazette_93x130_1386_11.pdf
1
12/07/2011
12:19
There are
easier ways
of controlling
your pet’s
bad breath
NEWff
PlaqueO
Cat
Plaque is the main cause of bad breath and gum disease. ProDen
PlaqueOff™ Animal reduces bad breath by up to 63% after 12 weeks1
and reduces plaque by up to 35% after first 8 weeks2
Contains only especially selected seaweed (D1070). When added to your
cat’s or dog’s food, once daily, results are usually seen within 3 to 8 weeks.
A 60g pot costs just £10.99 (RSP) and can last up to 12 months.
Available from your wholesaler including: Pedigree,
L.Batley Pet Products Ltd, Vital, Natural Pet Products Ltd,
Trust Pet Products Ltd.
Enquiries, please call: 01934 710 022.
1
2
Summit Study 2308, Dog 12105, Day 28 to 88.
Summit Study 2208, Dog 12882, Day 28 to 56
48
Multi-pet households
Safety in numbers
Looking after several pets can be a challenge for the pet owner but a bonus for
retailers. Veterinary consultant to PetSafe, David Chamberlain, looks at products
retailers can offer their customers to help encourage a smooth introduction to new pets
Multi-pet households
these include: bowls; water; beds; littertrays; hiding places; access points; hunting
grounds; scratching posts, and warm spots.
Pet owners need to ensure they provide as
many accessories as there are cats – plus one
extra. For example, if there are two cats in
the home, there should be three water and
food bowls and three litter trays positioned
around the house. Pet fountains such as
the Drinkwell from PetSafe are effective in
encouraging cats to drink and can assist with
the management of idiopathic cystitis. Allowing access to the outdoors provides
cats with an opportunity to exercise, explore,
engage in their natural behaviour and to
escape the potentially stressful environment
in the home. Multiple cats also need
multiple entry and exit points, as a dominant
cat may stand guard, preventing subordinate
cats from having free access to the garden or
home. If cats are allowed outside, it’s sensible
to use a selective entry cat flap, which also
prevents intruding cats from entering the
‘core territory’ of the home.
Microchip cat doors, such as the
Microchip Petporte smart flap, are useful as
they can be programmed to register several
cats. If, however, the risk of harm outside is
very high, owners should consider keeping
the cat indoors or limiting its access to the
outside world. Large outdoor enclosures are
available, as are containment systems which
use electronic collars and boundary wires.
Enrich a cat’s indoor
environment
When cats have limited or no outside access,
owners have an increased obligation to
provide a stimulating environment for their
pet. Many items are available to enrich a cat’s
environment but, for a multi-cat household,
the following should be considered:
• Growing grass on a windowsill to eat to
assist with elimination of fur-balls.
• Scent stimulation such as catnip toys.
• Providing fresh air by meshing
over windows.
• Providing interactive toys such as fishing
rods to enable predatory play.
• Cat towers and hammocks.
Establish a core territory
Give cats space
Many pet owners are unaware that too many
cats in one home without the right resources
can cause stress to the animals. Cats like to
feel in control and sharing space or resources
with other residents is very distressing for
them – chronic stress can result in disease
including idiopathic cystitis. Cats can enjoy the company of others, but
owners need to understand what can be done
to create an environment to provide the best
chance of harmony. As they are not naturally
tolerant of each other, it’s not advisable to
have more than five cats in one household.
They are more likely to be friendly to
other cats they have grown up with and
kittens from the same litter learn and gain
confidence from each other.
Also, households with several cats must
have sufficient space so they can spend
time apart and avoid each other if they
wish. Resources are very important to cats,
All cats need a comfortable core territory
that is safe from intruders, however it may
be necessary to provide subservient cats
with their own area within the home where
they can escape a dominant cat. Again, this
can be achieved by using selective entry cat
flaps on internal doors, providing some cats
with their own rooms where the cat has its
own set of resources.
Veterinary professionals have identified
multi-cat households as the biggest risk
to a cat’s wellbeing. If owners of multiple
cats wish to enhance their environment,
they should provide their pets with a

49
50
range of facilities such as heated beds,
food bowls and water fountains. Retailers
can help by guiding customers to select
the appropriate products.
Introducing new
dogs into the home
Similarly, introducing another dog to the
home needs careful consideration to avoid
potential distress to a resident dog. Dogs are
far more social than cats, so there should be
fewer issues, but there are still a number of
factors that deserve careful consideration.
There are several reasons that pet owners
may decide to introduce a new dog. Owners
of older dogs often believe that a younger
dog is a good idea as it can reduce the owner’s
emotional distress when the older dog dies;
rejuvenate the resident dog; or the older dog
can ‘teach’ the younger dog its good habits.
Unfortunately for the older dog, age
brings with it a number of potential
problems that it struggles to cope with
normally, let alone when its routines are
disrupted by another dog. Age often is
accompanied with arthritis, illness, pain,
physical frailty and possibly senility,
which can make older dogs irritable and
intolerant. The introduction of a young dog
may make the ‘twilight’ period of an older
dog’s life insufferable; alternatively it may
genuinely rejuvenate it. It is not easy to predict what the outcome
may be, but if the resident dog is not
coping with the effects of old age, it will
probably struggle to cope with the arrival
of a puppy. Ideally, owners should have the
health of the incumbent dog assessed by a
veterinary surgeon to determine if there are
any issues that may affect its ability to cope
with a new arrival.
Owners of young dogs may introduce
another dog into the home for
companionship, because the owners have
busy lifestyles, or the dog has separation
or anxiety-related problems that may be
helped by the influence of a steadier canine
presence. However, it’s important to consider
that resident dogs are less likely to tolerate
a newcomer if owners divert too much
attention toward the new dog and away
from the resident dog. Owners should also
make sure the newcomer does not challenge
the resident pet for resources or status and
provide plenty of beds, food bowls and toys
for each dog.
Pet owners considering multiple pets need
to be armed with accurate advice before they
increase the number of four legged friends
in their home. Simple steps can be taken in
preparation and retailers can suggest a range
of products to assist with this potentially
rewarding domestic arrangement.
Supplier Listing
Norfolk Industries:
www.norfolk-industries.co.uk
PetSafe: www.petsafe.net
52
New appointments
New appointments
Pastures new for professionals in the pet trade
Dog Rocks
In line with continued growth, Dog Rocks says it is “delighted” to announce another new appointment.
Chloe Hill-Thomas, who joins from Premier Foods, will take on the role of business development manager,
where it is hoped her appointment and analytical skills will lead to more consumer-driven awareness and increased
sales. She will specifically work with key accounts in the UK and Europe to co-ordinate their promotions and
implement objectives, and her first sales-focused project will be to secure garden centre distributors and wholesalers.
Carina Evans, Dog Rocks managing director, said: “We are delighted to have Chloe on board and are looking
forward to unlocking potential within the company and working more closely with our key accounts. Chloe
will be making herself known to our existing and new clients over the coming months, and will be at all of our
forthcoming trade fairs including Gatcombe, BBC Gardeners’ World, the World Dog Show and Glee Petindex.”
Supreme Products
Vicky Archer has joined Supreme Products as area sales executive for the south.
Hertfordshire-based Vicky, a keen show competitor, comes equipped with a wealth of knowledge about the
equestrian industry, having previously worked in both the feed and healthcare sectors.
“I am delighted to be part of the Supreme products team,” Vicky commented. “The products are fantastic and I
have used them to help with top class turnout on my own horses and ponies for many years.”
Kennelpak
Steve Moffat has joined the sales team at Nottingham-based pet trade supplier Kennelpak Ltd.
Steve brings a wealth of experience and joins from Nestlé Purina PetCare, where he worked for 30 years. Steve’s
specific role will be the management and development of the Van Ness range of accessories, Masterpet treats, Pet
Bakery biscuits, Top ‘n’ Tasty gravy, Petstuff and the new Safestix dog toy range.
“I am delighted to join the Kennelpak sales team and look forward to helping them develop these exciting
ranges,” he said.
Groomers
Groomers Ltd has announced the recent appointment of Melanie Leando as head of communications.
Melanie, who has a background in public relations, has been involved in the equestrian industry for many
years and competes with her own horse, Macchiato. Her new Newbury-based role will focus on “developing
online relationships and building further brand awareness across new media platforms.” Paula Bryan, commercial
director at Groomers, commented: “We are delighted to have Melanie on board. She brings with her a wealth of
communications experience to help us manage our continued growth.”
Interpet
Interpet says it is “delighted” to announce that Mark Hoskins has been promoted from sales director to the
position of commercial director, reporting directly to parent company Central Garden & Pet.
Having joined Interpet in field sales at the age of 18, Mark has experience in supply chain, operations and sales
and in-depth insight into the pet and aquatic industry.
This appointment forms part of a business re-structure that reflects the “increasingly close relationship” Interpet
has had with the Central Garden & Pet group since its purchase in 2004.
“I’m very excited about this opportunity,” Mark stated. “My knowledge and experience of the Interpet business
and the pet and aquatic industry will further align Interpet with Central Garden & Pet. It is significant that the
UK is recognised as an increasingly important market, and I look forward to spearheading Interpet’s continued
growth, now and in the future.”
Doggy Things
Dog accessories and natural treats distributor Doggy Things has announced it is “pleased to welcome a new
member to the pack.” Keith Taylor, who joins the company from Hills Pet Nutrition, takes on the role of
territory manager – south.
“He will be visiting all of our wonderful customers in the south of England, providing them with the gold star
Doggy Things treatment that they are used to!” said Doggy Things director Daniel Haddad. “With Keith’s wealth
of knowledge and years of experience in the pet industry, we are delighted in welcoming him into our family.”
Has someone recently joined or moved to a new role within your company? You can send the details and a photo to jon@petgazette.biz
Glee Petindex 2011 – The UK’s Only National Pet Show
19 - 21 September 2011 NEC Birmingham
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54
Events
Events
25–28 August
24–27 September
interpets
Makuhari Messe
Chiba
Japan
www.interpets.jp/en
Pet Fair Asia
Shanghai Everbright
Exhibition Center
Shanghai, China
www.petfairasia.com
3–4 September
29 September–
1 October
LovePets
Royal Highland Centre
Edinburgh
www.lovepets.me.uk
3–5 September
City of Birmingham
Championship Dog Show
Stoneleigh Park
Coventry
www.birminghamcitydogshow.co.uk
4–6 September
LovePets
iberzoo
Fira de Barcelona
Barcelona, Spain
www.iberzoo.com
30 September–
2 October
PET BIZ
Inter Expo Center
Sofia, Bulgaria
www.petbiz.bg
spoga+gafa
Koelnmesse
Cologne
Germany
www.spogagafa.com
5–6 October
18–20 October
16–19 November
AQUA
Telford International Centre
Telford, Shropshire
19–21 September
6–8 October
Pet South America
Expo Center Norte
São Paolo
Brazil
www.petsa.com.br
China International Pet Show
China Import and
Export Fair Complex
Canton, China
www.cipscom.com/en/index.asp
Glee Petindex
NEC
Birmingham
www.gleebirmingham.com
Pet Expo 2011
Claremont Showgrounds
Perth, Australia
www.piaa.net.au
29–30 October
10–11 December
LovePets
Exec Peterborough
www.lovepets.me.uk
Ladies Kennel Association
NEC, Birmingham
www.highampress.co.uk/dates.asp
Big on quality. Small on price
The London Vet Show is the event with certified pedigree. Great quality
content — including speakers like Arthur House, Anke Hendricks
and David Church — for an incredibly sleek offer price. Tickets are just
£149+VAT for two full days if you book before 15th September. And just
look at what you get for your money…
—
More than 70 hours of unmissable business lectures and clinical
training that counts towards CPD
—
Three RVC clinical streams and an extensive sponsor-led seminar
programme including practical workshops
—
Over 250 exhibiting companies delivering the very best and
very latest in veterinary solutions
—
New for 2011 — Interactive Consultation and Customer Care
Sessions, The LVS Holiday Giveaway plus the The ‘Vets Now’ Party
Platinum Sponsors
Supported By
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Save hundreds of pounds. Book your place right now
for just £149+VAT. Visit www.londonvetshow.co.uk
or call 01926 485151 quoting promotional code PG2
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Silver Sponsors
Media Partners
56
Classified
AQUATIC LIVESTOCK
Dog accessories
Manufacturers of rope leads
Advertise your
Business Here.
Call our sales team
now on 01206 767 797
Want an ad but don’t have artwork?
Don’t panic! We can help.
At Pet Gazette we have a free advert typesetting service.
So when you book an advert with us, our production
department will get straight on the case.
Call our sales team now on 01206 767 797
Pet tags
ID tags that make your pets sparkle
• Stunning range of tags made from tough
metalalloywithasilverorgoldfinish
• Genuine Swarovski crystals in clear,
pink, red or blue
• High quality engraving using the latest
laser technology, guaranteed not to fade
AQUATICS
• Prices include full engraving and
1st class post
• Orders dispatched within 24 hours
• Free postage of display stand and
order books
• £25 refundable deposit on stand
For prices call 08456800780
or email marina@bowwowint.co.uk
Classified
Pond sealer
SMALL ANIMAL LIVESTOCK
SMALL ANIMAL Bedding
For advertising
details and to
download the latest
issue please visit
www.petgazette.biz
PET GAZETTE
AUGUST 2011
www.petgazette.biz
ISSN 2046-7303
Safety in
nu
mbers
Selling to multi-pet
households
Calm before
the storm
Pet phobias
and anxieties
DEVELOP YOUR OWN
CUSTOMER RETENTION
STRATEGY AND FIND
WAYS TO ENCOURAGE
LOYALTY
A bird in the hand
Asset management
From the novice
pet owner
to the experienced bird
exhibitor, budgerigars
have popular appeal
Maintaining healthy fish
stocks is vital to the
commercial success of
the aquatic retailer
57
Voice on the highstreet
Voice on the highstreet
Paul Chesworth of
Clipsley Pets & Aquatics,
St Helens, Merseyside
How did you first get into pet retail?
What’s your background?
You have a comprehensive online shop – do you
think having a web presence helps pet businesses?
Way back in 1980, I was working for British Gas as an apprentice
and Karon Speight (now the co-owner of the shop) was looking
for work. When a YTS (Government-run youth training scheme)
opportunity came up at our local pet shop, Karon applied and really
enjoyed the experience. At the end of the scheme, she was offered a
part-time position as a shop assistant. She expanded her knowledge
of the pet trade over the next 12 months and was eventually
appointed manageress.
I think there is a major difference between a web presence and a web
shop. Our website has considerably raised the profile of our business
locally as many people now tend to check the web before leaving
the comfort of their homes to shop, so having a website is the ‘shop
window’ these people first look into. This is one reason I feel that the
web is important to us.
Our web shop is still very much in its infancy and bolts nicely onto
our existing traditional business. It has, without doubt, increased
our turnover, but we have only scratched the surface of the overall
potential out there on the worldwide web.
Could you give a brief history of the business?
After several years, Karon saw the potential for the business was far
greater than the owners, at the time, had the vision to see. It was at
this point in 1987 that we made them an offer to buy the business,
which they accepted. Nine months later we bought the building – a
double-fronted terrace – and carried out structural alterations to
create some much-needed space.
Owning the business gave us the scope to support youth training
initiatives locally, giving work experience to school children and
those who had left school but required work experience as part of
the college courses. We have also had young adults with learning
difficulties gaining hands-on work experience. Karon has always
remembered how she was given a chance and has always been
enthusiastic to do her bit to support others.
Our most recent business development has been to
become an Assured Pet Specialist. To have our efforts and
skills recognised by the Pet Care Trust is fantastic, and while
it was lots of hard work preparing for the audit, we believe it
was all worthwhile.
What’s your favourite pet or product you
currently stock?
What advice would you give to someone hoping to
get into pet retail?
We would be honest with them – if they are looking to keep animals,
then they must realise this business is a 365-day-a-year commitment
and the passion required has to be there, as a lot of hard work is
needed if you are to succeed.
The other piece of advice would be to join their local business
chamber. We only joined the St Helens chamber in March 2010, but
should have done this years ago as the support and advice we have
received has been second-to-none. We have found that being a member
of the chamber makes us feel that we are at the top of a pyramid, with
the support we require sitting below us – all at the end of a phone.
Finally, what are your plans for the future?
We have always looked for products that give us an edge in the business
and we find that dealing directly with companies and importing specific
products is an avenue we are keen to expand. The website is also an area
that we will continue to develop further, as our present experience has
shown that it does open your ‘shop window’ to the world.
We have recently rescued an eight-month-old German Shepherd-cross
Border Collie, Ruby, who has become a key team member, taking
up the role of chief product tester. Toys and treats are her forte and
it really does help us when talking to our customers to provide good
product feedback.
How many people do you have working for you?
I have recently taken voluntary redundancy, so now Karon and I work
full-time in the business alongside Michelle – Karon’s sister – Julie, John
and Terry, my brother, who all work full-time. We also have Debbie, a
student studying small animal NVQ level 3, working part-time.
Images: St Helens Reporter
58
Naturally hypo-allergenic large breed dog food
wholesome, complete and healthy
NEW eed
r
B
e
Larg ood
Dog F
Large Breed, different needs
Specially
designed &
formulated:
Our Large Breed recipes are specially developed for the
energy, joints and disgestive needs of dogs reaching 25kg
and over when adult.
Launch support: Retailer and consumer launch offers, PR, consumer advertising
and specific instore merchandising support.
ADE IN
B
TA I
O
UR
RY
N
© Crown Pet Foods Ltd 2011 - All Rights Reserved. Credit: Stable Design Limited.
IN
www.wellbeloved.com
M
LY
RI
SUPPORTING GROWING TRENDS
UD
Junior and Adult lifestages/4kg and 15kg bags.
Four variants: Turkey & Rice, Lamb & Rice, Fish & Rice, Duck & Rice.
P RO
Available in:
OW N FAC
TO

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