Pet Care and Pet Services
UK Market Synopsis
SYN018 · December 2012
Introduction
This market synopsis examines the trends and market developments affecting the pet care and
pet services sector in the UK. It provides information targeted specifically at new, existing or
aspiring small business owners who are aiming to trade or develop their interests within this
sector.
Wherever possible, this synopsis has been compiled from sources of information that can be
accessed online to enable users to conduct further research of their own. These include industry
and national press sources, Government research, company reports, market reports, and trade
bodies.
Pet ownership
The key factors and recent trends in pet ownership and purchasing are as follows:
Pet ownership
According to the Pet Food Manufacturers' Association (PFMA) there are more than 60 million
pets in the UK, with almost one in two households owning a pet (www.pfma.org.uk/_assets/
images/general/file/Annual%20Report%202012%20Final.pdf). Figures published in 2008 by
the PFMA suggest that six in ten single people in the UK purchase a pet for companionship
(www.pfma.org.uk/pet-population-2008-2011). According to Government figures, the
number of single-person households is set to increase by 163,000 per year until 2031
(www.communities.gov.uk/documents/statistics/pdf/1172133.pdf).
After fish, dogs and cats are the most common types of pet, with around eight million of each
owned in the UK. Other common pets include indoor birds, rabbits and guinea pigs. Go to
www.pfma.org.uk/pet-population for a breakdown of UK pet ownership.
Pets at Home has reported increasing sales of reptiles in recent years (www.guardian.co.uk/
business/2011/jul/08/soaring-reptile-sales-boost-pets-at-home). In 2012, there were an estimated
200,000 snakes, 200,000 tortoises and turtles, and 300,000 lizards kept as pets in the UK
(www.pfma.org.uk/small-animal-population). The most common reptiles are the leopard gecko,
bearded dragon, royal python, the corn snake and the tortoise.
Pet purchasing
The most recent figures on pet purchasing available from the PFMA (2008) revealed that 27%
of pet owners got their pet from a rescue centre or pet sanctuary, while 20% bought them from
traditional pet shops or superstores (www.pfma.org.uk/pet-purchasing-trends-2008). Other
sources include specialist breeders, friends and family and, increasingly, buying from online
SYN018 · Pet Care and Pet Services
© Cobweb Information Ltd, 2015
Page 1 of 11
forums or websites such as Reptile Forums UK, which contains a classified section for hobbyists to
buy and sell lizards, snakes, amphibians, invertebrates and fish (www.reptileforums.co.uk/forums/
reptile-classifieds-exotics-sale-wanted).
Pet care products
The key factors, developments and trends affecting the market for pet care products are as
follows.
Pet retail
Small traditional pet shops, selling small animals, food, toys, bedding and other pet supplies and
accessories, are facing increasing competition from large stores offering a wide product range in
each store, such as Pets at Home (www.petsathome.com) and Jollyes (www.jollyes.co.uk). Major
supermarket chains, including ASDA, Tesco and Sainsbury's, also stock ranges of pet food, toys,
bedding and animal care products. Some smaller pet shops compete by focusing on the sale of
pet livestock, including rabbits, hamsters, gerbils and guinea pigs. Opportunities still remain for
specialist suppliers of reptiles, lizards and tropical fish.
Online-only suppliers and major retailers with an online presence are a source of increasing
competition for traditional pet shops and stores. For example, the Pets at Home website
enables customers to purchase items for home delivery, and dedicated online retailer Pet Planet
(www.petplanet.co.uk) claims to have almost 9,000 different products in store that can be
shipped within two days of ordering. The site also provides pet information, including breed
profiles and a forum for pet owners. Other leading online suppliers include Monster Pet Supplies
(www.monsterpetsupplies.co.uk) and Pet Supermarket (www.pet-supermarket.co.uk).
Pet food
The pet food industry has been resilient throughout the recent downturn. Sales of pet food grew
in value by 1% to reach £2.14 billion in 2011, with sales of small animal pet food experiencing
the highest growth levels (www.petbusinessworld.co.uk/news/feed/uk-pet-food-marketgrows-despite-recession). Around £1 billion of dog food is manufactured each year, consisting
of £486 million of dry food, £329 million of wet food, and £231 million of dog treats. For
more information, go to www.pfma.org.uk/_assets/images/general/file/Annual%20Report
%202012%20Final.pdf.
The resilience of the pet food sector has been attributed to the value placed on pets as
companions by people living on their own (www.euromonitor.com/pet-care-in-the-unitedkingdom/report). In particular, this has driven demand for premium pet care brands and organic
pet foods. Examples of organic pet food retailers include Lily's Kitchen (www.lilyskitchen.co.uk)
and OrganiPets (www.organipets.co.uk).
The rise in demand for premium pet foods has led to an increase in sales of single-serve pouches
and cans of pet food. Experts claim that cat owners spend up to twice as much on single-serve
pet food compared with multi-serve packs. Although tinned dog food remains the highest selling
category, dry dog food, a more convenient option, saw increased sales of 1.9% to £23.5 million
in 2011. Go to www.thegrocer.co.uk/articles.aspx?page=independentarticle&ID=216509 for
information about pet food.
SYN018 · Pet Care and Pet Services
© Cobweb Information Ltd, 2015
Page 2 of 11
Health and diet foods
Pet obesity is a growing problem in the UK; a third of all dogs and a quarter of cats are
overweight, and increasing awareness of this issue has created a market for diet pet foods. For
more information, go to http://oxygen.mintel.com/display/545248.
There is also a wide range of pet health foods, including gluten-free, additive-free and
hypoallergenic foods. Some suppliers sell natural pet care products, including flea and tick sprays
and homeopathic remedies. Go to www.myitchydog.co.uk for an example.
Gifts, treats and clothing
Pet owners are spending increasing amounts on gifts and treats for their pets, according to
research published in 2011 by comparison website Kelkoo (http://press.kelkoo.co.uk/is-puppylove-a-passion-killer-over-one-in-four-owners-share-their-bed-with-their-pampered-pets.html).
The research found that 28% of pet owners gave their pet gifts on special occasions and 13%
dressed their pet in fashion accessories and clothing. Despite the recent downturn, pet owners
would rather cut spending on themselves and their family than switch to cheaper brands of pet
food or cut back on vets' bills. There is also a particularly strong market for pet toys, with 68% of
dog owners and 51% of cat owners buying toys for their pet. Go to http://oxygen.mintel.com/
display/545248 for information.
A trend for designer pets and pet clothing has been driven by celebrity pet owners who use
their pet as a fashion accessory. Sainsbury's noted a 13% increase in the number of small
pedigree 'handbag' dogs it insured in 2010. Go to www.easier.com/79945-sainsburys-petinsurance-handbag-dogs.html for more information. Pet clothing includes designer collars,
evening and formal wear, loungewear, T-shirts, hooded tops, knitted jumpers and raincoats.
Go to www.puchipetwear.com and www.snobdogclothes.com for examples of dog clothing
manufacturers and suppliers.
Pet care services
The key factors, developments and trends affecting the market for pet care service are as follows:
Grooming
Demand for professional grooming services has seen an increase in the number of specialist
salons offering shampooing, clipping, brushing and other grooming services for dogs and
cats. Many of them offer mobile services. Franchise opportunities are available. Examples
include the Pooch Mobile (www.thepoochmobile.co.uk) and the Mobile Dog Wash
(www.themobiledogwash.co.uk). In October 2012 there were around 6,500 UK enterprises
offering dog and cat grooming services listed on Yell.com.
Training
Pet training classes are organised by pet shops, vets and other organisations, and typically
focus on topics such as obedience, agility and puppy socialising. The Association of Pet Dog
Trainers (APDT) is a membership organisation that organises events across the UK and provides
a directory of dog trainers. Go to www.apdt.co.uk/local_dog_trainers.asp for more information.
Some pet owners require specialist training to manage pets with behavioural problems such
as aggression or anxiety, leading to opportunities for pet behaviourists and psychologists. The
SYN018 · Pet Care and Pet Services
© Cobweb Information Ltd, 2015
Page 3 of 11
Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC) provides information on types of behavioural
training and has a directory of registered practitioners. Go to www.abtcouncil.org.uk for
information.
Accommodation services
The need for specialist quarantine services for animals entering the UK from overseas provides
opportunities for owners of traditional boarding facilities. Animals are required to spend six
months in quarantine on entering the UK unless they qualify for the Pet Travel Scheme, which
allows cats and dogs to travel between certain countries without the need for quarantine (there
is more information on the scheme in the following section on travel and holiday services).
There are around 40 Defra-approved quarantine premises in the UK. More information about
quarantine procedures, including a list of approved premises, can be found at www.gov.uk/pettravel-quarantine.
Demand for pet sitting and home boarding services from pet owners going on holiday is highly
seasonal, with peak periods typically falling over Christmas and during school holidays. The
number of holidays a person takes in a year is increasing. People in the UK take an average of
two holidays a year (www.teletextholidays.co.uk/Holidays/About/Lifetime-of-Holidays) and
the average length of holidays had increased from 9.9 nights in 2008 to 10.5 nights in 2009
(www.insurewithease.com/news/number-of-brits-taking-holidays-abroad-fell-dramaticallyin-2009). However, demand for pet sitting services has recently been affected by an increase in
the number of pet owners taking domestic holidays, or 'staycations', rather than going abroad.
In October 2012 Yell.com's catteries and boarding kennels categories each had around 3,500
listings. Boarding services also exist for small animals, including birds, reptiles and lizards, rabbits,
gerbils, hamsters and mice. Go to www.smallanimalsboarding.co.uk for an example.
Travel and holiday services
There are opportunities for pet-friendly accommodation providers and specialist pet holiday
organisers, with one in five pet owners always taking their pet with them on holidays and
weekends away, according to a survey by Kelkoo (http://press.kelkoo.co.uk/is-puppy-love-apassion-killer-over-one-in-four-owners-share-their-bed-with-their-pampered-pets.html).
Since the introduction in 2000 of the Pet Travel Scheme, which relaxed quarantine rules, it has
become easier for pet owners to take pets with them on overseas trips, and in 2010 74,700 pets
entered the UK under the scheme. Defra has now announced plans to make it easier and cheaper
for people to travel abroad with pets, which could further increase demand for specialist pet
travel services. Go to www.gov.uk/take-pet-abroad for more information about the Pet Travel
Scheme.
According to the AA, there are more than 1,200 AA-inspected 'pet-friendly' hotels, bed and
breakfasts and campsites in the UK. The AA publishes a guide, available for £3.99 at http://
shop.theaa.com/store/places-to-stay/500-series-dog-friendly-places-to-stay. For more examples
of pet-friendly accommodation providers, go to www.petfriendlyhotels.com. In addition, some
specialist pet resorts now offer activity holidays for dogs. Go to www.centre-barks.com for an
example.
SYN018 · Pet Care and Pet Services
© Cobweb Information Ltd, 2015
Page 4 of 11
Niche and novelty services
A trend for wedding ceremonies for pets has spread to the UK from the US. Kitz Katz is an
example of a service that provides pet wedding ceremonies. Go to www.kitz-katz.co.uk/
PetWeddings.php for more information.
Pet funeral and bereavement services are also common. Pet funeral and cremation businesses
supply cremation urns, burial plots, and memorials. The Association of Private Pet Cemeteries
and Crematoria (APPCC, www.appcc.org.uk), which sets standards for pet burials and cremations,
estimates that there are approximately 100 pet crematoria and cemeteries across the UK. The
National Federation of Private Pet Crematoria (NFPPC, www.petcrematoria.org.uk) also provides
advice and guidance for operators of pet crematoria and funeral services.
Pet photography and portrait painting are often provided by photographers and artists who also
carry out other types of commission. Yell.com lists nearly 400 photographers who include pet
photography in their services, and around 100 dedicated pet artists.
Pet shows
Pet shows provide opportunities for enterprises to promote their products and services and
attract new customers, or to receive feedback on products from existing customers. Suppliers are
also able to provide demonstrations of their products and expertise through seminars and advice
clinics. The London Pet Show (www.londonpetshow.co.uk) is an example of a pet show providing
sponsorship and exhibition opportunities. Pet shows are held as part of National Pet Month, a
month of events aimed at promoting responsible pet ownership and the benefits of owning a
pet. As part of National Pet Month in May 2011, 1,200 events were held across the UK, including
several national events.
The Kennel Club organises approximately 5,000 licensed dog shows across the UK, including
Crufts (www.crufts.org.uk). Only dogs registered on the Kennel Club's breed register are eligible
to take part in the shows. However, the Kennel Club also licenses charity 'Companion Dog
Shows', which are more informal and can be held as part of fundraising events, such as village
fêtes or school events. These events are open to all dogs. Go to www.thekennelclub.org.uk/
item/2159 for more information on Kennel Club dog shows and Companion Dog Shows.
Cat shows are organised by the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (www.gccfcats.org), the feline
equivalent of the Kennel Club. There are approximately 1,500 cat shows held across the UK each
year.
Pet health
Insurance
Currently, only 30% of pet owners have pet insurance. Almost half of the pet insurance market
is held by specialist pet insurers, while supermarkets such as Tesco and Sainsbury's account
for a quarter. Go to http://oxygen.mintel.com/display/479807 for more information. According
to the Dog Breeders Association (DBA), vet fees are increasing by an average of 12% per year,
prompting more owners to take out pet insurance. Go to www.dog-breeds.co.uk/news/vet-billincrease for further information. However, as more pet owners claim for veterinary treatment
through their insurance, premiums are rising.
SYN018 · Pet Care and Pet Services
© Cobweb Information Ltd, 2015
Page 5 of 11
Veterinary services
According to The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), there are more than 17,800
registered veterinary surgeons practising in the UK, and more than 4,500 registered vets. Just
over half of veterinary practices specialise in treating small animals. Go to www.rcvs.org.uk/
publications/rcvs-facts-2012/?destination=%2Fpublications%2F for further information.
Some vets offer specialist health services for reptiles. An online database of practices that
provide this type of service is available at www.reptilevets.co.uk. In March 2011, Pets at Home
reported a 250% increase in like-for-like sales of reptiles and related products and reptile food.
Go to www.guardian.co.uk/business/2011/jul/08/soaring-reptile-sales-boost-pets-at-home?
INTCMP=SRCH for more information.
Pet pharmacies
Under the Veterinary Medicines Regulations 2008, pet owners can obtain some pet medicines
prescribed for their pet from suppliers other than the prescribing vet. As a result, vets now
face increasing competition from online pet health stores and specialist pet pharmacies.
However, there remain products for which the supplier must either be a qualified vet, pharmacist
or on the Veterinary Medical Directorate's (VMD) List of Suitably Qualified Persons. Go to
www.vmd.defra.gov.uk/pdf/register_AMTRA_SQPs.pdf for information.
Online pet pharmacies supply prescription drugs, for which a prescription is required from a
vet, as well as over-the-counter products for which no prescription is required. Examples of
online pet pharmacies include Pet Prescription (www.petprescription.co.uk) and Pet Meds
(www.petmeds.co.uk).
Micro-chipping
Many pet owners are opting for micro-chipping to increase the chance of a lost pet being
returned to them. This involves inserting a chip with a unique identification number under the
animal's skin. If the pet is found, the chip can be read by a scanner. According to the RSPCA,
almost a third of all dogs had been micro-chipped in 2009, and over a quarter of all cats,
compared with 14% and 17% respectively in 2005. Go to www.politicalanimal.org.uk/RSPCA/Pet
animals microchipping.pdf for more information.
There are an estimated 10,000 scanners in use by veterinary practices, local authorities and
animal welfare groups. Animals as small as frogs and rabbits can be micro-chipped and the
process typically costs between £20 and £30. For more information about micro-chipping, go to
www.dogstrust.org.uk/az/m/microchipping/default.aspx. Specialist producers of pet micro-chips
such as idENTICHIP (www.identichip.co.uk) supply veterinary practices, rescue centres and local
authorities with the product.
Vaccinations
Regular vaccinations for dogs include vaccination against distemper, parvovirus, canine hepatitis
and parainfluenza. Cats are vaccinated against feline leukaemia virus, cat flu and feline infectious
enteritis. Rabbits are vaccinated for protection against myxomatosis and viral haemorrhagic
disease. Pets can also be protected against pests such as ticks and fleas with regular treatments
such as Frontline, which are supplied through pet shops (http://uk.frontline.com/Pages/
default.aspx).
SYN018 · Pet Care and Pet Services
© Cobweb Information Ltd, 2015
Page 6 of 11
Complementary therapies
Some vets specialise in treating animals using complementary therapies such as homeopathy,
physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, acupuncture and herbal medicines. Chiropractic, osteopathy
and physiotherapy are the only therapies that can be administered to an animal by a person
other than a qualified vet. However, before any complementary therapy is given to an animal,
a vet must diagnose its condition. Go to www.natural-animal-health.co.uk/index.htm for more
information on who can provide treatment.
Franchises
There are a number of franchises operating in the pet care and pet services sector, including:
•
•
•
Pet sitting franchises such as Petpals (www.petpals.com/franchise/index.php), Paw Pals
(www.paw-pals.co.uk/pet_sitting_dog_walking_franchise.htm) and Creature Comforts
(www.petsittinguk.co.uk/pet-sitting-franchise/pet-sitting-franchise.php). These typically
require an initial investment fee ranging from around £8,000 to £15,000.
Pet grooming franchises such as Dial-a-Dog-Wash (www.dialadogwash.com/Franchise/) and
Groomers 4 Pets (www.groomers4pets.co.uk/franchise). These typically require an initial
investment fee ranging from around £11,000 to £15,000.
Dog walking franchises such as Petpals (www.petpals.com/franchise) and The-Dogwalker
(www.the-dogwalker.co.uk/become_a_franchisee.aspx). These typically require an initial
investment fee ranging from around £6,500 to £14,000.
Regulation and initiatives
Projects and initiatives aimed at the development of the pet care and pet services sector
include the Pet Advisory Committee (PAC www.petadvisorycommittee.org.uk), which is made
up of MPs, major animal welfare charities, veterinary organisations, local authorities, and
environmental health and trade associations. It focuses on the role of pets in society and makes
recommendations to the Government.
The key legislation affecting the pet care and services sector includes:
•
•
The Animal Welfare Act 2006 (www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/45/contents) makes it
an offence to cause unnecessary suffering to an animal (such as allowing fighting or baiting,
transporting animals without due care and animal cruelty). The Act refers to non-farmed
animals. It increased the minimum age at which a child may buy an animal from 12 to 16,
and prohibits the giving of pets as prizes to unaccompanied children under the age of 16.
It also increases the effectiveness of law enforcement for animal welfare offences, and bans
the mutilation of animals, with specified exemptions. The welfare of animals in Northern
Ireland is covered by existing legislation, notably The Welfare of Animals Act (Northern
Ireland) 1972 (www.legislation.gov.uk/apni/1972/7), while Scotland has its own Animal
Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 (www.legislation.gov.uk/asp/2006/11/contents).
The Pet Animals Act 1951 requires pet shops to obtain a licence to trade from their local
authority. The Act addresses premises and standards of animal care and the sale of animals
in public places, including markets and exhibitions. It applies in England and Wales. Go to
www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/Geo6/14-15/35/contents for information. The Pet Shops
Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2000 apply to pet shops in Northern Ireland and cover the
SYN018 · Pet Care and Pet Services
© Cobweb Information Ltd, 2015
Page 7 of 11
protection of animals as well as the licensing of pet shop owners (www.legislation.gov.uk/
nisr/2000/405/pdfs/nisr_20000405_en.pdf). In Scotland the Animal Health and Welfare
(Scotland) Act 2006 (www.legislation.gov.uk/asp/2006/11/contents) applies.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
The Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 is the key piece of legislation affecting veterinary surgery.
It established the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) as the statutory regulator
for veterinary surgeons and set out the requirements for registration. It stipulates that only
those registered with the RCVS can practise veterinary surgery, subject to exceptions for
veterinary students, nurses and farriers. Go to www.rcvs.org.uk/about-us/the-role-of-the-rcvs
for further details.
The Veterinary Surgery (Exemptions) Order 1962 regulates the use of complementary
therapies on animals. Under the Order, physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths
are able to treat animals where deemed necessary by a veterinary surgeon. Go to
www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1973/308/contents/made for more information.
The Veterinary Medicines Regulations 2008 (as amended) control the manufacture and
supply of veterinary medicines. They require that premises where veterinary medicinal
products are supplied are registered with the RCVS. Go to www.vmd.defra.gov.uk/public/
vmr_legislation.aspx#uk2011 for further guidance.
The Animal Boarding Establishments Act 1963 requires all kennels in England and Wales to
be licensed by their local authority. Licences are granted annually in the name of the owner.
Boarding establishments are subject to an annual inspection to ensure the cleanliness of
the accommodation and check that precautions have been taken to prevent the spread
of infection. Go to www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1963/43/contents for more information.
The Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 1972 (www.legislation.gov.uk/apni/1972/7)
requires a veterinary officer from the local district authority to visit the boarding premises
before issuing a licence. In Scotland the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006
(www.legislation.gov.uk/asp/2006/11/contents) applies.
The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 (as amended) makes it an offence to own controlled
breeds of dog without specific exemption from a court. Controlled breeds include Pit Bull
Terriers, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino and Fila Braziliero. The Act applies in England,
Scotland and Wales. Go to www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1991/65/contents for more
information. In Northern Ireland, The Dangerous Dogs (Northern Ireland) Order 1991 applies
(www.legislation.gov.uk/nisi/1991/2292/contents/made).
The Dogs (Licensing and Identification) Regulations require dog owners in Northern Ireland
to purchase a licence from one of several organisations specified by the Government.
These organisations include the Kennel Club and the Northern Ireland Master of Hounds
Association. Go to www.legislation.gov.uk/nisr/2011/279/contents/made for more
information.
EC Regulation 998/2003 sets out the requirements for the non-commercial movement of
pet animals (dogs, cats and ferrets) travelling from within the European Community (EC),
and into the EC from non-EC countries. It established the rules by which the UK Pet Travel
Scheme operates. Go to www.gov.uk/pet-travel-legislation for information.
The Animal Welfare (Electronic Collars) (Wales) Regulations 2010 prohibit dog owners in
Wales from attaching electronic collars to dogs or cats. The collars administer electric shocks
to animals as part of a training technique, but are deemed cruel by many animal welfare
SYN018 · Pet Care and Pet Services
© Cobweb Information Ltd, 2015
Page 8 of 11
groups. Go to www.legislation.gov.uk/wsi/2010/943/contents/made for more information
about the regulations.
Further sources of information
BOP 37 Pet Grooming Service
BOP 48 Boarding Kennels
BOP 83 Cattery
BOP 170 Pet Shop
BOP 261 Veterinary Surgery
BOP 269 Aquatic Retailer
BOP 308 Dog Walker
BOP 382 Pet Sitter/Home Boarding Service
BOP 425 Pet Dog Trainer
Trade associations
The Pet Care Trust (PCT) is a national charity that promotes the benefits of responsible pet
ownership and pet care education and training.
Tel: (01923) 273933
Website: www.petcare.org.uk
The Pet Food Manufacturers Association (PFMA) is a membership organisation for businesses
producing pet food and snacks in the UK. It provides information on pet ownership and
demographics, trends and nutritional issues.
Tel: (020) 7379 9009
Website: www.pfma.org.uk
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) is the regulatory body for veterinary surgeons
in the UK. It provides details of training requirements, relevant legislation that must be observed,
and has a code of conduct to which members must adhere.
Tel: (020) 7222 2001
Website: www.rcvs.org.uk
The Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) provides advice and guidance on dog behaviour, as
well as information on courses and issues affecting the sector.
Tel: (01285) 810811
Website: www.apdt.co.uk
The National Association of Registered Petsitters (NARP) is a membership organisation for pet
and house sitters. It provides a directory of pet sitters and details of the benefits of membership.
Tel: 0845 230 8544
Website: www.dogsit.com
The Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association (OATA) represents the interests of ornamental fish
breeders, wholesalers and retailers. It provides news and information on issues affecting the
industry, along with details on fish-keeping courses.
Tel: 0870 043 4013
Website: www.ornamentalfish.org
SYN018 · Pet Care and Pet Services
© Cobweb Information Ltd, 2015
Page 9 of 11
The Guild of Essential Oil Therapy for Animals (GEOTA) is a voluntary regulatory body for
practitioners providing therapy for pets using essential oils. It provides information on training
courses and legislation governing the use of essential oils on animals.
Tel: (01869) 349955
Website: www.nhs4animals.com
The Pet Advisory Committee (PAC) examines the role of companion animals in society. Its
membership includes major animal welfare charities, veterinary organisations, local authorities,
environmental health and trade associations.
Tel: (01306) 628136
Website: www.petadvisory.org.uk
The Companion Animal Welfare Council (CAWC) conducts research into the welfare, care and
treatment of companion animals.
Tel: (01954) 718882
Website: www.cawc.org.uk
The Pet Health Council (PHC) advises on the health and welfare of pet animals in the interests of
pets and people.
Tel: (020) 7379 6545
Website: www.pethealthcouncil.co.uk
The Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (APBC) is an international network of qualified pet
behaviour counsellors.
Tel: (01386) 751151
Website: www.apbc.org.uk
Training
The Animal Care College offers introductory, intermediate and advanced courses in a range of
animal care subjects, including canine and feline psychology.
Tel: (01344) 636436
Website: www.animalcarecollege.co.uk
The College of Animal Welfare provides veterinary nurse and animal care training courses,
including Apprenticeships and Advanced Apprenticeships, at five centres across the UK.
Tel: 0844 372 9410
Website: www.caw.ac.uk
The Academy of Dog Training and Behaviour runs online courses for people looking for
professional instruction in dog training and behavioural counselling.
Website: www.dogtraining-online.co.uk
The Kennel Club operates an accreditation scheme for instructors in dog training and canine
behaviour.
Tel: 0844 436 3980
Website: www.the-kennel-club.org.uk
Trade shows
National Pet Month is held annually to promote responsible pet ownership.
Website: www.nationalpetmonth.org.uk
SYN018 · Pet Care and Pet Services
© Cobweb Information Ltd, 2015
Page 10 of 11
Glee is a trade exhibition that takes place annually. It includes seminars and demonstrations of
new products relating to the pet sector.
Website: www.gleebirmingham.com
Industry publications
'Kennel and Cattery Management Magazine'
This is a publication for kennel and cattery businesses.
Tel: (01293) 871201
Website: www.kennelandcattery.com
'K9 Magazine'
This is a lifestyle magazine for dog owners.
Website: www.k9magazine.com
'Your Dog Magazine'
This publication provides information and articles about caring for dogs.
Tel: (01780) 745900
Website: www.yourdog.co.uk
'Your Cat Magazine'
This publication provides information on general care, health and behavioural issues.
Tel: (01780) 766199
Website: www.yourcat.co.uk
Useful sector portals and websites
The National Federation of Private Pet Crematoria (NFPPC) provides a directory of pet cemeteries
and crematoria.
Website: www.petcrematoria.org.uk
Pet Breeders UK is a directory of pet breeders across the UK.
Website: www.petbreedersuk.co.uk
Petholidays.com provides a guide to pet-friendly holidays in the UK.
Website: www.petholidays.com
The Pet Web Site provides information, articles and details of products and services for pets.
Website: www.petwebsite.com
UK Pets provides news and information on pet care and the pet services sector.
Website: www.ukpets.co.uk
DISCLAIMER While all reasonable efforts have been made, the publisher makes no warranties that this
information is accurate and up-to-date and will not be responsible for any errors or omissions in the information
nor any consequences of any errors or omissions. Professional advice should be sought where appropriate.
Cobweb Information Ltd, Unit 9 Bankside, The Watermark, Gateshead, NE11 9SY.
Tel: 0191 461 8000 Website: www.cobwebinfo.com
SYN018 · Pet Care and Pet Services
© Cobweb Information Ltd, 2015
Page 11 of 11