PPM April_May

dogs love e ential oils

The UK’s largest range of natural dog treats.

The UK’s largest range of natural dog treats.

As I sit to write the welcome letter for this issue, I have just got back to my desk having been at Crufts with our sister brand Your Dog Magazine. (An excellent resource for dog owners who would like advice and inspiration when it comes to life with your canine companion. Check out www.yourdog.co.uk) It was a fantastic show and really nice to get out and speak to dog owners.

People’s passion for pets is almost unrivalled! Owners will often put their pets before even themselves and the sheer joy our companion animals bring is nothing short of remarkable. The energy from the show was a reminder of why we love the pet trade so much and with my PPM hat on, I was very aware that these are the people who are your customers. It was a reminder that the starting point to being a

Contents

4 News

The latest news from the pet industry.

10 New products

Four pages of new products that are hitting the pet market.

17 First look

Take a look at the new durable dog toy which stands up to the toughest tests!

18 Kennelpak at 50!

The pet specialists are celebrating a landmark birthday!

20 Talking trade with… …Will Durrant, managing director of Happy Pet.

On the cover

22 The secrets to fish-friendly retail

How aquatic retailers can maximise their impact.

24 Talking trade with…

…Matthew Bubear, CEO of CASCO Pet, which provides high quality environments for animals.

successful pet shop should always be the way you tap into people’s passion for their pets!

While this issue is packed with all the usual resources to help bring passionate pet people into your store, there is one thing in particular I need to highlight — the PPM Stock Giveaway on page 27 and 28.

Many of you will be familiar with our Win Stock competition that we run during the PATS trade show. We’ll still be doing that! We’ve just decided we can bring you even more competitions in the magazine where you can win pet products to sell in your shop. This issue, we have a fantastic range of £500-worth of products from Interpet up for grabs. Check it out and enter for free!

Mike

Mike Hallam - Editor, PPM.

Competition

27 PPM Stock Giveaway

Your chance to win £500-worth of Interpet products to sell in your shop!

30 How to support your employees through the cost-of-living crisis

How businesses can provide a range of support to help ease the burden.

32 On the shop floor

We visit an independent retailer with a unique pet shop offering.

34 Unlocking the power of influencer marketing

How brands of all sizes can utilise influencers.

36 Small animal advice

Ask the expert — supporting the care of sick herbivores.

38 Cat care

How to interact with your cat…in a way they like!

42 Dog advice

The canine senses explored.

46 PPM puzzles!

Take a break and enjoy a mental workout!

Our email: editorial@petproductmarketing.co.uk

Our address: Pet Product Marketing, Warners Group Publications, The Maltings, West Street, Bourne, Lincolnshire, PE10 9PH

Michael Hallam, editor

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

For advertising queries please contact Stephen Tanner on 01778 392404

Ellis O’Connell, marketing exec

Nigel Fish, design and production manager

Stephen Tanner, key account manager (advertising Pet Product Marketing)

Andrea Walters, key account manager (advertising Your Dog/Your Cat)

Printed by Warners Midlands plc

James Buzzel, publisher

Subscriptions and back issues

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

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

PPM News

April/May 2024

PATS launches new and improved website

PATS 2024 — the Pet & Aquatics Trade Show — has launched a new and improved website (www.patshow.co.uk) in line with its plans for a three-day show at Telford International Centre from Sunday, 29th September to Tuesday, 1st October 2024.

The new website is more user-friendly and easy-to-navigate for both visitors and exhibitors. It is also a great resource for retailers searching for new products and suppliers.

Buyers can find everything they need to know about visiting PATS 2024 while exhibitors can post their latest news, including show offers and new products they’ll be launching at the show.

The new website features:

● Clear and easy navigation around the website for both visitors and exhibitors

● Simple click-through for visitors to register for free entry to the show

● Exhibitor zone, allowing easy access to upload information

● Full list of exhibitors

● Each listing has a national flag to symbolise the exhibitor’s home country

● Details of all visitor attractions and benefits

● A fresher overall look and feel to the whole site

The new website — www.patshow.co.uk — is now live, and buyers can register their interest in visiting PATS 2024.

Natural Cornish Pet is set for expansion with name change to The Pets Larder

A wholesaler and pet shop with their own ranges of pet products, the Natural Cornish Pet Shop has changed its name to The Pets Larder.

The Pets Larder will be headed by Katy Peck who was the founder of the Natural Cornish Pet Shop. Katy has been the creative side of the business, developing the products and branding for the Natural Cornish Pet range of products which include Alfora pet food, fish treats, chews, peanut butter and a whole host of other best-selling products which are now sold wholesale to the trade.

Katy said: “We have a mixture of dog friendly cafes, farm shops, groomers and independent pet shops stocking our range of Cornish treats. It is our aim to establish a core range of basic pet care products for all companion animals and to become the one stop shop for owners’ care needs. Our team has extensive backgrounds in animal care, and first-hand experience with a range of pet health care issues.”

The business won the Most Sustainable Pet Products Supplier in the South West Awards. For further information, visit: www. thepetslarder.co.uk

Hungry hedgehogs!

Many hedgehogs haven’t hibernated over winter but those that have been hibernating are beginning to wake up and will be very hungry and thirsty!

Brambles has noticed an increase in sales of Brambles Hedgehog Food so the brand are encouraging retailers to ensure they have plenty in stock. Don’t forget to make plans for Hedgehog Awareness Week which takes place the first week in May too!

As many people start thinking about gardening, make sure you have a good look for hedgehogs before any work begins. It’s a very busy time of year for rescues with injuries caused by people in the garden.

Visit www.bramblespaw.co.uk to find out more.

www.petproductmarketing.co.uk

Visitor registration now open for the biggest-ever PATS

PATS 2024 – the Pet & Aquatics Trade Show – will stage its biggest ever show at the Telford International Centre from Sunday, 29th September to Tuesday, 1st October 2024, with pet stores and garden centres now being invited to register for free entry.

The first-ever three-day PATS will be hosted in four halls for the first time and will see the launch of a much-anticipated Aquatics Zone.

More than 200 companies and brands have already booked stand space, and the final total is expected to be well over 300, which would be a PATS record.

“The demand for stand space at PATS has been phenomenal, with many companies booking much larger stands as they seek to take advantage of the new three-day format,” said organiser Gordon Thomas, of Impact Exhibitions and Events.

“With the addition of the Aquatics Zone and a bigger New Starter Zone, the exhibition will cover four halls of the Telford International Centre, so I can confirm it will be the biggest PATS show ever.

“Registration for visitors is now open on our new-look website and I would urge all pet retailers and buyers to sign up for their free entry.”

If retailers and buyers need more encouragement to register now for free entry to the three-day exhibition, here’s just a quick summary of popular visitor attractions:

● The biggest ever showcase of new pet, aquatic and watergardening products

● Unrivalled show offers and competitions

● Top groomers giving insightful demonstrations, workshops and talks

● Fantastic networking opportunities

● Free entry, free show catalogue, free parking for up to 1,300 cars and a complimentary tea/coffee voucher

You can register online at www.patshow.co.uk where you’ll also find a full list of exhibitors and information on how to reach the venue.

PIF breaks ground to showcase members

The Pet Industry Federation (PIF) has launched two new digital business directories on its website, showcasing members’ products and services. These directories are available at no cost and serve as a comprehensive resource for both fellow pet businesses and pet owners alike.

Offering a seamless, all-in-one destination for pet products and services from leading brands and companies within the industry, the directories are categorised into two distinct types: PIF MarketPlace, which is the product directory; and PIF B2B which is a directory of service benefits to pet businesses. Both are free for PIF members to advertise in and both can be accessed from the home page of the PIF website.

Participants in these directories can use the opportunity to enhance their brand visibility among the PIF community, benefiting from advanced features such as PDF link detection, the ability to incorporate video content and animations, and access to performance analytics and reports.

Moreover, PIF members can enjoy exclusive discounts found within the directories in the members’ area.

Nigel Baker, PIF CEO, said “This groundbreaking initiative enables PIF, as a trade association, to support its members by providing a platform to showcase their offerings, all at no cost. These directories augment the popular ‘Find a PIF Member’ section on our website, which already receives substantial traffic from pet owners seeking PIF-endorsed businesses.”

The directories will be updated regularly and listings are only open to PIF members. Please visit www.petfederation.co.uk to view the directories and find out about PIF membership. You can also contact daniel.everett@petfederation.co.uk for more information.

www.petproductmarketing.co.uk

Pet Care Innovation Europe event set to be key pet business event

Meet your future partners who can ensure your business success by joining 300+ senior executives at Petcare Innovation Europe (June 4-5, Berlin) to drive innovation in pet wellness and pet parent experience.

Key takeaways include:

● Leverage industry leaders’ insights to identify lucrative opportunities and innovations across Pet Health, Nutrition, Products, and Services, propelling your business growth.

● Explore the transition to a holistic ‘One Stop Shop’ for pet owners, delving into partnerships, M&A trends, and the evolving investment landscape for sustained success.

● Meet your future partners who are actively looking for partnership and collaboration opportunities by networking with 300+ senior executives in the petcare industry

With speakers from BorrowmyDoggy, Royal Canin, Fressnapf and Mars Petcare in attendance, if you are looking for essential business development insights and industry knowledge from across all areas of the Petcare ecosystem, this event is for you.

To find out more, visit https://www. kisacoresearch.com/events/petcareinnovation-europe-2024/brochure?

Dorwest launches rebranded packaging based on feedback

Herbal pet care experts at Dorwest Herbs have launched a rebrand of the packaging of their supplements, topicals, and homoeopathics ranges.

The rebrand project was started 12 months ago, surveying existing Dorwest customers to gain valuable insight into what matters most to them in the world of supplements. Dorwest received nearly 1,000 survey responses, from retail and trade customers, partners and ambassadors, that they used to update the brand proposition and Dorwest customer profile.

Dorwest’s new look packaging encompasses all survey feedback with the exact same products and herbal expertise, with changes including:

● Stronger navigation through category icons to easily shop by condition.

● Bio-plastic tablet pots made from renewable plant-based resources.

● Clearer naming and new herbal illustration.

● Tweaked colour palette to signify product categories.

● Silver band for Expert Collection to signify flagship products. Survey findings showed that sustainability is extremely important to customers and Dorwest is delighted to reveal the switch to Bio-plastic tablet pots made from renewable plant-based resources, striving for greener credentials alongside 100% plastic free delivery packaging. Managing Director Jo Boughton-White says: “The rebrand project has been crucial in evolving the look and feel of the brand, all thanks to customer feedback. We’re proud to have such amazing customers, some of which have shopped with us for over 40 years!”

As winner of Best B2C Performance for Pet & Livestock at the Direct Commerce Awards 2023 and Online Business of the Year at the PIF Awards 2022, the Dorwest brand continues to grow with recognised public acknowledgement for their impact within the pet industry.

Henry Bell secures sole supplier contract

Leading pet and wild bird food producer Henry Bell & Co has secured an ongoing sole supplier contract with the EAF Group. The arrangement will see an extensive range of Henry Bell Wild Bird Care feeds and accessories on sale throughout the organisation’s three stores – Animall Crown Corner in Brentwood, Animall Hertford, and Animall Littlebury outside Saffron Walden.

Henry Bell will also manufacture a range of own-label feeds under the group’s Farmer Scott’s brand. This will feature core feed

Pawer Water presents pouches with retail in mind

Pawer Water, a leading force in canine wellness hydration supplements, has proudly introduced its new 12-stick Pouch, designed for a monthly regimen, along with its 5-stick Introduction Pouch.

The Pawer Water 12-stick Pouch is tailor-made for online marketplaces and pet retailers, strategically designed to offer dog owners a monthly regimen, ensuring recurring customers. This format prioritises needs, convenience, and affordability, giving retailers an irresistible proposition: 12 sticks for the price of 10, a win-win for pet parents!

“At Pawer Water, we advocate a well-rounded wellness routine, emphasizing the importance of balance by alternating between clear water and Pawer Water. Active ingredients need their space to deliver optimal benefits to our furry friends,” affirms Tanya Malcom, Pawer Water’s lead nutritionist. “Our formula empowers dog parents to provide a regular wellness boost, two to three times a week, or even daily for rapid rehydration.”

“Listening carefully to our retailers and partners’ feedback after our soft launch, we’ve decided to introduce two pouches to meet their diverse needs. One provides a full month of advanced wellness hydration for pet owners, securing swift returns for our retailers, and an exclusive Introduction 5-stick Pouch for online marketplaces, offering an accessible entry point,” explains Nathalie Ohana, Founder of Pawer Water.

Pawer Water formula is carefully crafted with a blend of human-grade ingredients, electrolytes, collagen, hyaluronic acid, vitamins, and antioxidants. This thoughtful two-inone combination supports canine hydration and overall wellness requirements, making it a game-changer in the pet supplement market.

For further information visit: www.pawerwater.com or for trade enquiries, visit pawerwater.com/pages/ wholesale-site

lines available in both 2kg and 12.55kg bags.

“We are delighted to be working with this proactive new client,” said Henry Bell National Sales Manager Andrew Mellowes. “The contract with the EAF Group has given us a great opportunity to merchandise the floor space in a really attractive and effective way, enhancing the consumers’ shopping experience and driving up market spend for its stores.

Animall Crown Corner, Animall Hertford and Animall Littlebury have each been re-laid from scratch, with Andrew Mellowes and Henry Bell East Anglia sales agent John Ducker taking the lead in creating the stores’ wild bird product sales areas using Henry Bell’s tried and trusted expert merchandising solutions.

Visit www.henrybell.co.uk to find out more.

et cat litter

Catmax straw pellet cat litter

anuf acturers of horse litter.

Bedmax Ltd, one of Britain’s leading manufacturers of horse bedding has developed a sustainable cat litter.

Catmax is a straw pellet, completely natural, ultra-absorbent, economical, non-clumping, and compostable litter suitable for all types of cats and kittens. Catmax contains no chemical additives and comes in fully recyclable bags.

stable litter suitable contains no chemical bags

Made from high quality UK straw that’s chopped, crushed, dust extracted, and pressurised into 6mm pellets, Catmax is specifically designed to absorb an extraordinary amount of moisture. This is a long-lasting litter which is easy to clean out, with little loss of material. The residue composts very quickly and can be returned to the soil, which is an environmental benefit rising to the top of many customers’ selection criteria.

Catmax comes with outstanding endorsements from owners, breeders, and catteries who have trialled these straw pellets prior to its launch, including Jenny Gilchrist of Romanno Purrfect Palace Cattery near Biggar in Scotland.

“The Catmax pellets are much superior to other products I have tried. They’re very easy to use, they’re not dusty, they absorb the wet matter, and they’re very eco-friendly for disposal. I would highly recommend this product.”

t’s chopped, crushed, m ordinary ich is omposts s an environmental mers’ selection criteria. orsements from owners, d straw hrist of Romanno cotland. or to pro ducts ey’re not for s pro duct.”

Compostable cat litter

To find out more about Catmax, visit www.bedmaxshavings.com/catmax/ or for trade enquiries, contact the company’s National Sales Manager Suzi Law — Suzi.Law@bedmax.co.uk.

New Products

Scruffs Reactive Glaze Pet Bowl Collection

Manchester based luxury pet lifestyle brand Scruffs has launched a brand-new range of Reactive Glaze Pet Bowls. Designed to elevate the dining experience for pets, this chic and contemporary collection introduces a range of bowl sizes including food bowls, water bowls, and saucers.

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the Scruffs Reactive Glaze Pet Bowls are more than just a feeding accessory, they’re a fusion of style and functionality. The Midnight Blue variant exudes timeless elegance, while the Pinstripe Grey option combines modern trends with classic charm.

The unique reactive glaze technique in the crafting process ensures that each bowl is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. The Midnight Blue bowls evoke a sense of serenity, while the Pinstripe Grey bowl exudes sophistication, making them the perfect addition to any home.

Featuring a variety of sizes to cater to pets of different breeds and sizes, these bowls have been designed to not only meet the diverse needs of pets, but to also seamlessly integrate with contemporary home aesthetics.

A spokesperson for Scruffs commented: “As a pet lifestyle brand, and pet lovers ourselves, we understand the integral role our furry companions play in our homes. Inspired by the evolving trends in home and dinnerware aesthetics, we embarked on a mission to bring that same level of style and sophistication to our pets.”

The Scruffs Reactive Glaze Bowls are now available. Transform your pet’s dining experience with these stylish additions that promise to make a statement in any home.

Stylish cat bowls

HOWND

Plant Powered Superfood

HOWND® has launched its latest plant powered recipe, Delicious Pumpkin, Quinoa & Moringa Superfood.

The new vet-approved and nutritionally complete flavour

is available in 2kg and 10kg sizes and comes in improved fully recyclable packaging.

The new recipe contains super nutritious and highly palatable pumpkin — a digestive reset ingredient for dogs with upset stomachs, recovering from illness, or those who have lost interest in their current food – as well as quinoa, sweet potato, cranberry, and algae-based Phytodroitin, an innovative vegan supplement to support joints through all life stages.

Plant-based dog food

YuMOVE Joint Care PLUS for Cats

YuMOVE has expanded its feline-focussed range with the launch of a new high-strength YuMOVE Joint Care PLUS formula for more senior cats.

It’s the latest addition to a range of cat health care products and supplements that have been meticulously formulated over the last 15 years to help target a wide range of health areas relating to cat joint care and mobility, skin and coat, and nervous disposition.

YuMOVE Joint Care PLUS for Cats contains YuMOVE’s unique ActivEase® Green Lipped Mussel, which is sustainably sourced from the crystal-clear waters of New Zealand and provides a unique combination of Omega-3 fatty acids to help aid stiff joints.

Spotting the signs of joint stiffness can be hard for cat owners, says TV vet Dr Scott Miller, because cats are so good at hiding them.

Yumove ambassador and TV vet Dr Scott Miller says: “Being solitary animals, cats don’t have the same social relationships that dogs do, so they hide any weakness which could expose them to predators in the wild. The trouble is, this makes changes to joint health harder to spot, and some cats might spend over half their life experiencing undetected joint stiffness as a result,’ says Dr Scott.

“From a veterinary perspective, about 60% of cats over the age of six have some level of joint change, including joint stiffness, and that’s where I feel supplements are so important to help keep them healthy and happy.”

Looking out for key behavioural signs means pet owners may detect joint health changes sooner, helping to keep their cats active and comfortable.

Delicious Pumpkin Quinoa & Moringa is designed for dogs with food allergies and intolerances. Like all HOWND plantpowered superfoods, the new recipe is high in protein, low in fat and purines, and free from soya, wheat, meat, diary, fish, diary, and GMO ingredients.

Delicious Pumpkin Quinoa & Moringa is available now to UK trade. RRP £15.39 for 2kg and £65.99 for 10kg.

HOWND® has a single mission: to improve the health and wellbeing of dogs without unnecessary harm to other animals and the planet. Since 2015, HOWND has evolved into a multi award-winning ethical lifestyle brand for dogs in the UK and overseas.

For trade enquiries, visit www.dogslovehownd.com/ account/register or email trade@dogslovehownd.com

Joint care for senior cats

Happy Snack by FELIWAY

Ceva Animal Health has launched Happy Snack by FELIWAY, the first and only relaxing liquid snack which comforts cats in challenging and unsettling situations and helps strengthen the relationship between cats and their owners.

Loved by 86% of cats, Happy Snack is a light, delicious creamy snack containing a unique composition featuring alpha-casozepine, a well-known natural milk protein with proven appeasing properties.

Cats thrive on routine and Happy Snack creates a relaxing and calm environment to strengthen the human-animal bond, enabling cats and their owners to share a special moment of happiness. In a lickable format, Happy Snack is convenient for cats and kittens from 12 weeks of age, on the move and in the home, and can be used directly from the sachet, on food or from a finger.

Burns First Steps

Chicken & Rice

Burns Pet Nutrition is thrilled to announce the release of their new weaning food for puppies, Burns First Steps Chicken & Rice

Calming snack for cats!

Ceva report that 72 per cent of cats exhibit at least one stress-related behaviour such as scratching the furniture, urinating or defecating outside the litter tray, and hiding away for long periods of time. Happy Snack can comfort cats in stressful situations and strengthen the relationship between cats and their owners.

The new food has been carefully crafted to give puppies the best start during this important stage of development. Burns’ new offering contains more animal protein in comparison to their other puppy foods and is designed to soak into a porridgelike consistency, making it highly digestible for young puppies.

Happy Snack by FELIWAY is available in packs of six sachets. To find out more, visit www.feliway.com/uk or for trade enquiries, visit www.petproducts.co.uk fliid

Happy Pet’s Hugs Bedding

Introducing Happy Pet’s latest collection: the all-new Hugs Beds! Crafted from sumptuous premium soft fabrics, these beds redefine comfort and warmth, providing your beloved pets with an unparalleled snuggling experience.

Designed to complement contemporary home décor, Happy Pet’s Hugs Beds are the perfect addition to any modern home decor and come in a range of sophisticated colours. Made with 100% recycled silicone fibre, these beds are not only incredibly comfortable but also demonstrate dedication to quality and sustainability. Happy Pet believes that your dog deserves nothing but the best, and their Hugs bedding is designed to provide just that.

These beds prioritise both functionality and style with their non-slip bottom, reversible cushions, and the convenience of machine washing at 30 degrees.

The Orthopaedic Bed is designed specifically for elderly dogs and provides extra support for sore joints. The firmer mattress helps prevent discomfort and promotes your dog’s well-being. Additionally, the bed features a removable waterproof cover on the mattress, ensuring easy maintenance and a clean, hygienic sleep environment for your furry companion.

Hugs bedding is available in various sizes and caters to pets of all breeds, sizes, and ages. Treat your pet to the luxury they deserve with the unmatched comfort and thoughtful designs of these Hugs Beds!

To learn more about Happy Pet and to check out their product range, please visit: www.happypet.co.uk, call 0116 260 2100, or email sales@happypet.co.uk

Made in the UK, with fresh chicken, no artificial colourings or wheat and a simple recipe, it is also very easily digested making it ideal for sensitive stomachs. Burns First Steps Chicken & Rice is also suitable for a nursing mother, providing them with all they will need when their energy needs are the highest.

Burns is committed to ensuring young puppies are ready to be introduced to one of the Burns puppy foods when they move on to new families. Using the right weaning food is vital to ensure your puppy stays happy and healthy before moving on to a new home. Burns also supports breeders with its puppy packs and is there with dog owners from the start with the Puppy Club initiative, in which members receive free food, expert advice from nutritionists, and exclusive

Puppy weaning food

nd out more, visit www.burnspet.co.uk or to fi your local sales rep, visit www. burnspet.co.uk/stockists-home/ g supp orts breeders with its puppy and is there with owners from the start with the in exp ert advice from nutritionists, and exclusive gifts.

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DotDotPet dog shampoo range

A new eco conscious wellness and lifestyle brand, DotDotPet has launched a range of shampoos for dogs.

This innovative range of pet shampoos has been developed by a team of experts from the fragrance and cosmetic industries and designed to be kind to pets. Each formula features a pet preferred scent to help reduce bath time zoomies and anxiety plus a prebio to promote a healthy skin and coat. The formulation is vegan, containing no nasties, making it kind to sensitive skin. The shampoos provide deep cleansing and easy rinsing for a calmer bath time. The shampoos are available in an innovative easy to use no drip bottle.

The shampoos in the range are designed to suit different life stages and types of coat. The formulas include:

Curly Coat Conditioning Dog Shampoo DotDotDog

a deep cleansing curly coat conditioning dog shampoo specifically formulated for dogs with curly coats, containing vegan biotin and olive oil for soft bouncy curls.

Long Coat Conditioning Dog Shampoo DotDotDog

a long coat conditioning dog shampoo specifi formulated for dogs with longer coats, containing coconut and babassu for a silky, glossy shine.

Double Coat Conditioning Dog Shampoo DotDotDog — a double coat conditioning dog shampoo specifically formulated for dogs with double coats, containing green tea and jojoba for de-shedding, cleansing, and hydrating.

Short Coat Conditioning Dog Shampoo DotDotDog — a short coat conditioning dog shampoo specifically formulated for dogs with short coats, containing centella asiatica and shea for a smooth soft finish.

Puppy Conditioning Shampoo DotDotDog — a puppy conditioning shampoo specifically formulated for puppies of all breeds containing Aloe and Oatmeal to protect sensitive skin. The RRP for each shampoo is £13.99.

metic industries and atures a pet mulation itive calmer innovative o suit mulas otDotDog og th or soft otDotDog ecifically ning og th double ing, shamp oo formulated for puppies of all containing The RRP for each shampoo is £13.99

Nutravet Pet’s Choice range of grooming products

Nutravet have announced the launch of their new range of grooming products, under brand name Pet’s Choice.

The new Pet’s Choice products have been developed with pets in mind and go beyond grooming by providing dermatology focused products formulated to soothe and support a pet’s skin and coat health. The skin and coat are crucial to a pet’s overall health and wellbeing, providing a protective barrier from external objects, chemicals, and environmental stressors.

Nutravet Pet’s Choice includes, Soothe & Shine Shampoo, Soothe & Clean Wipes, Soothe & Fresh Deodorising Spray, and Soothe & Soften Conditioner.

The products within the range use veterinary strength formulas which contain a blend of key ingredients to support skin and coat health. The scent used within the Pet’s Choice grooming products has a fresh tropical aroma that is fruity, summery, and long-lasting.

skin o

Tailored shampoo range

To find out more, or visit

nd out more, visit www.dotdotpet.com or for trade enquiries, visit www.dotdotpet.com/pages/trade

ideal for pets with sensitive skin.

All four products have a range of benefits for pets including:

● Nourishes and hydrates

● Non irritating

● Deodorises

● Ph balanced

● Nutrient rich

● Paraben free Hypoallergenic

Pet’s Choice are formulated with the soothing benefits of Aloe Vera and Oatmeal that help with sensitive irritable skin. They are water based, making them

As most retailers know, a dog owner loves to treat their canine companion to a new toy occasionally, knowing full well that it might not last the day!

BIONIC is a unique range of dog toys which were originally designed with one specific dog in mind; Duke, who made it his mission to demolish toys as soon as he saw them!

Back in 2006, Duke’s owner and the creator of BIONIC crafted and produced a selection of different toys that have undergone vigorous tests throughout the years to ensure that they have the tail wagging durability that dog owners want, and now you can get your hands on them through Rolf C Hagen.

These tough, colourful dog toys are made from ultra durable, FDA food grade BIONIC rubber, which is free from harmful substances such as lead, BPA and phthalates, making them ideal for dogs with allergies.

Pet owners want toys that are suitable for different activities to make it worth their

BIONIC, the durable dog toys that last!

value. BIONIC toys not only float in water but they also bounce! It makes them the perfect dog toys for Spring and Summer when long walks and swimming pools are top of the fun agenda.

The core range

BIONIC consists of 5 different shaped products, with 3 available in multiple sizes to suit different dog breeds:

● BIONIC Urban Stick is an interactive dog toy that enables pet owners to add treats to either side of the toy for extra enjoyment.

● BIONIC Ball is fantastic for those fetch games in the park as they are built to last.

● BIONIC Bone satisfies the chewers as the bone stimulates a dog’s senses with thick ridges and large chew areas, as well as having the added bonus of treat pockets like the Urban Stick.

● BIONIC Toss-N-Tug is the most popular toy within the range, and we can certainly see why! It’s the ultimate item for a game of fetch or for pool time in the summer.

● BIONIC Stuffer helps dogs with separation anxiety issues as the toy keeps on surprising your pet with hidden treats while they are on their own.

Retail Support

BIONIC will be fully supported by a full suite of in-store display materials, social media activity, as well as digital and print advertising.

The range only launched last month but demand has already been high so make sure your store doesn’t miss out!

Scan the QR code to watch a recent testing video and have your mind blown!

Kennelpak at 50!

Trusted pet specialists, Kennelpak are celebrating a milestone birthday this year. The familyfounded business that supplies and distributes award-winning pet products to wholesalers and retailers has turned 50 years old!

Their unique journey has seen them become a leading business in the pet trade owning, and distributing leading brands including Collards, Duchess, Dylan, Breederpack and YAKERS.

Throughout half a century, Kennelpak’s success has always been built on a passion for pets, people, and the planet.

Here, Kennelpak CEO Claire Bayliss reflects on the milestone birthday, talking about their heritage and what’s to come for the brand.

QHappy 50th to Kennelpak!

Where did it all start for Kennelpak?

It really all began with dog food. Back in 1974, before Kennelpak became what we know today, Fred Collard founded FC Collards Ltd.

Before this, Fred Collard worked with Pedigree Pet Foods, so Kennelpak has always been synonymous with pet nutrition and sector expertise.

FC Collards was rebranded to Kennelpak in 1981, but the Collard name is still a huge part of the business, with one of our most popular own brands being Collards.

Kennelpak is a true pet specialist with

50 years of pet food expertise and a proposition that delivers a full range of personalised services to discerning pet parents.

QWhat do you think has been the secret to Kennelpak’s longevity and success over half a century?

We know pets and the importance of pet nutrition. We understand the needs of both pet parents and the retailers who are selling our products to them. We provide a highly personalised service to all of our customers alongside great value for money. It is a legacy we are very proud of.

Over the last 50 years, we have developed a portfolio of market leading own brands such as YAKERS, Breederpack, and Collards as well as a number of award winning, global brands including WHIMZEES, Wellness CORE and Taste of the Wild. We continue to innovate, and this year will be introducing some new brands to our portfolio. We will continue to offer the best quality for all pets and their parents, regardless of budget.

Kennelpak’s heritage has been pivotal in the successful evolution of our multichannel retail business, Pets and Friends. We have built a community-based pet care ecosystem that is much loved by our loyal and growing base of pet parents.

Through Pets and Friends, pet parents have access to a range of carefully curated products and services to satisfy all pet needs including weight management, personalised nutritional advice, harness fitting, dog training, puppy socialisation and even cat grooming. We ensure both affordability and accessibility through our Repeat and Save subscriptions platform and Click and Collect service.

QWhat are the most exciting products and projects that are leading the way for you right now?

There’s lots of exciting things happening right now, but I think the development of our YAKERS range is a good one to call out. YAKERS is a 100% natural occupier dog treat made from Himalayan yak milk.

Kennelpak was the first UK supplier of

yak chews, launching YAKERS back in 2017. We were first to market and have continued to lead the way, creating a unique brand offering in a growing category. The recent product launches, such as the superfood cranberry and blueberry flavours, have showcased what can be done with such a versatile treat, adding even more benefits to what is already a premium quality product, such as being extra long-lasting and 100% natural.

We’ve recently launched a two-year charity partnership with Hearing Dogs for Deaf People through YAKERS, and we look forward to making a difference together.

QSustainability is important to Kennelpak. Tell us about what you’re doing to help make the future better for the next generations.

It is. We are working towards our goal which is to become net zero by 2030.

It all starts with our ability to repurpose food products destined for landfill in our Nottinghamshire facility where we also recycle over 98% of all discarded packaging. By 2025, all our own brand products will have a minimum of 80% recyclable or sustainable packaging.

Kennelpak CEO Claire Bayliss reflects on a landmark birthday for the award-winning pet specialists.

TRIPLE

SOFT:

CALCIUM:

Talking Trade with…

…Will

Durrant,

Managing Director of Happy Pet.

Will

Tell us about what Happy Pet does. Happy Pets has been going for over 20 years in the trade. We are designers and manufacturers of over 1,500 products in five major categories, dog, cat, small animal, bird, and reptile. We operate in 55 countries worldwide with our core brands of Happy Pet, Healthy Paws and Komodo.

One thing people may not know is that we have the backing of Multipet International — Multipet is one of the leading accessory manufacturer designers in the United States that works with Walmart, PetSmart, and many other big retailers.

The exciting part is that we have the opportunity to bring lots of innovation from the US to the UK market in a short period of time.

Happy Pet works with up to three and a

half thousand independent pet stores, which is key to our business and has been an important part of our business for the last 10 to 12 years.

You’ve recently become the Managing Director of Happy Pet. What are your immediate priorities for the business?

The business is where it is today with a great foundation and a fantastic customer base, but we’ve been idle for too long if I’m being honest.

The biggest priority for me was to change the sales team structure, making sure that we have the right people to give great customer service and add real value. Whether it’s product availability, answering the phone or emails, or getting the order right, we want to be excellent at the real basics. We’ve had five new team members join us over the last 3 months and we’ve now got over 125 years’ experience within the pet trade just in our sales force — that’s huge and we can now focus on growing.

I think the other priority is for me to look at product range. We have got a fantastic product range and we’ve got to evaluate what is right for 2024 and 2025 and what is the next round of innovation. One area that I am passionate about is getting back to adding more of a design element to our products.

I think it’s that there are a lot of pieces to still put together, but it’s an exciting journey ahead and one I am looking forward to getting stuck into.

Why do you think that people maybe aren’t aware of Happy Pet? And what would your message be to independent pet shop owners who haven’t worked with you before?

If you haven’t heard of us, I think a lot of it would be down to we haven’t been in the public domain. We’ve not been at tradeshows and when you combine that with the lack of PR, people lose sight of you. We have put a big focus on our independent customers over recent months

and of course, this will continue in the coming months, our online trade portal has seen some amazing upgrades which makes it an all-around better proposition for our customers to use. The team has done an amazing job in creating a seamless shopping experience and comes with a lot of added benefits with low MOV, promotions, and more.

I am also keen to reengage with our independent customer base that may have lapsed over recent years so whether it’s communication with one of our 4 sales reps, our internal sales team or even through the trade portal we have many ways in which we can work with your business.

My advice would be to check out our trade portal at https://trade.happypet.co.uk/ login or contact our sales office on 0116 260 2100 who would be more than happy to help.

Tell us about some of the most exciting new products you’ve got coming out this year. We’ve got the launch of Lamb Chop™, which we’ll be bringing to the UK market from May. It is the number one seller in PetSmart, Walmart, and other retailers in the US, and we’ve decided to bring that in based on the data and its performance, but it is also an incredibly cute toy and I think different to what’s currently out in the UK.

We have also a steady stream of NPD (New Product Development) every month from May through the summer as we head to PATs later this year. I am looking to update all categories with a level of newness and refresh.

We’ve got more licensed products coming in — and I don’t want to give too much away, but they are all very well-known characters and brands – watch this space. We’ve also then got a whole array of Happy Pet and Healthy Paws product launches that we’re doing. Natural treats are still becoming a key part of that, and we do a fantastic range of upwards of 140 natural treats already in both bulk and pre-packed.

What is the Healthy Paws brand?

Healthy Paws was originally founded 10 years ago with one aim in mind – to provide a more natural, hypoallergenic, balanced diet for dogs. Starting with a selection of novel proteins – Game and Rabbit, we have developed the range to offer a full life stage range and Healthy Paws now has six flavours and also comes in pâtés chubs and a fantastic range of oils. One of the main objectives was that it wouldn’t go into national customers. It is very much based for independents, with the right margins and the right price points.

I think the message to the independents is we can give it a go. Dare I say it, if an

independent came to me and said: “I want to try Healthy Paws.” Let’s try three months and do a sale or return. We don’t have to go overboard with stock. We could run an effective trial of the products in stores and see how they go for you. Without being too flippant, nothing’s really off the table. We’re very open to trying things. We’re going to help you find the right proposition for your retail space.

You encourage customers to visit you to see your product showcase which has all your products set out in a retail environment, either by booking a visit or at your Happy Pet Expo event. Can you tell us about it?

Relationships are very important — particularly in the pet trade — and I think we need to make sure that we put a face to the business.

We’re not just here, fulfilling orders. We want to engage with our customer base because we want to add value to their business. We want to also have a bit of fun with it!

We put on our expo event for two weeks through September and it’s a bit of like an open house event. We’ve got our two-story showroom, and we normally end up going way over the top with marquees up and down the car park with a coffee house or even a farm depending on the theme. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see all the new products and also get your hands on some incredible promotions, for me it’s key to have the right flow to the event and try to replicate the retail space as much as possible and make the product king.

Then, this year’s really exciting because it’ll be the first time we’ll be at PATS for 10 years. This is a good opportunity to see customers we don’t always see but also meet new ones. I am looking forward to being back this year in a big way. This is just the start…

AQUATICS RETAILERS

As the UK’s third most popular pet, fish can help you and your team cast your customer net wide.

Indeed, latest figures reveal there are an incredible five million indoor fish tanks in the UK, and a further four million outdoor fishponds.

Every year an astonishing £400 million is spent by pet fish owners, and an estimated 8.5 million consumers visit aquatic retailers within the UK. And with bricks and mortar shops considered by industry

bodies and experts to be by far the best place for people to buy, there are plenty more fish-related opportunities for your business to succeed.

In saying this, successful aquatic retail requires careful consideration, a commitment to providing an optimal environment and a willingness to be proactive about customer education.

These six steps will make sure your underwater offering gets an A+ rating, from fish and prospective owners alike:

The secrets to fi sh-friendly retail

1Reel in customers with your range

Offering an extensive range of species can set you apart from competitors and make your premises a more popular destination for fish fans. Broadly speaking, this could include a mix of freshwater fish and marine fish, but there are also invertebrates and aquatic plants to consider.

Of course, you need to strike the right balance between the space you have available, the compatibility of different species, and the ease of care for both

customers and your team. Consider the mix of clientele you might attract — from beginners seeking relatively low maintenance companions to seasoned enthusiasts looking for unique or exotic additions to their tanks. Be strategic with your choices when it comes to characteristics, colours, and behaviours. Your business will benefit!

Whether you’re a small business or larger store, looking to attract tank types, pond owners, or invertebrate enthusiasts, CASCO Pet’s aquatic range sets industry standards. Its wide range of high quality and easy-touse products enhance experiences for every fish owner, something that is guaranteed to inspire sales for you.

2Don’t be koi!

Use dynamic displays

The aquatic environment you create will play a pivotal role in ensuring the wellbeing of your fish, as well as attracting customers. Your goal is to replicate the natural environment and minimise monotony, providing social and physical stimulation for the fish which will positively impact their temperament, behaviour, and cognition. A habitat that lacks complexity can restrict a fish’s capacity to exhibit natural behaviours.

While plastic plant displays and various ornaments can be beneficial and costeffective initially, in terms of ongoing maintenance, they come at a price. They tend to harbour algae and bacteria and may require frequent cleaning, taking up some of your team’s valuable time which could be better spent educating and engaging with customers.

Instead, CASCO Pet’s eye-catching integrated background graphics are a costeffective and low maintenance solution

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that provide a source of stimulation and an added sense of security. They create a more vibrant space, and therefore more vibrant fish.

In-house tests explored the impact of the graphics and CASCO Pet found that fish showed a strong preference for a backdrop that mimicked their natural environment.

Such striking backdrops reduce the need for excessive and repeat plant stocking and eliminate the stress of constant upkeep without compromising visual appeal.

Ultimately, offering a stress-free enriching environment will make for happier and healthier fish, which in turn will make for satisfied repeat customers.

3Quiet comforts

Both underwater and external environment noise can negatively affect the behaviour and physiological processes of fish. Although the addition of soft close doors on fish tanks may be a subtle innovation, it’s not one to be underestimated.

Soft close doors reduce stress by creating a tranquil environment, preventing fish from being disturbed at every sale.

They also enhance the retail experience for your customer, who won’t be subject to abrupt noises which can disrupt their selection and experience.

A small change, for a big impact.

4Hook, light and sinker

Good lighting is essential for the health of fish and plant life. It can enhance the wellbeing of an aquatic inhabitant and improve the system they’re in, and helps fish maintain their circadian rhythm.

CASCO Pet offers Pro and Entry level lighting, with both ranges fully programmable, meaning you and your team

can optimise tank lighting to reflect the needs of your fish.

This could mean mimicking daily or seasonal changes, simulating sunshine or cloud, or day and night.

Such systems can also benefit your team at quiet times as dimmable lights reduce the need for glass cleaning while making for a tranquil, ambient space.

And of course, having the perfect lighting gives the best opportunity to display your variety of fish, their colours, and enclosure details — all important for customer experience.

5Water quality

The quality and cleanliness of your tanks is directly correlated to the health and wellbeing of your fish. And it isn’t easy to get right. Or at least it wasn’t!

CASCOPurge is a revolutionary filtration system that frees your team members from constant maintenance by filtering out all impurities and detritus on a programmable timer.

This includes trapping dirt particles and breaking down ammonia and nitrite, removing organic waste before it enters the nitrogen cycle, lowering nitrate levels, buffering pH and assisting with automatic partial water changes. This vastly reduces the time and effort your team spends on system upkeep, allowing them to focus on customers.

Significantly, CASCOPurge has been found to improve fish health and reduce instances of fish mortality by up to 80 per cent.

For marine and freshwater aquarium racks, and cascading plant and betta fish displays, CASCO Pet also offers a sump filtration system to enhance water quality. Providing mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration, the system is fully flexible and customisable according to your needs.

With compartments for several types of media, it comes equipped with filter sponges, protein skimmer, heaters and return pump for a clutter-free appearance,

while easy accessibility allows for effortless maintenance and monitoring of all essential equipment within — saving valuable time.

If you’re selling temperature sensitive species, CASCO Pet’s compartmental or perlevel filtration systems are a good option. Designed to hold multiple species, each aquarium is supplied with its own internal filter and equipment.

Such compartmental configuration also allows for quarantining or isolating of fish in the event of illness, helping to reduce the risk of cross contamination or stress, improving welfare, enhancing customer satisfaction and reducing potential losses.

6Educate and engage

As a fish retailer, you have an incredibly important role when it comes to education, explaining the complexities of caring for fish to customers as well as improving their understanding of good husbandry techniques.

By empowering your team members to become aquatic experts, they will engage with customers and guide them through

the intricate world of fish care. Sharing knowledge allows them to build a rapport that goes much beyond a simple transaction. This will vastly improve customer engagement and satisfaction, as well as outcomes for your fish.

Happy customers are loyal, so you benefit from repeat custom as well as word of mouth recommendations — very often the most successful marketing a business can have.

CASCO Pet offers a full range of aquarium products for pet retail, aquatic specialists, wholesalers, educational facilities, animal rehabilitation and rescue shelters. With decades of expertise in the industry, its range spans a wide variety of species from freshwater fish and marine to coldwater pond and invertebrate displays. Visit www.cascopet.com

About Matthew:

Matthew Bubear is the founder and CEO of CASCO Pet which provides attractive, high-quality environments to keep, care for, or sell livestock while enhancing animal well-being.

Talking trade with…

…Matthew Bubear founder and CEO of CASCO Pet

QWhat was your inspiration to start the business?

It started when I was young – I have always been passionate about animals, and was particularly fascinated by aquarium fish. Back in 1997, we started looking at fixtures on the aquatic side, becoming a specialist in commercial aquarium solutions.

After aquariums, a number of clients also needed habitats for birds, small animals and reptiles – at the time, there was a significant lack of high-quality habitats and enclosures on the market. Our vision was – and still is – to provide the pet retail industry with products that really look after the animals, while also engaging consumers in a captivating experience.

More recently, we’ve expanded into the veterinary sector – developing a range of innovative enclosures for clinics called WELLKennels. The catalyst for this was when my own French Bulldog, Delilah, had to stay overnight at a vet’s for monitoring in a cold, noisy stainless steel cage. I knew there had to be a better solution – and just like our pet range, it prioritises the wellbeing of animals.

QWhat types of pets and establishments does CASCO provide enclosures for today?

Our full range of products is suitable for

more than just pet retail – we also provide enclosures for educational facilities, animal rehabilitation, rescue shelters, animal specialists and wholesalers.

With aquatics, we have enclosures for freshwater, marine and cold water fish, aquatic plants and invertebrates – plus, we provide large scale aquarium systems for wholesale facilities that can occupy spaces as large as a football pitch. We provide racks, islands and parks for small animals, inclusive of mice, guinea pigs and rabbits. Our reptile racks and enclosures are suitable for rainforest, humid and arboreal reptiles and amphibians.

On the veterinary side of the business, our WELLKennels range is suitable for dogs, cats, reptiles and other exotic patients.

QHow big of an impact is the right environment on animal well-being?

When we look at the guiding principles of animal welfare, two of the five relate specifically to environment: Provision of an appropriate environment with shelter and a comfortable resting area, and provision of su cient space for enrichment and proper facilities. From that alone, we can see just how important a role the environment plays.

And as the research says, the right

environment is one where animals are allowed to exhibit their natural behaviours to the fullest extent.

When animals are kept in an unsuitable environment and are deprived of adequate mental stimulation or overloaded by stressful stimuli, they su er from stress and anxiety, they can be more susceptible to disease and they may exhibit harmful behaviours.

At the end of the day, animal well-being is a human responsibility. At CASCO Pet, our desire is to improve animal well-being through innovative, enriching environments – this is core to our vision.

QHow can CASCO enclosures help retailers showcase their animals?

We collaborate with retailers to create unique concepts and store designs that are built and installed to the highest standards – our enclosures boast a contemporary design, are crafted from high quality materials, and make for easy viewing. Additionally, our supplied store fixtures and features deliver real cost savings with e cient and reduced maintenance, all to the benefit of sta .

Secondly, we know how to put on a show. We pride ourselves on our innovative products, which enable retailers to deliver

sophisticated, inspiring retail spaces. Our enclosures use realistic background graphics reminiscent of the animal’s natural environment, which create a beautiful display. Strategic habitat lighting helps to create a real element of theatre; enriching an enclosure with substrate, perches, greenery and the like not only looks good, but also prioritises an animal’s well-being.

I think that’s the most important thing –that our enclosures put so much focus on taking care of the animal. When animals can explore and play, when they feel safe and they aren’t stressed – that’s really the best retailers can offer, and it’s what customers want (and deserve) to see.

QHow much do you think the drive for better animal well-being is being driven by consumers? And where do you think the next step is for animal welfare?

Without a doubt, consumers have contributed to the drive for better animal well-being. A huge part of that is the trend of humanising our pets – one in two people say their animal companions are just as important as a child or partner. As people’s perception of the role a pet plays in their life changes, in turn, they become more conscious of their pets’ well-being – they just want the best for them.

We’ve seen this in the move towards healthier, more natural foods, the push for sustainable and eco-friendly pet products, and the rise of pet supplements. Pet insurance is another element where people are spending more, having it for peace of mind and so their animals can get the care they need – and the care owners think their pets deserve.

Looking forward, it’s advanced technology and smart pet products that will play a major role. New wearable products are already being introduced, and once battery performance is improved, I believe these will start to have a greater impact, with sensors and data analytics monitoring to improve pet health and behaviour.

This is a huge opportunity for retailers to take advantage of, because there’s a genuine market for these products – people are willing to pay more for their pets, even as they economise in their own lives.

QWith consumers growing more environmentally conscious and sustainability becoming more important within the industry, how does this impact CASCO and the work you do?

As a business that believes in the well-being and wellness of pets and animals in their

natural habitat, why wouldn’t we have a philosophy – as we believe everyone should – to do their best for the environment.

Sustainability is important to us and is part of our long term strategy. We’re looking at all areas of our business and ways we can improve in our manufacturing; we’re aware this has the biggest impact.

We’ve installed solar panels at our Centre of Excellence in Portugal, which will provide over 90% of our energy requirements. Additionally, we have a fleet of electric vehicles for team transportation to and from work – taking individual cars off the road, another way of reducing emissions.

We select the raw materials for our manufacturing from recognised sustainable sources, and work hard to ensure they are recyclable materials, too.

QHow does CASCO work with independent pet retailers?

When it comes to bigger brands, they often have their own design teams and architects that help with store layout and design – and we work closely with those third parties.

With independents, they don’t have the luxury of internal teams, so, we step in, as part of our design service. We work with them to look at their floor space and their store objectives, and help them maximise every inch of their floor space. This helps to create really compelling, engaging displays that drive footfall and conversion and, most importantly, are safe and enriching for pets. We create 2-D designs and 3-D renders, so retailers can see what it looks like before they fully commit.

Independents benefit from our expertise and knowledge, and get access to affordable, high-quality equipment that’s extremely durable. We’ll also install it for them – a whole package experience. We believe there is an absolute role for independent pet retailers, and want to provide support for them as well.

At Pet Product Marketing, we like to give you a lot! New product releases, latest news, retail tips, pet advice you can share…and now brilliant stock to sell in your shop!

We’re working with our pet brand partners to give you the chance to win some of their best products which you can sell in your store. You may be familiar with our Win Stock competition that we run during the PATS trade show — that will still be happening! But we’re going to be bringing you more opportunities to win top quality products to sell in our print issues over the year.

We start with a fantastic giveaway from Interpet — turn over the page to find out more about their brands and what they’re giving away.

Pet Product Marketing

Stock giveaway!

What you can win

Interpet are giving away a bundle of prizes worth £500 to one lucky pet shop! The prize contains products from three of their leading brands: Nylabone, Comfort Zone, and Mikki. The package includes top quality grooming tools designed specifically for Poodle

crossbreeds from Mikki, a range of exciting dog chews from Nylabone, and pheromone calming kits and collars from Comfort Zone. All of which you can sell in store! Here, we find out more about why the brands will be a hit with your customers…

£500 worth of stock!

Leading brands from

Founded in 1952, Interpet Central stands as a pioneering force in the industry, dedicated to the well-being of pets both furry and aquatic. The company’s

Nylabone

Since 1955, Nylabone has been at the forefront of crafting durable and engaging dog chew toys, catering to the diverse needs of canines of all breeds and sizes. With a rich legacy, the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation has made them a trusted name in the pet industry. From extreme chews that withstand the most vigorous chewing strengths to tailored designs for dogs of various sizes, their long-lasting products reflect a passion for

Comfort Zone

A trailblazer brand that originated in the USA, Comfort Zone understands the importance of providing a stress-free

Mikki

The esteemed pet brand has dedicated itself to enhancing the well-being of man’s best friend through a rich history of producing top-notch grooming, care, and training products for dogs. With a commitment to quality and a deep understanding of the unique needs of our furry companions, Mikki has become a trusted name in the industry, ensuring that every wagging tail receives the love, attention, and specialised care it deserves.

Recognising the ever-growing trend in Doodle (Poodle crossbreeds) ownership,

How to enter

commitment to innovation and expertise has propelled them to the forefront of the market with a portfolio that proudly boasts numerous high-quality brands, a

enhancing the well-being and enrichment of our four-legged friends.

New Nylabone products for 2024 include two sensory puppy chews, a fun Rolley chew that spins and rolls when played with, an extreme Gaitor Tail that offers the texture of real bone, and a Sneaky Snacker treat toy with a flexible middle section that opens so that your dog’s favourite treats and spreads can be added.

Nylabone continues to be the go-to choice for discerning pet owners seeking

environment for our feline friends. Their range of drug-free, natural pheromone calming products provide science-backed solutions that ensure that beloved cat companions experience tranquillity without the need for pharmaceutical interventions.

Designed to help alleviate stress-induced behavioural problems such as urine marking and excessive scratching, the Comfort Zone Plug-In Pheromone Diffuser omits a drug-free vapour that mimics a cat’s natural facial pheromone. Recommended by vets, pheromones aid in creating a

Mikki has embraced the opportunity to cater to their unique needs. With a keen understanding of the fur type resulting from poodle crossbreeds, they have introduced the Doodles range which includes a three-step grooming programme and a fully legged coat that has a special polyester silk lining to prevent friction and matting.

Setting the standard for excellence in dog care, Mikki draws on decades of experience and a passion for fostering the enduring bond between pets and their devoted owners.

testament to their unwavering dedication to providing pets and their owners with the finest products. Amongst these brands are: d om l

reliable and entertaining chew toys for their furry companions.

relaxed home environment which in turn helps to promote positive cat behaviours. The Diffuser range comprises a: Starter Kit which includes a diffuser and refill, a single refill, and a four-refill value pack. Each refill lasts for thirty days, whilst the diffuser remains effective for 12 months.

And, for cats who enjoy a more adventurous life there’s a drug-free Pheromone Collar. Available in single or double packs, it is fully adjustable to fit all sizes of cats and features a ‘break-away’ fastening making it safe to be worn while in the house or outside.

Visit www.petproductmarketing.co.uk/ppm-stock-giveaway to enter the draw. Deadline for entries is 23rd May, 2024. For full competition terms and conditions, visit www.warnersgroup.co.uk/competition-terms

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Employees and workforces across the UK are feeling the strain of the cost-of-living, with the Office for National Statistics (ONS) finding that nearly half of households throughout the country have experienced their living costs increasing compared to the previous month. Not only can this have a huge impact on expenses for commuting but can have a significant knock-on effect on mental health and morale.

This is where employers and businesses can support their workforces during these difficult times to help keep morale and well-being boosted, as well as providing options that can help relieve some of the financial pressure that they’re under.

How to Support Your Employees Through the Cost-of-Living Crisis

How it impacts your workforce and beyond

Before providing solutions to the issue, it’s important to understand the reality of this crisis and how the ripple effects impact millions of workers in the UK. The rise of consumer goods and services by 9.6% in October 2022 and the inflation rate staying at 4.2% exiting December 2023 means that workers are forced to reevaluate how they manage their money and the resources available.

Financial insecurity has a huge impact on mental health, leading to increased levels of stress, anxiety, burnout, and depression. In fact, a survey from the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP) found that 61% of therapists had reported clients experiencing anxiety over being able to pay household bills, 52% losing sleep due to their financial anxieties, and 49% cutting meaningful activities out of their schedules due to cost worries, including gym memberships.

Adding the costs associated with commuting, which can range from paying for petrol (which has also seen increased fluctuations in price) to train and bus tickets, can mean another level of concern for workforces.

Finding practical solutions

While businesses can’t provide every solution for their employees, there are ways and steps that can be taken to ensure that they’re supported where they’re able to. Commuting costs is one area that

can be focused on, such as by promoting alternative transportation options.

This can be through organising carsharing for drivers in your workforce to pick up non-drivers and save on petrol or offering a cycle-to-work scheme to provide workers with bikes and encourage the embracing of more sustainable transport.

Ben Mercer from road bikes business, Leisure Lakes Bikes has outlined the importance of considering a cycle-to-work scheme for workers: “Not only does it help with sustainable transport outlooks for commuters, but it also encourages a healthier approach to journeys to and from work. Cycling promotes a boost in both physical and mental health. The endorphins experienced through cycling can help improve mental health and allow employees to enjoy their commute more.”

Another option for businesses to offer is flexible scheduling or remote working which can help workers avoid peak times for commuting and reducing associated expenses. This can also contribute to greater support for employees to strike an improved work-life balance, while also saving considerably on costs related to work travel.

The financial options

Commuting costs are not the only financial area that businesses can assist their workers with, as reviewing financials with some adjustments could help keep worker wages in line with inflation. Regular pay reviews with the chance of increases and bonuses can also improve retention of

the talented employees within businesses, as it shows a level of commitment to supporting them in difficult economic periods.

However, the cost-of-living crisis is also affecting businesses, meaning that financial options may not be as available as they would be usually. Instead, giving workforces the knowledge and resources to make more informed financial decisions around their spending, saving, and investing can equip them with skills that result in greater financial freedom. This could be done through the distribution of financial literacy resources or hosting seminars and workshops hosted by experts or financial controllers to offer more insight into the best way to keep your finances balanced.

Finding a way to support employees through the challenges presented by the cost-of-living crisis is crucial to helping improve their financial well-being, mental health, and the morale of the workforce. Implementing initiatives that aim to be more cost-effective and providing knowledge can help build solid foundations to get them more engaged and considering their own finances. This also helps to demonstrate their commitment to your employees and their well-being, developing a more compassionate environment to work in.

Piece written by Ben Mercer, cycling enthusiast and director at bike business, Leisure Lakes Bikes.

Independent pet shops pop up in all different locations and circumstances. In On the shop floor this month, we speak to a very unique retailer. Springing up from the seeds of other pet businesses, Helena Bramma developed Poochie Pantry, a thriving pet retail business.

While focusing on online sales, offering click and collect and delivery to a vast number of areas, Helena also

On the shop floor

How did you come to decide to open a pet shop?

We opened a dog park in April 2018 and at the same time, we started selling raw dog food. We only sold Paleo Ridge as it was something to have alongside our dog park. I used to run the Barking Mad franchise of York and this was something trying to offer everything for a dog owner really.

When Covid hit, we actually lost the Barking Mad franchise as dog owners weren’t going on holidays and we had a holiday let on site that we had to close down too. Luckily, we got a business grant and we invested everything in Poochie Pantry.

We had one freezer of Paleo Ridge and we got contacted by Benyfit and Dougie’s and they both asked if we would stock it. We went from having three brands to now selling 17 brands of raw dog food, plus when you take into account all the other pet products we sell, we have about 70 different brands in store.

Tell us about your store and the people behind it.

There is myself and my partner Anthony behind the business. I do all the customer facing side of the business and Anthony purely does the paperwork and helps with stock management.

From the word go, we offered free local deliveries. We offered click and collect so anyone using the dog park could place their food order and collect it at the same time. With the local deliveries, we did one or two postcodes and there was no minimum order so people could order as little as they want. We would literally just do that in our car. Then, during Covid, more and more people wanted their food delivering, so we expanded. We do about 10 different postcodes now; still free delivery and no minimum order. We now deliver three days a week and we do set routes each of the days.

Just over two years ago, we decided to

start shipping UK wide. To start with, we were just sending one or two a week. Slowly, but surely, the word got out and we now ship to the Scottish Highlands and Northern Ireland, which I don’t think many people do.

We don’t advertise ourselves as a bricks and mortar store, even though we do have a physical shop. As there is only two of us in the business, we can’t stand and literally wait for customers. If people want to come down and chat, it is generally because they want advice. So, we do it more as a boutique shopping experience. They get my undivided attention and we can go through what their dog needs. It is very different from a high street shop.

How do you go about choosing the right products to sell?

When we select products, they have to fit in with who we are. We do get approached by many companies who I am just not interested in selling their brands. We will only work with manufacturers that have a DEFRA licence.

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has a bricks and mortar store, but this is reserved more for a boutique shopping experience for owners who want advice, as well as a place to fulfil those online orders.

She is also hugely passionate about helping pet owners. Helena is an advocate for raw feeding, and has worked hard to gain qualifications so she can really benefit her customers. Here, she shares her experience…

I am not particularly interested in buying from wholesalers. There are a couple of items I will get from wholesalers but predominantly I like to build a relationship with whom we get our supplies from.

You’re an advocate of raw feeding for dogs. How well does raw dog food go down with your customers?

I’ve been a fresh feeder for 10 years. I started with a German Shepherd I had at the time. It was actually Sharon from Paleo Ridge who helped me transition my dog to a raw diet. I advocate for fresh feeding for everybody.

We do sell a couple of brands of kibble — I do understand that we have to be able to offer that. If somebody comes in looking for kibble, I always ask them if they ever add fresh to the bowl. Raw feeding is not for everybody and I understand that. I have people who are kibble feeders but they will add raw meaty bones to the dog’s diet, they will add frozen oily fish, and they’ll add fruit and vegetables.

For me, even getting dogs off the cheap,

nasty treats is a positive thing. I try to educate my clients to always read the ingredients.

Your website is excellent and allows customers to order online or have a range of options to receive their purchases. How important are online sales to the business?

Our website was an interesting one! Originally, my son, who was then working for an IT company, set it up for our dog park; we didn’t sell the raw dog food on the website. When we decided we were going to sell the dog food online, we went with a company and they were horrendous. The website just didn’t work.

Websites are really stressful if you’re not in that field of business. About three years ago, I found out that one of my dog park customers actually had his own website business and we have been with him ever since — he is brilliant.

We’re now on to our fourth version of the website, which launched over Christmas. We’ve got better search facilities and now have all the different options for click and collect. It will automatically detect by postcode if you’re in our free delivery area or if you are in Northern Ireland or the Scottish Highlands. So that has streamlined the business quite a lot. Our online sales are really important as we encourage people to place their orders before they come down because the shop is very busy with packing and delivering.

The guy I use for the website is brilliant. If we have a glitch, I can message him. Recently, the payments went down, which as you can imagine for an online business is not good. So, we decided to introduce a new payment system which is direct bank transfer. A lot of people pay with their debit card but we still pay fees on that. Now, customers have the option to pay direct into the business account, which cuts out the card fees which is fantastic for a small business.

You’ve gained an accredited diploma in canine nutrition and are currently studying zoopharmacognosy — tell us how you’re gaining qualifications to help your customers.

As the dog food business grew and people were coming to me with issues, although I knew about fresh feeding and was reading and listening to all the current research, I

still needed to think I had a qualification behind me. I am by no means a qualified canine nutritionist — I don’t charge for any information I give.

I decided to do the iPet Ofqual diploma that took two years. I did feel like I had to have something to back up what I was telling people. I wanted to know the science behind feeding our dogs. I think that makes our service more credible and I have had people come to me because I have the qualification.

I came across applied zoopharmacognosy while I was doing my iPet qualification. It fascinated me that animals have the innate ability to heal themselves in the wild. What the applied zoopharmacognosy does is bring it to domestic pets. So dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, horses, they can all

heal themselves if they are given the access to the correct nutrients. With Caroline Ingraham’s qualification, it was two modules and I am on her masterclass diploma course. We use the IMIM method, which is the Ingraham Method Innate Medication. So we do not diagnose anything and I have no preconceived ideas. I go in and dogs will direct us to which remedies they need. It’s fascinating!

What are the key ways you market your products?

A lot of our customers are word of mouth. We are proud of our Google reviews and our Facebook reviews. We do try to excel in customer service. If something does go wrong — we are human — it’s about how you put it right.

Unlocking the power of influencer marketing

For brands of all sizes, social media influencers can be one of the most effective ways of marketing, explains leading marketing agency NOBULL.

While all pet brands dream of national advertising campaigns and big sponsorship deals, the reality is, most are working to a tight budget. That’s where influencer marketing can really come into its own. They are the word-of-mouth marketeers of the digital age and while social media may be increasingly saturated with them, pet influencers are still going from strength to strength.

There’s a wide and varied animalloving audience out there just waiting to be tapped into, and with an influencer to suit every niche – from individual breeds and behaviours to specific feeding regimes, behaviour experts and fur fashionistas, every brand can build their own tribe of ambassadors.

Influencers can deliver commercially In terms of ROI, influencer marketing remains one of the top forms of digital marketing and, depending on the type of influencers you work with, it can be extremely cost-effective too. While the million+ accounts might be out of reach, there are plenty of micro (15-25K followers) and nano-influencers (1k-15k followers) who are more than happy to work on a gifted collab basis and still benefit from having strong engagement rates and a wide reach.

...but it’s quality content that matters While a short-term goal might be to drive sales, get it right, and influencer marketing be an effective way to inspire long-term loyalty. In the social media space, what breeds loyalty is delivering relatable,

engaging content that connects with an audience on an emotional level. It can’t all be about discounts and deals.

The key to influencer marketing success is quality, original content that gives people a reason to come back to your brand, beyond purchase. With more than 4 million pet influencers in the UK alone, content must also be dynamic and entertaining enough to break through the noise. Endless posed photos featuring shameless product placement are both unengaging and easily scrolled past – in short, lazy content just won’t cut it.

Allowing influencers the freedom to create their own content in their own style adds authenticity to your channels. Collaboration or not, any content that they post needs to blend seamlessly with the rest of their own account too — so trust them to do what they’re good at. After all, their unique, individual style was most likely the reason you wanted to work with them in the first place.

Choosing the right influencers

You need to be selective with who you enlist as brand advocates, and this is where a lot of

Margot is a canine influencer with 14.5K followers and an engagement rate of 3.11%

Her ‘human’ says: “Creating an Instagram account for Margot started out as a bit of fun but we now get approached by a lot of brands asking to collaborate with us. Providing we genuinely like the product we’re happy to… but we’re quite selective! Margot’s fan base is very loyal and they’re not keen on her advertising products endlessly — it feels a bit contrived and commercial. The partnerships we do make usually get a great response because our followers know Margot must genuinely love the brand she’s posting about.” @the_foxy_margot

“ With more than 4 million pet influencers in the UK alone, content must also be dynamic and entertaining...

”

brands still fall down. Look at existing posts to check what sort of people are following them and if their followers are genuinely engaged — comments and shares are a strong indicator, as opposed to likes which take much less time and investment.

There are a few handy (and free) timesaving tools out there to help you get an idea of how ‘engaged’ any potential influencer’s audience is. HypeAuditor is one you can use for Instagram accounts, for example. It will give you a percentage engagement rate for any account you enter, anything between 1%-3.5% being average/ good. Over that and you’re choosing well.

In addition, check to see which other brands, if any, they’ve worked with before. If a pet influencer has collaborated with every brand under the sun, another recommendation might not hold much sway. It’s also important to ensure you’re aligning yourself with accounts whose style and tone compliments yours.

Want to find out how we can help build your brand through influencer marketing? Drop us an email at hello@nobullagency. co.uk or visit www.nobullagency.co.uk

The pet industry has witnessed a notable surge in the popularity of small pets. With current UK pet numbers standing at 1.5 million rabbits and one million guinea pigs, small herbivores are now residing in more households than ever before. This increase is not merely in numbers, but also in quality of care, as owners appreciate the importance of speciesspecific care for their pet’s health and wellbeing. Consequently, small herbivores are enjoying longer, healthier lives.

But what about when these small pets are unwell? While veterinary care remains paramount, retailers play an important role in supporting pet owners during challenging times. Providing expert guidance during stressful situations not only helps in the pet’s recovery but also cultivates enduring relationships, fostering customer loyalty for years to come.

Ask the expert: supporting the care of sick herbivores

Prompt attention

So, how do we know a pet is unwell?

While some species may display obvious symptoms, small herbivores often conceal signs of illness as a survival tactic inherited from their prey ancestry. This innate behaviour, while advantageous in the wild, poses challenges for owners trying to detect changes in their pets’ health.

Signs of illness in small herbivores tend to be subtle and easily overlooked. However, prompt veterinary care significantly increases the chances of a positive outcome. Adopting a ‘wait and see’ approach on noticing subtle signs is not advisable.

Signs of illness

● Reduced appetite

● Reduced or absent poo pellets

● Lethargy

● Teeth grinding

● Change in behaviour, posture or gait

● Rapid or altered breathing

● Discharge from eyes, or nose

● Lumps or swellings

● Loss of balance or head tilt

Conspicuous signs

While a slightly reduced appetite, or a subtle change in behaviour might go unnoticed, changes in toileting habits are more conspicuous. Maybe the faecal (poo) pellets are smaller and there are fewer of them or maybe there are none at all, indicating a need for urgent veterinary care.

But what about variations in faecal consistency? In the case of rabbits, soft pellets are typically normal caecotrophs rather than diarrhoea. However, it is unusual for caecotrophs to be so visible as a healthy rabbit would eat them straight away. Regardless of the circumstances, any change in toileting habits among small herbivores, who are so dependent on gut function for health and wellbeing, warrants veterinary attention.

Nutritional support

In addition to veterinary care, providing adequate nutritional support is probably the second most important factor in recovery from illness. While dogs or cats may be able to go for a day or two without eating and suffer no repercussions, the same cannot be said for rabbits, guinea pigs, and other small

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What to advise for unwell small pets

● Seek veterinary help without delay

● Keep stress to a minimum

● Social species should remain with a

● bonded companion if possible

● Maintain food intake and encourage

● appetite

● Keep the pet warm

● Groom them and check for fly strike

● regularly

pets who can deteriorate rapidly with even a short period of inappetence. While there is no hard and fast rule, any herbivore that has not eaten for several hours should be seen by a vet as a matter of urgency.

When pets are unwell, offering highly palatable food is key. Supreme’s Science Selective extruded nugget diets are made with delicious natural ingredients for optimum palatability without the need for added sugar. The extrusion process also makes the nuggets easier to digest. Pets who are off their food, especially those suffering from dental problems, may be

further tempted to eat by softening the nuggets with a little water. These softened nuggets can then be offered from a dish or mashed to a paste for syringe feeding.

Nutritionally complete liquid diets

However, attempting to syringe feed a softened nugget diet poses considerable challenges and when syringe feeding is needed, a diet specifically formulated for the purpose is preferable. Supreme’s Science Selective Recovery Plus is rehydratable as a nutritionally complete liquid feed designed to support recovery from illness. Rich in natural forage and herbs to enhance palatability and stimulate appetite, Recovery Plus caters to the nutritional needs of rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, and degus and also features:

✓ High crude fibre content (25%) to support digestive health

✓ Enhanced protein (18.5%) to support recovery

✓ Added prebiotics and probiotics for digestive health

✓ Added vitamin C (1,200mg/kg) so no need to supplement for guinea pigs and degus

✓ No added sugars or artificial colourants

✓ Complementary feeding syringe with wide bore nozzle for ease of flow

Although baby food is sometimes suggested as a syringeable option, it is not a suitable alternative to species-appropriate recovery diets as it tends to be too high in sugar and has insufficient fibre.

While syringe feeding helps to maintain nutrient intake and gut motility, it is important to encourage small herbivores to transition to voluntary eating as soon as possible. Initially, rehydrated Recovery Plus can be offered in a bowl, alongside hay, grass, or dandelions which are often eaten in preference to other foods. Additionally, moulding ‘nuggets’ out of Recovery Plus, with around half the usual amount of water added, can help to tempt reluctant eaters.

Top tips for syringe feeding

● Feed a highly palatable diet

● The food must be able to pass

● through the syringe easily, with

● minimal force

● Feed small amounts at a time

● Allow pet to chew between

● mouthfuls

● Patience is key; allow 20 to 30

● minutes

● Use foods with plenty of long

● stem fibre, such as Science Selective

● Recovery Plus, to support gut

● motility

Vet survey key findings

Maintaining appropriate nutrition is crucial whatever the underlying cause of any health issue and also for helping to prevent problems arising in the first place. In a 2023 survey of UK vets, it was reported that 57 percent of rabbits are still being fed incorrectly. Inadequate hay was the biggest mistake made, followed by offering too much concentrate food.

Furthermore, dental disease was the condition seen most frequently in rabbits, followed by gastrointestinal disease and

obesity. These three health conditions highlighted in the survey are all impacted by feeding the incorrect diet.

In sickness and in health

For small pets, nutrition is key. Whether for maintaining health and wellbeing and preventing conditions like gastric stasis or dental disease, or for supporting recovery from illness, feeding a high-quality speciesspecific diet is essential.

While there is still some way to go when it comes to improving small pet nutrition, there is reason to be optimistic. The hard work put in by retailers has already had a positive impact. 79 percent of veterinary surgeons say that rabbit owners’ nutritional knowledge has improved over the last decade. Retailers have played a crucial role in this progress and through their guidance and support, they have empowered owners to make informed choices about their pet’s health and wellbeing.

Claire Hamblion Marketing Director at Supreme Pet Foods.

Interacting with your cat

If your cat is treating you so disdainfully, it might be your home isn’t enriched in the right way… or how you interact with them.

In my many years consulting with cat owners, I’ve always found this a sensitive subject to raise. Some owners can be very touchy (excuse the pun) when I mention that their cat might not exactly appreciate the “daily scooping him up in their arms and giving him a good squeeze” routine. But, whilst you might feel compelled to cuddle your furry baby as much as possible or focus on him often, he would likely prefer a more hands-off and less focused approach.

This is because cats don’t have a very sophisticated sense of social relationships. Their African Wildcat ancestor was a solitary predator. Although cats have indeed evolved to enjoy some physical contact from us, they nevertheless probably find our social interactions and the intentions behind them a bit perplexing.

As a very sociable species, we humans enjoy physical contact and use touch all the time, whether it’s a handshake, holding hands, a light touch on the arm, or cuddling up on the sofa together. So, when it comes to our cats, not only does touching their silky and fluffy fur feel nice, but it’s also good for our health because it can help reduce stress and improve our mood. In addition, physical contact is also our way of demonstrating our love for them. And we’d like them to show it in a similar fashion without realising that we’re inadvertently attributing to them what is a very human behaviour. My husband tends

Didyou know?

Cats don’t have a very sophisticated sense of relationships.

to drape our cat Billy around his neck like a big furry stole. His response when I look disapprovingly at him is always the same: “he loves it”!

So, how do you interact with your cat in an enjoyable way for you and your cat? Here are my tips:

● Get to know your cat’s preferences for interaction. Some cats prefer physical contact, such as petting and grooming,

“

Keep an eye on your cat’s body language

”while others prefer social interactions with their owners, such as play. And for those that don’t appear to want any interaction, ensure you have enough high perches and hiding places to allow your cat to avoid unwanted interactions, and will enable him to do his own thing.

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● Respect your cat’s personal space, and don’t force your cat to interact with you. Instead, let him come to you when he’s ready.

● If your cat is a new addition to the household, be patient. Cats can be slow to warm up to new people, so don’t get discouraged if your cat doesn’t initially seem interested in you. Just keep being patient and gentle; eventually, he’ll come around. You can also use positive reinforcement, such as treats and mild praise, to help your new cat learn that interacting with you is good.

Cats generally appreciate calm and quiet environments, so gently speak to your cat. This will help him feel relaxed and comfortable around you.

● Cats are sensitive to body language, so when you interact with your cat, make sure your body language is relaxed and inviting. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises; this can startle your cat and make him feel

CAT CARE

insecure. Always try and get down to his level.

● Avoid staring at your cat. For many species, including ours, the stare is a hostile behaviour. Instead, when looking at your cat, slowly blink your eyes. This shows that you are not a threat; if you’re fortunate, you might get a slow blink back!

● When it comes to touch, human interaction can be highly stressful for some cats, so you must understand your cat’s requirements for physical contact. Avoid touching him entirely if he’s in the “take it or leave it” or ‘run a mile’ camps. If he’s a cat that enjoys getting up close and personal, waiting until he initiates contact with you is still advisable before going in for the cuddle.

● As a general rule, I suggest you avoid picking your cat up. Even for cats that enjoy being touched, this type of contact might not be as high up on their preferred

“

He would likely prefer a more hands-off and less focused approach

interactions as, say, a pleasant tickle behind the ears. This is because cats like to maintain a sense of control, which includes being able to escape from any situation. When we pick cats up, we effectively contain them in our arms and restrict their movement.

● If your cat approaches you and appears to want contact, focus your stroking on his forehead, cheeks, chin and ears and keep it brief, seconds only. He will ask you for more if he wants it. And avoid the tummy no matter how tempting it is!

● Keep a close eye on your cat’s body language during interactions. This will help you to understand how he is feeling and what he is communicating to you. In particular, look out for signs that he’s no

Top tip!

Always be consistent in your interactions with your cat.

“Respect your cat’s personal space

”lh

longer happy with the interaction, for example:

● Thrashing/twitching his tail

● Tensing his body

● Grooming is a type of physical contact that is necessary for the cat world’s shaggy monsters. It can also be a great way to bond with your cat, so making it as enjoyable as possible is important. If you have a cat that needs frequent grooming, you must introduce him slowly to his comb or brush before attempting any actual grooming. I would experiment with different tools to find one he is happy with. Once grooming begins, make sure the sessions are concise and increase their length over time. If your cat shows signs that he is not happy, stop the session and try another day.

● Playing with your cat is a beautiful way of enjoying social interaction. There are many ways to play with your cat, so find something he enjoys. Some popular options include chasing toys, batting with varying types of balls, or playing hide-and-seek. Some cats even “fetch” items thrown for them and bring them back. One of my cats, Jimmy, used to do this with old socks… each to their own! If possible, avoid rough play, as this can make for a tense interaction that can turn into something less friendly. And if you have a kitten, I suggest not using your hands as toys. When he is big and strong with sharp teeth and claws, his inevitable bites might not be relatively so innocuous!

● Always be consistent in your interactions with your cat. This will help him learn what to expect from you and, as a result, help him feel more secure around you.

● For cats that are anxious, either generally or in specific contexts, you must allow them to initiate all physical interactions. For some cats, you might even need to go as far as to enable them to move around your house “unseen”; in other words, pretend they aren’t there. A past client told me that

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one of her cats seemed frightened of her. I told her to completely ignore him and continue her daily routine as if he wasn’t in the house. Two days of ignoring them later, she delightedly said to me that he had started sleeping on her bed. This happened much more quickly than I could have anticipated.

● Cats aren’t born knowing how to interact with humans; they need to learn how to adjust to being our pets. To accommodate this, it’s wise to remember that when it comes to any interaction, it’s good practice to put our cats in the driving seat, respect their needs and boundaries and understand that it should be about the benefit and pleasure for them and us.

Clare Hemington DipCAPBT is an accredited feline behaviourist. She has a cat behaviour referrals practice and runs her Honeysuckle Cat Toys business with the help of her Siamese, Billy.

You can find out more from her website: www.honey sucklecattoys.co.uk

Canine Senses

Toni Shelbourne looks into the canine world of senses.

Heightened hearing

Dogs hear sound from a much further distance but also at a higher frequency to us. They can pick up and identify individual noises like a particular car engine of a loved one. Also, the ability to swivel their ears means they can pinpoint a noise more accurately.

The negative impact of their ability and range of hearing means sounds that don’t bother us can be detrimental to their lives. Household appliances can emit squeals at a frequency that is certainly annoying, but potentially painful for dogs. I worked with a dog that attacked his carers when using the hob of their

Your dog may be alerted to a noise outside that disturbs him. If he can’t see what is making the noise, it can often be more worrying for him.

cooker and another that shook in the car if it went over a certain speed. Both times I found a sound at a frequency that would disturb the dogs.

Dogs can understand words, tone and intention conveyed vocally by humans. When working with dogs, your voice and what you do with it can have a profound impact on their reactions. It can calm an excitable dog, pep motivation if your dog is losing interest, encourage or reassure a shy dog, or interrupt an unwanted behaviour.

For excitable dogs, verbal praise can send them into the stratosphere, so a very calm quiet ‘Good dog’ or a verbal cue spoken in a low calm tone can help moderate their response. These dogs can fizz up with eye contact and body movement too, so a low calm voice almost whispered, with limited body movement and no eye contact works well.

Dogs lacking interest in training need a happy sing-song type resonance to your voice, accompanied by animation in your body movements.

Shy dogs might be over-whelmed with too much energy, but appreciate frequent kind soft vocal encouragement.

If your dog is slow to recall, especially always from wildlife or other dogs, try a high-pitched continual sound. I find nonsense words like ‘loolooloo’ work well. If you keep the enthusiasm up most dogs will be stimulated to return to you.

Doing something he shouldn’t which you need to interrupt? You can either use a positive interrupter like his name or a word he associates with a reward from you; say his name often and when he looks at you throw him a treat. Or a low growl-type sound. This shouldn’t be shouted, but imitates the canine version of ‘Stop doing that, you’ve stepped over the line!’

Some trainers use a non-reward marker to tell their dog that’s not the behaviour they want. This isn’t meant as a punishment it just lets their dog know, no reward is coming and helps extinguish that action. Phrases like ‘too bad’ or ‘uh-uh’ said in a quiet neutral voice can be enough to help a dog understand that isn’t what you wanted.

One thing’s for sure, you need never shout at your dog. Shouting often communicates anger, or is a prelude to violence and can upset a dog. Or, if a loud voice is used a lot, your dog may learn to ignore your quiet cues. If your voice frightens him, he might stay away as you may be perceived as being unsafe.

When interacting with your dog, think

about the sounds, pitch, and volume you use for maximum effect and clarity.

How dogs use their sight

Canine vision is vastly different from our human sight. Let’s start with colour perception. Very simply put, dogs have more rods than cones, which supports night vision. However, this has a detrimental effect on the range of colours they can see. Blue and yellow are the two primary colours dogs can detect. This is called dichromatic vision; we have a trichromatic vision, which includes the full-colour spectrum. Due to this limited range, they can struggle as many colours look similar. Put this in the context of finding a red or orange toy on green grass — without the movement you can see why he may strain to find the toy when it appears to be right under his nose!

The positive flip side of limited colour perception is that dogs can detect light six times dimmer than humans, giving them vastly superior night vision. This is assisted by a special reflective tissue at the back of the eye called the Tapetum Lucidum, which reflects light back into the retina; dogs effectively benefit from the same light twice. The downside to this feature is it reduces visual resolution in the day, so dogs’ sight has less acuity. They have a comprised ability to distinguish depth and the detail of objects; things can appear blurry at a distance. In short, the canine superpower of night vision has a direct negative influence on how well they see during the day.

Studies show that dogs, like us, can be short or long-sighted, the breed can also influence this, of course. They have binocular vision, seeing out in front of them and can detect movement

exceptionally well.

Why should we take note of the canine sight differences? It could affect how we interact, manage, and train our dogs. Firstly, think about how their compromised daytime vision may impact anxious and fearful dogs. Your dog could react if a perceived threat is moving towards him, but he cannot quite make it out. Think about dogs who seem to bark at a familiar person approaching, but suddenly flip from barking to a happy and excited body posture when the person speaks, and their scent reaches him.

Some dogs hesitate to transition from dark environments to bright areas. If he struggles at doors leading outside, give him a minute and some encouragement to exit; his eyes may be adjusting to the contrast between the two.

Consider the colour if he often loses a ball out on a walk. It might be worth swapping to a blue or yellow one.

Even treats placed in the grass or on the floor can be hard to detect visually. Notice how he tracks the food via his nose, catching the scent in the air and following the trail to the treat rather than going straight to it. Don’t get impatient; wait and allow him time to work it out; he’ll be engaging the seeking system in his brain, which is very satisfying for dogs.

Above all, be aware of the differences in your dog’s sight compared to yours. Support him in navigating the world through his vision, it’s not his best sense.

You may see the Tapetum Lucidum as a green sheen reflected in your dog’s eyes at night.

Dogs can see the image on the screen better, the higher the resolution. At a low resolution, it will appear as a flicker like an early film from the 1920s.

Some

How dogs use touch

There are touch receptors all over a dog’s body; these are more highly concentrated in the pads of the feet and face. Around the nose and eyes are particularly sensitive, which makes sense when you examine how dogs investigate their world.

The receptors are responsible for perceiving pressure, temperature, pain and help the proprioceptive system, which is responsible for assisting a dog to navigate through the environment. Dogs also have a fifth type of touch receptor called mechanoreceptors, which detect indentation and stretch of the skin.

The whiskers on the muzzle, side of the face and above the eyes are extremely important to a dog, and should not be cut, plucked, or pulled. They are as sensitive as our fingertips and play an important role in sensory perception. These specialised hairs help your dog to navigate narrow spaces, and detect the size, space, and speed of approaching obstacles. The whiskers can also assist in finding prey through the subtle changes of airflow, which feel like vibrations to your dog. I have known older dogs who have lost their sight and then struggle to navigate their home when a groomer has shaved their face. If possible, ask your groomer to leave these specialised hairs intact.

Of course, dogs have hair all over their bodies and this can be affected by hormones, diet, the environment and

any drugs he may be on. You will also notice that dogs can shed their coat when stressed, as well as their biannual coat change.

So why should we consider how we touch our dogs? Well, the tactile system, and how they use and prefer physical touch is very different to humans. As a member of the primate family, people seem to favour physical contact much more than dogs. And although dogs are tactile, they seek it for very specific reasons like mating, play and social grooming. They tend to like to lay near each other, but you won’t see them constantly nuzzling, for example.

Some dogs I have worked with become very agitated if constantly stroked, with a few even biting their person. This can be confusing as their dog may have laid close by, but it doesn’t mean he wanted to be stroked. Remember to give your dog a break from playing with his fur, especially if he is resting. Try stroking your dog for just a few seconds, then stop and see if he looks for more, or indicates he wishes to be left alone.

At other times, dogs may find contact calming. If your dog has become over excited or scared, try a continual long, slow stroke along his body. This will often settle a restless dog, although only do this if it is safe to touch him; some dogs might redirect and bite your hand if they are highly aroused, frightened or frustrated.

Think about how you stroke your dog, the pressure and speed of your hand, and the direction you ruffle the hair. Like us, all are individual, but how and when you are tactile can make a huge difference.

Recognise the contrasts between canine and human preferences, and although many dogs learn to enjoy a fuss, some would prefer fewer strokes, being content with just being nearby.

Don’t Touch Me!

What happens if your dog doesn’t enjoy being touched? There are many reasons a dog may be reluctant to physical contact either in a particular area of the body or in general.

Pain – many dogs have undiagnosed pain in their body. There is no test for pain in animals, and unlike humans, they can’t verbalise their hurt. A study in 2020 speculated that up to 82% of dogs showing behaviour problems were a result of discomfort. Chronic pain may not have a central area like an acute lameness, so don’t rule it out. Speak to a veterinary pain specialist if you suspect this is the reason your dog doesn’t enjoy touch.

Fear/anxiety – If your dog has come from a difficult background, like living on the streets or from a puppy farm as an ex-breeder, he may have experienced trauma around body contact. Either through rough handling or being trapped with a catch pole, for example.

Overhandling – Many of us overhandle our dogs without understanding enough about canine communication to know what doggy

dogs prefer not to be stroked, especially on the top of the head.

etiquette is and what is rude, in the dog’s view. Looming over a dog, coming at them from the front with harnesses, hugging and kissing, can all be challenging for some dogs. Try slowing your actions down when touching or changing your body position to be behind and to the side of him when you put equipment on. Just a few simple adjustments can make a world of difference.

Age – Certain life stages can play a big factor in touch sensitivity. Teenage dogs often go through a period of body sensitivity. If you have an older dog, it might be related to discomfort.

Ways to initiate touch

If you are concerned about how your dog reacts to handling the first port of call should always be your vet. Take as much evidence with you as possible – videos of him moving, notes on where he objects to being touched and if it happens at a particular time of day. Note down changes in how he moves, behaviour changes, capability, and posture.

Your vet may suggest a pain relief trial; if so, ask for at least 12 weeks. From a behavioural standpoint, this is important and recommended by canine neuroscientists.

You can also ask for a referral to a

PUZZLE ANSWERS

CROSSWORD

Across: 2 Cameron, 3 Five, 5 Van Gogh, 7 Central, 10 Rome, 12 Labyrinth

Down: 1 Wyoming, 4 Eagle, 6 France, 8 Volleyball, 9 Cricket, 11 Carbon

Many dogs are concerned if a harness is put on with their person positioned in front of them.

canine chiropractor or physiotherapist who may be able to pinpoint any areas of soreness and work with your vet to help your dog feel more comfortable.

If the aversion comes from a place of fear or anxiety, seek the help of a Tellington TTouch Practitioner who will be able to give you simple bodywork to assist in changing your dog’s opinion of touch. You can find a list of practitioners at www.ttouchtraining.co.uk

Training and husbandry training

There are many ways to re-establish contact with a touch-sensitive dog so he can start to enjoy things like being groomed again. It may take time and patient handling but it’s worth it so your dog can appreciate body contact again. Look up methods like Chirag Patel’s Bucket Game or find a cooperative care Facebook page for great ways to

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introduce husbandry like nail clipping. Above all take your time and think about how your dog feels about cuddles or handling.

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE

Toni Shelbourne has over three decades of experience working with dogs and wild canids. She is an animal behaviourist (full member of INTODogs & ICAN), a Tellington TTouch instructor, real dog yoga instructor, and author. She lives in Oxfordshire.

Close contact or restraint can worry many dogs.

PPM Puzzles!

Take 10 minutes out your day to have a fun, mental workout! We’ve got a series of puzzles to get those little grey cells working!

Across

2. James ______ director of the movie ‘Titanic’? (7)

3. How many stars are on flag of China? (4)

5. Which artist painted ‘Starry Night?’ (3,4)

7. ______ Perk - What’s the name of the coffee shop in US sitcom Friends? (7)

10. Which city is referred to as ‘The Eternal City’? (4)

12. David Bowie starred in which 1980s cult movie? (9)

Down

1. Alphabetically, which US state comes last? (7)

4. Which breed is national bird of the US? (5)

6. Which country gifted the Statue of Liberty to the US? (6)

8. Bump, set, and spike are terms from which sport?(10)

9. Alastair Cook is a record holder for England in which sport? (7)

11. Diamonds are made of what element? (6)

SUDOKU

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE

Can you spot the five differences between these two pics?

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